5 NFL Players Who Must Avoid Sophomore Slump In 2016

By Brad Berreman

The 2015 NFL rookie class was immediately headlined by the quarterbacks who went 1-2 in the draft, and other top picks became impact players for their teams right away. On that note, here are five players who must avoid a sophomore slump in 2016.

5 NFL Players Who Must Avoid Sophomore Slump In 2016

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Seattle Seahawks WR/KR Tyler Lockett — Lockett earned a Pro Bowl nod for his prowess as a kick returner, which makes it easy to overlook that he also had 51 receptions and six touchdowns as a rookie. A bigger offensive role could come this year, and Lockett needs to make the most of it.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Jameis Winston — Winston had a solid rookie season, with over 4,000 passing yards and six rushing touchdowns. If the Buccaneers are going to contend for a playoff spot in 2016, Winston has to lead the charge on and off the field.

Kansas City Chiefs CB Marcus Peters — The 2015 AP Defensive Rookie of the Year made a big impact right away, with a tied for league lead eight interceptions and 26 pass breakups. With Sean Smith's departure, Peters will clearly become the Chiefs' No. 1 corner and will have to step up.

Oakland Raiders WR Amari Cooper — Cooper dealt with a foot injury late, but he had a very productive rookie campaign (72 receptions for 1,070 yards, six touchdowns). The Raiders are in line for a step forward this year, and Cooper needs to progress as the team's No. 1 wide receiver.

Los Angeles Rams RB Todd Gurley — Gurley made a big impact as a rookie, rushing for 1,106 yards (third in the league) in essentially 12 games. He will again be the centerpiece of the Rams' offense, so Gurley has to have a repeat over a full 16 games in 2016.

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