NFL 2025: Key Players Making a Comeback š
As the NFL gears up for the upcoming 2025 season, several players are set to make their return after significant injuries sidelined them last year. With training camps just around the corner, itās an exciting time for teams and fans alike. Hereās a look at some noteworthy players who missed the entirety of the 2024 season, along with what we can anticipate as they rejoin the action.
šÆ All Eyes on Bradley Chubb
Edge Rusher, Miami Dolphins
Bradley Chubbās 2024 season was derailed after he tore his right ACL in December 2023. This unfortunate injury interrupted what was shaping up to be the finest season of his career. Prior to the setback, he had set personal bests across multiple categories, including total pressures (70), pass-rush grade (84.9), run-defense grade (71.1), and coverage grade (88.5).
This marks Chubb's third ACL injury, a concern that can't be ignored. He initially tore his left ACL in high school and re-injured that same knee back in 2019 while playing for the Denver Broncos. While many players have triumphantly returned from similar injuries, itās wise to approach expectations gently for the 29-year-old defensive lineman.
The Dolphins invested their first-round draft pick last year in Chop Robinson, who showed great promise during his rookie season. With a remarkable 18.8% pass-rush win rate, Robinson ranked sixth among all edge defenders in the NFL. As Chubb works on his comeback, Miami boasts a wealth of talent in its edge unit, including the return of Jaelan Phillips.
š Enter J.J. McCarthy, the Vikingsā QB of the Future
Quarterback, Minnesota Vikings
Pressure is on for J.J. McCarthy, who has the most to prove in 2025. Selected with the No. 10 pick in the previous draft, McCarthy missed his entire rookie season due to a meniscus tear sustained during the preseason.
In McCarthyās absence, veteran Sam Darnold stepped in and delivered an excellent season, achieving a career-best PFF grade of 80.7, ranking him 13th among 42 qualifying quarterbacks. Thanks to Darnoldās leadership, the Vikings wrapped up the regular season with an impressive 14-3 record, solidifying their position as one of the NFC's elite teams.
Now, the focus shifts back to McCarthy. The Vikings have assembled a strong supporting cast featuring talented skill players and a solid offensive line. Having achieved an elite PFF score of 90.6 in his final season at Michigan, McCarthy is expected to make an immediate impact as Minnesota aims to maintain its competitive edge in a tough NFC North.
ā” Malcolm Koonce: Ready to Make Waves
Edge Rusher, Las Vegas Raiders
Malcolm Koonce faced a tough setback, suffering a torn ACL just three days before the Raidersā 2024 season opener. His absence was keenly felt, as the team's pass rush struggled, finishing 27th in the league in pass-rush grade with a score of 64.1.
A former third-round draft pick out of Buffalo, Koonce had a breakout year in 2023, scoring an impressive 81.3 PFF grade and placing 22nd among 112 qualifying edge defenders. He was known for his game-changing plays, racking up an impressive 38 pressures and eight sacks during the latter half of the season. If both Koonce and fellow edge rusher Christian Wilkins, who also missed most of 2024, can return to form, the Raiders' defensive line may transform into one of the leagueās most formidable units in 2025.
š Sam Williams: The Next Big Thing for the Cowboys
Edge Rusher, Dallas Cowboys
In his previous two seasons, Sam Williams consistently played over 300 snaps each year. With key players like Dorance Armstrong and Dante Fowler Jr. departing in free agency, expectations were high for Williams to take on a larger role in 2024. Unfortunately, a torn ACL during training camp cut his season short.
Dallas faced further issues as DeMarcus Lawrence suffered a foot injury in Week 4, making depth a significant concern for the team. Fortunately, as they approach 2025, Williams is set to rejoin an impressive defensive lineup, which now includes All-Pro Micah Parsons and recent draft picks Marshawn Kneeland and Donovan Ezeiruaku. At just 26 years old, Williams has established himself at the NFL level, having achieved a pass-rush grade of 71.0 or higher in both of his first two seasons. A bounce-back year is certainly within reach!
š Samson Ebukam: Recovery and Resurgence
Edge Rusher, Indianapolis Colts
Just like Koonce, Samson Ebukam was poised for a huge year in 2023, logging a career-best PFF score of 84.4 and ranking 14th among edge defenders. He had consistently demonstrated his prowess as a pass rusher with three consecutive seasons of at least 45 pressures. Unfortunately, a torn Achilles tendon sustained during last July's training camp meant he had to sit out the entire 2024 season.
Prior to the injury, Ebukam was known for his durability, missing only two games throughout seven seasons. The expectation is for him to be cleared to participate when veterans report for camp on July 22. The Colts boast a solid defensive line, allowing them to pace Ebukamās return as he continues his recovery journey.
As training camps get underway, keep an eye on these athletes as they aim to make their triumphal returns. Each of these players brings a unique set of skills and potential to their respective teams, which could lead to thrilling matchups and unforgettable moments in the upcoming NFL season. šš