1 Overrated NFL Player on All 32 Teams: Who Gets Too Much Credit?

Arizona Cardinals QB Kyler Murray (1) could be considered one of the more overrated players in the NFL.

The start of NFL training camp is quickly approaching. At this point in the offseason, nearly every team is excited about the promise and potential of a new year.

Yet, there are certainly players around the league who have failed to live up to expectations or are ranked a bit higher than they should be. Who are the most overrated players on each NFL in 2024?

Most Overrated Players in the NFL

Arizona Cardinals: Kyler Murray, QB

There’s an old saying that states the best ability is availability. Unfortunately for Kyler Murray, he has struggled to stay healthy in recent years. Despite being regarded as the Arizona Cardinals franchise quarterback, he’s failed to live up to the hype.

Murray has played just 19 games over the last two seasons, with Arizona winning just six of those starts. At times, he’s shown flashes of potential greatness, but Murray is far too inconsistent to be regarded as a great quarterback and get paid like a top-10 QB.

Atlanta Falcons: Kyle Pitts, TE

The Atlanta Falcons selected Kyle Pitts with the fourth overall selection in the 2021 NFL Draft. While Pitts possesses all of the rare traits to be an elite NFL tight end, he hasn’t put it all together through his first three seasons with the Falcons.

Many will point to Atlanta’s lack of competent quarterback play and poor play-calling as primary reasons for Pitts’ failure thus far. Yet, that hasn’t stopped his teammate, Drake London, from succeeding early on.

Baltimore Ravens: Ronnie Stanley, OT

Baltimore Ravens starting left tackle Ronnie Stanley is often mentioned in the discussion with top NFL offensive tackles, yet his production took a dip in 2023.

From 2018 to 2022, Stanley was credited with allowing just four total sacks. However, last season, he allowed five total sacks and 42 total pressures. Stanley was also called for 10 total penalties last season as well.

Despite his perceived status as a top OT, Stanley didn’t necessarily live up to the hype in 2023.

Buffalo Bills: Dalton Kincaid, TE

Once the Buffalo Bills selected tight end Dalton Kincaid in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, it appeared as though he would dominate as a rookie. Given Buffalo’s lack of weapons in the passing game outside of Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis, Kincaid received plenty of hype prior to the start of his rookie season.

Kincaid got off to a slow start, however, finishing his rookie season with respectable, yet disappointing numbers. Until he can prove to the Bills that he was worth selecting in Round 1, he’ll be considered overrated.

Carolina Panthers: Shaq Thompson, LB

Shaq Thompson was once viewed as a foundational defensive player for the Carolina Panthers, but injuries have taken a toll in recent years. Nevertheless, some still believe he’s one of the better linebackers in the NFL.

When Thompson is on the field, his struggles in pass coverage are apparent and a true weakness in his game. Although he still carries around the reputation of possibly being an elite linebacker, he needs to prove that he can stay on the field and play better in coverage.

Chicago Bears: Kevin Byard III, S

The Chicago Bears are ready to welcome a new era led by potential franchise quarterback Caleb Williams. However, they’re making a bold choice on defense, relying on Kevin Byard III as a starting safety in 2024.

Byard was acquired via trade by the Philadelphia Eagles last season and failed to live up to expectations, given his career accolades. The 30-year-old safety looked a step slow at times and didn’t showcase the instincts that he often showed with the Tennessee Titans.

Cincinnati Bengals: Orlando Brown Jr., OT

When the Cincinnati Bengals signed offensive tackle Orlando Brown Jr., he was supposed to be the answer to protect Joe Burrow’s blindside. In 2023, though, Brown took a step back and allowed seven total sacks, 45 quarterback hurries, and 50 total pressures.

Each of those statistics was a career-high for Brown, and the Bengals can only hope that he doesn’t continue to decline in 2024. If Cincinnati wants to have any chance to compete in the AFC, they’ll need Brown to block at a higher level and keep Burrow clean.

Cleveland Browns: Deshaun Watson, QB

In 2022, the Cleveland Browns made a blockbuster trade to acquire Deshaun Watson. Despite the situation involving Watson away from the field, Cleveland still thought he was worth trading a treasure chest of draft picks for.

Yet, in his first two seasons with the Browns, Watson has failed to live up to expectations. He’s played just 12 games over the last two years, throwing 12 touchdowns and nine interceptions. Considering how much money that Watson makes and how many still perceive him, he’s easily Cleveland’s most overrated player.

Dallas Cowboys: Trevon Diggs, CB

Although he missed most of last season due to a torn ACL, Dallas Cowboys cornerback Trevon Diggs is the most overrated player on the team. Many will fixate on Diggs’ interception total, but they often forget about the amount of receiving yards he allowed.

While Diggs recorded 14 interceptions from 2021-2022, he also allowed 10 receiving touchdowns and over 1,800 yards. Diggs is still regarded as one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL, but he takes far too many risks on the field.

Denver Broncos: Javonte Williams, RB

Javonte Williams burst onto the scene as a rookie, establishing himself as one of the NFL’s rising running back stars. However, over the last two seasons, his name has carried more weight than his play on the field.

