3 NFL players facing the most pressure in 2026

The NFL offseason is rapidly approaching mini-camp and training camp, where teams will ramp up intense preparations for the 2026 season.

Several teams will fall under the microscope after making aggressive moves in free agency and the draft. Those decisions won’t just define franchises—they’ll also shape the futures of the players involved.

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Pressure does two things: it creates diamonds, or it bursts pipes.

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With mini-camps just around the corner, that pressure is already building. Here are a few players who must deliver a huge 2026 season to maintain control of their careers.

Jan 4, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) runs for yards after catch against the Cincinnati Bengals during the third quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images

Jerry Jeudy

The Cleveland Browns believed they pulled off a heist when they acquired Jeudy from the Denver Broncos at a bargain price. Fans and media analysts celebrated the move.

The team followed the trade by signing Jeudy to what appeared to be a team-friendly extension. But reality quickly set in.

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Jeudy failed to live up to the hype surrounding the 2024 trade. After a disappointing 2025 season, questions now surround his ability to perform as a true WR1 in the NFL.

New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough (6) runs for a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons in the second quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Tyler Shough

Don’t be surprised to see Shough on this list. He has plenty to prove on a New Orleans Saints team with sky-high expectations.

After an impressive rookie season, Shough must now build on that momentum. Critics labeled him a massive reach when the Saints selected him in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

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If Shough can’t lead the Saints to the postseason while producing at a high level, speculation about the team’s future at quarterback will intensify. Fans and analysts will quickly turn their attention to the 2027 quarterback draft class if this season falls short.

Jan 4, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) throws a pass against the Green Bay Packers during the second quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-Imagn Images

Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy

In a two-for-one situation, both Murray and McCarthy face a career-defining 2026 season. Murray gets a fresh opportunity with the Minnesota Vikings, while many have already labeled McCarthy a bust.

Murray enters as the more talented quarterback and should have the inside track to win the starting job. However, McCarthy won’t concede anything—he’ll compete every step of the way.

If Murray struggles, McCarthy will have a chance to reclaim control of his future. Still, he faces a steep uphill battle.

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