Storyline: We all know the “big names.” But what about the others–players that had off years or who are ready to shine? Here’s my list of five players ready for a breakout season. Written by Craig Helman, Washington DC
Finally, right? Football season begins…and I mean the actual season. The on-field stuff. The reason you watch, I hope. Not all of this deflated ball, due process, punishment stuff. The reason most of us love this game isn’t because it has turned into a soap opera off the field; it’s because it’s a concerto on the field.
So, as we slog through the work day today–dreaming of wings, beer, giant TVs, and rooting either for-or-against Tom Brady (because there’s no middle ground there)–let’s take a look at the upcoming season … but not at the usual suspects. The big guys are easy to name, easy to watch, and easy to root for. But what about the smaller guys? I’m talking about the guys from tiny cities or who, for some reason, fell off last year. Who are we forgetting about this year who could really surprise us?
Below is my list of 5 hidden gem players whom I expect to outperform expectations this year.
- Arian Foster
Courtesy: Yahoo! Sports
I’m starting with a softball, I admit. Arian Foster, under the radar? Come on! But hear me out: after tearing his groin early in training camp (requiring surgery) most of us pushed Foster off the table. Another season lost to injury for this oft-injured talent, we said. It was a crushing blow to anyone who bought Foster-stock a few years back. But, then, rumors started trickling in that he might not be out as long as originally thought. And that’s precisely why he’s making this list!
After initially being expected to return around Week 9 or 10, I think Foster will miss only a month of time. He may be back by Week 5 or 6. That gives him plenty of time to re-assert himself as the “bell cow” he truly is.
On the first episode of this season’s “Hard Knocks” Texans’ coach Bill O’Brien gave some sage advice to his quarterbacks: “When in doubt, give it to 23.” When Foster returns, I expect that philosophy to pick right back up. Even missing 4 games, I wouldn’t be shocked to see Foster put up a 1000-yard season.
- Victor Cruz
Courtesy: sportspowerweekends.com
This is another guy who’s making this list because of injury concerns. He’s also expected to miss the first week or two of the season–as he deals with a strained calf muscle. It seems clear, to me at least, that he strained the calf compensating for last year’s gruesome right knee injury.
It can be difficult for a receiver like Cruz, who relies on quickness and lateral movement, to recover from a ruptured patellar tendon. But I think the calf strain could be a blessing in disguise: the extra week or two of recovery needed should help his knee recover from training camp as well.
I’m not looking for Cruz to return to elite WR status–at least not just yet–but I do expect the Giants (with its mediocre O-line) to fully embrace OC’s Ben McAdoo’s West Coast philosophy of throwing the ball 40 times per game. Odell Beckham can’t catch all those passes. So, even if Cruz is in a reduced role, it’s hard to see him not getting 60-70 catches this season.
- Stevie Johnson
Courtesy: nfl.univison.com
He was a forgotten man last year as the castle came crumbling down in San Francisco. But, anyone who has watched Bills games knows. this guy is a very, very good receiver. Last year he was supposed to be in an offense that could use him, but as the “Good Ship Harbaugh” came crashing to shore Stevie was cast aside, like so many other useful players. That fate landed him in San Diego, where I see him having a very similar year to Victor Cruz. The Chargers like to throw the ball short, fast, and often and Johnson is a premier route-runner.
He’s getting on a bit in age, at 29, but he was never successful because of physical size. Success came by way of his ability to run routes and get open. He fits in very nicely as a possession receiver in San Diego. Assuming he stays healthy, this guy could catch 80-90 balls in San Diego.
So, when you consider this is someone who probably isn’t even getting drafted in your Fantasy League, it’s quite a diamond in the rough.
- Jay Cutler
Courtesy: Chicago Tribune
OK. Roll your eyes! But, really, Cutler wasn’t that bad last year. He’s certainly a lousy teammate and hard to like as a fan but, if you put that aside and look at his numbers, he opens eyes: 3,812 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. Eli Manning has won Super Bowls with those stats.
Now, granted, Jay fumbled the ball 12 times last year, but fumbling is something that’s doesn’t correlate year-to-year. So, if you assume Cutler doesn’t have horrific fumble-luck again this year–dropping his fumble numbers from 12 to a far-more-reasonable (and in line with his career) 4 times–then he’s suddenly a slightly above-average QB again. I’m predicting those turnovers will regress back to average.
Cutler has a ton of weapons around him, too–even without Brandon Marshall. Matt Forte, Alshon Jeffrey and Martellus Bennett are among the best at their positions as receivers. The O-line, while not great, isn’t bad. And the coaching should improve: John Fox is among the best in the business.
I don’t think the shade being thrown at Cutler from last year is entirely fair, but I also expect him to become a much better player in 2015.
- Doug Martin
Courtesy: sportsworldreport.com
“The Muscle Hamster.” The Dude hates his nickname, but no one cares because it’s amazing. Honestly, if you had a friend who went by some sort of hamster-related nickname, you’d keep it even if he hated it. Every time he asked you to stop using it, heck, you’d just use it more. I feel like this isn’t even up for discussion. But for some reason, Martin doesn’t get it. He keeps asking people not to call him the best nickname of all time.
What gives, Hamster?
On the field Martin is coming off what was a pretty disastrous year–for himself and the Buccaneers. Plagued by horrific QB play, injuries and poor use, Martin only saw 134 carries and two touchdowns. Fully healthy this year and (hopefully) getting average or better QB play from Jameis Winston, Martin should see a return to his 2012 form. That year he had 319 carries and 1400+ yards.
He’s clearly a very talented player when healthy. And there’s a lot to like about the balance in the Bucs offense this year. Given a full complement of 200+ carries Martin should eclipse 1000 yards…and je might even approach his 1400 yard season from 2012.
Take my word for it: watch these five as the season progresses.
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Read Craig’s blog at Steak and the Bear.
