NFL 2017: 10 players with the most to prove

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It’s been a week since the New England Patriots raised the Lombardi Trophy. While we fondly look back at 2016, we can look ahead to what 2017 can give us.

From second-year players to established vets, players across the NFL landscape have ample pressure on them each season. These 10 players have the most to prove when it comes to fans and media members alike. For some it’s validation, others is regaining the status that they once lost. Here are 10 guys that I have my eye on heading into next season.

Dec 11, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) takes the field before a game against the Arizona Cardinals at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /

10. Ryan Tannehill

The Miami Dolphins’ quarterback was a key cog in the reason why the Dolphins reached the AFC playoffs this past season. Even though he wasn’t hurt going into the postseason, he made great strides after a rough start. Going into 2017, he’ll be 100 percent healthy and with the dynamics of the league changing,Tannehill’s progress will be key. Tom Brady can’t play forever and eventually the Patriots will pass the torch to someone else in the AFC East.

The only logical choice here is the Dolphins. The Buffalo Bills and New York Jets show no signs of progress and the Dolphins have the best roster to make a move. If Tannehill can remain productive and healthy, don’t be shocked if the Dolphins reach the playoffs for the second straight season.

Jan 1, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) calls a play at the line of scrimmage against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

9. Cam Newton

Cam Newton went from NFL MVP to Super Bowl 50 letdown to going on a milk carton in all of 2016. Despite gaining weapons that were missing in 2015, Cam Newton regressed and was exposed in a big way. The Panthers struggled to remain relevant and now going to 2017, the franchise is at a crossroads, and Newton is in the crosshairs.

One of the big stories in 2016 was Newton taking big hits and even missing games because of it. If Carolina can shore up its offensive line and Newton can progress, things become a bit optimistic. . If he struggles in 2017 then maybe the consensus evaluation with Newton as a top-10 quarterback in the league will change.

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