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Five potential breakout MLS stars this fall

By Carson A Merk

Jul 31, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Columbus Crew forward Ola Kamara (17) looks towards the sideline against Toronto FC at BMO Field. Toronto FC won 3-0. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Sousa-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 31, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Columbus Crew forward Ola Kamara (17) looks towards the sideline against Toronto FC at BMO Field. Toronto FC won 3-0. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Sousa-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jul 23, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; DC United forward Patrick Mullins (16) dribbles the ball upfield against Toronto FC defender Eriq Zavaleta (15) in the second half at BMO iField. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 23, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; DC United forward Patrick Mullins (16) dribbles the ball upfield against Toronto FC defender Eriq Zavaleta (15) in the second half at BMO iField. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /

D.C. United forward Patrick Mullins

Patrick Mullins won the NCAA’s Hermann Award for top player in the nation. Twice. He was a star at the University of Maryland, leading them to the final in 2013. He’s followed that up with some success early in his career, with NYCFC and New England, as primarily a substitute. In the summer transfer window, he was sent to D.C. United.

In his first start, second match, for the District, he found the net. As a top option at forward, Mullins may finally have his chance to be the guy, rather than just some guy mainly backing up David Villa.

United’s top goal scorer on the team only has 4. They only have 20 goals as a team, earning them second to last in the entire MLS. Mullins has been brought on, and is expected, to turn that around, add some punch to D.C.’s attack.

He’s a capable scorer, back to the goal, or running in behind defenders. The fall of 2016 will be Mullins biggest opportunity yet to show he’s a top forward in this league, and don’t be surprised if he makes NYCFC regret their decision to let him go.

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