The NFL is a league of incredible athletes, each with their own unique story and talents. As we look ahead to the upcoming season, there are several players who are expected to make a significant impact on the field. Here are 10 NFL players to watch, each with their own strengths and reasons why they’re worth keeping an eye on:
1. Lamar Jackson - Quarterback, Baltimore Ravens
Lamar Jackson is a dynamic player who has taken the league by storm with his incredible speed and agility. As a quarterback, he’s able to make plays with his legs that few others can, and his arm strength is steadily improving. With a strong supporting cast around him, Jackson is poised to lead the Ravens to another successful season.
Jackson's unique combination of speed and arm strength makes him a nightmare to defend against. He's able to extend plays with his legs and then hit his receivers downfield for big gains.
2. Christian McCaffrey - Running Back, Carolina Panthers
Christian McCaffrey is one of the most versatile running backs in the league, with the ability to make plays both on the ground and through the air. He’s a workhorse who can handle a heavy workload, and his receiving skills make him a valuable asset in the passing game.
McCaffrey is a true dual-threat running back who can dominate a game in multiple ways. He's a rare talent who can make an impact on every down.
3. Michael Thomas - Wide Receiver, New Orleans Saints
Michael Thomas is one of the most productive wide receivers in the league, with a consistent track record of putting up big numbers. He’s a physical receiver who can outmuscle defenders for the ball, and his route-running skills are among the best in the league.
Thomas's success can be attributed to his:
- Physicality: He's able to outmuscle defenders for the ball
- Route-running skills: He's able to create separation with his quick feet and sharp cuts
- Chemistry with his quarterback: He's developed a strong rapport with Drew Brees, which allows him to anticipate and adjust to throws
4. Aaron Donald - Defensive Tackle, Los Angeles Rams
Aaron Donald is widely regarded as one of the best defensive players in the league, with a dominating presence in the middle of the Rams’ defensive line. He’s a game-wrecker who can disrupt opposing offenses with his quickness and strength.Pros:
- Unmatched athleticism: Donald is incredibly quick and agile for a defensive tackle
- Strength: He's able to overpower blockers and disrupt the pocket
Cons:
- Double-teams: Donald often faces double-teams, which can limit his production
5. George Kittle - Tight End, San Francisco 49ers
George Kittle is a physical tight end who has become a key component of the 49ers’ offense. He’s a dominant blocker who can clear holes in the running game, and his receiving skills are among the best at his position.
| Category | 2019 Stats |
|---|---|
| Receptions | 85 |
| Receiving Yards | 1,053 |
| Touchdowns | 5 |
6. Saquon Barkley - Running Back, New York Giants
Saquon Barkley is a physical running back with a rare combination of size, speed, and power. He’s a workhorse who can handle a heavy workload, and his receiving skills make him a valuable asset in the passing game.What makes Saquon Barkley so effective as a running back?
+Barkley's effectiveness can be attributed to his unique combination of size, speed, and power. He's a physical runner who can break tackles and create big plays, and his receiving skills make him a threat in the passing game.
7. Stephon Gilmore - Cornerback, New England Patriots
Stephon Gilmore is a shutdown cornerback who has become a key component of the Patriots’ defense. He’s a physical player who can press receivers at the line of scrimmage, and his ball skills are among the best in the league.
Gilmore's ability to shut down opposing receivers is a key factor in the Patriots' defensive success. He's a true lockdown cornerback who can take away an opponent's best receiver.
8. Alvin Kamara - Running Back, New Orleans Saints
Alvin Kamara is a dynamic running back with a rare combination of speed, power, and receiving skills. He’s a workhorse who can handle a heavy workload, and his versatility makes him a valuable asset in the passing game.Kamara is a true dual-threat running back who can dominate a game in multiple ways. He's a rare talent who can make an impact on every down.
9. J.J. Watt - Defensive End, Houston Texans
J.J. Watt is a dominant defensive end who has become a key component of the Texans’ defense. He’s a physical player who can rush the quarterback and stop the run, and his leadership skills make him a valuable asset in the locker room.
Watt's career has been marked by incredible productivity, with 96 sacks in just 112 games. He's a true defensive legend who continues to dominate at an elite level.
10. Patrick Mahomes - Quarterback, Kansas City Chiefs
Patrick Mahomes is a dynamic quarterback with a rare combination of arm strength, athleticism, and clutch gene. He’s a workhorse who can handle a heavy workload, and his receiving corps is among the best in the league.
Mahomes is poised to continue his dominance in the upcoming season, with a strong supporting cast and a favorable schedule. He’s a true leader who can will his team to victory, and his clutch gene is unmatched in the league.
