The Return of NFL Veterans: A Promising Comeback
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, who will be coordinating the offense, previously worked with Samuel in 2020, where Samuel thrived.
This promising alliance could very well rejuvenate Samuel's career. As one observer 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."
Saquon Barkley: The Perfect Fit in Philadelphia
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. At 26, Barkley hasn't yet reached the dreaded age-28 decline for running backs, and he 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. "Philadelphia is going to want to run it with Barkley and Jalen Hurts. Often," noted an analyst, highlighting the team's strategic direction.
Jeremy Chinn: Defensive Renaissance 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, and 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.
Chinn's rookie season was indeed exceptional. "He was tremendous in 2020, finishing second in Defensive Rookie of the Year voting on the heels of a 117-tackle, five pass-breakup, two-return score season," a commentator reminisced.
Carlton Davis: A Cornerback's Dream 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 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.
"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," observed a football analyst. His move to Detroit offers him the chance to shine even brighter.
A Promising Future
These players have shown exceptional talent and performance in the past and now 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.
It's not often that established veterans revert to their star form, but when they do, it can provide a substantial boost to their new teams. Whether it's Samuel catching passes from Josh Allen, Barkley running behind a stellar offensive line, Chinn revitalizing a defense, or Davis locking down receivers, each of these players has a promising path ahead.