2024 NFL Breakout Candidates, Every NFL season produces new stars who make the leap from role players to household names. As we approach the 2024 campaign, several young talents are primed for breakout performances that could reshape playoff races and fantasy football championships. In this 2,000+ word definitive guide, we analyze the most likely breakout candidates based on:
✔ Advanced metrics and analytics
✔ Increased opportunity and role expansion
✔ Scheme fits and coaching changes
✔ Training camp buzz and preseason performance
✔ Historical development curves for their positions
Let’s examine the players most likely to explode onto the scene in 2024 and become the NFL’s next superstars.
Quarterbacks Ready to Make the Leap
1. Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers)
Why He Breaks Out:
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Finished 2023 with 18 TDs vs. 1 INT in final 8 games
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Now has full offseason as unquestioned starter
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Added weapons: MarShawn Lloyd, Christian Watson healthy
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Matt LaFleur’s QB-friendly system
Stat to Watch:
Led NFL in deep ball accuracy (20+ yards) last season
For the latest Packers training camp reports, visit NFL Newsz.
2. Anthony Richardson (Indianapolis Colts)
Breakout Factors:
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Elite athleticism (4.43 speed at 6’4″, 244 lbs)
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Improved passing mechanics this offseason
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Shane Steichen’s creative offense
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Added AD Mitchell at WR
Health Note:
Must prove he can stay on field after 2023 injuries
Running Backs Primed for Workhorse Roles
3. Zamir White (Las Vegas Raiders)
Opportunity Knocks:
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Josh Jacobs departed in free agency
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Averaged 4.3 YPC in limited 2023 action
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Luke Getsy’s system produced David Montgomery’s career year
Projection:
1,200+ total yards, 8+ TDs in featured role
According to the official NFL website, White forced 12 missed tackles on just 84 carries last season.
4. Tyjae Spears (Tennessee Titans)
Why He’s Special:
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Derrick Henry’s departure opens door
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Elite pass-catching skills (52 receptions as rookie)
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Brian Callahan’s offense favors receiving backs
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5.7 yards per touch in 2023
Fantasy Upside:
Could be 2024’s version of James Cook
Wide Receivers Ready for Stardom
5. Jahan Dotson (Washington Commanders)
Perfect Storm:
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Jayden Daniels’ deep ball accuracy
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Terry McLaurin drawing top coverage
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94th percentile breakout age (20 years old)
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Kliff Kingsbury’s WR-friendly system
Stat That Pops:
14.3 yards per reception career average
6. Jonathan Mingo (Carolina Panthers)
Breakout Recipe:
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Improved QB play (Andy Dalton/Drake Maye)
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Diontae Johnson drawing attention
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6’2″, 220-pound frame perfect for red zone
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84% route participation as rookie
Training Camp Buzz:
Building chemistry with Bryce Young (NFL Newsz)
Tight Ends Set to Emerge
7. Sam LaPorta (Detroit Lions)
Yes, Again:
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Could improve on historic rookie season
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Jared Goff’s security blanket
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Ben Johnson’s TE-friendly scheme
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86 receptions, 10 TDs in 2023 floor
Ceiling:
Travis Kelce-level production
8. Michael Mayer (Las Vegas Raiders)
Why Now:
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Brock Bowers will draw coverage
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Improved QB play (Gardner Minshew)
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6’4″, 265-pound red zone monster
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82.3% catch rate in final 5 games
Defensive Breakout Candidates
| Player | Position | Team | Why They Pop |
|---|---|---|---|
| Will McDonald IV | EDGE | Jets | Year 2 leap behind Reddick |
| Devonte Wyatt | DT | Packers | 5 sacks in final 6 games |
| Christian Gonzalez | CB | Patriots | Shutdown potential pre-injury |
Fantasy Football Implications
Target These Breakouts:
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Jordan Love (Round 8-10)
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Zamir White (Round 5-7)
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Jahan Dotson (Round 9-12)
Late-Round Lottery Tickets:
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Tyjae Spears
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Jonathan Mingo
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Michael Mayer
Historical Breakout Patterns
Recent Breakouts Who Followed Similar Paths:
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2023: Nico Collins (Year 3 breakout)
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2022: Geno Smith (Year 9 breakout)
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2021: Cooper Kupp (Year 5 explosion)
Key Indicators:
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Year 2-3 WRs with early declare profiles
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RBs getting first shot at lead role
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QBs in second year of system
Training Camp Signs of Impending Breakouts
Watch for:
✅ Consistent first-team reps
✅ Red zone dominance
✅ Coach praise in press conferences
✅ Preseason connection with QBs
Bookmark NFL Newsz for daily breakout candidate updates!
Read More: 2024 NFL Training Camp Battles: 10 Position Competitions That Will Shape the Season
Key Takeaways
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Jordan Love could enter MVP conversation 2024 NFL Breakout Candidates
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Zamir White may be 2024’s biggest RB value
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Jahan Dotson primed for 1,000-yard season
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Breakouts win fantasy leagues when identified early
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Training camp reports provide crucial clues
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