The New England Patriots have a lot of potential heading into the 2026 season, especially with one of the best quarterbacks in the league. They have a few obvious stars on the roster, but who are some of the under-the-radar players that could make a huge leap this season?
If New England wants to get back to the Super Bowl, it are gonna need everybody on the roster to show up, so let's dive into some of the top breakout candidates for 2026.
Romeo Doubs, wide receiver
One of the top breakout candidates is wide receiver Romeo Doubs. The former Packers star was one of the big free agent additions this offseason, and people are already talking about his potential with Drake Maye.
Doubs' size and strength will allow him to be a great chain mover and security blanket for Maye. He was built for the Josh McDaniels offense, a strong target that can be a real threat in yards after the catch. If the Patriots end up acquiring A.J. Brown via trade, this would be massive for Doubs' production. It would allow Doubs to be moved all over the formation and used in a multitude of ways, while Brown takes all the attention and coverage on the outside.
Overall, I believe Doubs will have the best year of his career in 2026 and will be one of the key players in a 2026 playoff run.
Craig Woodson, safety
The second breakout star on this list is safety Craig Woodson. Woodson was the Patriots' steal of the draft last year, consistently anchoring the secondary throughout the regular season and the playoffs.
As a fourth-round pick, there weren't high expectations for Woodson, but he was one of the key contributors, and as a rookie, this was even more impressive. The Patriots added Kevin Byard in free agency to play alongside the Tennessee native, and the veteran should have a great impact on not only the defense but Woodson's development as well.
Fans should expect Woodson to make a great leap in year two, and continue to develop into a cornerstone of the franchise.
TreVeyon Henderson, running back
One of the easiest breakout candidates to predict is running back Treveyon Henderson. Henderson had already shown some incredible flashes as a rookie (like his four two-touchdown games during the regular season), and has the ability to take any play all the way to the end zone.
There were a few plays in 2025 when Henderson hit a hole full speed, and there was absolutely no catching him. He struggled towards the end of the season, but that is an issue many rookies usually have. If he can continue to develop, learn, and improve in pass protection, he could be in for a massive 2026.
Will Campbell, offensive tackle
Offensive tackle Will Campbell was one of the biggest concerns in the playoffs last season. He played very well in the regular season before injuring his knee, but after returning, he looked like a completely different player.
It was obvious he didn't have the same ability to anchor after his injury, and the hope is that he can get healthy this offseason and turn back into a franchise left tackle. I believe the addition of Alijah Vera-Tucker at left guard will be huge for Campbell. It will give him a talented veteran presence next to him that can assist him in a multitude of ways, and not leave him on an island alongside another rookie like he was in 2025.
If the LSU alum can get healthy, trust his coaching, and keep his confidence, he could be in for a massive year and continue to develop into Maye's top protector.
Gabe Jacas, edge rusher (rookie)
The only rookie I have on this list is edge rusher Gabe Jacas. Jacas has the potential to be the Patriots' top edge rusher as a rookie. New England struggled with rushing the passer from the edge position in 2025, and Jacas has all the tools to be an absolute force.
His size and strength allow him to set the edge and defend the run, while his athleticism and violence allow him to constantly rush the quarterback. Jacas was one of my favorite prospects in the entire Draft, and adding him to a Mike Vrabel defense could help turn him into one of the most menacing pass rushers in the AFC East.
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