NFL Teams Name Second-Year Defensive, Offensive Players as 2025 Breakout Candidates

Several NFL teams are looking to key players to have breakout seasons in 2025. The New York Giants are hopeful second-year safety Tyler Nubin will build on a solid rookie season, stepping into a leadership role and increasing his ball production to help their secondary, especially with new defensive additions. The San Francisco 49ers are counting on wide receiver Ricky Pearsall to fill the void left by Deebo Samuel, banking on Pearsall's ability to stretch the field and his demonstrated work ethic despite his recent hamstring injury. The New Orleans Saints have named cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry as their breakout candidate, expecting him to justify their investment by taking a pivotal role in their defense after an encouraging rookie year and the departure of key veterans. These teams are emphasizing the development of young talent to strengthen critical positions on their rosters for the upcoming season. Additionally, the Green Bay Packers have identified a rising defensive star as a potential game-wrecker, highlighting a player who shows promise comparable to past legends like Clay Matthews and Charles Woodson.