Breakout candidates for each NFC West squad
By: Jake Rajala
The NFC West is a gutsy and talented division headiing into 2026. Three of the four NFC West teams (Seahawks, Rams, and 49ers) are capable of winning the Super Bowl. With that said, they still need some help to go all the way. So, I’m going to lay out breakout candidates for each NFC West team.
Los Angeles Rams: Colby Parkinson
Colby Parkinson had a whopping eight touchdowns last season. He was a grad from Stanford in 2020. With defenses focused on Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, he should be able to thrive with his match-ups. Last season, he had an 74.9 PFF grade, which was 10th in the league.
San Francisco 49ers: Mykel Williams
Mykel only played in nine games last season. I believe he can improve his craft and be a sack artist. With Nick Bosa back, offenses wll focus on stopping Nick, which should help Mykel thrive. Mykel still has a lot of potential. It’s not fair to close the door on him after one season.
Seattle Seahawks: Byron Murphy
Byron had a splendid season in 2025. He had several sacks, seven tackles for loss, and 13 QB hits in 2026. He also had 50 pressures. He can go from a quality starter to a Pro Bowl-caliber player. He had an 72.4 PFF grade last season. He could be more weel-rounded.
Arizona Cardinals: Gardner Minshew
Minshew Mania is in an impressive situation. He has Marvin Harrison Jr, Trey McBride, and Jeremyiah Love. Minshew made the Pro Bowl in 2023. I believe that version of him is alive and well. Jacoby Brissett went 1-11 last season and Carson Beck is far from proven. This opens the door for Gardner in my opinion.
There are many breakout players for all of the teams. It’s a challenge to pick which player deserves to be mentioned. With that said, I hope these players prove me right and break out.
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