Brandon Aiyuk and Travis Kelce are among five players who desperately need to get on track in the National Football League. While quick evaluations are often made at the start of the season, the most skilled coaches and scouts demonstrate remarkable patience, allowing their star players the time to find their rhythm and elevate their performance.
Having played and scouted in the NFL, it becomes clear that coaches typically require about four games to determine how to best utilize their roster each season. This insight prompts a timely examination of which players possess the potential to rebound from slow starts and finish strong as the season progresses.
As their teams look for crucial contributions down the stretch, here are five athletes who need to turn their sluggish starts into impactful finishes:
Trevor Lawrence, QB, Jacksonville Jaguars
Trevor Lawrence, the former No. 1 overall pick, is now a focal point of discussion in NFL circles following his five-year, $275 million contract that positions him among elite quarterbacks. Once celebrated as a “generational talent,” Lawrence’s performance has not matched expectations during a nine-game losing streak as a starter. After signing his lucrative deal, he has completed only 53.9% of his passes for 739 yards, with four touchdowns and one interception, resulting in a passer rating of 78.9. The pressure is mounting on him as he grapples with misfires that have drawn scrutiny.
While some criticism is justified, Lawrence has the opportunity to revitalize the Jaguars’ season by implementing a straightforward game plan that aligns with his strengths. With guidance from head coach Doug Pederson and offensive coordinator Press Taylor, a strategy featuring screens, quick passes, and deep shots could help him regain his confidence and playmaking ability.
Trevor Lawrence has thrown for only 4 touchdowns through four games this season. (Photo by Jack Gorman/Getty Images)
Brandon Aiyuk, WR, San Francisco 49ers
Brandon Aiyuk, the co-WR1 for the San Francisco 49ers, has faced scrutiny following a dramatic contract negotiation that led to a four-year, $120 million deal. Despite securing a lucrative contract, Aiyuk’s attitude has raised concerns, as he has displayed poor body language and a lack of enthusiasm on the field. With only 13 receptions for 167 yards and no touchdowns in four games, he has struggled to showcase the explosive playmaking ability that earned him second-team All-Pro honors.
With teammates Jauan Jennings and Deebo Samuel stepping up their performances, Aiyuk must refocus and reestablish himself as a key contributor to help the 49ers make another playoff run.
Brandon Aiyuk has yet to haul in a TD this season for the 49ers. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
Travis Kelce, TE, Kansas City Chiefs
Travis Kelce, a future Hall of Famer, is the franchise leader for the Kansas City Chiefs in receptions and receiving yards but has experienced a rocky start to the 2024 season. With just 15 receptions for 158 yards and no touchdowns, he has struggled to create separation, making it difficult for quarterback Patrick Mahomes to target him effectively.
Despite a recent performance against the Los Angeles Chargers where he caught seven passes for 89 yards, Kelce must maintain consistent production, especially with Rashee Rice sidelined due to injury. As head coach Andy Reid continues to design plays that leverage Kelce’s unique skills, he has the potential to be the focal point of the Chiefs’ offense.
Bryce Huff, EDGE, Philadelphia Eagles
Bryce Huff, a significant free-agent acquisition for the Philadelphia Eagles, has yet to deliver on the expectations that came with his three-year, $51 million contract. The pass rusher has not recorded a sack, pressure, or quarterback hit in the first quarter of the season, which raises concerns about his effectiveness on the field.
Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio is likely to explore various strategies and personnel combinations to help Huff find his footing as a pass-rusher. The Eagles are counting on Huff to step up and provide the spark their defense needs as they aim to improve their performance in the coming weeks.
Bryce Huff has yet to register a sack this season for the Eagles. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
D’Andre Swift, RB, Chicago Bears
D’Andre Swift was anticipated to bring excitement to the Chicago Bears’ offense as a versatile runner and receiver. His speed and agility could have made him a favorite target for rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. However, the Bears’ offense has yet to ignite as expected.
Despite the lack of fireworks, Swift has shown promise as a part-time player, leading the Bears with 161 rushing yards and contributing with 13 receptions for 118 yards. His ability to make big plays, including two runs of over 20 yards, demonstrates his potential to be a game-changer for the team.
