The offseason brings hope and excitement as teams look forward to potential breakout stars. This year, several players across the NFC are primed to make significant impacts. Here are some notable candidates:

NFC East

• LB DeMarvion Overshown (Dallas Cowboys): After a challenging 2024 season, Overshown stood out with 90 tackles and five sacks. Despite injuries, he aims to become a key linebacker.
• RB Tyrone Tracy Jr. (New York Giants): Tracy, who had 269 yards from scrimmage in a two-game stretch last season, is set to shine especially if lead back Cam Skattebo struggles with recovery.
• CB Riq Woolen (Philadelphia Eagles): Following a strong rookie season with six interceptions, Woolen's potential is high, especially with the Eagles’ need for a solid cornerback.
• TE Chig Okonkwo (Washington Commanders): Okonkwo, known for his speed and athleticism, looks to enhance the Commanders' offense after a career year with 56 catches and 560 yards.

NFC North

• WR Luther Burden III (Detroit Lions): With a strong endorsement from coach Ben Johnson, Burden’s role is set to expand, potentially leading to impressive numbers.
• DT Alim McNeill (Detroit Lions): After recovering from a torn ACL, McNeill aims to regain his 2023 form, which saw him as a top interior lineman.
• LT Christian Darrisaw (Minnesota Vikings): Darrisaw, despite injury setbacks, showcases elite talent and has a significant impact on the Vikings' run game.
• WR Christian Watson (Green Bay Packers): With a large extension, Watson aims to break out after demonstrating efficiency in his routes.

NFC South

• S Xavier Watts (Atlanta Falcons): Watts, a promising young talent, had an impressive rookie season with five interceptions.
• CB Mike Jackson (Carolina Panthers): Jackson’s surprising performance last season, including four interceptions, positions him as a key player in the Panthers' defense.
• LT Kelvin Banks Jr. (Tampa Bay Buccaneers): Banks impressed in his rookie season, providing stability on the left side of the line.
• WR Emeka Egbuka (Tampa Bay Buccaneers): After a strong start, Egbuka looks to rebound from a mid-season slump.

NFC West

• WR Marvin Harrison Jr. (Arizona Cardinals): Harrison, a highly touted prospect, aims to find his stride with a new coaching staff after battling injuries.
• EDGE Byron Young (Los Angeles Rams): Young’s breakout season saw him achieve 12 sacks and a Pro Bowl nod, and he’s expected to thrive alongside Myles Garrett.
• RG Dominick Puni (San Francisco 49ers): Puni, a reliable starter, could step up further if he improves his pass protection.

As the 2026 season approaches, these players have the potential to rise from obscurity and become household names.