NFL: 10 players who will become stars in 2014

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Nov 17, 2013; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback EJ Manuel (3) calls a play during a game against the New York Jets at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports /

EJ Manuel, QB, Buffalo Bills

EJ Manuel was solid during his rookie season, and I’ll give you one reason why I have him as a breakout player in 2014: Sammy Watkins. And it looks like Manuel is thrilled to have Watkins in his offense:

EJ Manuel: "I was a Sammy fan before we even picked him up...when the ball is in the air, it's his."
— Buffalo Bills (@BuffaloBills) July 27, 2014

The addition of the rookie wideout provides Manuel with another weapon in his arsenal–an arsenal that already includes WR Robert Woods, TE Scott Chandler and RB C.J. Spiller.

Multiple knee injuries prevented Manuel from getting the necessary experience and playing time as a rookie–he only played 10 games–but when he did play, Manuel was dynamic, making plays with both his arm and feet.

I expect Manuel to pick up right where he left off from last season. That last start against the Jacksonville Jaguars, when he threw for two touchdowns and ran for another while completing better than 70% of his passes, is more of what I’m expecting from the second-year QB this season.

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