The second year is often a critical period for NFL players, revealing whether they will rise to stardom or fade into the background. Patience wears thin by then because, nowadays, stars typically emerge in their second season, if they didn’t already do so in Year 1. Let’s examine several promising players who are poised for a breakout in their sophomore season.
Quentin Johnston: Background and Initial Struggles
Quentin Johnston’s rookie season with the Los Angeles Chargers didn’t go as planned. Despite his physical prowess and college success, Johnston struggled to find his footing in a static offensive scheme. The Chargers, under an inept head coach, failed to leverage Johnston’s strengths, such as his after-the-catch ability and versatility.
With Jim Harbaugh taking the helm, a coach familiar with Johnston’s explosive potential from his college days, there’s renewed hope for better utilization. Harbaugh witnessed Johnston’s 163-yard, one-touchdown performance in the 2023 CFP Semifinal against Michigan and understands how to harness his abilities effectively. Expect a more dynamic role for Johnston in the upcoming season, allowing him to thrive in space and capitalize on his big-play capability.
Bryce Young: Panthers’ Coaching Change Can Do Wonders
Bryce Young, the Alabama product, had a disappointing rookie season with the Carolina Panthers. However, the arrival of new head coach Dave Canales brings optimism. Canales, known for his work with quarterbacks like Baker Mayfield, Geno Smith, and Russell Wilson, is poised to revamp the Panthers’ offense to suit Young’s skill set.
Canales plans to implement a run-based scheme with play-action and pocket movement to maximize Young’s abilities. This system will highlight Young’s running talent, aiming for a significant improvement in his performance.
Young is a top candidate for a breakout sophomore season in the NFL. After a promising rookie year, Young has gained experience and built strong chemistry with his new offensive weapons, which should lead to impressive performances.
With a solid offensive line and dynamic playmakers, he’s poised to make a significant impact. For those looking to add excitement to his games, Fanatics Sportsbook North Carolina offers great opportunities to wager on Young’s potential success as he looks to elevate his game this season.
Jack Campbell: Underwhelming Rookie Performance
Jack Campbell had a mixed rookie year with the Detroit Lions. Playing over 600 snaps, Campbell amassed 95 tackles and five tackles for loss. However, his coverage skills, a strength at Iowa, left much to be desired. Campbell allowed a passer rating of 124.2 with two touchdowns, no interceptions, and two pass breakups.
This year, Campbell aims to improve his coverage skills, leveraging his size and athleticism—standing nearly 6-foot-5 and weighing 250 pounds. The Lions’ defensive line, bolstered by D.J. Reader and Alim McNeill, and anchored by Pro Bowler Aidan Hutchinson, who has 21 sacks through two seasons, will provide Campbell with the support he needs to excel. Campbell’s nearly 350 snaps in coverage from the previous season will also contribute to his growth.
Marvin Mims: Underutilized Talent
Marvin Mims’ limited role in the Denver Broncos’ offense in 2023 remains puzzling. Despite averaging over 17 yards per catch with four forced missed tackles on 22 receptions and earning Second-Team All-Pro honors as a kick returner, Mims was underused.
With Jerry Jeudy traded and rookie Troy Franklin added as part of the replacement plan, Mims is set to take on a more prominent role. His speed (4.38 seconds in the 40-yard dash), reliable hands, and after-the-catch ability make him an ideal candidate for starting slot duties. Expect Mims to significantly impact his second professional campaign under the guidance of Sean Payton.
Dontayvion Wicks: Late-Season Emergence
Dontayvion Wicks might not be a household name, but his late-season performance with the Green Bay Packers was noteworthy. Standing 6-foot-1 and weighing 206 pounds, Wicks displayed his explosiveness with a vertical and broad jump in the 85th and 91st percentiles, respectively, at the 2023 combine.
During a critical six-game stretch, Wicks caught 22 passes for 341 yards and two touchdowns, with 30 of his 41 total catches going for first downs. His chemistry with quarterback Jordan Love and his role in the Packers’ offense suggest that Wicks will rise in the target pecking order, despite competition from Jayden Reed, Romeo Doubs, and two dynamic youthful tight ends.
These players, entering their second NFL season, have shown flashes of their potential. With improved coaching, tailored offensive schemes, and supportive team environments, they are poised to make significant impacts and possibly become stars in the league.
Sophomore Surge: NFL Stars Set for Breakout Seasons
