CeeDee Lamb had a strong rookie season for the Dallas Cowboys, but injuries to the Cowboys’ offensive line and, most importantly, quarterback Dak Prescott limited his production. He’s been one of the best players in Dallas Cowboys training camp, and many expect Lamb to assert himself as the wide receiver one for the Cowboys as early as 2021.
Joe Mixon has had some nice seasons, but he’s yet to have an elite rushing season because the Cinncinati Bengals have been a dumpster fire. Mixon has all the talent in the world, but he can’t do it on his own. The Bengals need better offensive line play and quarterback play to help Mixon get his production into the top tier of the NFL.
Lane Johnson has been one of the best offensive linemen in the NFL for a long time. However, injuries in the last two seasons have slowed a career that saw him make his first All-Pro team in 2017 and three straight Pro Bowls from 2017 to 2019. If he can get through the 2016 season healthy, there’s a good chance he’s back on this list.
Jalen Hurts takes over as the full-time starter for the Philadelphia Eagles. And while there have been mixed reviews, there’s no denying he’s one of the hardest workers in football. He’ll continue to improve. The question is, will he improve enough in 2021 for the Eagles to feel confident he’s the long-term answer at the quarterback position.
Of any former Sooner not on the list, Mark Andrews is arguably the biggest upset. He’s one of the best tight ends in the NFL, but because the Baltimore Ravens don’t throw the football as much as other teams, he doesn’t get the same recognition that guys like Travis Kelce, George Kittle, and Darren Waller receive.
Kenneth Murray had a really nice rookie season for the Los Angeles Chargers in 2020. If the Chargers can contend in the AFC West, Murray will be a big reason for it. The more headlines the Chargers steal, the greater chance Murray will earn the respect of his peers as one of the best in the NFL.