Underrated Free Agents Who Could Surprise Everyone

28 March 2026

When it comes to free agency in sports, it's easy to get caught up in the big names – the marquee players who command headlines and jaw-dropping contracts. But let's not kid ourselves, sometimes the real value lies in those under-the-radar signings that seem to go unnoticed. You know the ones I’m talking about, right? The players who aren’t gracing the cover of magazines but still have the potential to flip the script on the field.

These "underrated" free agents can sometimes be the missing puzzle piece a team needs to make a deep playoff run or even win a championship. They may not have the flashy stats or the superstar persona, but trust me, they can deliver in ways that make fans sit up and take notice.

So, what makes these guys so intriguing? In short, they have something to prove, and that chip on their shoulder often leads to breakout performances.

In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most underrated free agents who could surprise everyone in the upcoming season. Keep your eyes peeled — you just might find the next big steal for your favorite team!

What Makes a Free Agent "Underrated"?

Before we dive into the list, let’s first break down what we mean by "underrated." When we say a player is underrated, we’re not just talking about someone who’s a hidden gem. We're talking about players who, for whatever reason, haven’t received the same level of hype or attention as their peers, even though they have the skills to make a significant impact.

Maybe they’ve battled injuries, played for smaller-market teams, or have been overshadowed by bigger names on their rosters. Whatever the case, these athletes possess untapped potential that could explode if given the right opportunity.

1. Will Fuller - WR

If you’re looking for a wide receiver who could absolutely torch defenses, look no further than Will Fuller. Granted, Fuller is a bit of a high-risk, high-reward player. His career has been plagued by injuries, and let’s not forget that six-game suspension for PEDs back in 2020. But when he’s healthy? Fuller is an absolute game-changer.

This guy can take the top off a defense in the blink of an eye. We’re talking elite speed, the kind that makes defensive coordinators sweat bullets. In 2020, before his suspension, Fuller was on pace for over 1,200 yards and 12 touchdowns. He’s a deep-threat specialist who can stretch the field, and for the right price, he could be a steal.

Why He’s Underrated: Injuries and off-field issues have overshadowed his undeniable talent. Teams may be hesitant to take a chance, but if he stays healthy, he could easily outplay his contract.

2. Mitchell Trubisky - QB

I know, I know. Mentioning Mitchell Trubisky as a potential surprise might raise some eyebrows. But hear me out! Trubisky’s stint with the Chicago Bears was, let’s say, underwhelming, but that doesn’t mean he’s a lost cause.

He spent the 2021 season as a backup to Josh Allen in Buffalo, and while he didn’t see much action, the experience of learning in a different system might have been just what he needed. Let’s not forget, Trubisky is still young and athletic, with enough mobility to extend plays and make things happen on the ground.

Sometimes, all a quarterback needs is a change of scenery and a fresh start to unlock their potential. Could Trubisky be the next Ryan Tannehill—a player who struggled early in his career, only to find success later on with a new team? It’s not out of the realm of possibility.

Why He’s Underrated: People have already written off Trubisky as a bust, but in the right system, he could thrive. Teams in need of a quarterback should think twice before dismissing him outright.

3. Melvin Ingram - EDGE

Remember when Melvin Ingram was one of the most feared pass rushers in the league? Yeah, me too. Injuries have slowed him down in recent years, but when healthy, this guy is a menace on the edge. He might not be in his prime anymore, but Ingram could still be an excellent rotational pass rusher for a team that needs help getting to the quarterback.

He’s got the experience, the technique, and the football IQ to make an impact, even if he’s not logging 60+ snaps a game. Ingram may not be a flashy signing, but for teams looking for a veteran presence who can still cause chaos in the backfield, he’s worth a look.

Why He’s Underrated: His recent injury history has scared teams off, but Ingram could be a valuable contributor in a limited role. Don’t sleep on his ability to change a game with a timely sack or pressure.

4. Keanu Neal - S/LB

Keanu Neal has always been a bit of a hybrid player, and that’s what makes him so intriguing. A safety by trade, Neal has also spent time playing linebacker, and that versatility could make him a valuable asset for any defense. He’s a hard-hitting, physical player who excels in run support, but he’s also athletic enough to cover tight ends and running backs in the passing game.

Injuries have held him back throughout his career, but Neal showed flashes of his old self during his time with the Dallas Cowboys. If he can stay healthy, Neal could be a key contributor to a defense in need of a physical presence.

Why He’s Underrated: Neal’s injury history has made him easy to overlook, but his versatility and physicality make him an intriguing option for teams looking to add toughness to their defense.

5. Kyle Van Noy - LB

Kyle Van Noy is one of those players who just seems to get the job done, no matter where he plays. A versatile linebacker who can rush the passer, stop the run, and drop into coverage, Van Noy is the type of player who doesn’t get nearly enough credit for the impact he makes on the field.

Van Noy has won two Super Bowls with the New England Patriots and has been a key contributor on some very good defenses. He’s not a household name, but his ability to play multiple positions and make plays in a variety of ways makes him a valuable asset for any team.

Why He’s Underrated: Van Noy isn’t a flashy player, but he’s incredibly reliable and versatile. He’s the kind of glue guy that every winning team needs, and he could be a steal for the right team.

6. Cordarrelle Patterson - RB/WR

It feels like Cordarrelle Patterson has been in the league forever, but somehow, he just keeps getting better. Originally drafted as a wide receiver, Patterson has reinvented himself as a do-it-all offensive weapon, capable of lining up in the backfield, out wide, or even as a return specialist.

He had a breakout season with the Atlanta Falcons in 2021, racking up over 1,100 all-purpose yards and 11 touchdowns. What makes Patterson so valuable is his versatility. He’s a Swiss Army knife who can create mismatches all over the field, and in today’s NFL, that kind of flexibility is gold.

Why He’s Underrated: Patterson has never been considered a “star,” but his ability to contribute in multiple ways makes him a valuable commodity. He’s a player who can help a team in a variety of ways, and he could be a bargain for the right team.

7. Malik Hooker - S

Once considered one of the top safeties in the league, Malik Hooker’s career was derailed by injuries. But when healthy, Hooker is a ball-hawking safety who can change the complexion of a game with his ability to create turnovers. He’s got excellent range and instincts, and he’s always a threat to come up with a big play in the secondary.

Hooker played in a limited role with the Cowboys in 2021, but he showed enough flashes to suggest that he can still be a difference-maker. For a team in need of help in the secondary, Hooker could be a low-risk, high-reward signing.

Why He’s Underrated: Injuries have taken a toll on Hooker’s career, but he’s still young enough to bounce back. He’s the type of player who could thrive in the right situation and remind everyone why he was once considered a top prospect.

Conclusion: These Free Agents Could Be Your Team’s Secret Weapon

While the big names in free agency will always steal the spotlight, it’s often the underrated players who can make the biggest difference. Whether it’s a wide receiver looking for a second chance, a quarterback in need of a fresh start, or a veteran pass rusher looking to prove he still has what it takes, these free agents could surprise everyone and play a pivotal role in the upcoming season.

So, if your favorite team is looking to make a splash in free agency, don’t just focus on the stars. Sometimes, the best moves are the ones that fly under the radar.