Introduction

The NFL offseason is in full swing, and as teams move closer to the start of the new season, fans and analysts alike have begun analyzing the significant player movements that have already transpired. With only a few notable free-agent signings left on the horizon, it’s the opportune time to reflect on which players may be underpaid or overpaid compared to their performance on the field. In this article, we will examine the players across each NFL team who not only deliver exceptional performances but are also operating under contracts that don't reflect their contributions.

Buffalo Bills: RB James Cook

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook has quietly established himself as one of the most productive offensive weapons in the league. With three consecutive seasons eclipsing 1,200 scrimmage yards and amassing a total of 32 touchdowns over the last two years, he has proven to be a vital cog in the Bills' offense. Yet, he ranks only 19th among backs with a salary-cap hit of $5.9 million in 2026. Considering his performance, it's hard to argue against the notion that he deserves a raise.

Miami Dolphins: RB De'Von Achane

Another impressive running back making waves in Miami is De'Von Achane. A third-round pick in 2023, Achane not only garnered a Pro Bowl selection but also achieved a league-leading 5.7 yards-per-attempt average last season. Now entering the final year of his rookie contract with a cap hit of just $6.0 million, it's evident that Achane provides tremendous value for the Dolphins.

New England Patriots: QB Drake Maye

In New England, quarterback Drake Maye narrowly missed an MVP title, showcasing his skills and potential throughout the season. Despite his accomplishments, his cap hit ranks 26th ($9.9 million) among quarterbacks for 2026. Furthermore, Pro Bowl cornerback Christian Gonzalez is another Patriots player who deserves recognition for his low cap number of $4.8 million.

New York Jets: Edge Will McDonald

Will McDonald, while still classifying as a player needing to establish more consistency, made significant contributions as an edge rusher for the New York Jets. With a combined 18.5 sacks over the last two seasons, he stands to earn just $5.2 million as he wraps up his rookie year. This low cap figure, considering his potential, demonstrates just how underpaid he might be.

Baltimore Ravens: WR Zay Flowers

Zay Flowers is another young player on the rise. Coming off a dynamic season with 1,211 receiving yards and six touchdowns, the 25-year-old is only earning $4.5 million against the Ravens' cap. As one of the standout players from the 2023 draft, it won't be long before his value on the market skyrockets.

Cincinnati Bengals: RB Chase Brown

Chase Brown’s breakout has solidified his position as a key asset for the Cincinnati Bengals. After gaining 1,350 scrimmage yards in 2024 and building on that with 1,456 yards in 2025, Brown’s cost remains a bargain at just $3.7 million entering the final year of his rookie contract.

Cleveland Browns: LB Carson Schwesinger

Carson Schwesinger’s impressive performances since winning the 2025 Defensive Rookie of the Year haven't gone unnoticed. Ranking among the top linebackers with a low pay of $9.7 million over three seasons puts him on the radar for a pay increase.

Pittsburgh Steelers: A Collective Bargain

The Pittsburgh Steelers hit the jackpot with their 2024 draft, bringing in three offensive linemen: Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier, and Mason McCormick. Collectively, they will cost the Steelers only $7.4 million against the cap in 2026, proving that sometimes, the sum can be greater than its parts.

Houston Texans: Edge Will Anderson

Will Anderson's journey in the NFL has been remarkable, culminating in a first-team All-Pro selection and 12 sacks in his second season. However, he is still set to earn just $11.2 million in 2026, a figure that doesn't truly reflect his elite status.

Indianapolis Colts: OL Tanor Bortolini

Tanor Bortolini has shown significant promise with the Indianapolis Colts, achieving a third-highest PFF grade among centers in 2025. Notably, his cap hit for the next two seasons is a mere $2.7 million, indicating he is significantly underpaid relative to his contributions.

Conclusion

The trends in NFL player contracts highlight the importance of performance versus compensation. Many players, particularly those on rookie deals or recently drafted, are proving their worth without being adequately compensated. As the league progresses toward the new season, monitoring these underpaid stars will be crucial, as they may soon command much higher salaries. The 2026 salary cap will undoubtedly provide a compelling storyline as teams continue to assess the market and their strategies for valuing talent appropriately.