The NFL always has breakout players who either take the next step or become household names. Today’s Whiteboard Wednesday on TikTok picked five guys to watch—and we’re elaborating on that here. These are among the top players we are keeping an eye on as potential breakout stars this season.
Broncos WR Marvin Mims Jr.
Marvin Mims Jr. is looking to build off a fast start at the end of last regular season, when he had 44+ yards in six of his last seven games and caught six touchdowns in that span—including 100+ yards with highlight-reel plays in two standalone games (Monday Night Football against the Browns, and a Saturday thriller versus the Bengals). The Broncos drafted Illinois wide receiver Pat Bryant in the third round, but there were no headlining veteran additions at wide receiver. And the team has talked about second-year receivers Troy Franklin and Devaughn Vele stepping up. Mims is under the radar as someone that finished hot in 2024 and earned the trust of Sean Payton and Bo Nix.
Bills TE Dalton Kincaid
After 73 receptions as a rookie, Dalton Kincaid took a step back last season due in large part to a knee injury suffered in Week 10. The 2023 first-rounder did start slow before the injury; but, ultimately, coming back from both the injury and a slow start could lead to a determined bounce-back campaign. We’re not saying Kincaid is going to suddenly record 100 receptions in an offense that spreads the ball around, but watch for him in critical situations like third down and in the postseason. Moving forward, Kincaid can be a key piece over the middle for Josh Allen and the versatile passing attack in Buffalo.
Rams S Kamren Kinchens
As a rookie last season, Rams safety Kamren Kinchens won NFC Defensive Player of the Week two times in a three-game span in November—the first highlighted by a 103-yard pick-six to help seal an NFC West victory over the Seahawks. Now set to be a full-time starter and a piece the Rams are relying on as they look to take the next step as a squad, the playmaking safety has obvious Pro Bowl potential. We were surprised Kinchens went as late as he did (third round, 99 overall) last spring, but he’s a ballhawk.
Lions CB Terrion Arnold
Obviously aside from having the athleticism to be out there in the first place, confidence is probably the No. 1 trait an NFL cornerback needs to have success. Terrion Arnold certainly doesn’t lack confidence. Last season, it almost looked like Arnold was getting a reputation among officials about being someone that will commit penalties—but he eventually cleaned that up and made it difficult to get called while also improving in coverage. Detroit has a case for the best overall secondary in the league, the defense is much healthier entering the season, and Arnold is looking to become a top-tier corner in Year 2.
Colts DE Laiatu Latu
The first defender taken in the 2024 NFL Draft, Colts pass rusher Laiatu Latu has a great blend of skill and craft—with the ability to develop into a top edge player for a defense looking for guys to become true impact players. Latu had four sacks along with three forced fumbles as a rookie, and he’s set to see an increase in playing time while also potentially taking on a bigger leadership role for Indy.