From dominating at the College of Holy Cross to making some noise as an undrafted rookie, Carolina Panthers wide receiver Jalen Coker is no stranger to bursting onto the scene. So it shouldn’t be a surprise if he continues to make his presence known this upcoming season.
Pro Football Focus contributor Bradley Locker recently named a 2025 breakout candidate for each of the NFL’s 32 teams. He tabs Coker for the Panthers, who may have themselves quite a gem.
Locker writes:
The Panthers have several intriguing young offensive weapons who could break out, but the safest bet appears to be Coker. The 2024 undrafted free agent shined when on the field, generating a 73.8 PFF receiving grade with only one drop on 45 targets. His 1.72 yards per route run ranked fourth among qualified rookie wideouts, ahead of several notable names. Coker and Bryce Young found a solid connection this past season, and it could amplify in 2025.
Coker finished up his rookie campaign with 32 catches for 478 yards and two touchdowns over 11 outings. He also averaged 43.5 receiving yards per game—ranking third on the team behind veterans Adam Thielen (61.5) and Diontae Johnson (51.0).
The 23-year-old, in addition, recorded the longest reception of the 2024 season for Carolina—burning the Dallas Cowboys defense for an 83-yard touchdown in Week 15.
So hopefully for the Panthers, who are still without a true No. 1 receiver, Coker continues to break through in 2025.