Veterans Poised for a Comeback: NFL Stars Ready to Shine Again
Seeing veterans return to form in the NFL is a rarity, but when it happens, the impact is undeniable. This list features players who struggled for reasons unrelated to injuries in 2023 but are now in optimal situations to re-establish their dominance.
Curtis Samuel: A New Beginning in Buffalo
Curtis Samuel’s stint with Washington was marred by a combination of injuries and system issues. Despite these challenges, he managed to average around 60 catches and 600 yards over the past two seasons. Samuel’s move to Buffalo could be a game-changer. The Bills’ offense, led by quarterback Josh Allen, should provide Samuel with ample opportunities.
With the departure of Stefon Diggs from Buffalo, Samuel's role in the offense is set to expand significantly. Joe Brady will be coordinating the offense, and Samuel thrived under Brady back in 2020. This promising alliance could very well rejuvenate Samuel’s career.
Saquon Barkley: From Giants to Eagles
Saquon Barkley experienced a notably inefficient season last year, averaging only 3.9 yards per carry (YPC). His transition from a weak New York Giants offensive line to a robust Philadelphia Eagles line bodes well for his performance in 2024. Barkley joins an offense that saw D'Andre Swift average 4.6 YPC in 2023.
Barkley, who hasn't yet reached the dreaded age-28 decline for running backs, 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.
Jeremy Chinn: Fresh Start in Washington
Jeremy Chinn was a revelation as a rookie, showcasing remarkable versatility and productivity. He struggled with injuries and played on a subpar Carolina defense in 2023. Chinn now finds himself with Washington, under the tutelage of head coach Dan Quinn. Quinn has a proven track record of getting the best out of hybrid safeties.
Chinn has a crucial role to play in Washington's defensive resurgence. His ability to adapt and thrive in multiple roles on defense will be vital for the team as they look to improve their standing in the league.
Carlton Davis: Flourishing in Detroit
Carlton Davis consistently performed at a high level for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He notched 19 pass breakups in his second season and maintained double-digit breakups in subsequent years. In 2023, Davis recorded two interceptions, his best tally since 2020, despite the Buccaneers’ struggles with generating a consistent pass rush.
Davis now steps into a much more favorable situation with the Detroit Lions. Detroit boasted one of the NFL’s best pass-rush rates last year, which should allow Davis to showcase 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.
Impact on Upcoming NFL Season
These players have shown exceptional talent and performance in the past, and now they 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 observer put it, "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."
Regarding Curtis Samuel, another noted, "Now he'll catch passes from one Josh Allen, who’s been the QB1, QB1, QB2, and QB1 in fantasy football the past four seasons."
Talking about Philadelphia's aggressive running game strategy, an analyst mentioned, "Philadelphia is going to want to run it with Barkley and Jalen Hurts. Often."
Chinn’s impressive rookie statistics, which included a 117-tackle, five pass-breakup, two-return score season, underline his potential. As one commentator noted, "He was tremendous as a rookie in 2020, finishing second in Defensive Rookie of the Year voting…"
Finally, Carlton Davis’s consistent performance in Tampa Bay has not gone unnoticed. "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," one analyst stated.
With seasoned expertise and fresh energy, these returning veterans are ready to make a significant mark on the NFL landscape once more.