In the world of professional football, the term 'bust' carries a heavy weight, often associated with first-round picks who fail to live up to the hype. But what if I told you that 2026 could be the year these six rookie contract players turn the tables and go from bust to breakout? Let's take a closer look at each of these players and explore why they might just surprise us all.
The QB with Potential
One player who has already shown glimpses of greatness but has yet to truly shine is Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young. With a career passer rating of 80.9, Young has had his fair share of struggles, but he also led the Panthers to an NFC South title last year. The fact that the Panthers have already exercised the fifth-year option on Young suggests they believe in his potential. And with a strong supporting cast, including a talented skill-position group and an improved offensive line, Young could be poised for a massive leap forward in 2026. Personally, I think Young's familiarity with the offense and improved passing game targets will be the key to his success. If he can stay healthy and continue to develop, he could become the star the Panthers need.
The EDGE with Potential
New York Giants edge-rusher Abdul Carter had a rough rookie season, with just four sacks and disciplinary issues. However, the Giants' general manager, Joe Schoen, believes Carter can turn things around. With the addition of Arvell Reese and the reigning NFC sack king, Brian Burns, Carter is in a position to shine. The Giants' improved pass rush and Carter's increased discipline could lead to a breakout season. In my opinion, Carter has the talent and the support to become a force on the field, and I predict he will lead the Giants in sacks in 2026.
The WR with Potential
Marvin Harrison Jr., drafted fourth overall in 2024, has had a disappointing start to his career. With just 62 catches for 885 yards and eight touchdowns in his first two seasons, Harrison has been a source of grumbling in Arizona. However, new head coach Mike LaFleur remains confident in Harrison's potential. With a strong supporting cast, including Michael Wilson and Trey McBride, Harrison could see a lot of single coverage in 2026. If he can stay healthy and take advantage of the opportunities, Harrison could have a breakout season and live up to his draft slot.
The EDGE with Potential
Cincinnati Bengals edge-rusher Myles Murphy had a strong 2025 season, with 5.5 sacks. However, the Bengals did not exercise the fifth-year option on Murphy, which could indicate a lack of confidence in his long-term potential. But Murphy remains hopeful and believes he has the support of the organization. With a vastly improved defensive line, including the addition of Boye Mafe and Pro Bowl-caliber players like Jonathan Allen and Dexter Lawrence, Murphy could have a career year. If he can stay healthy and continue to develop, he could become a force on the field and prove the Bengals wrong.
The WR with Potential
Ricky Pearsall's NFL career got off to a rocky start, with a gunshot wound and a slow start to his rookie season. However, ex-Niners safety Donte Whitner believes Pearsall has the potential to become a number one wide receiver. With the addition of Mike Evans and Christian Kirk, Pearsall could see a lot of targets in single coverage. If he can stay healthy and take advantage of the opportunities, Pearsall could have a breakout season and prove the doubters wrong.
The EDGE with Potential
Philadelphia Eagles edge-rusher Nolan Smith Jr. had an injury-marred 2025 season, but he remains a key player for the team. With the addition of Jonathan Greenard, there are questions about Smith's role, but Eagles Wire's Glenn Erby believes Greenard's arrival could actually be a good thing for Smith. A healthy Smith has the highest ceiling of the trio, and I predict he will lead the Eagles in sacks and earn his first Pro Bowl in 2026.
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