Hidden Gems: The Most Underappreciated NFL Players in the NFC for the 2025 Season

Hidden Gems: The Most Underappreciated NFL Players in the NFC for the 2025 Season

The NFL is a league of stars, but behind every household name, there’s a roster of players who contribute significantly without receiving the widespread recognition they deserve. These are the hidden gems, the underappreciated talents who consistently perform at a high level, often exceeding expectations. As we gear up for the 2025 season, let’s shine a spotlight on some of the most underappreciated NFL players in the NFC.

NFC East: Unsung Heroes in a Battleground Division

The NFC East is known for its fierce rivalries and passionate fan bases. In such a competitive environment, it’s easy for solid contributors to get lost in the shuffle.

  • Dallas Cowboys: S Malik Hooker. While Micah Parsons and Trevon Diggs often steal the headlines, Hooker provides stability and experience to the Cowboys’ secondary. His consistent play and veteran leadership are invaluable to the Dallas defense.

  • New York Giants: OT Jermaine Eluemunor. A versatile offensive lineman, Eluemunor has proven his worth by playing multiple positions along the Giants’ front. According to PFF, he allowed just one sack and two pressures in the final four games of last season while playing left tackle. With Andrew Thomas returning, Eluemunor will move back to right tackle for the 2025 season.

  • Philadelphia Eagles: DT Moro Ojomo. In the wake of Milton Williams’ departure, Ojomo is poised to take on a bigger role in the Eagles’ defensive line. Last season, among interior defenders with at least 300 pass-rushing snaps, Ojomo boasted PFF’s second-highest win rate (18.2%), trailing only Chris Jones.

  • Washington Commanders: DT Javon Kinlaw. The Commanders are banking on Kinlaw reaching his potential in DC. “Javon Kinlaw is a tone-setter,” Peters said. “He’s explosive, he’s physical. We think he’s going to be a great Commander.”

NFC North: Diamonds in the Land of Cheese and Grit

The NFC North is home to some of the most storied franchises in NFL history. Amidst the Green Bay Packers’ rich tradition and the Detroit Lions’ resurgence, several underappreciated players are making a significant impact.

  • Chicago Bears: DT Gervon Dexter. Dexter started last season strong, recording four sacks and 10 QB hits in Chicago’s first five games. Although his production dipped later in the season, the Bears have fortified their D-line, which should allow Dexter to flourish.

  • Detroit Lions: C Tate Ratledge. While the Lions’ offense is known for its explosive playmakers, Ratledge’s consistency and reliability at center are crucial to their success.

  • Green Bay Packers: WR Romeo Doubs. With all the attention on Green Bay’s young receiving corps, Doubs’ steady performance and reliable hands often go unnoticed.

  • Minnesota Vikings: CB Isaiah Rodgers. The Vikings have built a championship-caliber roster around their young quarterback. Rodgers’ coverage skills and playmaking ability could make him a key contributor to the Vikings’ defense.

NFC South: Hidden Talents in the Land of Sunshine

The NFC South is a division known for its unpredictable nature and exciting matchups. In this dynamic landscape, several players are quietly making a name for themselves.

  • Atlanta Falcons: DE Jalon Walker. The Falcons drafted two edge rushers in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft in Georgia’s Jalon Walker and Tennessee’s James Pearce Jr.

  • Carolina Panthers: DE Princely Umanmielen. The Panthers are hoping Umanmielen will provide an aggressive spark.

  • New Orleans Saints: RB Kendre Miller. With uncertainty surrounding Derek Carr’s future, Miller could be an excellent late-round pick, especially in deeper leagues.

  • Tampa Bay Buccaneers: OT Luke Goedeke. While Baker Mayfield and the receiving corps get most of the attention, Tampa Bay’s bedrock strength is the offensive line. According to Mayfield, Goedeke is one of the most underrated linemen in the league.

NFC West: Unearthing Gems in the Golden State

The NFC West is arguably the most competitive division in the NFL, with teams boasting elite talent on both sides of the ball. In this star-studded division, it’s easy for valuable contributors to be overlooked.

  • Arizona Cardinals: WR Michael Wilson. With Trey McBride and Marvin Harrison Jr. garnering much of the attention, Wilson could be on the verge of a breakout in 2025. Quarterback Kyler Murray believes Wilson has the ability to be a 1,000-yard receiver.

  • Los Angeles Rams: CB Cobie Durant. Durant was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week in Week 7 after his interception and forced fumble each led to offensive touchdowns.

  • San Francisco 49ers: CB Renardo Green. The 49ers have a knack for finding talent in the later rounds of the draft, and Green could be the next hidden gem to emerge in their secondary.

  • Seattle Seahawks: Kenneth Walker III. While the Seahawks have a talented backfield, Walker’s explosive running style and ability to make plays in the passing game often go unnoticed.

These are just a few of the most underappreciated NFL players in the NFC heading into the 2025 season. As the season unfolds, keep an eye on these hidden gems, as they are sure to make a significant impact on their respective teams.