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Top 20 NFL breakout candidates in 2017

By John Buhler

Oct 23, 2016; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones (95) is introduced prior to a game against the New Orleans Saints at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs won 27-21. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 23, 2016; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones (95) is introduced prior to a game against the New Orleans Saints at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs won 27-21. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 1, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles inside linebacker Jordan Hicks (58) looks on during warmups prior to the game against the New York Jets at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 1, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles inside linebacker Jordan Hicks (58) looks on during warmups prior to the game against the New York Jets at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jordan Hicks

Middle Linebacker, Philadelphia Eagles

Though the Philadelphia Eagles had their issues at times in 2016, they should be able to compete for an NFC playoff spot this fall. Sure, general manager Howie Roseman needs to draft well and head coach Doug Pederson needs to get better before year two. However, Pederson has assembled a dynamite coaching staff.

Offensive coordinator Frank Reich projects as a future NFL head coach. Quarterbacks coach John DeFilippo will an offensive coordinator again here soon. Let’s not forget that Jim Schwartz is one of the best defensive coordinators in the business. His biggest project for 2017 is third-year middle linebacker Jordan Hicks.

Hicks had a strong second year with the 2016 Eagles. He started all 16 games for Philadelphia, with 86 combined tackles, 11 passes defended and an absurd five interceptions. His ball skills at middle linebacker could make him a perennial Pro Bowler.

This former Texas Longhorn has the potential to be one of the best inside linebackers in the NFC for the rest of the decade. His vision of the field is tremendous. Frankly, Hicks could not have a better defensive coordinator to learn from in Schwartz. If he stays healthy, Hicks could be become an absolute monster in the middle of the Eagles defense.

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