mysa
The NFL is a league where some rookies immediately shine, as evidenced by last season's AP Offensive and Defensive Rookies of the Year, Tetairoa McMillan and Carson Schwesinger. They were part of a standout 2025 rookie class that included Seattle's versatile defender Nick Emmanwori, who helped anchor a defense that propelled the Seahawks to a Super Bowl victory, along with top-10 offensive tackle picks Armand Membou and Kelvin Banks, and pass-catching talents Tyler Warren and Emeka Ebuka.
However, a modest rookie season does not necessarily indicate a wasted draft pick. Many players who showed promise in their first year are now on the cusp of breaking out in their second season. Here is a closer look at seven such players who are primed for stardom in 2026.
Key Breakout Candidates
Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Walter Nolen had a rocky start to his rookie campaign, sidelined early with a calf injury and later shut down due to a knee issue. Yet, in just six games, he showcased his potential, recording two sacks and 15 pressures on only 99 pass-rush snaps, according to Pro Football Focus. He also returned a fumble for a touchdown. If Nolen can maintain that level of production over a full season, he could quickly establish himself as one of the premier pass-rushing defensive tackles in the league.
Los Angeles Chargers running back Omarion Hampton, selected 22nd overall, rushed for 545 yards in nine games behind an offensive line plagued by injuries. With tackles Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater expected to return healthy, and Hampton himself recovering from ankle issues, he is set to thrive in new coordinator Mike McDaniel's offense. McDaniel has a track record of maximizing the potential of speedy backs, and Hampton already demonstrated his explosiveness with 15 carries of at least 15 yards in limited action last season.
Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden has drawn early praise from coach Ben Johnson, who stated he is 'buying Luther Burden stock.' The second-round pick posted solid rookie numbers with 47 receptions for 652 yards and two touchdowns. His late-season surge, highlighted by an eight-catch, 138-yard, one-touchdown performance against San Francisco in Week 17, suggests he has untapped potential. Burden's 2.69 yards per route run ranked third among all wide receivers, per Pro Football Focus.
Dallas Cowboys defensive end Donovan Ezeiruaku faced immense pressure as a second-round pick after the team traded away Micah Parsons. While he was stout against the run, his pass-rush production was modest with only two sacks and 36 pressures as a rookie. With improved talent around him—including Quinnen Williams on the interior and Rashan Gary and rookie Malachi Lawrence on the edges—Ezeiruaku is well-positioned to become a more potent pass rusher in his sophomore year.
San Francisco 49ers cornerback Upton Stout, despite being the smallest player on a defense loaded with big-bodied linemen, showed remarkable promise as a third-round pick. The 5-foot-9 defensive back excelled in the slot, recording four tackles for loss, two quarterback hits, five passes defensed, a forced fumble, and a sack. With a year of experience, Stout is poised to make even more impactful plays in 2026.
Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Nohl Williams is set for a significant role after the team traded Trent McDuffie and lost Jaylen Watson in free agency. Williams, a third-round pick last season, is expected to start alongside first-rounder Mansoor Delane. Although he played just under half of the defensive snaps as a rookie, his strong finish in coverage signals that bigger things are on the horizon.
Originally reported by mysa.