The 2016 USL Kickoff Weekend kicks off on Friday as we continue to put the spotlight on players who could be difference-makers in the USL this season.

After breaking down goalkeepers, defenders and midfielders you should keep an eye on this season, today it’s the turn of the forwards who’ll be key to their clubs’ success.

- Chandler Hoffman, Louisville City FC – Hoffman arrives in Louisville with great previous success in the USL. An All-League selection for the LA Galaxy II in 2014, Hoffman has scored 17 goals in 27 regular-season USL games in the past two seasons. Should he maintain that strike rate, Louisville will likely sit near the top of the Eastern Conference again.

- Dane Kelly, Swope Park Rangers – The USL’s all-time leading scorer headed to the expansion Rangers this offseason from Charleston, and will be out to record a fourth consecutive season of double-digit goals. With his speed and eye for goal, Kelly will be a menace to defenses across the Western Conference this season.

- Danni König, OKC Energy FC – The biggest addition to Energy FC last season will be aiming for an encore this year after recording 21 goals in the regular season to earn All-League First Team honors, and nomination for the league’s MVP award. König’s awareness in the penalty area, and quick reactions to clean up half-chances will be key as OKC looks to scale even greater heights.

- Jack McBean, LA Galaxy II – McBean has been the glue for Los Dos’ attack in the club’s first two seasons, recording 11 goals and 11 assists over the two seasons. The powerful forward has already shown excellent form this preseason, and could take his game to another level this year.

- Sammy Ochoa, Tulsa Roughnecks FC – Ochoa had a strong first season for the Roughnecks, and after an excellent preseason could be primed for a big year at ONEOK Field. His partnership with teammates Brady Ballew and Cristian Mata made Tulsa one of the most entertaining teams in the USL last season, and a season with double-digit goals must be Ochoa’s aim as the club shoots for the playoffs.

Also to watch: Myron Samuel, Seattle Sounders FC 2; Sean Okoli, FC Cincinnati; Romario Williams, Charleston Battery; Jason Yeisley, Richmond Kickers; Tommy Stewart, Sacramento Republic FC