It’s real easy to “predict” a player who has already been successful in the league to have a “breakout” season. That seems to be all the rage this offseason. But what of those players who have yet to truly break out? Those players who are looking to take a step out of the shadows and into the spotlight? Well, that’s what this list is all about.
For that reason you’re not going to find multiple-season starters like Nate Hobbs or Tre’von Moehrig on this list. Even at his worst Hobbs has been the best cornerback on the Raiders roster for three seasons. Moehrig already took a step forward last season. Is there room for more improvement? Sure. But that’s hardly a “breakout” type thing.
Likewise, you won’t see Malcolm Koonce here. He broke out in a big way over the final nine games of last season, so he’s arrived already. Now it’s just a matter of keeping it going and seeing it play out over a full season.
So, you’ll have to forgive me for wanting to dig a little deeper here for players whose emergence would actually fit what it means to be a breakout player.