Every NFL season delivers a handful of players who explode onto the scene, making fans wonder, “Where did that come from?” The 2025-2026 campaign is no different, with a fresh crop of second-year standouts, promising rookies, and overlooked veterans ready to take that next leap.
Whether it’s a quarterback stepping into a starting role or a defensive player finally getting full-time snaps, the breakout buzz is real. These 20 NFL players are primed to turn heads and make serious noise this season.
20. Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Detroit Lions
Rakestraw dealt with injuries during his rookie season, but he’s coming into 2025 fully healthy and ready to contribute. With a more prominent role in Detroit’s secondary, he has the tools to become a reliable lockdown corner.
19. Ricky Pearsall, WR, San Francisco 49ers
Pearsall’s crisp route running and versatility are earning him more reps in Kyle Shanahan’s offense. A breakout year could be just around the corner if he keeps climbing the depth chart.
18. Xavier Legette, WR, Carolina Panthers
Legette showed flashes late last season, giving Panthers fans hope for more in Year 2. If Bryce Young steps forward, Legette could emerge as his go-to target.
17. Keon Coleman, WR, Buffalo Bills
The Bills are searching for someone to step up in the passing game, and Coleman fits the bill. His size and red zone potential make him a breakout threat in Buffalo’s offense.
16. Omar Speights, LB, Los Angeles Rams
Speights made an impression last year as a tough, downhill linebacker. Now in line for a bigger role, he could quickly rack up tackles.
15. Tarheeb Still, CB, Los Angeles Chargers
Still quietly made an impact in the slot as a rookie and is expected to do even more this year. With improved stability on defense, he could become a reliable coverage ace.
14. Jaden Hicks, S, Kansas City Chiefs
With a starting spot up for grabs in Kansas City’s secondary, Hicks is poised to seize the opportunity. His strong coverage instincts make him a name to watch.
13. Ashton Jeanty, RB, Las Vegas Raiders
Jeanty arrives in Vegas with a ton of hype and a wide-open backfield. He’s got the burst, balance, and hands to make an instant impact.
12. Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Jacksonville Jaguars
Hunter is set to be one of the most unique weapons in the league, playing on both sides of the ball. His athleticism alone makes him a must-watch every week.
11. R.J. Harvey, RB, Denver Broncos
Harvey is stepping into a featured role in Sean Payton’s offense. He’s a physical, efficient runner who could rack up serious yardage if given the volume.
10. Edgerrin Cooper, LB, Green Bay Packers
Cooper finished 2024 on a high note and now looks like the future of Green Bay’s linebacker corps. Expect him to be all over the field this season.
9. Mekhi Wingo, DT, Detroit Lions
Wingo is getting more playing time with Alim McNeill sidelined, and coaches love his motor. He could quickly become a force on the interior line.
8. Terrion Arnold, CB, Detroit Lions
Arnold held his own as a rookie and looks ready to take the next step. He’s got all the tools to be a top corner in Detroit’s ascending defense.
7. Luke McCaffrey, WR, Washington Commanders
McCaffrey’s route-running and football IQ are drawing praise in Washington. With more snaps on the table, he could become a trusted target quickly.
6. Trey Benson, RB, Arizona Cardinals
Benson showed off his explosiveness last season in limited touches. With a larger workload ahead, he’s a strong bet to post big numbers.
5. Jonah Elliss, EDGE, Denver Broncos
Elliss flashed serious pass-rushing chops as a rookie and is now locked into a bigger role. Double-digit sacks aren’t out of the question.
4. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Seattle Seahawks
Smith-Njigba broke out last season and is now the undisputed WR1 in Seattle. He’s in for a monster year with even more targets coming his way.
3. Rome Odunze, WR, Chicago Bears
Odunze is stepping into a much larger role with Keenan Allen gone. His physical tools and polish should make him a favorite target in Chicago.
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2. Michael Penix Jr., QB, Atlanta Falcons
Penix has the starting job locked down and a talented supporting cast. If he stays healthy, the Falcons’ offense could take off.
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1. J.J. McCarthy, QB, Minnesota Vikings
McCarthy walks into the perfect situation as the new face of the Vikings. With a clean slate and plenty of weapons, he’s got breakout written all over him.
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