With the onset of the 2024 NFL season, prominent figures such as Patrick Mahomes, Justin Jefferson, and T.J. Watt are anticipated to be at the forefront of discussions. Yet, alongside these superstars, there exists a plethora of lesser-known breakout candidates—athletes who have hinted at All-Pro capabilities but commence the new season with significantly less acclaim than they deserve.
In light of this, here are 12 of the most overlooked players in the NFL as we head into 2024.
The particularly active running back market this offseason may explain the surprising lack of attention surrounding Cook, a 25-year-old player who recently amassed 1,500 scrimmage yards as a full-time starter. With an impressive average of 5 yards per carry over the past two seasons, he possesses the potential to become one of Josh Allen’s key offensive partners.
While Caleb Williams’ highly publicized entry has justifiably captured the majority of the spotlight concerning the Chicago Bears, Swift has demonstrated an explosiveness in training camp that rivals, if not surpasses, his performance during a breakout 2023 season with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he achieved 1,000 rushing yards as a dynamic starter despite inconsistent usage.
Running backs approaching the age of 30 often find themselves overlooked, and Jones’ history of injuries does not help his case. Nevertheless, the former Green Bay Packers standout still possesses elite speed. Even if he shares carries with Ty Chandler, he is likely to have ample scoring chances, bolstered by the potential of Kevin O’Connell’s well-equipped passing offense.
This offseason has seen a surge in lucrative contracts for wide receivers, and while Olave is not yet eligible for an extension, that status will change soon. Despite facing inconsistent quarterback performance and ongoing injuries, the Ohio State alum has accumulated 2,165 receiving yards over two NFL seasons, and he arguably has yet to reach his peak as a premier downfield target.
Injuries posed a challenge in 2023, yet Freiermuth managed to secure 60 receptions in each of his initial two NFL seasons, quickly establishing himself as a reliable safety valve for various quarterbacks. Provided he remains healthy, he possesses the physical attributes and receiving skills necessary to become a breakout target for the new quarterback lineup.
Chicago has received considerable praise for its revamping of the wide receiver position, but the recognition afforded to D.J. Moore, Keenan Allen, and Rome Odunze has somewhat overshadowed Kmet’s contributions. The former second-round pick has demonstrated remarkable durability (with no missed games) and has developed into a genuine threat in the middle of the field, recording 73 receptions in 2023.
A relatively understated free-agent acquisition in contrast to more prominent signings such as Tyron Smith, Simpson has started all 17 games on two occasions during his four-year career, consistently performing as an above-average interior lineman. His proficiency in pass protection may prove essential in ensuring Aaron Rodgers’ safety with the New York Jets.
Did you know that since 2020, only nine players have recorded more sacks than Floyd? Indeed, by that standard, he ranks among the top 10 edge rushers. Following a career-high achievement of 10.5 sacks with the Buffalo Bills, he is now set to collaborate with Nick Bosa, Javon Hargrave, and Maliek Collins in the Bay Area. This is certainly something to watch.
The Jacksonville Jaguars’ secondary exhibited inconsistency in 2023; however, Williams consistently made his presence felt, concluding the season with four interceptions and a career-high 19 pass breakups. This performance followed a commendable tenure alongside Jalen Ramsey with the Rams. Now returning to Los Angeles, he is regarded as one of the notable bargains of the spring free agency period.
The former fourth-round selection of the New England Patriots has garnered attention following an early preseason interception, yet he remains a player striving to overcome a challenging start to his career, both on and off the field. With four pass breakups and two interceptions in just seven games with the Raiders in 2023, he is beginning to establish himself as a formidable ballhawk.
Once viewed as a developing, albeit unremarkable, counterpart to longtime Vikings stalwart Harrison Smith, Bynum has emerged as Minnesota’s most versatile defensive back. Over the past two seasons, he has recorded four interceptions and 17 pass deflections, including in crucial moments, marking him as a significant contributor on the defensive end.
The second-year player from Alabama is certainly not an unknown, having received consideration for Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2023. However, he is now positioned for a broader impact after primarily playing in the slot during his NFL debut, ready to apply his exceptional instincts in the secondary, supported by new coverage specialists like Terrion Arnold.
