NFL Season 2015: Derek Carr Leads Top Breakout Candidates
By Erik Lambert
Aug 15, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Brandin Cooks (10) reaches out for a pass as Tennessee Titans cornerback Blidi Wreh-Wilson (25) defends during second half of a preseason game at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The New Orleans Saints defeated the Tennessee Titans 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
WR: Brandin Cooks (New Orleans Saints)
A first glance at the numbers and the rookie year for Brandin Cooks may seem like a disappointment with just 550 yards and four touchdowns. However, some perspective must be kept with that. He played behind a number of veterans including Kenny Stills (who was traded) and also only appeared in 10 games due to injury. Provided he stays healthy, the trend suggests that Cooks can become every bit the playmaker the New Orleans Saints envisioned when they took him in the 1st round.
TE: Austin Seferian-Jenkins (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
The sheer potential along of tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins was enough to get Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans excited. Unfortunately his rookie year became marred by injuries and unforeseen problems with the offensive coaching staff. At the end of the day he played just nine games and caught 21 passes. That figures to change with Dirk Koetter coming in, a coordinator who loves to employ the tight end as a receiving threat, along with the arrival of rookie quarterback Jameis Winston. He made use of the position as well in his two years at Florida State.
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