Players across the NFL left behind team activities and mandatory minicamps for the summer on Thursday. They will be away from their teams until training camps start in late July. Tom Brady, Rob Gronkowski, Aaron Donald, Le’Veon Bell and more stars decided to skip camps and be away from their teams for most of the summer. But the players who did show up came ready to play. ESPN put together a list of under-the-radar players from each team that you should keep your eyes on during this offseason.
Dallas Cowboys: Defensive tackle Jihad Ward
The Cowboys acquired Ward during the draft from the Raiders for wide receiver Ryan Switzer. As a former second-round pick, Ward was a huge disappointment for two seasons in Oakland, picking up one sack in 21 career games. But defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli sees something in Ward that makes him think he can be a valuable part of a rotation.
Philadelphia Eagles: Cornerback De’Vante Bausby
He is a former undrafted agent from Pittsburg State who has unexpectedly emerged as a candidate for the slot corner role vacated by Patrick Robinson, who signed with the Saints this offseason.
New England Patriots: Cornerback J.C. Jackson
As an undrafted free agent from Maryland, he received significant repetitions opposite Stephon Gilmore with what would be considered the team’s top defense. He seemed to hold his own with multiple pass breakups.
San Francisco 49ers: Wide Receiver Kendrick Bourne
Bourne has been one of the most consistent pass-catchers for quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo in the offseason program. He finished last year, after being added as an undrafted free agent, with 16 catches for 257 yards.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Wide receiver Rashad Greene
The Jaguars’ fifth-round pick in 2015 did well as a punt returner as a rookie but played in only eight games the past two seasons and none in 2017 because of injuries.
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