The Cincinnati Bengals are getting ready to face a new season after a disappointing 2016 that saw them limping down the stretch. The Bengals went 6-9-1 last season and missed out on the playoffs for the first time since 2010. This was mostly due to an ineffective offensive line early in the year, coupled with injuries to some of the stalwart players on offense. But a new season brings new hope for fans.

While Cincinnati employs some great players on their roster, there are unknown players that could always break out and make a name for themselves. This is true for every team, every season. Last season we saw Josh Shaw emerge as the starting nickel corner and Rex Burkhead taking the reins at running back the last few games of last season.

It’s tough to predict breakout candidates simply due to the fact that injuries can bite at any time, or the fact that players sometimes fail to live up to the hype.

With that said, let’s take a look at the top-six players that could have breakout seasons and provide some hope in 2017.