Progress isn't linear for NFL players. Some enter the league as stars. Many more need time to develop after jumping from the college ranks to test themselves against some of the world's best athletes.
That makes it difficult to tell which talented players are ready to break out and which will leave vast reserves of potential untapped. But every team has at least one candidate ready to take things to the next level and establish themselves. For some, that will be a rookie or two who can handle the leap to playing on Sundays. Others will see veterans emerge from depth roles into surefire starting positions. And some starters will rise to Pro Bowl or All-Pro levels, serving as a foundation for a Super Bowl contender.
Who fits that bill for every team in the NFL? Let's break it down, running through the list in alphabetical order.
Jeremiyah Love is the obvious answer, but Arizona's running back depth may prevent him from having the same kind of impact he had at Notre Dame. The Cardinals' passing defense, however, ranked just 26th in expected points added (EPA) allowed in 2025.
Burke wasn't part of the problem; he worked his way into the starting lineup and recorded a 78.4 passer rating allowed in coverage. If he can showcase steady growth after an overlooked rookie campaign, he could wind up with Pro Bowl hype.
#team #rookie #depth #starting
That makes it difficult to tell which talented players are ready to break out and which will leave vast reserves of potential untapped. But every team has at least one candidate ready to take things to the next level and establish themselves. For some, that will be a rookie or two who can handle the leap to playing on Sundays. Others will see veterans emerge from depth roles into surefire starting positions. And some starters will rise to Pro Bowl or All-Pro levels, serving as a foundation for a Super Bowl contender.
Who fits that bill for every team in the NFL? Let's break it down, running through the list in alphabetical order.
Jeremiyah Love is the obvious answer, but Arizona's running back depth may prevent him from having the same kind of impact he had at Notre Dame. The Cardinals' passing defense, however, ranked just 26th in expected points added (EPA) allowed in 2025.
Burke wasn't part of the problem; he worked his way into the starting lineup and recorded a 78.4 passer rating allowed in coverage. If he can showcase steady growth after an overlooked rookie campaign, he could wind up with Pro Bowl hype.
#team #rookie #depth #starting
2 months ago
