5 underrated players available in 2022 NFL Free Agency

Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images
Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images /
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MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – JANUARY 09: Tua Tagovailoa #1 of the Miami Dolphins hands the ball off to Duke Johnson #28 against the New England Patriots at Hard Rock Stadium on January 09, 2022 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

Underrated NFL free agent: RB — Duke Johnson

Returning home to Miami for the 2021 season, the former Hurricane was a Godsend for the Dolphins. The seventh-year pro had a strong final month as a Dolphin, tallying two 100-yard rushing games after posting none through his first six seasons.

This is an even more impressive feat when you consider how bad the Dolphins’ offensive line was. Last season, Miami ranked dead last in PFF’s overall 2021 rankings for o-lines.

Johnson’s best work in the NFL, though, has come a third-down/receiving back. The Florida native has had five seasons with at least 40 receptions, including two 60-plus catch seasons in 2015 and 2017. Johnson’s 2017 campaign was his lone going over 1,000 yards from scrimmage (1,074), as he scored a career-high seven total TDs, as well career-highs of 74 receptions and 693 yards.

Miami’s best bet is to bring Johnson back as a key piece in its committee of backs. If he is to leave, though, there should be a fair market for him as he approaches his 29th birthday.

Potential landing spots: Baltimore Ravens, Arizona Cardinals, New England Patriots