As the 2025 NFL season draws to a close, teams are already assessing their rosters for potential breakout candidates ahead of the 2026 campaign. With many young players having demonstrated promise in their rookie seasons, franchises are keen to capitalize on emerging talent.
Key Breakout Candidates for 2026
For the Green Bay Packers, wide receiver Matthew Golden stands out as a player to watch. After limited opportunities due to a crowded receiving corps, Golden flashed his potential during the playoffs with an impressive 90.0 PFF receiving grade. With teammate Romeo Doubs expected to enter free agency, Golden could see a significant increase in playing time next season.
The Jacksonville Jaguars may also undergo shifts in their roster. Running back Bhayshul Tuten is poised to inherit the starting role if Travis Etienne Jr. departs in free agency. Tuten has shown promise, recording a 67.7 PFF rushing grade and forcing 19 missed tackles on just 87 carries in 2025.
The Las Vegas Raiders are likely to focus on improving their offensive line, which could benefit running back Ashton Jeanty. Despite rushing for nearly 1,000 yards in his rookie season, Jeanty averaged only 3.7 yards per carry due to a lack of support from his offensive line. Enhancements in run blocking could propel him to new heights in 2026.
Meanwhile, the Atlanta Falcons are optimistic about EDGE rusher Jalon Walker. A solid rookie season saw him earn a 71.6 PFF overall grade, and his impressive run-defense capabilities could make him a cornerstone of the Falcons’ defense going forward.
The Baltimore Ravens are keen on the development of safety Malaki Starks, who served as a capable backup in his debut season. With a PFF overall grade of 68.9 across more than 1,000 snaps, Starks is expected to grow significantly with more experience.
Rookies to Watch Across the League
The Buffalo Bills are excited about defensive interior player Deone Walker, who was a fourth-round pick and quickly proved his worth with a 78.3 PFF pass-rush grade. Walker’s performance, including 20 pressures and an interception during the playoffs, indicates he has the potential to be a key contributor as the team aims for a Super Bowl run in 2026.
In the Chicago Bears’ offensive line, Ozzy Trapilo has made a case for the starting left tackle position after a solid performance late in the season. He earned a PFF grade of 73.5, ranking among the top 30 offensive tackles.
For the Miami Dolphins, left tackle Patrick Paul has emerged as a starter, significantly improving his PFF grade from the previous season. His 74.4 pass-blocking grade and only four sacks allowed demonstrate his potential as a foundational piece for the team’s offensive line.
On the defensive side, the New York Jets are looking at Jowon Briggs as a potential star after he posted an impressive 85.6 PFF pass-rush grade this season. His ability to adapt could prove vital as the Jets reinforce their defensive unit.
In conclusion, as teams prepare for the 2026 NFL season, these breakout candidates could play crucial roles in shaping their franchises’ futures. With the offseason approaching, all eyes will be on how these players develop and the impact they can have on their respective teams next year.
