Every new NFL season brings its fair share of surprises, and often, the best part is watching the breakout stars emerge. Whether it’s a second-year player ready to explode or a rookie stepping into a perfect situation, there’s always a new batch of guys who go from “decent” to “can’t miss” in the blink of an eye.
This list is all about those players. From rookies with opportunity to young pros looking to level up, here are 20 guys who could leap quickly during the 2025-26 season.
20. Rashid Shaheed, WR, New Orleans Saints
Shaheed has made a name for himself as a deep threat, but 2025 could be the year he becomes more than that. With a bigger role potentially on the table, he might finally get the volume to match his flashes.
19. Nolan Smith, EDGE, Philadelphia Eagles
Smith has been simmering just beneath the surface, waiting for his shot. With Philly needing more juice off the edge, his time may finally be now.
18. Bo Nix, QB, Denver Broncos
Nix got his rookie jitters out of the way and enters Year 2 with more confidence and stability. Don’t be shocked if he quietly becomes one of the more efficient passers in the AFC.
17. Ashton Jeanty, RB, Las Vegas Raiders
Jeanty may be new to the league, but the runway is clear for him in Las Vegas. If he adjusts quickly, he could end up owning that backfield.
16. Jaden Hicks, S, Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs have a habit of turning young defenders into difference-makers. Hicks could be the next in line, especially with a potential starting spot opening up.
15. Josh Downs, WR, Indianapolis Colts
Downs has been sneaky good so far, and now he’s got a full season of chemistry with Anthony Richardson. Don’t be surprised if he becomes the Colts’ most consistent receiving option.
14. Tyjae Spears, RB, Tennessee Titans
Spears has shown flashes of being a home-run hitter out of the backfield. His explosiveness could make him a fantasy darling if he gets more touches.
13. Kendre Miller, RB, New Orleans Saints
Injuries have slowed his progress, but Miller is seriously talented when healthy. A bigger role in 2025 could finally be all he needs to break through.
12. Brenton Strange, TE, Jacksonville Jaguars
Strange has quietly become a reliable target and could be in for a much bigger workload. He might be a surprise red zone star with more looks coming his way.
11. Dallas Turner, EDGE, Minnesota Vikings
Turner is oozing with potential and ready to become the Vikings’ next defensive anchor. His speed and athleticism make him a breakout candidate in Year 2.
10. Bryce Young, QB, Carolina Panthers
Young had ups and downs last season, but things started to click late. With a better supporting cast and more comfort in the system, he’s set up to turn heads.
9. Ricky Pearsall, WR, San Francisco 49ers
Pearsall fits the 49ers’ offense like a glove—precise, bright, and smooth. He may not be flashy, but he’ll be productive in all the ways that count.
8. Xavier Legette, WR, Carolina Panthers
Legette finished last season strong and looks like a guy ready to take over. If Bryce Young keeps improving, expect Legette to benefit significantly.
7. Keon Coleman, WR, Buffalo Bills
Coleman walks into a golden opportunity with a wide-open receiver room in Buffalo. If he clicks with Josh Allen early, he could be the go-to guy soon.
6. Trey Benson, RB, Arizona Cardinals
Benson has all the traits you want in a modern back—speed, burst, and receiving ability. With a more straightforward path to touches, he could thrive in Arizona.
5. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Seattle Seahawks
JSN is no longer the understudy. With a top-target role in Seattle, this could be the year he officially arrives as a star.
4. Caleb Williams, QB, Chicago Bears
The Bears have given Williams everything he needs to succeed. He could go from top pick to top-tier quarterback.
3. Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Arizona Cardinals
Year 2 for Harrison could mean a massive leap, especially with a healthy Kyler Murray slinging it. The talent is obvious—now it’s time for the numbers to catch up.
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2. Michael Penix Jr., QB, Atlanta Falcons
Penix enters an extraordinary situation. If the offense gels, he is in a position with weapons and a playbook tailored to his strengths. He could be this year’s breakout QB if he puts it together.
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1. Rome Odunze, WR, Chicago Bears
Odunze already showed he could hang out with the big boys; now he’s the main guy. With a creative play-caller and a top rookie quarterback, the stage is set for a monster season.
