NFL preseason games are often shrugged off by fans, and sometimes even by coaching staffs themselves.
Yet while the exhibition slate seldom features an extensive run for the league's biggest stars – or even many of its starters – the contests can often be a vital proving ground for those entering the league without a massive buy-in from their respective teams.
Competition for the last roster spots can be fierce, and the final cutdown date looms on Aug. 26. That window leaves only so many chances remaining for players to make an impression after organized team activities, minicamps and training camp. And for the players and coaches who have slogged through an array of practices, the preseason offers at least an approximation of a game setting while shining a new light on the skills that have been on display throughout the spring and summer.
Every year, at least a handful of players seemingly take advantage by building on strong training camp performances. With the first week of preseason set to kick off Thursday, here are seven under-the-radar rookies who could surprise in games:
From a massive change at coordinator to a surprising shift behind center and a full-blown overhaul of the receiving corps, perhaps no other offense underwent as stark of a transformation this offseason as the Seahawks. Yet amid all the change, the figure making the most noise in camp has been a fifth-round rookie.
