With the 2026 NFL season just 50 days away, it's time to take a closer look at 50 under-the-radar players who could shape the league's future. This year's list is a mix of proven performers and rising stars, each bringing something unique to the table. Here's a deep dive into some of the players who might not be household names yet but could be key to their teams' success.
Jalen Thompson, Dallas Cowboys
Jalen Thompson is a versatile defensive player who can play free safety, box linebacker, and slot cornerback. He's been consistently solid but often overlooked, playing in the shadow of Budda Baker in Arizona. In Dallas, he'll be expected to step up alongside the first-round pick Caleb Downs. Thompson's ability to play multiple positions makes him a valuable asset, and his consistency could be a game-changer for the Cowboys' defense.
Dee Winters, Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys quietly acquired Dee Winters for a fifth-round pick, and this move could be a game-changer. Winters provides capable linebacker play and has good speed, making him a valuable addition to a team that struggled defensively last year. With his fourth year approaching, Winters has the potential to be a rising star in the league.
Decobie Durant, Dallas Cowboys
Rounding out the Cowboys' under-the-radar defensive moves, Decobie Durant was the Rams' best cornerback last year. Despite Los Angeles' decision to move on, Durant should be an every-down outside corner for the Cowboys. His steadiness and ability to lock down opponents make him a valuable asset, especially with the team's need for more stability at the position.
Jauan Jennings, Minnesota Vikings
Jauan Jennings is a key player for the Vikings, stepping up to be the guy who makes the tough catches, moves the sticks, and provides physicality. Over the past two seasons, he's had 37 third-down catches that produced first downs, ranking him seventh in the NFL. With Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison as superstars, Jennings is a crucial piece in Minnesota's offense.
John Simpson, Baltimore Ravens
John Simpson is returning to the Baltimore Ravens after a solid performance in 2023 and a less-than-stellar 2024 with the New York Jets. The Ravens hope that Simpson, along with first-round pick Olaivavega Ioane, will provide major upgrades at the guard spots. Simpson's ability to play well and stay on the field will be crucial for the team's success.
Rasheed Walker, Carolina Panthers
Rasheed Walker, a 26-year-old left tackle, was expected to cash in this offseason but instead signed a one-year deal with the Panthers. With Ikem Ekwonu's patellar tendon injury in the playoffs, Walker will be expected to step up and prove his worth in a prove-it year. The Panthers' first-round pick, Monroe Freeling, will also be looking to make an impact.
Garrett Bradbury, Chicago Bears
Garrett Bradbury has the challenging task of replacing Drew Dalman, who retired unexpectedly. Bradbury, acquired for a fifth-round pick, has generally been just fine throughout his career. With Ben Johnson's history of top-tier centers, Bradbury might be next in line to excel in this role.
Chris Rodriguez Jr., Jacksonville Jaguars
Chris Rodriguez Jr. is a former Commanders bruiser who landed in Jacksonville on a two-year deal. He won't provide explosive plays or receptions, but his 53.1% rushing success rate over the past two years is impressive. Rodriguez's ability to consistently gain yards could be a key factor in the Jaguars' running game.
Charlie Kolar, Los Angeles Chargers
Charlie Kolar is a strong blocker and a key player in the Chargers' tight end room, which also features Oronde Gadsden II and David Njoku. Kolar's contributions will be crucial if the Chargers' run game takes a leap, as he's never produced more than 10 catches in a season. His ability to block and contribute to the run game makes him a valuable asset.
James Pierre, Minnesota Vikings
James Pierre, a 29-year-old who started the year on the practice squad, had an impressive performance last year. He allowed an absurd 4.3 yards per attempt as the primary defender and had a 27.3% pass breakup rate, ranking first in the NFL. Pierre's ability to play well again will be crucial for the Vikings' defense.
Dre'Mont Jones, New England Patriots
Dre'Mont Jones is a steady and improving defensive player. Last year, he had career highs in sacks and quarterback hits, and his 281 pounds make him a versatile player who can play all three downs. New England will appreciate his ability to contribute on both passing and running downs.
D.J. Reader, New York Giants
The Giants' defensive line features D.J. Reader and other veterans, and the team needs to improve its run defense. Last year, they allowed an NFL-worst 5.3 yards per carry, and the trade of Dexter Lawrence didn't help. Reader's ability to stop the run and play the interior of the defensive line will be crucial.
Osa Odighizuwa, San Francisco 49ers
Osa Odighizuwa was acquired for a third-round pick and is a perfect fit for the 49ers' defensive needs. He can collapse the pocket and get after the passer, and his ability to play all three downs will be valuable. With San Francisco's anemic pass rush last year, Odighizuwa's presence will be a significant improvement.
Chigoziem Okonkwo, Washington Commanders
Chigoziem Okonkwo has the speed and athleticism to be a strong fit in David Blough's offense, which will feature more under-center play-action concepts. Okonkwo's ability to make plays after the catch and contribute to the passing game will be crucial for the Commanders.
Elgton Jenkins, Cleveland Browns
Elgton Jenkins is expected to settle in at center, a position he played full-time for the first time last year. As a two-time Pro Bowler, Jenkins has the ability to play well and stay on the field, which will be key to the Browns' new-look offense running smoothly.
Roger McCreary, Detroit Lions
Roger McCreary's role may have increased due to Terrion Arnold's arrest and release. He can play in the slot and outside, and his solid play last year, as PFF's No. 25-rated cornerback, makes him a valuable asset. The Lions' injury-ravaged secondary will rely on McCreary's ability to step up and contribute.
