NFL players don’t always become stars right away. Some take time to develop and reach their full potential. Looking at young players still on their rookie contracts, we’ve put together a team of breakout stars who have the potential to take their game to the next level. While not all of them may reach All-Pro status, they have the talent to make a significant impact in the league.
Let’s take a closer look at some of these breakout players:
**Quarterback: Anthony Richardson, Colts**
Richardson showed flashes of brilliance in his rookie season but was inconsistent before getting injured. With a talented head coach in Shane Steichen and a solid offensive line and skill group around him, Richardson has the potential to make a big leap in his second year.
**Running back: Tyjae Spears, Titans**
Spears had a solid season as a backup last year, showing his versatility as a runner and receiver. With the addition of J.C. Latham in the draft and offensive line coach Bill Callahan, Spears is poised for a breakout season. Despite competition from Tony Pollard, Spears remains a solid fantasy option.
**Wide receivers: Dontayvion Wicks, Packers; Drake London, Falcons; Michael Wilson, Cardinals**
Wicks and Wilson were among the most reliable receivers last season, with Wilson ranking high in average depth of target. London, known for his blocking skills, is set to benefit from a new offensive system in Atlanta. With Marvin Harrison Jr. now in Arizona, Wilson won’t have to carry the passing game alone.
**Tight end: Luke Musgrave, Packers**
Despite missing games last season, Musgrave showed promise as a tight end in Green Bay’s offense. With another year in the system and improved health, Musgrave is poised for a breakout year.
**Offensive tackles: Broderick Jones, Steelers; Wanya Morris, Chiefs**
Jones and Morris have the potential to make a significant impact on their respective teams. Jones, moving back to left tackle, has the support of offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. Morris, competing for the starting job, has shown flashes of talent and could solidify the left tackle position for the Chiefs.
**Offensive guards: Peter Skoronski, Titans; Alijah Vera-Tucker, Jets**
Skoronski and Vera-Tucker have proven themselves as reliable guards in their teams’ offensive lines. With the right coaching and support, both players have the potential for a breakout season.
**Center: Cam Jurgens, Eagles**
With the guidance of offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland and mentorship from Jason Kelce, Jurgens is poised for a successful season as the Eagles’ center.
**Edge rushers: Odafe Oweh, Ravens; Travon Walker, Jaguars**
Oweh and Walker have shown promise as pass rushers and are expected to take their game to the next level this season. With the support of their teams’ defenses, both players could have breakout seasons.
**Defensive tackles: Jalen Carter, Eagles; Karl Brooks, Packers**
Carter and Brooks have the potential to be dominant forces in the middle of their teams’ defensive lines. With their ability to pressure the quarterback, both players are poised for breakout seasons.
**Linebackers: Terrel Bernard, Bills; Christian Harris, Texans**
Bernard and Harris have the talent to be impact players at the linebacker position. With the right coaching and support, both players could have breakout seasons this year.
**Cornerbacks: Christian Gonzalez, Patriots; Derek Stingley Jr., Texans; Cordale Flott, Giants**
Gonzalez, Stingley, and Flott are young cornerbacks with the potential to make a significant impact in their teams’ secondaries. With their talent and skill set, all three players could have breakout seasons.
**Safeties: Kerby Joseph, Lions; Ji’Ayir Brown, 49ers**
Joseph and Brown have shown their ability to make plays in the secondary and are expected to continue their development this season. With improved talent around them, both players could have breakout seasons.
These young players have the potential to make a significant impact in the NFL this season. Keep an eye on them as they look to take their game to the next level and become breakout stars in the league.