NFL NFC North: Players Set to Break Out

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The NFC North boasts an array of talented players ready to make a significant impact in the upcoming season. Each team in the division has a rising star poised to shine brightly. Let’s take a closer look at the players destined to move NFL Lines in the NFC North.

Minnesota Vikings: RB Alexander Mattison

With the departure of Pro Bowl running back Dalvin Cook, Alexander Mattison is stepping into the limelight as the Minnesota Vikings‘ new backfield star. Despite previously serving as Cook’s backup, Mattison has impressed as an occasional spot starter, amassing an impressive 2,196 scrimmage yards and 14 touchdowns in his first four seasons. Now, Mattison has the opportunity to prove himself as a true featured back.

During the 2021 season, Mattison demonstrated his potential as a starter with four impressive performances, averaging 89 rushing yards and 41 receiving yards, while scoring three combined touchdowns. If he can maintain a similar level of production in the upcoming season, Mattison has a realistic chance at earning a Pro Bowl nod, filling the shoes of the formidable Cook with poise and skill.

Detroit Lions: WR Kalif Raymond

Amidst a talented group of skill players in the Detroit Lions‘ offense, Kalif Raymond has managed to shine. Despite playing only 49 percent of the offensive snaps last season, Raymond showcased his productivity, ranking second on the team with 616 receiving yards and third with 47 receptions. His presence provided a much-needed boost, contributing to an impressive 103.4 quarterback rating when targeted.

With the return of Marvin Jones and the suspension of 2022 first-round pick Jameson Williams, Raymond is likely to see an increased role in 2023. The Lions are well aware of the 28-year-old pass-catcher’s capabilities, and with more opportunities, Raymond is set to make a significant impact this season, finally gaining the recognition he deserves.

Green Bay Packers: QB Jordan Love

The spotlight is firmly on Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love as he enters the 2023 season. After the team drafted him in the first round and moved on from future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers, the expectations are high for the third-year signal-caller. Love has the chance to prove his worth as he leads the Packers’ offense.

Green Bay has provided Love with a solid supporting cast, adding talented players through the draft and free agency. With weapons like tight ends Luke Musgrave and Tucker Kraft, along with wideout Jayden Reed, Love has a talented arsenal at his disposal. Given the trust he has already earned from his teammates, Love has a genuine opportunity to establish himself as the Packers’ starting quarterback and rise as a breakout star in the NFC North.

Chicago Bears: QB Justin Fields

Justin Fields, the dynamic Chicago Bears quarterback, made a name for himself as a scrambler in his rookie season, amassing 1,143 rushing yards and eight rushing touchdowns. Despite showing glimpses of his passing potential, Fields faced challenges with underwhelming passing numbers and a less-than-ideal supporting cast.

However, the 2023 season is poised to be different for Fields. Bears general manager Ryan Poles bolstered the team’s offense with significant additions like wideout D.J. Moore, guard Date Davis, running back D’Onta Foreman, and tight end Robert Tonyan Jr. Additionally, Fields will benefit from a healthy Darnell Mooney and a second offseason under offensive coordinator Luke Getsy.

With a revamped and talented offensive lineup, Fields is expected to make significant strides as a passer and morph into an elite dual-threat quarterback, showcasing a skillset reminiscent of the likes of Lamar Jackson, Jalen Hurts, and Josh Allen. The NFC North will undoubtedly witness Justin Fields’ growth and emergence as a rising star in the league.

As the NFC North teams prepare for the upcoming season, these breakout players will undoubtedly play crucial roles in shaping NFL Odds. Keep an eye on Alexander Mattison, Kalif Raymond, Jordan Love, and Justin Fields.