Breakout candidates in the NFL need a few things: Obvious talent, creating untapped potential, and new or growing opportunity. Zach Tom has both, which helped make him the pick as the breakout candidate for the Green Bay Packers in 2023.
Per PFF, Tom finished his rookie season with a pass-blocking grade of 82.4 when playing at offensive tackle, highlighting his obvious talent for keeping pass-rushers away from the quarterback when lined up at a premium position. Tom is also competing to be the starting right tackle for the Packers, providing the bump in opportunity, and it’s possible that, even in the scenario where he’s not the Week 1 starter, he’ll be the top backup at every position along the offensive line.