While blockbuster trades and big-name free agent signings dominated headlines this offseason. Every NFC team made underrated moves that could prove just as impactful. Whether it’s a low-cost veteran addition, an under-the-radar draft pick, or a depth signing poised for a breakout, these decisions often fly below the radar. Until they start showing up on Sundays. As training camps ramp up, it’s time to spotlight some of the most overlooked offseason moves across the NFC that could make a difference in the 2025 season and beyond.
Arizona Cardinals: WR Simi Fehoko
The Arizona Cardinals focused heavily on upgrading their defense this offseason. By signing Josh Sweat, Dalvin Tomlinson, and the ageless Calais Campbell, while also drafting Walter Nolen and Will Johnson. It signaled a shift for GM Monti Ossenfort after two quiet, free agency periods. Who’s ready to get out of the basement of the NFC West.
Offensively, the roster saw minimal changes, but one under-the-radar move was the signing of wide receiver Simi Fehoko. With under 200 career receiving yards, Fehoko isn’t a household name. With his 6’4”, 220-pound frame and athleticism it gives the Cardinals a different look in a thin receiving group.
Fehoko is especially valuable in the run game, where his physicality and blocking ability fit perfectly in OC Drew Petzing’s scheme. After finishing in the top eight in rushing offense two year in a row, Arizona is clearly committed to the ground game. Fehoko gives the Cardinals a low-cost, high upside signing that can help contribute if he stays healthy.
Rams: LB Chris Paul Jr.
The Los Angeles Rams entered the offseason surrounded by uncertainty. With rumors swirling around a potential Matt Stafford trade. Then the departure of Cooper Kupp’s , led many to believe the franchise was heading toward a rebuild. Instead, the Rams doubled down on contention, keeping Stafford, and acquiring star wideout Davante Adams to replace Kupp. With sights set on another Super Bowl run under Sean McVay.
Defensively, the team faced a major void at linebacker after trading away Ernest Jones. Troy Reeder and Christian Rozeboom struggled to replace Jones’ production, especially against the run. Contributing to the Rams allowing the eighth-most rushing yards per game in 2024. To address this, they drafted Chris Paul Jr. in the 5th round. An underrated move that will instantly improve their linebacker room.
Paul is a rangy, athletic linebacker who already profiles as the Rams’ best option in pass coverage. Known for his reliable tackling and high football IQ, he was one of the most consistent defenders in college football. If his transition to the NFL goes smoothly, Paul has the potential to ascend the depth chart and become the centerpiece of a revamped linebacker core.
49ers: DB Jason Pinnock
Coming off a disappointing, injury-riddled 6-11 season, the San Francisco 49ers entered the offseason facing tough financial decisions. With quarterback Brock Purdy due for a significant contract extension, the team no longer had the luxury of a star QB on a rookie deal. As a result, it forced the 49ers to let several key contributors walk in free agency. Shifting their focus to low-cost, high-upside signings in hoping to remain competitive.
One of the most impactful moves wasn’t a player, but the return of defensive coordinator Robert Saleh. Last season, the 49ers’ defense regressed significantly, allowing the fourth-most points per game. With the departures of Talanoa Hufanga and Dre Greenlaw, Saleh sought trusted reinforcements and may have found one in safety Jason Pinnock. Originally drafted by Saleh in the fifth round, Pinnock spent time with the Jets and Giants. Showing flashes of playmaking ability under Wink Martindale. Thriving in a box role, Pinnock quietly emerged as one of the league’s top blitzing and run-defending safeties, earning a league-best 92.3 pass rush grade among safeties last season.
While Pinnock did struggle in coverage in 2024, he was miscast in a deeper role unfamiliar to his strengths. With Saleh now back in charge, Pinnock is expected to return to a more natural position closer to the line of scrimmage. That familiarity could unlock his full potential and make him a crucial piece in San Francisco’s defensive resurgence.
