The NFL is loaded with young players entering the 2026 season with the opportunity to take their games to another level. Some have already shown flashes of becoming stars, while others are stepping into much larger roles for the first time. With the regular season about to begin, here are 13 players that are poised for breakout seasons.
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New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart (6) walks off the field at halftime during a preseason opening game between the New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings on Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ.
Dart showed enough as a rookie to make Giants fans believe they finally have their quarterback of the future. With a full season ahead of him, the second-year quarterback has legitimate breakout potential. A new coaching staff and a healthy Malik Nabers could make all the difference.
Jan 10, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III (10) leaves the field following a game against the Green Bay Packers in an NFC Wild Card Round game at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

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