Every NFL offseason, the largest free-agent signings dominate the headlines. Teams break the bank for top-tier talent, but Super Bowls are often won on the under-the-radar moves—players who don’t generate splashy headlines but quickly outplay their contract value. Whether it's a rotational pass rusher, a versatile defensive back who solidifies a secondary, or an overlooked wideout who could become a reliable weapon on high-leverage downs, these lesser-known signings can prove just as valuable as blockbuster deals.
While many of the cycle’s biggest names have already been taken off the market due to either the franchise tag or by agreeing to a long-term extension, it’s a deep class below the surface with many starting-caliber players available at the right price. With that in mind, here are four under-the-radar free agents who could quietly shape the 2025 free agency cycle.
RB Rico Dowdle
It took five years for the Dallas Cowboys to realize what they had in Dowdle, a UDFA in 2020. But a full workload this past fall showcased a 1,000-yard rusher with the ability to handle a heavy workload. While a loaded RB class in this year's draft is expected to affect the free agency crop of ball-carriers and the money they earn, Dowdle proved in 2024 that he’s capable of making plays at the position and worthy of monetary investment for a team in search of veteran legs in the backfield. Expect an AAV (annual earnings) of around $6M for the 27-year-old.
WR Tyler Lockett
As consistent a playmaker as you’ll find on the market, Lockett’s 9,104 career receiving yards should hold a massive amount of weight for teams looking to round out their receiving corps. Now 32 years old, Lockett isn’t the same player he was even a handful of years ago, but the hands, route-running, and ability to stretch a secondary haven’t gone anywhere. It wouldn’t be surprising if he ends up being one of the darlings of the free agency class due to his production floor.
QB Marcus Mariota
Mariota never reached expectations as an NFL starter, but his success in Washington behind Jayden Daniels last year showcased a player every team needs in case of emergency. No, he’s not a guy you want starting 17 games in a season, but an experienced, mature, and athletic QB2 is a nice backup plan to have in a pinch.
IOL Dalton Risner
There’s been a lot of talk surrounding the interior of the Minnesota front five over the last few years, but Risner has been a bright spot. He’s allowed just one sack in the last two seasons combined and is a player whose alignment versatility in the middle is a must in today’s NFL. A former second-rounder back in 2019, Risner is one of the few plug-and-play guards on the market that won’t cost a team an arm and a leg.
