For some 2022 first-round NFL Draft picks, the upcoming 2024 season is particularly important.
While a select few should already be locks to have their fifth-year options picked up, others need big seasons for their teams to commit to a fifth year before the May 2025 deadline.
Notable players who have likely already secured their 2026 contract include Lions edge Aidan Hutchinson, Jets cornerback Ahmad Gardner and wide receiver Garrett Wilson, Saints wide receiver Chris Olave, Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton and Chiefs cornerback Trent McDuffie.
Here’s a look at 10 more trending in opposite directions heading into their pivotal third NFL seasons.
Note: Each player’s draft position is listed in parentheses.
(1) EDGE Travon Walker, Jaguars: 2022’s No. 1 overall pick, Walker corrected course after a rocky first season in the league. The former Georgia Bulldog had 10 sacks in 2023 after recording 3.5 as a rookie. He also had 10 tackles for loss, five more than in 2022.
