NFL Execs, Coaches Identify 10 Breakout Players to Watch in 2026
NFL executives and coaches have identified 10 breakout players to watch for the 2026 season, highlighting young talent from recent draft classes. The report focuses on rookies and second-year players who have shown significant promise during training camps.
Why it matters
Breakout players often dictate the competitive landscape of the NFL, influencing team success and betting markets.
Every year, there are a handful of young stars who swing the NFL season. Last year, rookie defensive back Nick Emmanwori of the Seahawks was a prime example. In 2024, corners Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean helped the Eagles win their second Super Bowl as rookie starters. In 2023, rookie receiver Rashee Rice and second-year corners Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson helped the Chiefs confirm their dynasty .
Of course, not all great performances come in a championship season. Most don’t. In 2025, we saw myriad fantastic campaigns from first-year talents, including Colston Loveland and Luther Burden III in Chicago, Tyler Warren with the Colts and James Pearce Jr. for the Falcons, just to name a few.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in