15 NFL Players Who Need A Comeback In 2026

Written by Mariano Montagna on January 4, 2026

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The NFL has always been fueled by redemption stories, and 2026 is shaping up to be a season defined by comebacks. Several big names will be fighting to reclaim their place among the elite, determined to prove that their best days are not behind them. These players enter the new year with something to prove, not just to their teams, but to themselves and to the fans who once celebrated them as game-changers. The stage is set for returns that could redefine careers.

1. Deshaun Watson- quarterback, Cleveland Browns

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After years of off‑field controversy and uneven play, Watson enters 2026 needing to justify the Browns’ massive investment. A strong season could finally restore his reputation as one of the league’s most dynamic quarterbacks.

2. Justin Fields- quarterback, Chicago Bears

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Fields has flashed brilliance with his legs but struggled to establish himself as a consistent passer. With Chicago’s offense rebuilt around him, 2026 is make‑or‑break for his future as the Bears’ long‑term leader.

3. Kyler Murray- quarterback, Arizona Cardinals

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Injuries have derailed Murray’s trajectory, and questions about his leadership persist. A healthy, productive 2026 campaign could reestablish him as one of the NFL’s most dangerous dual‑threat quarterbacks.

4. Mac Jones- quarterback, Jacksonville Jaguars

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After a rocky tenure in New England, Jones has a fresh start in Jacksonville. He’ll need to prove he can be more than a system quarterback and show he belongs among the league’s starters.

5. Saquon Barkley- running back, Philadelphia Eagles

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Barkley’s talent has never been in question, but injuries have robbed him of consistency. In 2026, he’ll aim to recapture the explosiveness that once made him one of the NFL’s most feared backs.

6. Dalvin Cook- running back, Free Agent

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Cook’s production has dipped sharply and he enters 2026 fighting for another shot. If he can land with the right team and stay healthy, he could remind fans why he was once a perennial Pro Bowler.

7. Michael Thomas- wide receiver, New Orleans Saints

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Once the NFL’s most dominant receiver, Thomas has been plagued by injuries and inconsistency. 2026 is his chance to prove he can still be a reliable weapon and not just a fading star.

8. Odell Beckham Jr.- wide receiver, Miami Dolphins

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Beckham’s flashes of brilliance have been overshadowed by injuries and inconsistency. With Miami’s high‑powered offense, 2026 could be the year he finally reclaims his superstar status.

9. Chase Young- defensive end, New Orleans Saints

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Young’s career has been defined by potential and setbacks. If he can stay healthy and deliver on his pass‑rushing promise, 2026 could mark the turning point that cements him as a defensive cornerstone.

10. Von Miller- linebacker, Buffalo Bills

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The veteran pass rusher has battled injuries and age, but his leadership remains invaluable. A strong 2026 season could remind the league that Miller still has gas left in the tank.

11. Jamal Adams- safetyman, Seattle Seahawks

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Adams was once considered one of the league’s premier safeties, but injuries and declining play have hurt his stock. 2026 is his opportunity to prove he can still be a defensive difference‑maker.

12. Chandler Jones- defensive end, Free Agent

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Jones has seen his production dip, and off‑field issues have clouded his career. A comeback in 2026 would require discipline, health, and a return to the relentless pass‑rushing form that made him elite.

13. Carson Wentz- quarterback, Free Agent

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Wentz has bounced around the league, struggling to recapture his early promise. If he finds a roster spot in 2026, it may be his last chance to prove he can still contribute meaningfully.

14. Trey Lance- quarterback, Dallas Cowboys

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Once seen as a future star, Lance has struggled to find his footing. With Dallas giving him another shot, 2026 is the season where he must show he can live up to his draft hype.

15. Russell Wilson- quarterback, Pittsburgh Steelers

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Wilson’s move to Pittsburgh was supposed to reignite his career, but inconsistency and questions about his mobility have lingered. 2026 is a chance to prove he can still be a franchise quarterback and silence doubts about whether his best days are behind him.