The AFC North is arguably the NFL’s most competitive division. Last season, it boasted three playoff teams, all finishing with winning records, and the Baltimore Ravens clinched the best record in the league. The upcoming season promises an equally compelling narrative. Can the Ravens maintain their dominance? Will a healthy Joe Burrow elevate the Cincinnati Bengals? How will Deshaun Watson perform for the Cleveland Browns? Can veteran Russell Wilson revitalize the Pittsburgh Steelers? While these questions loom large, let’s spotlight one potential breakout player from each AFC North team for the 2024 season.
Baltimore Ravens: Isaiah Likely, Tight End
Lamar Jackson’s affinity for utilizing tight ends is well-documented, with Mark Andrews being his preferred target since 2018. However, Andrews’ ankle injury last season paved the way for Isaiah Likely’s emergence. In his second NFL season, Likely recorded 30 receptions for 411 yards and five touchdowns, building on his rookie year performance of 36 catches, 373 yards, and three touchdowns.
Likely’s production significantly increased from November onwards, coinciding with Andrews’ absence. He amassed 26 receptions for 369 yards and five touchdowns in this period, showcasing his potential as a major offensive threat. While Andrews’ return will impact Likely’s target share, he has cemented his role in the Ravens’ offensive scheme. Likely’s athleticism and superior yards-after-catch ability compared to Andrews offer the Ravens diverse offensive packages.
Cincinnati Bengals: Chase Brown, Running Back
The Bengals’ offseason saw Joe Mixon’s departure and Zack Moss’s arrival. While Moss demonstrated starting potential with the Indianapolis Colts last season, rushing for 794 yards, his 4.3 yards-per-carry average raises questions about his ability to be the Bengals’ sole running back solution.
This scenario presents an opportunity for second-year running back Chase Brown. Brown’s rookie season saw limited action with 44 carries for 179 yards. However, Mixon’s absence opens the door for a larger role. Brown’s impressive college career at the University of Illinois, culminating in a 1,643-yard rushing season, suggests significant upside. While replicating those numbers in the NFL is unlikely, Brown possesses the potential to become a valuable complement to Moss, particularly with his pass-catching abilities.
Cleveland Browns: Martin Emerson Jr., Cornerback
Following Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah’s Pro Bowl season in 2023, could cornerback Martin Emerson Jr. be the Browns’ next breakout star? Trade rumors surrounding Greg Newsome Jr. hint at the Browns’ high regard for Emerson, whose performance last season made Newsome potentially expendable.
Emerson recorded 59 tackles, four interceptions, and 14 passes defended in 2023. While playing alongside established talents like Denzel Ward and Myles Garrett, Emerson consistently demonstrated his capabilities. A third-round pick in 2022, Emerson quickly solidified his role in the Browns’ secondary. With the support of a formidable front seven, Emerson is poised to elevate his game in 2024, potentially earning Pro Bowl recognition.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Pat Freiermuth, Tight End
While running back Jaylen Warren is a popular breakout candidate, tight end Pat Freiermuth is primed for a resurgent season after an injury-plagued 2023. Entering the final year of his contract, Freiermuth has added motivation to perform at a high level.
Freiermuth’s 2022 season showcased his potential, with 63 receptions for 732 yards and two touchdowns. However, his 2023 campaign was limited to 32 catches in 12 games due to injuries. With Diontae Johnson traded and limited proven receiving options beyond George Pickens, Freiermuth could become a crucial target for quarterback Kenny Pickett, especially with the team lacking a consistent tight end presence since Jimmy Graham. Freiermuth’s ability to be a reliable safety valve makes him a prime candidate for a breakout year.