Seahawks: WR Tory Horton
The Seattle Seahawks made headlines this offseason by trading away quarterback Geno Smith and star receiver D.K. Metcalf, ushering in a new era with Sam Darnold under center and Cooper Kupp as the top target. With the addition of offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, the franchise is clearly reshaping its identity on offense. While questions remain about how these changes will impact the team’s success, one player who could help validate the front office’s vision is fifth-round rookie wide receiver Tory Horton.
Horton brings a unique skill set to the Seahawks’ receiving corps. Standing 6’2” and running a 4.4, he adds a vertical element that neither Kupp nor Jaxon Smith-Njigba offers. Concerns about a knee injury caused Horton to slide in the draft, but he’s quickly silenced doubts by participating fully in minicamp and reportedly turning heads with his performance. His blend of size, speed, and route-running polish gives Seattle a much-needed downfield threat.
While the starting wide receiver spots are locked in, the WR3 role remains up for grabs. Horton will compete with veteran deep threat Marquez Valdes-Scantling and has a real shot to claim the job before Week 1. Besides his offensive potential, Horton is expected to contribute on special teams as the likely starting punt returner. Though rare for a fifth rounder, the buzz around Horton is real and if early signs hold, he and JSN could form the Seahawks’ receiving duo of the future.
Minnesota Vikings: Jordan Mason
After a surprising 14-3 season, the Minnesota Vikings once again faced uncertainty at quarterback. They allowed Sam Darnold to walk in free agency and officially handed the reins to 2024 first-round pick J.J. McCarthy. To support their new signal-caller, the Vikings revamped the offensive line, adding three new starters to form what could be one of the league’s top units. However, one of their most overlooked moves may be the acquisition of running back Jordan Mason.
Mason’s arrival signals a shift in offensive philosophy under head coach Kevin O’Connell. Known for a pass-heavy approach, the Vikings have struggled in short-yardage situations. Mason addresses that immediately. He’s averaged 5.3 yards per carry in his career and ranked 10th in the NFL last season with 3.35 yards after contact. Having developed under Kyle Shanahan, who runs a similar offensive style as Minnesota. Mason is a seamless fit in Minnesota’s scheme and brings a physical edge the team has been lacking.
It’s rare to say a team improved after losing a starting quarterback and coming off 14 wins, but the Vikings may have pulled it off. While McCarthy still has to prove himself, the team has put him in a position to succeed. The backfield tandem of Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason gives Minnesota a dynamic and balanced ground game, one that could help carry them to even greater heights in 2025.
Green Bay Packers: Barryn Sorrell
Last season, the Green Bay Packers became the first team since 1985 to win 11 games and still finish third in their division, a rare and frustrating outcome. With pressure mounting from fans and analysts alike, questions have surfaced about whether the team did enough this offseason to take the next step. One of their bigger swings came on the offensive line, signing unproven guard Aaron Banks to a sizable contract. Hoping to better the protection around franchise quarterback Jordan Love.
Where the Packers may have truly found value, however, was in the fourth round of the draft with the selection of defensive lineman Barryn Sorrell. Green Bay’s defensive front underperformed last season. Rashan Gary, Kenny Clark, and Lukas Van Ness combined for just 11.5 sacks a major regression from 20.5 the year prior. It forced the Packers to bring extra blitzers to generate pressure. With former first-round pick Van Ness struggling to meet expectations, the door is open for a new contributor. Sorrell flashed big-time production at Texas with 15.5 sacks in three years. With the versatility to line up across the defensive front.
Concerns about Sorrell’s size caused him to slide in the draft, but his blend of speed and power could translate well at the next level. In a defensive line group lacking impact beyond its top names, Sorrell brings the burst and motor that could make him an immediate contributor. He’s an underrated addition who may provide the spark this front has been missing.
Lions: Ahmed Hassanein
Coming off a historic 15-win season, the Detroit Lions enter 2025 with Super Bowl aspirations. The offseason brought major changes, with both offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn departing for head coaching jobs. Despite those losses, the Lions are optimistic, especially with All-Pro edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson returning from injury. However, the search for a reliable pass-rushing partner continues. After releasing Za’Darius Smith, Detroit re-signed Marcus Davenport. Though his availability remains a concern after playing just six games over the past two seasons.
