Ten Breakout Stars: The Best Players From The 2021 NFL Draft

David

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Post on May 29, 2025

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Ten Breakout Stars: Reliving the 2021 NFL Draft's Best Performers

The 2021 NFL Draft, now a few seasons in the rearview mirror, offered a fascinating glimpse into the future of professional football. While some high-profile picks met expectations, others exceeded them, emerging as bona fide breakout stars. This article dives deep into ten players from the 2021 draft who truly shined, defying predictions and cementing their places amongst the league's elite.

Methodology: Our selection criteria prioritized consistent performance, impact on their respective teams, and overall contributions beyond mere statistics. We considered both immediate impact and sustained growth throughout the 2022 and 2023 seasons.

The Top Ten Breakout Performers of the 2021 NFL Draft:

1. Mac Jones (QB, New England Patriots): While his trajectory might be debated, Jones's rookie season saw him lead the Patriots to a winning record and establish himself as a competent NFL quarterback. His consistent performances, though lacking in highlight-reel plays, showcased a solid foundation for future growth. [Link to Patriots' official website]

2. Ja'Marr Chase (WR, Cincinnati Bengals): Arguably the biggest offensive breakout star of the draft, Chase's immediate impact was undeniable. His record-breaking rookie season propelled the Bengals to the Super Bowl, highlighting his exceptional talent and chemistry with Joe Burrow. [Link to Bengals' official website]

3. Micah Parsons (LB, Dallas Cowboys): Parsons' ferocious pass-rushing ability and all-around defensive dominance earned him Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. His impact on the Cowboys' defense has been nothing short of transformative. [Link to Cowboys' official website]

4. Patrick Surtain II (CB, Denver Broncos): Surtain solidified himself as a lockdown cornerback, quickly proving his worth as a top-ten pick. His consistent play and ability to shut down opposing receivers established him as one of the league's best young cornerbacks. [Link to Broncos' official website]

5. Alijah Vera-Tucker (OG, New York Jets): Vera-Tucker's smooth transition to the NFL was impressive. He quickly became a key part of the Jets' offensive line, providing stability and protection for their quarterbacks. [Link to Jets' official website]

6. Jaylen Waddle (WR, Miami Dolphins): Waddle's explosive speed and playmaking ability proved invaluable to the Dolphins' offense. He consistently made big plays, showcasing his potential as a true number one receiver. [Link to Dolphins' official website]

7. Najee Harris (RB, Pittsburgh Steelers): Harris became an immediate workhorse for the Steelers, displaying impressive durability and a knack for gaining tough yards. While his rushing totals might not always reflect elite status, his consistent production speaks volumes. [Link to Steelers' official website]

8. Creed Humphrey (C, Kansas City Chiefs): Humphrey's anchoring presence on the Chiefs' offensive line became crucial to their success. His ability to protect Patrick Mahomes and create running lanes cemented his status as an elite center. [Link to Chiefs' official website]

9. Rashod Bateman (WR, Baltimore Ravens): Despite battling injuries, Bateman showed flashes of brilliance, showcasing a route-running ability and reliable hands that suggest a bright future. His consistency will be key to his continued rise. [Link to Ravens' official website]

10. Rashawn Slater (OT, Los Angeles Chargers): Slater's immediate impact on the Chargers' offensive line was significant, showcasing his elite pass-blocking skills and overall versatility. He unfortunately suffered a season-ending injury in 2022, but his initial performance solidified his place on this list. [Link to Chargers' official website]

Looking Ahead:

The 2021 NFL Draft produced a wealth of talent. While some players on this list might see their trajectory shift, their early performances undeniably earned them a place amongst the league's breakout stars. This class continues to evolve, and their future contributions will significantly shape the NFL landscape for years to come. What do you think? Which 2021 draftee will be the next big name? Let us know in the comments below!