NFC East Breakout Stars
I’ve been, well, cautiously intrigued by the NFC East this season. The Eagles are soaring high as the reigning champions, which sort of puts the other teams in a tough spot. Still, each of the teams below them has its own storyline. Washington seems eager to capitalize on the new dynamics under HC Dunquin and QB Jayden Daniels, bringing in a seasoned veteran to help elevate the team’s performance. The Cowboys always manage to grab attention for various reasons, none of which are strictly football-related. But honestly, I think they could be quite good if QB Dak Prescott stays healthy. And the Giants? They have some genuinely exciting defensive talent!
So, who are the breakout stars for each team in the division? Let’s dive in.
Dallas Cowboys: Cooper Bee, Center
I was tempted to highlight LB Jack Sanborn here, but honestly, the overall effectiveness of the Cowboys’ offense may make Bee more pivotal. With RG Zach Martin retired, younger players will need to step up their game. OC Klayton Adams, who previously coached the offensive line in Arizona, has a knack for developing players like C Hjate Froholdt. In Dallas, there’s an opportunity to create more space and shift linemen around. It’ll be interesting to see if Beebe can showcase his finishing skills, especially in a more enclosed setting this coming season.
New York Giants: Dru Phillips, Cornerback
People are really into Batan’s dynamic nickel defender, and Dru Phillips stands out as one of the most exciting in the league. He might be on the smaller side, but his attitude and aggression are exactly what you want from a slot defender, whether it’s in run support or defending against passes. Phillips wrapped up the 2024 season with seven tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, and an interception. I considered mentioning his teammate Tyler Nubin, but the NFL undoubtedly loves an electrifying nickel defender, and Phillips fits that bill perfectly.
Philadelphia Eagles: DT Moro Ojomo
Last season, LB Zack Baun emerged as a key player on the Eagles’ defense, especially during their Super Bowl run. This year, I’m looking at Ojomo. He steps into a gap left by players who departed for bigger contracts, including DT Milton Williams, now in New England. Ojomo had a encouraging performance in his limited time, registering a 10.9% pressure rate, which ranked 9th among all defensive tackles with a minimum of 20 pressures. With the Eagles rotating their second line, he has a chance to fill Williams’ role as a pass rush specialist.
Washington Commanders: DT Jer’zhan Newton
The Commanders let DT Jonathan Allen go this offseason, but they had a succession plan ready. They drafted Newton in the second round last year to bolster the interior pass rush. In his limited appearances last season, Newton showcased impressive lateral speed and power from his defensive tackle position. Although his 17 pressures from 241 snap counts are modest, the way Dunquin structures his defense should provide ample chances for Newton to shine.
