PFF's All-Breakout team featured a plethora of young and under-the-radar players, but the Patriots didn't roster a single player. After a disappointing 2024 draft, the Patriots don't have a massive crop of players whose 2024 play makes them seem poised for a breakout.
The exception to that may be Drake Maye,, but the QB spot was taken by Caleb Williams, an understandable selection given the new HC, Ben Johnson, and their vastly upgraded offensive line.
Ja'Lynn Polk and Javon Baker each spent 2024 dormant, recording a total of 99 yards between them. While Baker made a small impact in the kick return game, neither is expected to surpass either Rome Odunze or Keon Coleman, who occupy the two slots.
Pop Douglas and Kayshon Boutte have shown some solid ability over the past year, but both seem likely to be overshadowed with the additions of Stefon Diggs, Mack Hollins, and third-round pick Kyle Williams.
Despite being snubbed in the latest rankings, the Patriots still have some breakout candidates
Three players come to mind as potential breakout stars for the Patriots, all of whom are on the defensive side of the ball. Defensive linemen Christian Barmore and Keion White both have significant upside given the focus offensive lines will have to put on new addition Milton Williams. Barmore missed all but two games last season with off-the-field medical issues, while Keion White fell off badly after a four-sack start to the season.
A trio of Barmore and White, aside from Williams, could lead either of them to record more pressure than people might think. Barmore has already been rightfully paid like a star with his $92 million contract, but he could advance to the Chris Jones level with the help he has alongside him. White could easily record double-digit sacks with that type of pressure coming from the inside.
Another underrated candidate to break out could be safety Dell Pettus, who ranked 18th among safeties according to PFF with a 73.9 overall grade. The undrafted rookie played over 300 snaps last season after Jabrill Peppers and Kyle Dugger missed time, and made a very admirable effort. His versatility stood out, as he played extensively on special teams and played at least 80 snaps as a deep safety, slot corner, and in the box.
PFF named Vikings' Theo Jackson as a player who didn't get much run but thrived in his role last year. While a 79.1 overall grade is impressive, Jackson didn't meet PFF's minimum snap count requirement to be ranked in the first place. Pettus has more ground to stand on as a breakout candidate, playing more than three times as many snaps.
While the Patriots may not have a plethora of young stars that could make the jump like the Colts or Bears, who had multiple players listed, they do have some players who may be able to make a more significant difference than people think.
Barmore may elevate his play to a truly transcendent level, and Keion White should feast on the edge from the pressure they create on the inside. Pettus's play as an undrafted rookie was impressive, and to think he could take the next step into an Adrian Phillips-esque role isn't unreasonable.