Breakout players are always a fascinating topic in the NFL because fans and analysts can start to gain an idea of what new players can break onto the scene in the upcoming season.
NFL Network’s Peter Schrager recently announced his list of top 10 breakout players for 2024 (via Good Morning Football).
His list includes well-known players, as well as relatively lesser-known players.
An annual @gmfb tradition. My Top Ten Breakout Players for the 2024 NFL Season. @nfl @nflnetwork pic.twitter.com/z2JuikE0l8
— Peter Schrager (@PSchrags) August 23, 2024
At No. 10, he has Denver Broncos backup running back Jaleel McLaughlin.
After a rookie season that saw the former Youngstown State star put up 570 scrimmage yards and multiple touchdowns, McLaughlin could have an even bigger impact this season, especially if starting running back Javonte Williams gets hurt.
At No. 9, Schrager has Chicago Bears punter Tory Taylor.
The Ray Guy Award winner at Iowa last season, Taylor could have a real opportunity to impact the game on special teams in the Windy City.
At No. 8 sits veteran Bills wide receiver Khalil Shakir, who will be looking to have his best season in Buffalo yet after the team cut ties with both Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis this offseason.
Las Vegas Raiders defensive tackle Malcolm Koonce is at No. 7 and after his three-sack performance against Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs late last season, can you blame Schrager?
Young defensive backs Deonte Banks of the New York Giants and Brian Branch of the Detroit Lions sit at No. 6 and No. 5 respectively as they are looking to have even better sophomore seasons.
With the losses of veterans Shaq Barrett and Randy Gregory, Bucs edge-rusher YaYa Diaby (No. 4), who had 7.5 sacks as a rookie in 2023, could be poised for a massive season.
In Arizona, tight end Trey McBride (No. 3) could be on the cusp of a career year seeing as former Cardinals tight end Zach Ertz is now gone.
In an interesting twist, Schrager has Seattle Seahawks starting running back Kenneth Walker on the list at No. 2.
Walker did rush for over 1,000 yards as a rookie in 2022, but perhaps Schrager believes the former Spartan can be even better this year.
At No. 1, former Heisman winner Jayden Daniels, who has the opportunity to change the fortunes of the Commanders as a rookie, holds his spot.
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