Year after year, rookies enter the National Football League and instantly make an impact, hence the Offensive and Defensive Rookie of the Year awards. Each year, between 257 and 262 players get to live out their dream of being drafted into the NFL and sportsbooks such as BetMGM and Draft Kings quickly take note of the expected favorites to win each honor.
The 2026 class definitely has its heavy hitters, such as Caleb Downs and Carnell Tate. However, several rookies enter the league outside that spotlight with an opportunity to become significant contributors for their teams. Whether because of where they were drafted, the depth chart in front of them or simply being overshadowed by flashier names in their draft class, these players might not be on everyone’s radar come Week 1. That does not mean they should be overlooked. Here are some under-the-radar rookies NFL fans should keep an eye on during the 2026 season.
5. Ja’Kobi Lane - WR Baltimore Ravens
Drafted 80th overall out of USC, Ja’Kobi Lane has rapidly developed into one of the Ravens’ biggest offseason surprises. The former Trojan has flashed potential with his large catch radius and ability to win contested catches. He has already earned reps with Baltimore’s first-team offense, and his quick rise up the depth chart has not gone unnoticed. Lane is currently behind Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman, but anything could happen come September after his productive offseason. With Lamar Jackson throwing him the football, Lane could become another dangerous weapon in Baltimore’s offense.
4. Jaishawn Barham - LB Dallas Cowboys
A third-round pick out of Michigan, Jaishawn Barham has surprised many this summer, going from an overlooked rookie to a possible Week 1 starter for the Cowboys. Barham’s physicality has impressed throughout training camp, earning high praise from head coach Brian Schottenheimer and Cowboy fans alike. In his preseason debut, Barham was trusted with the green dot and recorded five tackles and a tackle for loss. With Dallas searching for stability at linebacker, Barham may be the answer.
3. Zachariah Branch - WR Atlanta Falcons
Despite being a third-round pick, Zachariah Branch has made noise this offseason because of his explosive ability. Branch led the SEC with 81 receptions last season at Georgia and was initially expected to return kicks or be used as a gadget player. However, Branch has impressed with his separation speed and ability to gain yards after catch, earning reps in Atlanta’s offense. With the Falcons finding creative ways to get him the football, Branch could provide an immediate spark as a rookie.
2. Kaelon Black - RB San Francisco 49ers
Kaelon Black rushed for more than 1,000 yards at Indiana last season, yet still found himself as an under-the-radar name heading into the NFL. Black was not invited to the NFL combine, entering the draft with little national attention. The San Francisco 49ers saw something different, however, drafting Black 90th overall after grading him as their No. 2 RB in the draft. Black has flashed explosiveness after returning from an early camp injury and looks to be the likely backup to All-Pro Christian McCaffrey. This opportunity makes Black’s rookie campaign one worth tuning into.
1. Denzel Boston - WR Cleveland Browns
Denzel Boston may not carry the hype of the 2026 class’ top names, but the Browns’ second-round pick has quickly shown why he belongs in the conversation. The 6-foot-4 receiver has stood out this offseason with his ability to win contested catches and stretch the field. Boston has already carved out considerable reps with Cleveland’s starters alongside Jerry Jeudy and fellow rookie KC Concepcion. Coming off an 11-touchdown campaign at Washington last season, Boston’s combination of size and opportunity projects him as an immediate red-zone threat.
