NFL Players entering a Make or break year
It all begins with an idea.
By: Dharya Sharma
With the start of NFL Training Camp approaching, these five players are entering a make or break year for their careers!!
Caleb Farley, Tennessee Titans CB- When the Titans took Farley 22nd overall in the 2021 NFL draft, many believed it was one of the biggest steals of that draft. Farley fell due to injury concerns, but many believed he was the best corner in the class when healthy. The injury concerns have turned out to be true as Farley has had two season ending injuries, and has only played in 12 games in his NFL career. Farley must stay healthy and have a productive 2023 season if he wants to be on the Titans roster in 2024
Justin Fields, Chicago Bears QB- This one might be a bit controversial for some, but Fields must take the next step in his third season. GM Ryan Poles did everything he could to improve the roster around Fields. He retooled the offensive line and brought in star WR D.J. Moore. Fields has the talent around him to win this year, and the Bears front office has instilled trust in him. Another season of less than six wins will jeopardize his future in Chicago
Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay Bucs QB- Mayfield showed some glimpses that he can still be a starting QB in the NFL last season with the Rams. Now, he is on a Tampa Bay team who just lost Tom Brady. If Mayfield can play well and lead the Bucs to eight wins, he could potentially be the bridge QB for the Bucs. If he plays poorly and the Bucs don’t win many games, his career as a starting QB is likely over.
Michael Thomas, Saints WR- Thomas had one of the greatest wide receiver seasons ever in 2019, when he set the NFL record for most catches in a single season. Ever since then, he has struggled to stay on the field, playing just 10 games since. If Thomas can stay healthy in 2023, he and Chris Olave could form one of the best WR duos in the NFL. Another injury-riddled season could be trouble for Thomas and his future in the NFL.
Russell Wilson, Broncos QB- 2022 was by far the worst year of Russell Wilson’s career. He heads into 2023 with a brand new coach, and something to prove to the NFL world. If Wilson and Sean Payton can shine and take Denver back to the playoffs, it will be one of the feel good stories next year. Wilson might even receive some Comeback Player of the Year Votes. Then there is the worst case scenario, where Wilson struggles once again in 2023, and some questions will be raised about him. Did he get carried by the Legion of Boom? Was he the problem all along in Seattle, not Pete Carroll?