Several big-name NFL players enter this season with something to prove

Several high-profile NFL players enter the season with contract or performance pressure, including Breece Hall, Baker Mayfield, A.J. Brown, Jalen Carter, and Keon Coleman. Hall received a three-year Jets extension in May worth $45.75 million and says it has made him “more hungry” to keep proving himself after his first 1,000-yard rushing season. Mayfield, in Tampa Bay, says he feels “disrespected” for not getting an extension and plans to play out the final season of his three-year, $100 million deal. A.J. Brown, traded from Philadelphia to New England in June, is now with the Patriots after four seasons with 339 catches for 5,034 yards. Jalen Carter signed a four-year extension with $106 million guaranteed through 2031, following a year limited by shoulder injuries. Keon Coleman is labeled a “make or break” case after inconsistent play and three lateness-to-meetings disciplines.