NFL Execs, Coaches Pick 10 Breakout Players for 2026 Season
Updated
Updated · Sports Illustrated · Sep 1
NFL Execs, Coaches Pick 10 Breakout Players for 2026 Season
3 articles · Updated · Sports Illustrated · Sep 1
Summary
Ten first- and second-year players made an NFL executives-and-coaches breakout list for 2026, led by Jets No. 2 pick David Bailey after a dominant camp and his first preseason sack.
Edge rushers drove much of the optimism: Chiefs rookie R Mason Thomas posted 1 sack, 3 quarterback hits and 2 pass breakups in three preseason games, while Buccaneers rookie Rueben Bain Jr. flashed before a sprained MCL.
Several pass catchers also drew strong reviews, with Ravens third-rounder Ja’Kobi Lane producing 4 catches for 47 yards and a touchdown in preseason and Packers 2025 first-rounder Matthew Golden pushing for a larger role.
The list also highlighted defensive depth pieces who could earn snaps quickly, including Titans linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. with 13 preseason tackles and an interception, plus Vikings corner Charles Demmings and Bills linebacker Kaleb Elarms-Orr.
The selections reflect how teams expect rookies and second-year players to shape 2026 outcomes, following recent examples of young contributors helping contenders and champions.