There are several second-year players in the NFL that are likely to break out with huge performances in 2018. Here’s a short list of four offensive players that are the most likely to impress on the field and make a name for themselves this year.
Dalvin Cook (RB, Vikings): When healthy, Cook showed last year that he had the talent to be a special player for Minnesota. With his ability to run on the inside, catch the ball out of the backfield and make big things happen will really add a spark to this offense. He’s an upgrade over what they had last year with Latavius Murray carrying most of the workload.
Although he missed 12 games last year with a season-ending knee injury, look for Cook to be terrific for the Vikings in 2018. If he stays healthy he could finish the season with 1,200 to 1,300 rushing yards and at least six to eight touchdowns.
Pat Mahomes (QB, Chiefs): Mahomes is taking over from Alex Smith, who was shipped to the Washington Redskins this offseason. Kansas City has a team with a roster full of explosive players on offense that can create plays every week with their speed and talent.
Head coach in Andy Reid will make sure to provide Mahomes with a dynamic system that will turn him into a leader and help cement him as their quarterback of the future. Mahomes’ won’t disappoint as his big-play potential captivated Reid and motivated him to make the transition away from Smith.
Mike Williams (WR, Chargers): Although he’s listed as fourth in the Chargers depth chart his value is rising quickly. He has an uncanny ability to win the 50-50 balls and that is going to catch the eye of quarterback Phillip Rivers.
He is a tremendous asset for Rivers because he gives them a big dependable target on the outside that can jump to steal the ball away from defenders. Now with Antonio Gates retired he could become a huge red-zone option.
His talents make him the perfect complement alongside Keenan Allen and Tyrell Williams. If he does thrive in this offense the Chargers will have more than enough weapons to score a ton of points off the passing game.
Chris Goodwin (WR, Bucs): This sophomore wide receiver is a good route runner with good size and toughness that can do the dirty work for his team. He has the skills to run the inside routes and get rough with defenders to get yards after the catch.
He doesn’t shy away from big linebackers or taking tough tackles when he goes after the ball. He doesn’t flinch even if he knows he’s going to get hit and is a dependable chain mover.
Although Mike Evans is the undisputed number-one option in this offense, and DeSean Jackson has the speed to stretch the field, Goodwin is the guy that can move the chain and convert those tough third downs.
