Role players turn into NFL stars every season. Here are 10 players you should keep an eye on to take a massive leap in 2020.
Making the jump from good to great is a massive challenge for any NFL player. With that being said, the league sees guys make just that sort of leap every season. Any team that employs a player capable of progressing to greatness enjoys a huge advantage over their competitors.
This list features 20 guys who have a chance to make that kind of leap in 2020. It often requires both talent and opportunity for guys to make the transition. We start with a tight end who has a heavy dose of both.
NFL role players poised to become stars in 2020
Dawson Knox, TE, Buffalo Bills
Everyone associated with the Bills admits this is a make or break season for quarterback Josh Allen. If he’s going to flourish, he’ll need more help from his receiving corps.
Landing Stefon Diggs in free agency should open up the field for all of the team’s other receivers. Knox, the presumed starter at tight end, could benefit more than anyone. Look for him to make big plays down the seam for Buffalo this season.
Chase Winovich, EDGE, New England Patriots
The Patriots don’t like to pay edge rushers in free agency, but that doesn’t mean their defense can survive without producing sacks. Winovich is a guy they need to step up during his second NFL season.
He won’t wow anyone with his athletic testing numbers, but he’s quicker off the edge than you think. If he flirts with 10 sacks it could be enough to get New England back to the postseason. That’s a big ask, but he’s got the talent to make it happen.