Seeing Veterans Return to Form: A Rare NFL Phenomenon
Witnessing established veterans return to their star form in the NFL is a rarity, but when it happens, the impact is undeniable. This article highlights players who struggled in 2023 due to reasons unrelated to injuries but are now in optimal situations to re-establish their dominance.
Curtis Samuel: A New Dawn in Buffalo
Curtis Samuel's tenure with Washington was riddled with a combination of injuries and systemic issues. Despite these challenges, Samuel managed to average around 60 catches and 600 yards over the past two seasons. Samuel's move to Buffalo could be a transformative development in his career.
The Bills’ offense, led by the high-caliber quarterback Josh Allen, should provide Samuel with ample opportunities to shine. With the departure of Stefon Diggs from Buffalo, Samuel's role in the offense is set to expand significantly. Joe Brady, who will be coordinating the offense, holds an impressive track record with Samuel, particularly from their successful partnership in 2020. This promising alliance could very well rejuvenate Samuel's career.
Saquon Barkley: Running Behind the Eagles' Robust Line
Saquon Barkley endured a notably inefficient season last year, averaging only 3.9 yards per carry (YPC). His transition from the New York Giants' weak offensive line to the Philadelphia Eagles' robust line bodes well for his performance in 2024.
Barkley joins an offense that saw D'Andre Swift average 4.6 YPC in 2023. Still young and yet to reach the dreaded age-28 decline for running backs, Barkley is expected to be a focal point of the Eagles’ run-heavy offense alongside Jalen Hurts. Philadelphia's commitment to the running game should offer Barkley the perfect platform to return to his best. As one observer succinctly put it, "Philadelphia is going to want to run it with Barkley and Jalen Hurts. Often."
Jeremy Chinn: Flourishing Under Dan Quinn
Jeremy Chinn burst onto the scene as a rookie, displaying remarkable versatility and productivity. Unfortunately, he struggled with injuries and played on a subpar Carolina defense in 2023. Chinn now finds himself with Washington under the expert tutelage of head coach Dan Quinn, who has a proven record of getting the best out of hybrid safeties.
Chinn has a crucial role to play in Washington's defensive resurgence. His capability to adapt and excel in multiple defensive roles will be vital as the team looks to improve its standing in the league. Reflecting on his historic first year, it’s clear why his return is highly anticipated: "He was tremendous as a rookie in 2020, finishing second in Defensive Rookie of the Year voting on the heels of a 117-tackle, five pass-breakup, two-return score season."
Carlton Davis: A Prime Opportunity in Detroit
Carlton Davis consistently performed at a high level for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, recording 19 pass breakups in his second season and maintaining double-digit breakups in subsequent years. In 2023, Davis tallied two interceptions, his best tally since 2020, despite the Buccaneers’ struggles with generating a consistent pass rush.
Now with the Detroit Lions, Davis steps into a much more favorable situation. Detroit boasted one of the NFL’s best pass-rush rates last year, which should allow Davis to demonstrate his skills as their No. 1 boundary defender.
The improved defensive line pressure will offer Davis more opportunities to make plays and re-establish himself as a premier cornerback. As noted by many, "Davis was so incredibly productive in Tampa Bay, it almost got to the point in which it was easy to take him for granted in that secondary."
A Triumphant Return
These players have demonstrated exceptional talent and performance in the past and now have the chance to return to their peak form. With new teams and better situations, they are poised for a comeback that could have a major impact on the upcoming NFL season. As one insider aptly summarized, "Established veterans returning to their previous star form—it doesn't happen often in the NFL, but when it does, it's a huge boost for any team."