Top Breakout NFL Stars by Position at 2025 Season Midpoint
The 2025 NFL season has introduced a plethora of breakout stars at the midpoint, many of whom are transforming their franchises. From quarterbacks to cornerbacks, these players have showcased exceptional skills and consistency. The following highlights the top breakout NFL stars by position, illustrating their contributions up to Week 9 of the season.
Top Breakout NFL Stars by Position
Quarterback: Drake Maye – New England Patriots
Drake Maye has made significant strides for the Patriots, boasting a sixth-place standing among qualified quarterbacks. His impressive PFF grade of 84.5 and a passing grade of 82.7 have played a vital role in the team’s success. Currently, Maye leads the league with a remarkable 74.1% completion rate, contributing to New England’s 7-2 record, tying for the best in the AFC.
Running Back: Javonte Williams – Dallas Cowboys
After signing a one-year contract with the Cowboys, Javonte Williams has revitalized his career. His 83.0 PFF rushing grade and 5.2 yards per carry rank him among the top five running backs. Williams has recorded 558 yards after contact and forced 31 missed tackles, underscoring his tenacity on the field.
Wide Receiver: Jaxon Smith-Njigba – Seattle Seahawks
Jaxon Smith-Njigba has emerged as a leading candidate for the Offensive Player of the Year. By Week 9, he topped the NFL with 948 receiving yards and averaged an impressive 4.41 yards per route run. His career-high 12.8-yard average depth of target reflects his growing role in the Seahawks’ offense.
Tight End: Dalton Kincaid – Buffalo Bills
Dalton Kincaid is challenging perceptions of the Bills’ tight end position. Currently, he ranks fifth among qualified tight ends with an 80.1 PFF receiving grade. Kincaid leads his peers with 2.96 yards per route run and has 15.2 yards per reception, indicating his effectiveness in the passing game.
Tackle: Abraham Lucas – Seattle Seahawks
Abraham Lucas has become essential for the Seahawks’ offensive line. With a PFF grade of 76.5, he ranks sixth among right tackles. Lucas has allowed only two sacks and committed just one penalty overall, showcasing his reliability as a protector of the quarterback.
Guard: Ed Ingram – Houston Texans
Ed Ingram’s breakout performance has significantly aided the Texans. After struggling in previous seasons, he now ranks ninth among all qualified guards with a PFF grade of 73.9. Ingram has only allowed one sack on 299 pass-blocking snaps, marking a substantial improvement from his past performance.
Center: Tanor Bortolini – Indianapolis Colts
Tanor Bortolini is pivotal to the Colts’ offensive line dominance. His PFF grade of 80.9 places him among the top centers. Bortolini excels in the run game, achieving an 84.4 PFF run-blocking grade while maintaining an impressive record of zero sacks allowed this season.
Interior Defender: Maliek Collins – Cleveland Browns
Maliek Collins stands out on a formidable Browns defensive line. With an 86.5 PFF grade, he ranks third among defensive tackles. Collins has demonstrated prowess as a pass rusher with a 90.4 PFF grade and a 16.8% pass-rush win rate, making him a vital contributor to the team’s defensive success.
Edge Rusher: Laiatu Latu – Indianapolis Colts
Laiatu Latu is evolving into a key player for the Colts since being drafted in 2024. He boasts a remarkable 90.2 PFF grade and is among the few edge defenders with at least 75.0 grades in both pass rushing and run defending. Additionally, Latu is the only defensive lineman this season with multiple interceptions.
Linebacker: Jack Campbell – Detroit Lions
Jack Campbell’s consistency has positioned him as a top linebacker. His 91.8 PFF run-defense grade leads all qualified linebackers. He also ranks within the top 15 for coverage and pass rush, underlining his all-around capabilities on the field.
Cornerback: Cor’Dale Flott – New York Giants
Cor’Dale Flott has seized his starting role with the Giants. His 79.6 PFF coverage grade ranks fifth among cornerbacks. With a passer rating of just 62.6 thrown his way, Flott’s performance promises a bright future for this young talent.
Safety: Jaylinn Hawkins – New England Patriots
Jaylinn Hawkins has transformed his performance this season. Despite a slow start, he ranks second among safeties with an 80.2 PFF grade. With two interceptions and two sacks, Hawkins is making a strong case for continued improvement in the Patriots’ secondary.
