Every single season there are players that make massive jumps in the offseason to become star players and key contributors to their team. Here are some of the most likely breakout players for the NFC West.
Arizona Cardinals:
On the offensive side of the ball, Trey Benson, the rookie running back out of FSU looks impeccable. Benson is a 3 down back with great power, quick burst, ideal athleticism, sticky elusiveness, clear ball carrier vision, and great ability as a receiving back. Benson’s a do it all guy whom I project to become a star player and the starter over James Conner very quickly. Benson has so much talent that I even would go as far to believe he is a strong contender to be the offensive rookie of the year as long as he is given enough opportunities early on. Safety Jalen Thompson also seems ready to take the next step looking extremely fluid in drills, he’s already proven to be a good safety but he certainly has room to improve. Thompson could develop and form arguably the best safety duo in the league alongside Budda Baker.
Los Angeles Rams:
The Rams had four rookies who had remarkable seasons last year and are all looking to build off of their impressive performances being Puka Nacua, Kyren Williams, Kobie Turner, and Byron Young. These players are looking to take the next step, but in my opinion they already broke out so I will be avoiding them on this list. Two names I do want to watch though are center Steve Avila and linebacker Ernest Jones IV. Avila is looking to build off a great rookie season with two much better guards next to him this year in Kevin Dotson and Jonah Jackson, the Rams offensive line overall should perform far better and Avila will contribute to that as a great young center. Ernest as the starting linebacker had a very solid season last year and I believe will take a leap this year cementing himself as the defense’s signal caller.
San Francsico 49ers:
When it comes to a team like the 49ers it is hard to come away with a breakout player when their team is already so complete. The player who I expect to make a big jump this year though would be none other than kicker Jake Moody. I know it may not be the most exciting name to hear about, but Moody has been automatic throughout training camp so far drilling practically every kick no matter the length. Moody seems like he will be considered one of the league’s best after this season.
Seattle Seahawks:
The breakout players for Seattle are very obvious ones. Jaxson Smith-Njigba and Charles Cross have looked pristine to start training camp. They have been very good before, but from what I’ve seen so far in camp they’re both looking to become some of the best players at their position in the entire league. JSN may even jump DK Metcalf as the WR1 on the offense eventually with how fluid his route running is as well as him being far more consistent than DK.