With the NFL Draft now in the books, it’s safe to say this year delivered some unexpected twists. We saw the league’s youngest general manager take a bold swing in his first draft, trading up to select two-way superstar Travis Hunter. But perhaps the biggest headline was the unexpected slide of Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who just weeks before was projected to go in the top 10. After falling out of both Day 1 and Day 2, the Cleveland Browns may have got one of the best value picks in the draft.
Of course, Sanders wasn’t the only player to slip under the radar—every draft produces impact players on Days 2 and 3, and even among the undrafted ranks. Here are five underrated prospects who should have gone higher and could become long-term contributors.
Donovan Ezeiruaku – EDGE, Cowboys
A popular pick for “draft steal” status, Donovan Ezeiruaku brings a high-upside skill set that Dallas fans should be excited about. The Boston College edge rusher finished second in the nation with 16.5 sacks last season, displaying explosive burst and a relentless motor.
Ezeiruaku pairs great bend with a lethal cross-chop move that consistently sheds blockers. At 6’2” and under 250 pounds, he may struggle against larger offensive tackles in the run game, but he’s a natural pass-rusher. Lined up alongside Micah Parsons, Ezeiruaku could form a terrifying duo for years to come.
Azareye’h Thomas – CB, Jets
To start the Draft season Azareye’h Thomas was considered a late first- or early second-round prospect,Thomas fell to the third round, largely due to a slower-than-expected 4.58 40-yard dash at the combine. Despite concerns about his long speed, Thomas excels in man coverage and shows great technique and physicality when matched up one-on-one.
With new head coach Aaron Glenn—formerly the defensive coordinator of the Lions, who ran the most man coverage in the league last year—the Jets showed everyone they plan to adapt Glenn’s scheme and seem poised to use Thomas early and often. He’ll have tremendous upside with the Jets being paired with all-pro Corner Sauce Gardner.
Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins – DL, Vikings
The Vikings entered the 2025 draft with only four picks and plenty of needs, particularly along the defensive interior. While they initially addressed the offensive line with Donavan Jackson, they found a potential gem in Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins out of Georgia.
Dawkins is a raw but athletic interior rusher who lacks polish but oozes potential. Coming from Georgia who run similar fronts as Brian Flores, Ingram-Dawkins should fit right in. Fortunately, the Vikings don’t need him to be a Day 1 starter. With veterans like Jonathan Allen, Javon Hargrave, and Harrison Phillips to learn from, he’ll have time to develop into a disruptive presence up front.
Trikweze Bridges – DB, Chargers
Late seventh-round picks rarely get much hype, but Trikweze Bridges might just be the exception. A combine snub, Bridges turned heads at the Florida Gators pro day with a 4.43 40-yard dash, a 6’2” frame, and an 81-inch wingspan.
Bridges has played all over the secondary and brings versatility, size, and athleticism. While he can be caught flat-footed in coverage, he’s a willing tackler and should contribute on special teams early. Don’t be surprised if he works his way into a rotational role for the Chargers.
Tommy Mellott – WR, Raiders
Not many scouts expected to find an NFL-caliber player at Montana State, but Tommy Mellott—nicknamed Touchdown Tommy—changed that narrative. Originally a quarterback, Mellott posted a 4.4 40-yard dash and a 41-inch vertical at his pro day, showcasing rare athleticism.
He totaled 46 touchdowns this past season for Montana State, including over 1,000 rushing yards and 15 rushing scores. Mellott is transitioning to wide receiver and will likely contribute to special teams immediately. Like Julian Edelman and Antwaan Randle-El before him, Mellott could be this draft’s best-kept secret.
Conclusion
While early-round picks dominate the headlines, every NFL season proves that talent can be found at any draft stage. These five players, along with many others may have been overlooked, but their potential to grow into key contributors is real—and we’ll be keeping a close eye on their journeys.
