Every year, players step out from the shadows and become dominant players and household names.
Here are nine players who will take the next step and become stars in 2008.
Marlin Jackson, Colts, cornerback
Fantasy Football
Features include:
- Draft Guide | Live Draft Application
- Real-Time Scoring | Expert Analysis
- League Stories, Polls, Boards & More
Create A League Today!
You won't find a harder worker in the NFL. Ever since the former Michigan star came into the league as a first-round pick in the 2005 draft, he's had a flair for making the big play in the big spot, highlighted when he picked off Tom Brady in the Colts' classic AFC title game win en route to the Indy Super Bowl championship.
Last year, Jackson became a full-time starter for the first time, and he dominated with his incredible tackling ability, totaling 88 bone-crushing tackles on the season. As teammate Bob Sanders said, "There aren't too many corners in the league that you would call intimidating besides Marlin."
Jackson spent the offseason watching every single play from a year ago, spending time studying both the good and the bad. Jackson said, "I am a firm believer in positive reinforcement."
He's also spent the offseason working on his backpedaling as the Colts will sprinkle in some man to man with Tony Dungy's classic 'Tampa 2.'
A sensational work ethic, a fundamentally sound player, and a nose for the football will equal a trip across the water for Jackson.
Shaun Phillips, Chargers, linebacker
Shawne Merriman's partner in crime at outside linebacker is actually the better all-around player.
The only things holding Phillips back from a trip to the Pro Bowl are a healthy season and a bit more recognition. Phillips and Merriman actually had the same number of tackles last season (68). Phillips missed one game and showed his warrior like mentality playing hurt in several others.
He's a vocal leader for the San Diego defense and well respected in the locker room.
Tuck tells us that he has learned a lot from Strahan and that will help take him to the next level.
Barrett Ruud, Bucs, linebacker
Monte Kiffin's favorite project emerged as a team leader and stud playmaker for the Tampa defense last year. In his third pro season, Ruud had 114 tackles to lead the Bucs and was a legit Pro Bowl snub. He won't be forgotten this time around.
Santonio Holmes, Steelers, receiver
There's been a lot of chatter about Holmes' attendance in Pittsburgh this summer.
That's nonsense.
In talking to Holmes, he's in great condition, feels a special connection with Ben Roethlisberger, and believes he now has a full grasp on Bruce Arians' offense. In fact, Holmes tells me he has never worked harder and is primed for a huge season.
Holmes caught 52 passes, eight for touchdowns, last year. He was just below 1,000 receiving yards.
While it is a major feat to crack the Pro Bowl at receiver in the AFC and Holmes still has potential Hall of Famer Hines Ward on his team, watch the 2006 first-round pick make countless explosive plays this season.
His double-digit touchdowns and 1,100 receiving yards will be impossible to ignore.
David Harris, Jets, linebacker
It's also never easy making the Pro Bowl at linebacker in the AFC, but Harris became a tackling machine for Eric Mangini when he replaced an injured Jon Vilma in the starting line-up. Harris chalked up a whopping 121 tackles in his rookie season. Harris was a stud a Michigan so his incredible play was not a fluke. He's headed towards sheer greatness.
Reminder ...
The always popular Schein-box (video-style) is back this week with a slew of reader emails, so keep sending them in!
Play FOX FANTASY FOOTBALL TODAY!
