NFL: 12 Players Who Will Have a Lot to Prove This Season

The new NFL season is approaching, and for many players, the coming months will mean much more than just another season.

Some have just signed lucrative contracts, others are looking to re-establish themselves on the market, while many must absolutely return to their best form after a disappointing season or serious injuries.

Breece Hall is among those who will be under particular scrutiny. The New York Jets running back signed a three-year extension in May worth $45.75 million. After surpassing the 1,000-yard rushing mark for the first time last year, Hall now wants to prove that he fully deserves this financial investment.

The situation is completely different for Baker Mayfield. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback says he feels undervalued by his team, which did not grant him the contract extension he had hoped for. He is therefore entering the final year of his three-season contract and will have the opportunity to make his case on the field.

Elsewhere in the NFL, several other players find themselves in a similar situation.

A.J. Brown will try to start fresh with the Patriots after leaving Philadelphia. The 29-year-old wide receiver arrives in New England with the chance to prove that he remains one of the most dangerous players at his position.

Jalen Carter, for his part, will have to live up to his massive contract extension with the Eagles. His four-year deal guarantees him $106 million, making him the highest-paid interior defensive player in the league.

Several young stars have a lot riding on this season

With the Bills, Keon Coleman himself has called the upcoming season a “make-or-break” campaign. The wide receiver will finally need to turn his potential into consistent production after a very inconsistent second year.

In Minnesota, Kyler Murray must now fight for his starting job. Released by the Cardinals, he joined the Vikings on a one-year contract at the veteran minimum salary and will have to outperform J.J. McCarthy to become the starting quarterback.

Michael Penix Jr. also finds himself at a pivotal moment with Atlanta. After being demoted behind Kirk Cousins and then suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament, he must now prove that he can still become the Falcons' quarterback of the future.

Over on the Chiefs' side, Rashee Rice will try to reclaim his spot after a suspension, legal troubles, and a knee injury. His performance when he's available remains impressive, but his ability to stay on the field will be crucial.

C.J. Stroud will also have a lot to prove. After a spectacular rookie season, the Texans' quarterback has struggled at times since then. With negotiations surrounding a potential contract extension underway, a strong campaign could tip the scales in his favor.

Brian Thomas Jr., for his part, will be looking to regain the form that allowed him to set several records with the Jaguars during his rookie season.

Finally, Deshaun Watson may be playing his last real card in Cleveland after several years marked by injuries and controversies. Malik Willis, now in Miami after reviving his career in Green Bay, will also have to prove he can be a reliable starting quarterback despite his limited experience.

For all these players, one thing is certain: the pressure will be on right from the first game.

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