Minicamp standouts 2025: Underrated NFL players stealing the spotlight before training camp

With training camps opening on July 12, NFL teams are keeping a close eye on under-the-radar players who might redefine their depth charts later this season. While splashy signings like Aaron Rodgers to the Pittsburgh Steelers and Shedeur Sanders' draft-day theatrics get more of the press attention, the quiet emergence of these lesser-known players may be more enduring. From comeback from injury to breakout minicamps, they're rewriting their career scripts on cue.

Surprise NFL names dominating offseason camps

While NFL off-seasons are often characterized by blockbuster trades and draft frenzy, this year's OTA and minicamp sessions have witnessed some unexpected performances from players scrambling for roster spots. Here are some of the names that might have surprised their coaches and teammates the most.

Joe Andreessen—Buffalo Bills (Linebacker)

Joe Andreessen, a 2024 undrafted special teams addition to the Buffalo Bills, is quietly emerging as a serious threat for the backup middle linebacker job. With Baylon Spector absent at the mandatory minicamp, Joe Andreessen used the opportunity to display his coverage acumen. The Bills love availability, and Joe Andreessen is not only proving to be reliable but also playmaking-competent.

Grayson Murphy—Miami Dolphins (Linebacker)

Grayson Murphy may be overshadowed by the likes of Bradley Chubb, Jaelan Phillips and Chop Robinson, but his spring performance suggests he’s ready for a meaningful rotational role. After missing the previous season with an injury, Grayson Murphy’s pass-rushing flashes this offseason have caught attention. If he maintains this level in training camp, he could become a crucial depth piece in Miami’s injury-prone edge group.

Efton Chism III—New England Patriots (Wide Receiver)

Eastern Washington product Efton Chism III has stood out from the deep New England Patriots wide receiver corps as a true roster candidate. Even quarterback Drake Maye joked that Chism had "50 catches in OTAs." With his crisp routes, rapid feet, and sure hands, Efton Chism stepped in for veteran Kendrick Bourne at one practice and performed solidly. With 12 wide receivers already on the roster, the versatility of Efton Chism in the slot could see him sneak in.

Josh Reynolds—New York Jets (Wide Receiver)

After a turbulent 2024 season and signing a modest $2.8 million deal, Josh Reynolds is staking his claim as the New York Jets’ WR2 behind Garrett Wilson. With Davante Adams gone, Josh Reynolds has separated himself from Allen Lazard and company by displaying consistent chemistry with quarterback Aaron Rodgers. His familiarity with Coach Aaron Glenn from their Detroit days has helped fuel his resurgence.

Devontez Walker—Baltimore Ravens (Wide Receiver)

Rookie Devontez Walker, drafted in the fourth round by the Baltimore Ravens, is flashing big-play potential during team drills. From acrobatic sideline grabs to crisp route execution, he’s made a strong case to slot in as the team’s fourth wide receiver behind Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, and DeAndre Hopkins. His effort hasn’t gone unnoticed by coach John Harbaugh, who praised Devontez Walker’s all-out mentality.
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The NFL has seen its share of surprises, but these making waves this offseason aren't familiar names—at least not yet. As training camp approaches, under-the-radar types Joe Andreessen, Efton Chism III, and Devontez Walker are authoring their narratives through determination and circumstance. These trends might not have dominated the headlines like Aaron Rodgers' team change or Shedeur Sanders' draft story, but by the fall, they could very well be the ones deciding Sundays.


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