Plundo’s Top 5 NFL Breakout Candidates for the 2025 Regular Season

By Michael Plundo 

Special to 600 ESPN El Paso 

The 2025 regular season is almost here, and a new wave of talent is ready to make noise. From second-year stars to under-the-radar playmakers poised for bigger roles, these are the names you need to know before kickoff. Stay tuned as I break down who’s set to turn heads this fall. 

#5. Calvin Austin III, WR Pittsburgh Steelers 

Why him: Calvin Austin III enters the 2025 season with momentum and motivation. Now in the final year of his rookie contract, the Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver has every reason to prove he deserves a long-term deal. After a rocky start to his NFL career, things are finally lining up for Austin to shine. His rookie season in 2022 was wiped out due to injury, and in 2023, he was buried in a crowded wide receiver room while stuck in a stagnant offense under former coordinator Matt Canada.  

However, in 2024 Austin turned a corner. With increased opportunities and a more dynamic role, he posted over 500 receiving yards and found the end zone four times, flashing the speed and versatility that made him a preseason favorite to break out. Now, with a clearer role in the offense and a full offseason to build on that success, Austin is poised to take another leap. Whether it’s working out of the slot or stretching the field deep, he brings a level of explosiveness that Pittsburgh’s offense sorely needs. With a contract on the line and a chip on his shoulder, don’t be surprised if Calvin Austin becomes one of the Steelers’ most impactful weapons in 2025. 

#4. Drake Maye, QB New England Patriots 

 Why him: Drake Maye enters his second NFL season with the tools, talent, and now the support to take a major leap forward. After flashing potential as a rookie, the former North Carolina standout is poised to make a significant jump in 2025, and a big reason why is the improved situation around him. Most notably, the Patriots used their 2025 first-round pick to land offensive tackle Will Campbell, a dominant pass protector who gives Maye the blindside security every young quarterback needs to grow. 

One of the biggest additions this offseason was the hiring of Mike Vrabel as head coach, a move that brings leadership, discipline and a winning culture back to Foxborough. Vrabel’s presence should create a more stable and focused locker room, and his no-nonsense approach could be exactly what Maye needs as he continues to grow into a franchise quarterback. With a full offseason under his belt, improved coaching and a stronger supporting cast, Drake Maye is set to thrive. Don’t be surprised if he becomes one of the league’s top breakout quarterbacks in 2025. 

#3. Quinyon Mitchell, CB Philadelphia Eagles 

Why him: After a strong rookie campaign, Quinyon Mitchell is in prime position to take a major leap in 2025. The former Toledo standout showed why he was one of the most coveted defensive backs in the 2024 NFL Draft, and now with the departures of Darius Slay and James Bradberry, the door is wide open for Mitchell to become the Eagles’ top corner.  

In 2024, Mitchell made an immediate impact, posting three interceptions, 12 pass deflections, and allowing a passer rating under 75.0 when targeted. He displayed elite athleticism, physicality at the line of scrimmage, and the kind of closing speed that made him a nightmare for opposing receivers. Despite being a rookie, he held his own against some of the league’s top wideouts and quickly earned the trust of the defensive coaching staff. 

Mitchell faced off against some of the NFL’s elite receivers in his rookie season and more than held his own. He limited Ja'Marr Chase to just 16 yards, held CeeDee Lamb to 5 yards, and completely shut down Puka Nacua, allowing zero yards. That level of production against top-tier talent is nothing short of impressive. Don’t be surprised if Quinyon Mitchell emerges as one of the NFL’s top young corners this season. 

#2. Byron Murphy II, DT Seattle Seahawks 

Why him: Byron Murphy II enters his second NFL season as one of the most promising young defensive tackles in the league and all signs point to a breakout campaign in 2025. Drafted in the first round for his explosive get-off and disruptive interior presence, Murphy flashed serious potential as a rookie, showing an ability to collapse the pocket and hold his own against the run. 

Now, with a full year of experience under his belt and a larger role in the defense, Murphy is poised to take the next step. One of the biggest factors working in his favor? He’s coached by Mike Macdonald, one of the league’s brightest defensive minds. Macdonald’s creative, aggressive schemes are known for maximizing talent up front, and Murphy’s versatility fits perfectly in that system. 

Expect Murphy to thrive with more snaps, refined technique, and a better understanding of the NFL game. His blend of power, quickness and motor makes him a constant threat on the interior. Don’t be surprised if he becomes a key anchor in the trenches and one of the NFL’s true breakout stars in 2025. 

#1. Xavier Worthy, WR Kansas City Chiefs  

Why him: Xavier Worthy is entering his second NFL season positioned for a major breakout with elite speed, a stronger supporting cast, and growing trust from coach Andy Reid and quarterback Patrick Mahomes. After a promising rookie campaign, the Chiefs are leaning on him to deliver explosive production in 2025. 

Worthy finished his rookie year with 59 receptions, 638 yards, and six receiving touchdowns, plus three rushing scores in 17 games. In the playoffs, he delivered in the clutch, leading all receivers with 19 catches for 287 yards and three touchdowns. Worthy made a strong impact down the stretch in 2024, finishing with over 600 receiving yards and six touchdowns.  

The addition of a full offseason to refine his route running, increase his chemistry with Mahomes, and further understand the playbook only adds to the optimism. With his rare speed, growing confidence, and expanded role in one of the NFL’s most dynamic offenses, Xavier Worthy is poised to become one of the league’s top breakout wide receivers this season.