In 16 games for the Denver Broncos last year, Williams rushed for just 774 yards on 217 attempts. An average of just 3.6 rushing yards per attempt is quite a drop-off from his 4.4 average during his rookie season.

Detroit Lions: Jameson Williams, WR

Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams was supposed to be the next DeSean Jackson or Tyreek Hill. Prior to the 2022 NFL Draft, Williams was regarded as a game-changing deep threat with the ability to score every time he touches the football.

Yet, in 18 career games with the Lions, he has just 395 receiving yards and three receiving touchdowns. Several still believe that Williams has star potential, but he’s surely overrated based on his on-the-field production.

Green Bay Packers: Christian Watson, WR

Similar to Williams, there was quite a bit of hype surrounding Green Bay Packers WR Christian Watson coming into the NFL after testing as one of the most athletic wide receivers in NFL history during the 2022 NFL Combine.

However, Watson’s athleticism hasn’t translated to immediate success. Although he’s certainly shown flashes at times, Watson has failed to cement himself as Green Bay’s WR1 and needs to prove that he can stay on the field and contribute in 2024.

Houston Texans: Christian Harris, LB

Houston Texans linebacker Christian Harris started 12 games in 2023 and put up some impressive numbers. He recorded 101 total tackles and two sacks, which is why he’s received a bit of hype this offseason as the Texans have become the NFL’s new darling.

However, there are legitimate concerns about Harris’ ability in coverage. In 2023, he was an easy target for opposing quarterbacks, allowing a 77.1% completion percentage. His aggressiveness gets him in trouble at times, as he missed 15 tackles last season as well.

Indianapolis Colts: Alec Pierce, WR

There seems to be a common theme developing here as several wide receivers in the 2022 NFL Draft have failed to live up to their draft slot. While the Indianapolis Colts are likely ready to move forward with Alec Pierce as a backup, some still believe he will push for a starting job in 2024.

Jacksonville Jaguars: Gabe Davis, WR

Following Calvin Ridley’s departure in free agency, the Jacksonville Jaguars needed to make a notable addition at wide receiver. The Jaguars selected Brian Thomas Jr. in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, but before that, they also signed Gabe Davis in free agency.

Despite playing with an elite quarterback in Josh Allen, Davis failed to live up to the preseason hype for the Bills in 2023. Now he will be relied upon as one of the Jaguars’ top wide receivers in 2024 and beyond.

Kansas City Chiefs: Jawaan Taylor, OT

Jawaan Taylor certainly had an inconsistent tenure with Jacksonville to start his NFL career. Nevertheless, the Kansas City Chiefs were willing to take a chance on him as their starting RT last season.

Although the Chiefs were able to win the Super Bowl, Taylor certainly put the team in some tough situations. He was called for an absurd 24 penalties while allowing 59 total pressures.

Despite that, Taylor is somehow still paid like a top-10 NFL offensive tackle.

Las Vegas Raiders: Christian Wilkins, DT

This might be a controversial choice, but the Las Vegas Raiders are betting on Christian Wilkins being able to repeat his production from last season moving forward.

In 2023, Wilkins recorded a career-high 61 total pressures for the Miami Dolphins. Yet, his previous career-high was just 33. While there is no denying that Wilkins will have an impact along the interior, it’s fair to wonder if he’s become both overpaid and overrated.

Los Angeles Chargers: Joey Bosa, EDGE

Los Angeles Chargers edge rusher Joey Bosa was once regarded as one of the best defensive players in the NFL. However, having struggled with injuries, his production has fallen off a cliff in recent years.

Over the last two seasons, Bosa has recorded just nine total sacks. After recording double-digit sacks in four of his first six NFL seasons, the older Bosa brother has fallen off while his last name continues to allow him into the top edge rusher discussion.

Los Angeles Rams: Kyren Williams, RB

Los Angeles Rams running back Kyren Williams went from a little-known backup to a fantasy football star in 2023. But his unexpected performance has catapulted the 23-year-old into discussions that I’m not sure are warranted.

Williams has quickly evolved from unknown to overrated in the span of just one season. Given the arrival of both Blake Corum and Boston Scott, it’s fair to wonder if the Rams also believe that Williams’ performance in 2023 was a bit of an anomaly.

Miami Dolphins: Odell Beckham Jr., WR

There’s no denying that Odell Beckham Jr. was once a must-see player who made highlight play after highlight play. Those days are long gone, though, but some are seemingly still clinging onto hope that he’ll return to that level of play.

Despite Beckham’s name value, it’s clear that he’s on the decline, and his best days are in the past.

Minnesota Vikings: Byron Murphy Jr., CB

The Minnesota Vikings were in desperate need of help at cornerback in 2023 and signed Byron Murphy Jr. to a two-year, $22 million contract. Although Minnesota’s defense surprised many last offseason, Murphy wasn’t exactly a bright spot for the Vikings.

Murphy allowed 715 receiving yards in 2023, which was the highest total of his NFL career. He also allowed six receiving touchdowns, while only recording three interceptions. Yet, the most frustrating part of Murphy’s performance was his poor tackling, as he missed 18 tackles last season.