Acknowledging the need for depth, the Lions used a sixth-round pick on Boise State edge rusher Ahmed Hassanein, a move that could prove to be a steal. Though considered raw in some areas, Hassanein was highly productive in college. Playing with high-effort, and relentless motor, he fits head coach Dan Campbell’s mold. At 6’5” with notable strength and toughness, he brings traits that could translate well at the next level with proper development.
What makes Hassanein’s rise even more remarkable is his journey. Originally from Egypt, he only began playing football in 2019 after moving to the United States. Still led the FBS in pressures over the last two seasons. The Lions’ coaching staff is excited about his potential, and if he continues to develop, Hassanein could become a vital piece in helping Detroit finally reach its first Super Bowl.
Bears: Dayo Odeyingbo
Kings of the offseason once again. The Chicago Bears came in swinging, and this time, it feels different. Following the departure of head coach Matt Eberflus after a Thanksgiving collapse that encapsulated his tenure, Chicago wasted no time resetting the tone. They landed the top coaching name on the market in Ben Johnson, the offensive mastermind behind Detroit’s recent resurgence. With their franchise quarterback in place, Johnson prioritized protection, with a complete overhaul of the offensive line by trading for All-Pro Joe Thuney and standout guard Jonah Jackson. Then capped it off with the free-agent signing of center Drew Dalman.
The Bears could’ve stopped there and still had one of the league’s best offseasons, but they didn’t. A glaring need remained on the edge opposite Montez Sweat, and Chicago responded by signing versatile defensive lineman Dayo Odeyingbo to a three-year, $48 million deal. While some may see it as a gamble for a player with just one true year of pass-rush production, the Bears have the cap space and urgency to take calculated risks. Odeyingbo brings rare tools to the table at 6’6”, 285 pounds, with the strength to bully guards and the athleticism to bend around tackles. Still only 25 years old, his best football could be ahead of him.
Though Odeyingbo’s stat line from last season wasn’t jaw-dropping, the tape and analytics tell a different story. He posted a respectable 65.5 pass rush grade and a 12.6% pass rush win rate, signs that he consistently disrupted pockets even if the sack numbers didn’t follow. More importantly, he brings experience in multiple alignments, and immediate upside to a Bears defensive front that lacked firepower outside of Sweat. With new DC Dennis Allen in charge, Dayo fits his style. Chicago’s aggressive approach may finally be ready to pay off.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jacob Parrish
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers captured their fourth straight division title last season, though the journey was far from smooth. Powered by an offense that ranked fourth in points per game, the unit got even more dangerous with the first-round selection of Emeka Egbuka. A versatile weapon who can line up in the slot or on the outside. The offense will be hurting early in the season. With All-Pro tackle Tristan Wirfs expected to miss time due to injury. Needing the defense to step up and early.
While the run defense has consistently been a strength, the Buccaneers’ biggest area of concern remains the secondary. Tampa Bay has finished in the bottom four in passing yards allowed for two straight seasons. To fix that, Tampa Bay selected Kansas State cornerback Jacob Parrish in the third round with the hope can provide an immediate boost.
Though questions remain about Parrish’s size and whether he’s best suited for the slot. His speed, toughness, and physical playstyle make him a strong fit for Todd Bowles’ aggressive defense. Bowles has already stated Parrish is being viewed as an outside corner. He played most of his snaps on the outside in college. Being, a strong tackler and willing run defender, Parrish can stay on the field all three downs. Paired with fellow rookie Benjamin Morrison, the Buccaneers have revamped their secondary as they chase a fifth consecutive division crown.
New Orleans Saints: Jonas Sanker
After winning the division four consecutive times from 2017 to 2020, the New Orleans Saints have missed the playoffs in the past four seasons. To return to their winning ways, they hired offensive-minded rookie head coach Kellen Moore. Tasked with implementing a new system amid questions at quarterback and along the offensive line. Moore faces a challenging rebuilding process that would test any coach, let alone one in his first head coaching role.
