The Sporting News just released their 2009 All-Breakout Team, as done by Vinny Iyer with special input from Brian Baldinger. Some of the selections are just no-brainers, it makes you say DUH! Bears Tight End Greg Olsen is getting picked by just about every publication as a guy that will breakout this year, and he makes their list as well. After the jump see what they said about Olsen and a few other picks.
Here is the criteria they used for selecting their team:
Include no rookies, and go with players with at least one year of experience who either haven't quite reached their potential or haven't received the recognition they deserve.
And here is what they said about Olsen:
TIGHT END
Greg Olsen, Bears. This athletic freak figures to be Jay Cutler's favorite target.
Baldy's take: "You or me could be a pretty productive receiver with Cutler throwing to us often."
Great insight by NFL Network analyst Baldinger. No other Bears made the list, but do you think any should have?
Other notables on the list;
QUARTERBACK
Matt Ryan, Falcons. Ryan is the reigning Rookie of the Year, was a Pro Bowl alternate and led Atlanta to an 11-5 record during his first NFL season. But his statistics were modest: 16 touchdown passes, 11 interceptions. With a year's experience and an elite tight end, Tony Gonzalez, look for Ryan to become an elite QB.
Baldy's take: "Expect him to throw for about 25 TDs this season."
I agree with Baldy on this one, and Gonzalez may have his best season in a while. Ryan is one of 3 Falcons on the list.
WIDE RECEIVERS
DeSean Jackson, Eagles. For the first time since Terrell Owens, Donovan McNabb has an elite receiver.
Baldy's take: "An easy pick."
One of 3 Eagles on the list, Jackson should eclipse the 1,000 mark with ease this year.
Ray Edwards, Vikings. He's just another fine Minnesota defensive lineman, following Kevin Williams, Pat Williams and Jared Allen.
Baldy's take: "He is ready to take full advantage of playing next to those guys."
The only other NFC North representative on the list. On a side note, could Jarred Allen just go away?
Here's a link to the article, 2009 NFL Preview: Selecting All-Breakout Team a challenge