A panel of thirteen NFL writers and analysts recently selected the offensive players expected to achieve breakout seasons in 2026, with quarterback Caleb Williams receiving the most votes among signal-callers. The selections, announced on August 24, 2026, highlight players poised for significant advancement in their careers.
Caleb Williams, a former USC star, garnered four votes for quarterback, leading a competitive field of seven different players. He is noted for a substantial improvement from his rookie season, particularly in avoiding negative plays and demonstrating clutch performance with six fourth-quarter comebacks, an NFL high. Williams is also the current Madden cover athlete, though voters believe he still has room to grow in consistency and accuracy.
At running back, Bhayshul Tuten of the Jaguars received four votes. In his second year, Tuten averaged 3.7 yards per carry last season but showed a 51.8% rushing success rate, placing him 15th among 67 players with at least 70 carries.
The wide receiver positions saw Josh Downs, Luther Burden III, and De’Zhaun Stribling selected. Downs, a fourth-year pro, received five votes and is anticipated to have an expanded role after a significant trade, potentially leading to his first 1,000-yard season. Burden III, who flashed talent as a rookie with 652 receiving yards, is expected to take on a much larger role. Stribling earned his spot with an impressive preseason, recording 11 catches for 109 yards, and is projected to step into a significant role as a WR2.
Tight ends Colston Loveland and Tucker Kraft each received three votes. Kraft was on track for a breakout season last year before an ACL injury. Loveland’s selection is based on a strong finish to the previous season, including a 137-yard performance in a playoff victory.
On the offensive line, Josh Simmons and Will Campbell both received four votes at left tackle. Grey Zabel, a rookie who started all 17 regular season and three playoff games for the Super Bowl champions, earned five votes at left guard. Zach Frazier, who allowed only one sack across 598 pass-blocking snaps, led centers with seven votes. Tyler Booker, a punishing run blocker, also received seven votes at right guard. Amarius Mims, a 6-foot-8, 350-pound athlete, was the most popular vote-getter at right tackle with eight votes, showing significant improvement from his rookie to second season.
