In the NFL world, you’ll frequently hear analysts, coaches, and others discuss players taking a “leap”. For anyone unfamiliar, a leap usually happens after a few seasons in the league. Players adjust to the speed and complexities of the pro game and polish their preparation habits, maturity, training, film study, and other nuances that lead to NFL success. Different players develop at different speeds, of course. Some are immediately impactful, others never quite get there, but for most, the process of growing into an NFL role is gradual.
In any given year, a team might have a small handful of players who make a “leap”.