The 5 most overrated and underrated NFL players

Jackson, who hold the St. Louis Rams’ franchise record for rushing yards, was supposed to be the missing piece for the Falcons, who were 13-3 and the NFC’s top seed in 2012. Instead, Jackson has simply gone missing. In fairness, he’s been bothered by hamstring and toe injuries, but even when relatively healthy he hasn’t been the same player that rushed for more than 1,000 yards in eight consecutive seasons.  (Mark Blinch / AP)

Looking to establish a power running game, the Colts made a startling, mid-September trade for Richardson, the third overall pick by Cleveland in 2012, sending the Browns a 2014 first-round pick. By November, the Colts had benched Richardson for Donald Brown.   (Andy Lyons / Getty Images)

There’s no question Stafford can throw the ball. Picked first overall in 2009, he had the most prolific first 50 games in NFL history (surpassing Kurt Warner) and has put up gaudy yardage totals the last three seasons. However, in Stafford’s five seasons, the star-studded Lions are 0-1 in the playoffs.   (Gregory Shamus / Getty Images)

The once highly touted Burfict was a bust (with a lousy attitude) at the 2012 scouting combine and went undrafted. He had to plead for a chance in the NFL, and Bengals Coach Marvin Lewis finally gave him an opportunity. Through the first 12 games at least, he led the NFL in tackles with 131.   (Tom Uhlman / AP)

Quinn isn’t quite a household name, unless is it is a household of Rams fans, but he’s one of the best defensive players in the league. He’s an ultra-athletic pass rusher who has a chance to be the premier player at his position as his game continues to grow.   (Charles Rex Arbogast / AP)

The Titans wanted to play more aggressive press coverage this season, and considered demoting the 5-10, 186-pound Verner to third corner. Verner, a 2010 fourth-rounder from UCLA, stepped up in a big way and had an AFC-leading five interceptions through 12 games.   (Andy Lyons / Getty Images)