Remember when these NFL stars dominated? After challenging seasons and injuries, players like Stefon Diggs, Deebo Samuel, and Joey Bosa are gearing up for a huge comeback in 2025. Will they reclaim their glory and silence the critics? Get the full scoop on who’s set to shine brightest!
The upcoming 2025 NFL season promises a captivating narrative of redemption, as numerous high-profile players aim to rebound from challenging years marked by injuries, underperformance, or contractual disputes. For many established stars, this season represents a pivotal opportunity to reclaim their elite status and silence critics, making their journey back to peak form a central storyline across the league.
Among the most prominent figures seeking a resurgence is offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley. His career has been significantly hampered by persistent injuries since signing a lucrative deal, forcing him to take a substantial pay cut for the 2024 season. Stanley’s ability to overcome chronic knee issues and return to his Pro Bowl caliber, especially with significant performance-based incentives, will be crucial for his future in the league.
On the defensive side, four-time Pro Bowl pass rusher Joey Bosa is another prime candidate for a bounce-back year. After being released by the Chargers, his move to the Buffalo Bills offers a fresh start to demonstrate durability and consistent high-level performance, crucial aspects that have alluded him in recent injury-plagued seasons. The Bills are banking on Bosa to re-establish himself as a dominant force off the edge.
The running back position also features a notable player in Nick Chubb, whose free agency market reflected concerns following a major injury. Now with the Houston Texans, Chubb is expected to be a primary ball carrier, tasked with proving he can still be an elite talent. His resurgence is vital for the Texans’ offense, particularly with uncertainties surrounding the availability of other key backfield contributors.
In the secondary, Marshon Lattimore’s trade to the Washington Commanders carried high expectations, but hamstring injuries significantly hampered his initial impact. A fully healthy Lattimore is anticipated to regain his multi-Pro Bowl form, a development that would not only validate the Commanders’ investment but also profoundly bolster their defense, which struggled in his absence.
Several offensive skill position players are also at a critical juncture in their careers. Deebo Samuel, now with the Commanders, needs to demonstrate consistent high-level play after a dip in production and a shift in team dynamics at his former club. Similarly, tight ends Dallas Goedert and Kyle Pitts, both once heralded as game-changers, have battled inconsistency and injuries, placing their long-term futures and contract extensions in serious doubt as they head into a make-or-break 2025 campaign.
Offensive tackle Jawaan Taylor, despite a significant contract with the Kansas City Chiefs, has yet to fully live up to expectations. With the arrival of new talent like Jaylon Moore and a first-round draft pick at left tackle, Taylor’s performance in 2025 will be under intense scrutiny, as another disappointing season could make him a prime candidate for a contract restructure or release given his substantial cap hit.
Finally, defensive end Jaelan Phillips has endured consecutive season-ending injuries, including an Achilles tear and an ACL tear. Despite these significant setbacks, the Miami Dolphins have shown continued faith by picking up his fully guaranteed fifth-year option. Phillips’ journey back to full health and his ability to replicate his earlier dominant form will be crucial for both his personal career trajectory and the Dolphins’ aspirations for a formidable pass rush in the upcoming NFL season. These interconnected stories of adversity and opportunity highlight the high stakes facing these key NFL stars.
