Eligiendo a los jugadores más subestimados de la NFL: 12 nombres — uno en cada posición — que merecen más respeto

ESPN’s Aaron Schatz Unveils the NFL’s Most Underrated Players for 2025

ESPN NFL analyst Aaron Schatz, creator of the DVOA and DYAR metrics, identifies one underrated player at each position heading into the 2025 NFL season. Underrated, in this context, encompasses players exceeding expectations, performing better than perceived, or exceeding productivity despite criticism. Schatz’s list includes players fitting all three definitions.

Jump to a Position: QB | RB | WR | TE | OT | IOL | DT | Edge | LB | CB | S | ST

Quarterback: Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers)

Many dismissed Purdy’s 2023 MVP candidacy, citing the 49ers’ offensive scheme and talented teammates. However, even with significant injuries to his teammates in 2024, Purdy maintained strong performance. Despite a decrease in the 49ers’ league-leading yards-after-catch (YAC) production, Purdy excelled in metrics isolating quarterback performance, ranking highly in QBR, adjusted quarterback efficiency (Cole), and adjusted EPA per play (Baldwin). His substantial contract extension doesn’t negate his underrated status; rather, the criticism surrounding it highlights a misunderstanding of his superior performance compared to other Shanahan-era 49ers quarterbacks.

Running Back: Chuba Hubbard (Carolina Panthers)

Often judged by fantasy football metrics, Hubbard’s consistent performance has been overlooked. While not a top fantasy back, his 2024 season yielded 1,195 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns. His per-play efficiency was exceptional, ranking fourth in rushing yards over expectation per carry. Despite the Panthers’ additions of Rico Dowdle and Trevor Etienne, and the season-ending injury to Jonathon Brooks, Hubbard remains the projected starting running back.

Wide Receiver: Darius Slayton (New York Giants)

A fifth-round pick in 2019, Slayton exceeded initial expectations with a strong rookie season. While his touchdown production has since decreased, his consistent contributions alongside Malik Nabers solidified his role as a starting receiver. His three consecutive seasons of positive DVOA, despite playing with quarterbacks like Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston, and Jaxson Dart, further validates his value and justifies his three-year, $36 million contract.

Tight End: Zach Ertz (Washington Commanders)

After a shortened 2023 season, Ertz enjoyed a significant comeback in 2024 with the Commanders, catching 66 passes for 654 yards and seven touchdowns. He ranked highly in DYAR and boasted an impressive run block win rate. His re-signing on a one-year, $6.25 million deal signals the Commanders’ confidence in his continued starting role.

Offensive Tackle: Garett Bolles (Denver Broncos)

A 2017 first-round pick, Bolles has evolved into a top left tackle. While lacking a Pro Bowl selection, his consistent high rankings in pass block win rate and his contribution to the Broncos’ top-ranked run block win rate solidify his status as a premier offensive lineman. His penalty count remains a minor concern.

Interior Offensive Line: Elgton Jenkins (Green Bay Packers)

Despite two Pro Bowl appearances, Jenkins remains underappreciated. He led left guards in the lowest pressure rate allowed and ranked highly in pass block win rate. His versatility, having played both tackle positions, and his projected starting role at center in 2025 further highlight his value, even as he awaits a new contract.

Defensive Tackle: Dre’Mont Jones (Denver Broncos)

Jones’s 2024 performance, though recognized with a Second-Team All-Pro selection, remains underappreciated. His high ranking in «defeats» (turnovers, tackles for loss, etc.), run stop rate, and pressures showcases his dominance, particularly in losses.

Edge Rusher: George Karlaftis (Kansas City Chiefs)

Karlaftis exemplifies the underrated edge rusher: high pressure numbers despite fewer sacks. His impressive pressure total in 2024, coupled with strong playoff performances, showcases his impact on opposing offenses.

Linebacker: Lavonte David (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)

A potential lifetime achievement award recipient, David continues to excel at age 35. His consistent high ranking in «defeats» and strong tackling efficiency, despite a relative weakness in pass coverage, highlight his enduring value.

Cornerback: Kaiir Elam (Buffalo Bills)

Elam’s consistent strong seasons, despite a low interception count, demonstrate his overall coverage prowess. His high ranking in coverage DVOA and low target percentage underscore his effectiveness.

Tomado de https://www.espn.com/