Every year, in the National Football League, there are players who exceed expectations and become stars whether they are a rookie or veteran player. Take De’Vondre Campbell (LB, GB) for example. He was selected to be first-team, All-Pro after merely just being a role player for the Cardinals and Falcons throughout his career. There was also Hunter Renfrow (WR, LV) who was a decent slot receiver his first two years in the league and he amassed over 100 receptions for over 1,000 receiving yards and earning him a Pro Bowl nod this past season. I can go on and on about how players unexpectedly become stars. However, here are 3 players who I think will have breakout seasons this year!
1. Mecole Hardman (WR, KC):
The 4th year receiver has shown flashes of his potential in his first 3 seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, but has not been able to be a primary weapon in the offense with players like Travis Kelce and Tyreek Hill in the offense. With Hill gone, I expect Hardman to fill in that role. Yes… the Chiefs have brought in Marquez Valdes-Scandling, Juju Smith-Schuster, and Skyy Moore onto the roster, but Mecole Hardman and Patrick Mahomes have chemistry and he is currently starting on the depth chart. If there is any QB in the NFL who I trust to bring the best out of a receiver, it’s Patrick Mahomes.
2. Rashan Gary (OLB, GB):
The University of Michigan product had a slow start to his career in his first 2 seasons. However, this past season he broke out for 9.5 sacks. The reason that he is on this list is that I believe he has the potential to be top 5 in sacks and become a top defender in this league. Za'darius Smith is officially gone and this leaves him with more opportunities to get to the quarterback. Not to mention, he still has Kenny Clark and Preston Smith bringing pressure on defense which allows him to still rack up sacks, quarterback pressures, and hits.
3. Dameon Pierce (RB, HOU):
Rookie Dameon Pierce has looked absolutely incredible in training camp and his first preseason game. He is in the perfect situation to have a breakout season. Pierce has a decent offensive line and a young quarterback who will give him the ball as much as possible to open up the passing game. Davis Mills can’t take over a game, he is a good quarterback and he will thrive if he has a good run game to compliment him. The former Florida Gator has received a lot of praise from his head coach, Lovie Smith, and it is only a matter of time until he becomes the true lead back in the offense.
Which players do you think will have a breakout season and become a star in the NFL this year?
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