10 Under-The-Radar Free Agent Signings That Could Pay Off Big Time In 2023

Introduction

The 2023 NFL free agency period has been dominated by big-name signings and eye-catching headlines. However, amidst the frenzy, there are a few under-the-radar signings that may end up paying substantial dividends for their new teams. In this article, we will highlight ten such signings that have the potential to make a significant impact in the upcoming season. So, while the big names may grab all the attention, don't overlook these hidden gems that could be game-changers.

Rashad Penny to the Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles lost their top rusher, Miles Sanders, to free agency. Rather than overspending on another running back, the Eagles made a shrewd move by picking up Rashad Penny on a one-year deal worth $1.35 million. Penny's durability concerns may raise some eyebrows, but when he's on the field, he's a force to be reckoned with. Despite missing seven games in 2021, Penny racked up 749 rushing yards and six touchdowns, including four 100-yard performances in his final five games. If Penny can stay healthy, he has the potential to contend for the 2023 rushing title and provide excellent value for the Eagles.

Gardner Minshew II to the Indianapolis Colts

The Indianapolis Colts are expected to select a quarterback in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft. However, in the likely event that quarterbacks CJ Stroud and Bryce Young are off the board by the time the Colts pick, Gardner Minshew II will serve as an excellent bridge quarterback. Minshew has proven himself as a capable backup, throwing for 663 yards and three touchdowns in five appearances last season, including two starts. With an impressive supporting cast that includes Jonathan Taylor, Michael Pittman Jr., and an improving offensive line, Minshew could keep the Colts in playoff contention while they groom their next franchise quarterback.

Jacoby Brissett to the Washington Commanders

Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera has managed to lead his team to at least seven wins in each of his three years at the helm, despite constant quarterback uncertainty. The Commanders have signed journeyman Jacoby Brissett to provide stability at the position. Brissett's experience and game-management skills make him the ideal bridge quarterback if 2022 first-round pick Sam Howell is not ready to start immediately. With a strong defense and a talented group of playmakers on offense, Brissett's ability to manage the game effectively could keep the Commanders in the playoff hunt while they search for their future franchise signal caller.

Dalvin Tomlinson to the Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns have been searching for a quality pass rusher to complement star defensive end Myles Garrett. While big names like Olivier Vernon and Jadeveon Clowney didn't pan out, the Browns hope to strike gold with Dalvin Tomlinson. Despite not being viewed as a top-of-the-line free agent, Tomlinson's fit in the Browns' defensive scheme is what makes him invaluable. As one of the best run-stopping defensive tackles in the league, Tomlinson will help shore up the Browns' run defense and provide additional pass-rushing support. With his ability to create disruption in the middle, Tomlinson adds a much-needed element to the Browns' front seven and could be the missing piece to their defensive puzzle.

Mike Gesicki to the New England Patriots

The New England Patriots managed to unload the disastrous contract of tight end Jonnu Smith on the Atlanta Falcons. In return, they acquired a better option in Mike Gesicki on a one-year deal worth up to $9 million. Gesicki may not have had his best year in 2022 due to the presence of talented pass catchers in Miami, but his role in New England will be different. With Hunter Henry as his partner at tight end, Gesicki will provide quarterback Mac Jones with not one, but two dangerous red zone weapons. Gesicki's presence adds versatility to the Patriots' offense, and he will be a valuable security blanket for Jones, particularly in third and long situations.

Arden Key to the Tennessee Titans

The Tennessee Titans made a savvy move by signing edge rusher Arden Key away from AFC South rival Jacksonville Jaguars. Key's proven pass-rushing ability, demonstrated by his career-high 6.5 sacks for the San Francisco 49ers in 2021, makes him an excellent addition to the Titans' front seven. Paired with rising superstar Jeffrey Simmons and veteran mainstays Harold Landry and Denico Autry, Key strengthens a potentially formidable Tennessee pass rush. With a top defense and a solid set of offensive playmakers, the Titans have the pieces to contend, and Key's addition only enhances their chances.

Dalton Schultz to the Houston Texans

The Houston Texans signed tight end Dalton Schultz to a one-year deal worth $9 million after a frustrating final year with the Dallas Cowboys. Schultz may not be a household name, but he has proven himself as a quality pass-catching tight end in the NFL. In 2021, Schultz had 78 catches for 808 yards and eight touchdowns, often sharing targets with a deep receiving corps. With the Texans trading away top wideout Brandin Cooks, Schultz will have an opportunity to shine as quarterback Bryce Young or CJ Stroud's go-to target. His presence will also open up space for other receivers in third and long situations. While Schultz may not reach Rob Gronkowski levels of dominance, he adds versatility to the Texans' offense and could potentially lead their receiving corps next season.

Eric Kendricks to the Los Angeles Chargers

The Los Angeles Chargers made a smart move by signing linebacker Eric Kendricks, who was released by the Minnesota Vikings in a cost-cutting move. Kendricks, a former Pro Bowler, brings his tackling prowess and versatility to a Chargers defense that struggled against the run and pass rush in 2022. With a healthy Joey Bosa and the addition of Khalil Mack, Kendricks completes a formidable front seven. While his coverage skills have been a weakness, the presence of Derwin James Jr. and Asante Samuel Jr. will provide support in that area. Kendricks' ability to focus primarily on pass rushing and stopping the run could make him a valuable asset for the Chargers in their quest for defensive dominance.

Damien Harris to the Buffalo Bills

The Buffalo Bills replaced their 2022 leading rusher, Devin Singletary, with former New England Patriots running back Damien Harris. Although Harris lost his starting job to Rhamondre Stevenson in 2022, he showed flashes of brilliance, recording 929 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns in 2021. Harris will either be a complement to James Cook or potentially take over as the starting running back in Buffalo. His explosiveness and ability to break big plays could make him the Bills' first 1,000-yard rusher since LeSean McCoy in 2017. Harris' crafty running style and ability to step up in key moments make him one of the most underrated signings of the offseason.

Taylor Heinicke to the Atlanta Falcons

The Atlanta Falcons signed Taylor Heinicke to a two-year, $20 million deal, presumably to be the backup to second-year quarterback Desmond Ritter. However, Heinicke's potential impact extends beyond the backup role. If Ritter fails to live up to expectations, the Falcons have a capable starter in Heinicke. Despite a lackluster offensive line and limited offensive weapons, Heinicke posted a commendable 12-11-1 record as Washington's starting quarterback. With improved talent around him in Atlanta, including offensive mastermind Arthur Smith as head coach, Heinicke could thrive and potentially guide the Falcons to success in the wide-open NFC South. Whether as a back-up or starter, Heinicke provides both a safety net and an exciting potential option for the Falcons.

Conclusion

While the big-name signings dominate headlines, it's essential not to overlook the under-the-radar signings that could significantly impact the upcoming NFL season. With their unique skill sets and potential contributions, players like Rashad Penny, Gardner Minshew II, Dalvin Tomlinson, and more have the opportunity to turn their new teams into contenders. So, keep an eye on these hidden gems as they could prove to be some of the best free agent signings of 2023.