![NFL Players Who Will Live Up to the expectations this season: C.J. Stroud[L] and Jordan Love [R]](https://www.totalprosports.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/C.J.-StroudL-and-Jordan-Love-R-1024x563.jpg)
With preseason games underway and the regular season just around the corner, NFL fans are optimistic. Every team starts the offseason with a clean slate, and the workout reports and social media highlights are mostly glowing.
But not every player who shines in the offseason will carry that momentum into the regular season. Take Bryce Young, last year’s No. 1 overall pick—he got a lot of praise during his first offseason, but his rookie year was rough, and Reich didn’t even make it through the season as head coach.
Many players use their offseason success as a springboard for a strong regular season. So, let’s look at some veterans and rookies who’ve been generating a lot of buzz this offseason and have the potential to live up to the hype, considering factors like their talent, past performance, supporting cast, and the opportunities ahead.
Here Are 5 NFL Players Set to Shine This Season
5) Marquise Brown, Kansas City Chiefs, Wide Receiver
Wide receiver Marquise Brown wasn’t the biggest offseason acquisition, but he could have a significant impact with the Kansas City Chiefs. The Oklahoma product signed a one-year deal, joining Patrick Mahomes as his quarterback.
Brown is expected to be a difference-maker. Although he had only one 1,000-yard season with the Ravens and was underwhelmed with the Cardinals, his speed and veteran experience bring new dimensions to Kansas City’s offense. His ability to stretch the field and create space on crossing routes will be valuable. Andy Reid, one of the league’s most creative play-callers, will maximize Brown’s potential. With Mahomes under center and their offseason chemistry building, Brown could be set for a career year in 2024.
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4) Christian Wilkins, Las Vegas Raiders, Defensive Tackle
Former Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Christian Wilkins was one of the top free agents this offseason. Despite never making a Pro Bowl, the 28-year-old excelled in Miami, with nine sacks and 30 quarterback pressures in 2023.
The Las Vegas Raiders signed Wilkins to a four-year, $110 million deal, making him the NFL’s second-highest-paid defensive tackle. Wilkins brings impressive numbers—355 tackles, 43 tackles for loss, and 20.5 sacks over five seasons—and an even more impressive skill set.
While the Dolphins had a strong defense, Wilkins could have a breakout season in 2024, playing alongside three-time Pro Bowl pass-rusher Maxx Crosby. The two are already working to become one of the NFL’s most disruptive duos. With Crosby, Wilkins, Malcolm Koonce, and 2023 first-round pick Tyree Wilson, Las Vegas could field one of the NFL’s best defensive fronts this season. Wilkins is set to earn his first career Pro Bowl nod.
3) Jordan Love, Green Bay Packers, Quarterback
Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love steadily improved throughout his first season as a full-time starter. Although he struggled early, he finished the season playing like one of the NFL’s top quarterbacks.
This offseason, many view the 25-year-old as a potential elite quarterback. “With last year’s film, cleaning up simple things, and being more consistent, the sky’s the limit,” former NFL QB Matt Ryan said. Love will face some challenges in 2024. Rookie first-round pick Jordan Morgan is expected to start on the offensive line, and Josh Jacobs will replace long-time running back Aaron Jones.
However, Love will benefit from more experience with young Packers receivers like Romeo Doubs, Jayden Reed, and Dontayvion Wicks. The Packers also trust Love to call his plays in certain situations. “Understanding the play calls and knowing the situation helps,” Love told reporters. With the fifth-best odds for MVP, Love is poised to make a strong push for his first Pro Bowl.
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2) Brian Burns, New York Giants, Linebacker
The New York Giants boldly traded for pass-rusher Brian Burns and quickly signed him to a five-year, $141 million extension. The two-time NFL Pro Bowler is already impressing his new team. John Schmeelk from the Giants’ official site reported Burns was disrupting pass plays on Day 1 of mandatory minicamp.
Burns’ presence will likely elevate New York’s entire defense. “Makes my job a lot easier,” linebacker Bobby Okereke said, noting quarterbacks will need to release the ball faster. Burns posted solid numbers in 2023—eight sacks and 21 QB pressures—but he should be even more productive in New York. The Giants’ offense has uncertainties, with Saquon Barkley gone and Daniel Jones recovering from an ACL tear, but their defensive front is strong.
Carolina lacked a second high-end pass-rusher to complement Burns. The Giants, however, will pair him with edge-rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux and defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence. Opposing offenses will struggle to double-team all three, giving Burns plenty of one-on-one opportunities. The trade for Burns was a big move, and his first season with the Giants could be even bigger.
1) C.J. Stroud, Houston Texans, Quarterback
C.J. Stroud, the No. 2 pick, had an incredible rookie season. The Houston Texans quarterback threw for 4,108 yards, 23 touchdowns, and only five interceptions. He made the Pro Bowl, led his team to a division title, and secured their first playoff win since 2019.
Stroud is showing growth in his second offseason, even after a successful rookie year. Tight end Dalton Schultz noted his improved command of the huddle and vocal leadership. Stroud’s teammates aren’t the only ones noticing his progress. DraftKings Sportsbook lists him as an early MVP favorite, just behind Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes. His position on this list is well-deserved. As he enters Year 2, Stroud is poised to take on more of a leadership role. Another offseason under head coach DeMeco Ryans and offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik will only help.
Stroud will build stronger connections with pass-catchers like Schultz, Tank Dell, and Nico Collins. Veteran additions Joe Mixon and Stefon Diggs will further bolster his supporting cast. Nothing about Stroud’s first season seemed like a fluke. The Offensive Rookie of the Year has everything he needs to improve in Year 2. Stroud should be a serious MVP contender in 2024 if he stays healthy.