The Saints will lean heavily on their defense. Though it faces a tall order after allowing the third-most yards per game last season. While many starters return, the defense underwent a coaching change as well, bringing in Brandon Staley to shift the scheme to a 3-4 alignment. With the addition of safety Justin Reid, some may overlook rookie Jonas Sanker, but Sanker’s versatility will keep him on the field. He can play in the box, slot, and deep safety positions, and contribute on special teams.
New Orleans has a long road ahead as it seeks to rebuild. But after the recent retirement of former All-pro Tyrann Mathieu. Jonas will be tasked to step earlier than expected. With a new coaching staff focused on laying a strong foundation, the Saints hope to establish the building blocks for future success and a return to contention.
Carolina Panthers: Bobby Brown iii
It’s been nearly a decade since the Carolina Panthers last won the NFC South. But a second half surge of quarterback Bryce Young injected new life into the franchise. Confident in their young star, the Panthers weren’t shy about making bold moves this offseason, especially on defense. While the signing of Tre’von Moehrig grabbed headlines, the most critical upgrades came along the defensive line.
After, a historically poor season, becoming the first team since 1980 to allow over 3,000 rushing yards. Panthers also ranked last in pressure rate. They responded by revamping their defensive front, highlighted by the addition of Bobby Brown III. At 6’4” and 325 pounds, Brown is a true nose tackle who fits perfectly into Carolina’s scheme and immediately improves their run defense. Posting a 67.6 run defense grade, ranked 27th out of 219.
Brown’s reunion with former coach Ejiro Evero should make for a smooth transition, as he’s already familiar with the system. With Derrick Brown returning alongside him, this duo looks poised to anchor the trenches and lead the Panthers’ defense back to respectability.
Atlanta Falcons: Xavier Watts
The Atlanta Falcons are aiming to extend their streak to seven straight playoff appearances. Last year seemed poised to end that run after they handed veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins a hefty contract. However, injuries forced the team to bench Cousins in favor of rookie first-round pick Michael Penix Jr., who showed flashes of promise and gave fans hope for the future. The offense returns most of its starters this season, except for center Drew Dalman, who departed in free agency.
The defense was the Falcons’ biggest weakness, finishing second-worst in the league in sacks, trailing only the Patriots. To address this, Atlanta doubled down in the draft by selecting Jalon Walker and trading back into the first round to pick James Pierce Jr… However, the most intriguing addition may be Notre Dame safety Xavier Watts. A former wide receiver and linebacker, Watts brings a high motor and excellent football IQ. His ball skills stand out too. He recorded 13 interceptions over the last two seasons and earned an impressive 90.3 coverage grade from PFF.
The Falcons also signed Jordan Fuller, though injuries have limited his impact in recent years. This opens the door for Watts to earn a starting role and make significant plays on defense. Atlanta is desperate to return to the playoffs and moves like this offseason’s draft and signings could set the foundation. While some question the trade for Pierce, if he and Walker perform as hoped, critics will have little to say.
Philadelphia Eagles: Azeez Ojulari
The Philadelphia Eagles are coming off a dominant Super Bowl victory, securing their second championship in the last eight years. This offseason, the team prioritized locking down key contributors. Resigning center Cam Jurgens and extending Offensive Player of the Year Saquon Barkley. They also used free agency to fill roster gaps and took several low-risk, high-reward chances, building on their reputation as one of the NFL’s best drafting teams.
One intriguing addition is former Georgia pass rusher Azeez Ojulari. Who has battled injuries but shown flashes of high-level production when healthy, recording six sacks in just five starts last season. With the departures of Josh Sweat and Brandon Graham, the Eagles needed to replenish their pass-rushing depth. Ojulari will compete with second-year edge rusher Jalyx Hunt, who showed promise last year but may not be ready to take a full-time role. Ojulari has the potential to step in and have a breakout season.
