10 Breakout players for the 2017 season

Dec 3, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick (29) is congratulated with a belt on the sideline after scoring a touchdown on an interception during the first quarter of the SEC Championship college football game against the Florida Gators at Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 5, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports /

4. WR Jaylen Smith, Louisville

The Louisville Cardinals offense will see more passing opportunities for Heisman winner Lamar Jackson next season. That instantly boosts his favorite target, receiver Jaylen Smith, to the top of the list of breakout players.

Smith caught 27 passes for 599 receiving yards and six touchdowns this season. catching at least one pass in every game. His best performance came against Boston College where he caught six passes for 123 receiving yards and a touchdown.

Smith is second in the ACC and fifth in the FBS in receiving yards per reception with 22.2 yards per catch. He was third on the team in receiving yards this season behind receiver James Quick and tight end Cole Hikutini. Both players will graduate after this season.

With their departures, things open up for the possibility of Smith having a big junior season. Lamar Jackson’s draft hopes are on the line, so look for Smith to play a large role in any success he has next season.

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