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The 2026 NFL free agency period is expected to be one of the most competitive in recent memory, with several top players hitting the market. As teams prepare to make their moves, Bleacher Report has identified five under-the-radar free agents who could be steals on the market.
Players to Watch
The first player to watch is wide receiver Tim Patrick, who has been a productive member of the Denver Broncos' offense over the past few seasons. Patrick has averaged over 1,000 receiving yards per season and has a strong relationship with quarterback Russell Wilson. With his skillset and experience, Patrick could be a valuable addition to several teams looking for a reliable wide receiver.
Another player to watch is tight end Jonnu Smith, who has been a versatile threat for the New England Patriots over the past few seasons. Smith has a strong combination of size, speed, and athleticism, making him a valuable asset for any team looking to upgrade their tight end position.
The third player to watch is linebacker Joe Schobert, who has been a productive member of the Jacksonville Jaguars' defense over the past few seasons. Schobert has a strong combination of size, speed, and tackling ability, making him a valuable asset for any team looking to upgrade their linebacker corps.
Why They're Undervalued
So, why are these players under-the-radar? One reason is that they play in positions that are not as highly valued in the NFL. Wide receivers and tight ends are typically the most coveted positions, but linebackers and defensive backs are often underrated.
Another reason is that these players have been playing for teams that are not as competitive, which can make it harder for them to put up big numbers. However, that doesn't mean they're not talented players who could make a big impact on a new team.
Finally, these players may be undervalued because they're not as flashy as some of the top free agents on the market. They may not have the same level of name recognition or accolades, but they're still talented players who could make a big difference for a team.
Potential Impact
If these players can land with the right team, they could have a significant impact on their new team's success. The Denver Broncos could use a reliable wide receiver like Tim Patrick, while the New England Patriots could use a versatile tight end like Jonnu Smith.
The Jacksonville Jaguars could use a productive linebacker like Joe Schobert, and with their young quarterback, Trevor Lawrence, they could be a team to watch in the coming years.
Ultimately, the NFL is a highly competitive league, and it's never easy to predict how players will perform on a new team. However, based on their past performance and potential, these five under-the-radar free agents could be steals for teams looking to strengthen their rosters.
As the 2026 NFL free agency period approaches, teams will be looking for any edge they can get. By targeting under-the-radar players like Tim Patrick, Jonnu Smith, and Joe Schobert, teams may be able to find the steals they need to take their teams to the next level.