1. Rock Lee: Early Rating: ★★★★ Later Rating: ★★ Rock Lee initially impresses in the Chunin Exams, but his character fades into the background. Without flashy techniques, his role becomes less significant.

2. Kimimaro: Early Rating: ★★★★★ Later Rating: ★★★★ Kimimaro possesses a rare kekkei genkai and is Orochimaru's valuable asset. However, his overwhelming power is balanced by making him fall ill with a terminal disease.

3. Iruka Umino: Early Rating: ★★★★ Later Rating: ★★ Iruka's abilities are not extensively evaluated, but he becomes a mentor for Naruto. Sadly, he rarely appears later in the series.

4. Neji Hyuga: Early Rating: ★★★★★ Later Rating: ★★★ Neji is an exceptional prodigy, surpassing his clan's limitations. However, his significance diminishes after his fight against Naruto. He sacrificed himself in the Fourth Great Ninja War.