This approach aligns with the Eagles’ recent formula for success. Just last year, Zach Baun went from career backup to All-Pro after signing a one-year deal. To earning a lucrative three-year, $51 million extension this offseason. The Eagles hope Ojulari can provide even a fraction of Baun’s impact as they chase a repeat Super Bowl title.
Dallas Cowboys: Jack Sanborn
The Dallas Cowboys have been striving for a return to the top for over 30 years. After a disappointing 7-10 finish in 2024, many fans called for change. The Cowboys responded quickly by firing head coach Mike McCarthy and promoting offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer to head coach. Schottenheimer helped lead Dallas to the league’s top scoring offense in his first season as OC. Now, with the addition of wide receiver George Pickens, he now has a full arsenal of weapons to work with.
While the Cowboys didn’t make splashy free agency moves, they made a key underrated signing in linebacker Jack Sanborn. Dallas’s defense struggled last year, allowing the second-most points and fourth-most rushing yards. To address this, they hired new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus. Cowboys then brought in Sanborn, who spent his first three NFL seasons playing under Eberflus’s. Sanborn has been reliable, posting two seasons with over 60 tackles and compiling 4.5 sacks in 19 career starts, while earning a solid 70.5 run defense grade from PFF.
With DeMarvion Overshown recovering from a serious knee injury and Kenneth Murray still learning the system, Sanborn is a strong candidate to start the season at linebacker. Though he may not be a flashy All-Pro, Sanborn offers leadership and dependability. Two qualities the Cowboys desperately need to bring more structure and consistency to their defense.
New York Giants: Marcus Mbow
Since Eli Manning’s retirement after the 2019 season, the New York Giants have started eight different quarterbacks. Ranging from former sixth overall pick Daniel Jones to undrafted rookie Tommy DeVito. Despite the revolving door at quarterback, the franchise has managed only one playoff appearance in the past eight years. This offseason, the Giants officially moved on from Jones, signing veteran Russell Wilson and drafting rookie Jaxson Dart to jumpstart their offense.
One of the team’s longstanding issues has been the offensive line. Though they’ve invested heavily, selecting tackles Andrew Thomas and Evan Neal both in the top 10 of their draft classes. Health and consistency have been elusive. Thomas, when healthy, earned All-Pro honors in 2022 and remains a cornerstone. Neal, however, struggled with pass protection and was benched last season. The Giants have shifted him inside to guard, hoping he can recapture the promise that made him a high draft pick. This opens the door for fifth-round rookie Marcus Mbow to compete for a starting tackle role.
Last season, the Giants ranked near the bottom of the league in pass-block and run-block win rates, finishing 26th and 27th respectively. Mbow’s speed and versatility, being able to play both guard and tackle, could help improve those metrics. He’ll be battling veteran Jermaine Eluemunor for playing time, but whether or not he starts, the Giants may have found one of their bookend tackles for years to come.
Washington Commanders: Jaylin Lane
The Washington Commanders shocked many by coming within one game of the Super Bowl last season, breaking free from seven consecutive years of .500 or worse records. This offseason, they decided to go all in, making big moves like trading for star wide receiver Deebo Samuel and acquiring All-Pro tackle Laremy Tunsil to bolster their roster.
Though the Commanders had only five draft picks, first- and second-round selections Josh Connerly and Trey Amos are expected to contribute early. However, the spotlight may have overlooked their fourth-round pick, Jaylin Lane. The drama surrounding the Deebo Samuel trade and Terry McLaurin’s contract extension has overshadowed Lane’s potential. The speedster out of Virginia Tech, with experience in over 50 college games, brings elite speed and readiness that could earn him immediate playing time.
Lane’s biggest early impact may come on special teams as a return specialist. Having returned punts and kicks in college, he can flip field positions and make game-changing plays. Washington’s wide receiver room is crowded, Lane’s explosiveness and big-play ability make it likely that coach Kliff Kingsbury will find creative ways to get him the ball.
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