New England Patriots: Rhamondre Stevenson, RB

The New England Patriots surprised many when they signed Rhamondre Stevenson to a four-year, $32 million extension this offseason. Although Stevenson enjoyed a breakout performance in 2022, he took a step back last season. It will be interesting to see if he can live up to being paid like a top-10 running back in 2024 and beyond.

New Orleans Saints: Alvin Kamara, RB

Although New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara is still regarded as one of the best players at the position, he hasn’t lived up to the hype in recent years. After recording 21 total touchdowns in 2020, Kamara has recorded just 19 total over the last three seasons combined.

Now, Kamara is turning 29 years old and is reportedly in search of a massive contract extension. Many still consider Kamara to be a star RB, but it’s fair to say that he’s become overrated at this point in his career.

New York Giants: Brian Burns, EDGE

In an attempt to keep up with the rest of the NFC East, the New York Giants made a blockbuster trade for edge rusher Brian Burns this offseason. Not only did the Giants trade multiple draft picks for Burns, but they also made him the third-highest-paid edge rusher in the NFL.

Despite New York’s massive commitment, it’s fair to wonder if Burns has officially become overrated at this point. He was an impactful pass rusher for the Panthers, but it’s fair to wonder if he was ever considered elite.

Burns recorded just 40 total pressures in 2023. The Giants certainly hope that he’ll play better moving forward.

New York Jets: Alijah Vera-Tucker, OL

After starting 16 games for the New York Jets as a rookie, offensive lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker appeared to be a foundational piece for the franchise in the trenches. However, in each of the last two seasons, “AVT” has struggled to stay on the field — having played just 682 total snaps during that time span.

Philadelphia Eagles: Landon Dickerson, G

The Philadelphia Eagles signed Landon Dickerson to a massive contract extension this offseason, which made him the NFL’s highest-paid guard. Although Dickerson has certainly played well in Philadelphia, it’s fair to wonder if he’s overpaid and possibly overrated.

During his first two seasons in Philadelphia, Dickerson allowed a total of three sacks. Yet, in 2023, he allowed five, with the Eagles’ offense struggling to stay consistent.

Pittsburgh Steelers: George Pickens, WR

Surprise! Another wide receiver from the 2022 NFL Draft has landed on this list.

It feels like we’ve been waiting an eternity for George Pickens to have a breakout season for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Yet, he’s only heading into his third NFL season.

Following Russell Wilson’s arrival in Pittsburgh, Pickens will be playing with easily the most talented quarterback he’s had throwing to him at the next level. Now, we’ll wait and see if Pickens can finally put it all together on the field and live up to the hype.

San Francisco 49ers: Deebo Samuel, WR

San Francisco 49ers WR Deebo Samuel appeared to emerge as one of the position’s best in 2021. But ever since receiving a massive payday from the Niners, Samuel’s production has fallen off a cliff.

In 2021, Samuel hauled in 77 receptions for a whopping 1,405 receiving yards and six touchdowns. In each of the last two seasons combined, Samuel has totaled just 1,524 receiving yards. It’s safe to say that Samuel has become overrated at this point.

Seattle Seahawks: Leonard Williams, DL

The Seattle Seahawks made a massive deal for Leonard Williams last season, sending two draft picks to the Giants for the former Pro Bowl defensive lineman. Not only did the Seahawks trade for Williams, but they also signed him to a three-year, $64.5 million contract this offseason.

Williams is certainly a force along the DL interior, but it’s a wonder if he’s become overpaid and overrated. Last season, Williams recorded just 5.5 sacks, despite being rewarded like one of the NFL’s top interior pass rushers.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Baker Mayfield, QB

I’m sorry, but I’m just not buying the hype that Baker Mayfield has suddenly turned his career around with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Despite Mayfield’s resurgence under Dave Canales, I’m interested to see how he’ll perform without his former play-caller in 2024.

It’s clear that the Buccaneers are confident in Mayfield, though, having signed him to a three-year, $100 million extension this offseason.

Tennessee Titans: L’Jarius Sneed, CB

There’s no denying that L’Jarius Sneed was a shutdown cornerback for the Chiefs last season. Yet, his body of work prior to 2023 showcases some legitimate concerns about his ability to play cornerback in the NFL.

Despite those concerns, the Titans were willing to trade for Sneed and sign him to a massive contract extension. Tennessee will surely be banking on him to replicate his performance in 2023 and not revert back to the cornerback who allowed 1,736 receiving yards and 10 receiving touchdowns from 2021 to 2022.

Washington Commanders: Austin Ekeler, RB

Austin Ekeler was once viewed as one of the top running backs in the NFL and an elite player in fantasy football. However, his production fell off drastically in 2023, as he looked slow during his final season with the Chargers.

Despite Ekeler’s struggles last season, the Washington Commanders are ready to give the 29-year-old RB another chance. His name certainly still draws attention, but it’s fair to say that Ekeler has become overrated at this point in his career.