Cam Ward leads list of potential offensive NFL breakout stars in 2026

With the NFL season getting closer and closer, there is plenty of buzz regarding what to expect this year once the action hits the gridiron.

>And while there are plenty of talented players who have already made a major impact in the league that fans know to watch for, there are some up-and-coming names still looking to put together that breakout season that catapults them into the upper tier of NFL talent. Pro Football Focus (PFF) recently put together a list of under-the-radar NFL offensive players who could be on track to turn some heads this season.

>Let's take a look at five of those names we think you should expect a big season from this year.

Cam Ward, QB, Tennessee TitansWard flashed signs of some serious potential last year, but did not have the blocking or talent around him to truly excel. A recent No. 1 draft pick, expect him to take another step forward in 2026.

Ashton Jeanty, RB, Las Vegas RaidersThe Raiders are another team that was in dire straits last season and didn't exactly have the offensive line that Jeanty needed to shine. But if you watch Jeanty's college tape, there's no doubt he's an elite back and freak athlete who will shine in the NFL with time.

Emeka Egbuka, WR, Tampa Bay BuccaneersEgbuka is a workhorse and became the all-time receptions leader at Ohio State over his four-year collegiate career. He nearly eclipsed 1,000 yards as a rookie, and with Mike Evans gone for good, the franchise needs a new top receiver. He could emerge to fill that role.

Harold Fannin Jr., TE, Cleveland BrownsFannin Jr. is an elite receiving tight end, recording a 1,000-yard season during his senior year at Bowling Green before emerging last year as a starter for the Browns. With a new head coach and a potential top quarterback in Deshaun Watson returning, Fannin Jr. could make some serious moves in his second season in the league.

Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, New Orleans SaintsA Lombardi Award and Outland Trophy winner at Texas, Banks was one of the most outstanding offensive linemen in the country. He adapted well to the NFL as a rookie, allowing just five sacks and making the PFWA All-Rookie Team last year. Expect him to continue to evolve into an elite NFL blocker in 2026.

>Check out the full PFF All-Breakout Offensive Team below.

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PFF’s 2026 All-Breakout Team: Offense👀 pic.twitter.com/h5a6M8YLHn

— PFF (@PFF) July 19, 2026This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Cam Ward leads list of potential offensive NFL breakout stars in 2026