One breakout player to watch for every NFL team in 2026

Key Points:

• The Athletic’s NFL writers have identified potential breakout players for every NFL team in 2026, highlighting both well-known and emerging talents who could significantly impact their teams' success.
• Notable breakout candidates include Walter Nolen (Arizona Cardinals), Brandon Dorlus (Atlanta Falcons), Mike Green (Baltimore Ravens), and Deone Walker (Buffalo Bills), each poised to elevate their teams' performances based on previous flashes of excellence and increased opportunities.
• Several players are expected to take on larger roles due to team changes or injuries, such as Shavon Revel Jr. (Dallas Cowboys) competing for a starting cornerback spot post-ACL recovery, and Travis Hunter (Jacksonville Jaguars) returning from injury to strengthen the secondary.
• Offensive breakout prospects include Luther Burden III (Chicago Bears), Amarius Mims (Cincinnati Bengals), and Isaiah Likely (New York Giants), who are anticipated to become key contributors in their respective offenses with increased targets and responsibilities.
• The list also features players like Charlie Kolar (Los Angeles Chargers) and Greg Dulcich (Miami Dolphins), tight ends with untapped potential expected to expand their roles in the passing game, reflecting strategic shifts within their teams.