![De'Von Achane [L] and Nico Collins [R]](https://www.totalprosports.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/DeVon-Achane-L-and-Nico-Collins-R-2-1024x563.jpg)
Expectations are soaring for several notable veterans as they are up for the 2024 NFL season. The pressure to perform at the highest level is always intense. Still, it’s even more significant for players who have just signed big contracts, joined a new team through trades or free agency, flashed potential as rookies, or made significant strides in the previous season.
However, not every player facing heightened expectations will rise to the occasion. Some will probably fall short due to being injury-prone, landing in systems or on rosters that don’t maximize their abilities, having a history of inconsistent performances, or a mix of these factors. As a result, some players heading into highly anticipated seasons will likely disappoint.
Here Are Five NFL Players Unlikely To Live Up To The Hype
5. Kyren Williams, Los Angeles Rams, Running Back
Williams had an impressive 2023 season, but his prospects for another standout year seem uncertain. The Los Angeles Rams running back aimed to build on his 1,144-yard, 12-touchdown campaign, but injuries remain a major concern. Williams, who missed five games last season, is already sidelined for the remainder of OTAs due to a foot issue.
Head coach Sean McVay described the injury as minor, yet Williams’ history with foot problems is troubling. As a rookie, he broke his foot during OTAs and landed on IR with a high ankle sprain after his first kickoff return in 2022. Having missed 12 games over his first two seasons, Williams risks losing his starting role if he can’t stay healthy in 2024.
The Rams added competition by drafting Michigan’s Blake Corum in the third round, a running back who could quickly challenge Williams for carries. Corum, who racked up 1,245 rushing yards and 27 touchdowns last season, offers a strong alternative in the backfield. General manager Les Snead mentioned the desire to keep Williams fresh, hinting at a rotation of multiple backs. With the Rams’ quick turnover at the running back position, Williams could risk losing his feature role if Corum excels.
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4. Calvin Ridley, Tennessee Titans, Wide Receiver
The Tennessee Titans made headlines this offseason by signing Calvin Ridley to a four-year, $92 million deal in free agency. Ridley adds depth to an already talented receiving corps, but the unit’s success hinges on quarterback Will Levis making a significant leap in his second year.
After stepping away from the Atlanta Falcons in early 2021 for personal reasons and missing the entire 2022 season due to a gambling suspension, Ridley returned with the Jacksonville Jaguars, recording 76 catches, 1,016 yards, and eight touchdowns. Although he hoped to stay in Jacksonville, Ridley found a new opportunity with the Titans, joining DeAndre Hopkins, Tyler Boyd, and 2022 first-round pick Treylon Burks in one of the NFL’s most experienced receiving groups.
Despite the talent in Tennessee’s receiving corps, success won’t come quickly if Levis fails to progress in his sophomore season. While Levis showed flashes of potential—throwing four touchdowns in his debut against the Atlanta Falcons—his overall rookie performance was lackluster after taking over as the starter midseason.
With Derrick Henry’s departure and the arrival of offensive-minded head coach Bryan Callahan, the Titans may adopt a more pass-heavy approach. However, Ridley barely surpassed 1,000 yards last year with Trevor Lawrence at quarterback. Given these challenges, Ridley might struggle to meet expectations in his first season with the Titans.
3. Robert Hunt, Carolina Panthers, Offensive Guard
The Carolina Panthers, desperate to improve Bryce Young’s protection after his disastrous rookie season, made a significant move by signing guard Robert Hunt in free agency. Hunt, brought in to strengthen the interior of the offensive line, comes with a hefty price tag of $100 million over five years—a risky investment for a player who has yet to make a Pro Bowl or earn significant accolades in his four-year NFL career.
Hunt delivered his best season in 2023, committing two penalties and allowing only one sack while earning a solid 77.1 Pro Football Focus grade. However, his availability became a concern, as knee issues limited him to 547 snaps over 11 games.
To justify his contract, Hunt must maintain consistent performance and stay healthy. His previous healthy season in 2022 saw a decent 73.7 PFF grade, but he also struggled with discipline, drawing 11 penalties over 1,055 snaps and surrendering three sacks.
If Hunt regresses instead of elevating his play in Carolina, the Panthers may find themselves with a poor return on their investment. After a dreadful 2-15 season, the team needs Hunt to be a cornerstone of an improved offensive line, or even more drastic changes may be necessary.
Also Read: 10 MOST Underrated Players In The NFL Today
2. Nico Collins, Houston Texans, Wide Receiver
The Houston Texans made significant offseason moves to support C.J. Stroud’s growth as their franchise quarterback, including extending wideout Nico Collins after his breakout 2023 season. Collins earned a three-year, $72.8 million extension following a career-best performance with 80 catches, 1,297 yards, and eight touchdowns. However, repeating that success in 2024 could be challenging.
Collins began 2023 strong, accumulating 428 yards and three touchdowns in the first four games. Yet, as rookie Tank Dell emerged, Collins’ production declined, with just 203 yards and one touchdown over the next four games. Collins regained his status as the top target after Dell’s season-ending injury, but the dynamics will change in 2024.
With Dell returning and the Texans acquiring star receiver Stefon Diggs, Collins will face fierce competition for targets. Diggs, a four-time Pro Bowler, consistently commands over 150 targets per season, making him a primary focus in Houston’s offense. Additionally, the Texans bolstered their backfield by adding Joe Mixon, likely leading to a more balanced offensive approach.
Given the increased competition and potential shift toward the run game, Collins could see a significant drop in production, making it difficult to match last year’s numbers.
1. De’Von Achane, Miami Dolphins, Running Back
Few rookies in 2023 generated as much excitement as Dolphins running back De’Von Achane. After a slow start, the third-round pick burst onto the scene with 233 total yards and four touchdowns against the Denver Broncos in Week 3, earning AFC Offensive Player of the Week honors. He continued his hot streak, adding another 285 yards and three touchdowns over the next two games.
However, a knee injury sidelined Achane for four games, and he struggled to regain his form upon returning. Despite three consecutive 100-yard games before the injury, he only hit that mark once in his final six regular-season appearances. Heading into 2024, expectations are high for Achane, but matching his rookie success will be difficult. His 7.8 yards per carry average is likely unsustainable, and he never carried the ball more than 18 times in a game.
Achane also faces tough competition for touches. Miami re-signed Raheem Mostert and drafted Jaylen Wright, a dynamic fourth-round pick. The Dolphins could lean even more on their passing game, with Odell Beckham Jr. joining an already potent receiving corps. Given these factors, Achane may have had standout performances but is unlikely to meet the high expectations in his second NFL season consistently.
