Every year, there are a handful of players that fly under-the-radar entering a new season for a variety of reasons. Players coming off injuries, depth chart burials, lack of big play exposure, or just simply play at a position that does not garner extended-praise.
Some people just do not appreciate left guards pulling and blocking at the second level as much as one-handed receptions.
Think back to just last season for several examples. David Ojabo became a starter that accrued 35 tackles, 12 tackles-for-loss, 11 sacks, and five forced fumbles. And he entered the year with only one (!