Most promising building block in the NFC South
By: Jake Rajala
The NFC South has many bright, young stars. So, I’m going to lay out the most promising “building block” for each NFC South squad.
New Orleans Saints: Chase Young
Chase Young is in his prime right now. He unleashed 10 sacks in 12 games a season ago. Let’s not forget he also had a touchdown. It’s paramount that Young stays healthy, because he’s the future of the position. Cameron Jordan is 36 and will be playing his last season in 2026. Young is 27, so he should have five more seasons, at least. Carl Granderson is a modest DE on the opposite side, but he doesn’t quite have Pro Bowl potential.
Honorable Mention: Tyler Shough
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Tristan Wirfs
Tristan Wirfs is one of the best left tackles in the league. He had a PFF grade of 92.7 a season ago. This was good for second in the league! Baker Mayfield will likely be a rich man soon. It’s vital that they have a blind-side protector for his services. Wirfs did miss five games last season, so that’s something to monitor.
Honorable Mention: Emeka Egbuka
Atlanta Falcons: Bijan Robinson
Bijan Robinson is a Top-5 RB right now. He led the league in total yardage with 2,298 total yards, which led to first team AP honors. He had a PFF grade of 86.6, which was third among RBs. Bijan is also 24 years old, so he could have five to six more seasons. After all, Derrick Henry and Alvin Kamara are both 30+ years old and dazzling.
Honorable Mention: Kyle Pitts
Carolina Panthers: Tetairoa McMillan
Tetairoa McMillan won OROY for obvious reasons. He’s a flat out stud. He notched 1,014 yards, several touchdowns, and averaged 14.5 YPC. He had a modest PFF grade of 78.7. I’d love to see McMillan improve his route running and motor. If he does that, he can be an All-Pro.
Honorable Mention: Bryce Young
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