Every NFL season brings a fresh set of narratives and opportunities, and the 2023 season is no exception. With teams recalibrating their strategies and rosters, new stars are primed for breakout performances.
Emerging Talent in Tampa Bay
Among the players to keep an eye on this year is Rachaad White of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. White showed promise as a rookie, garnering 179 touches, even as his teammate Leonard Fournette dominated with 269 total opportunities in 2022. However, that dynamic shifted significantly heading into the 2023 season when the Buccaneers decided to move on from Fournette, not adding much depth in the running back department.
This bold move paid off as White became a workhorse for the Buccaneers, amassing 336 touches to rank second in the NFL, trailing only Christian McCaffrey’s 339. Such a workload underscores the faith Tampa Bay has in the young running back, offering a positive outlook for his continued development and impact on the field.
Drake London’s Rise
Wide receiver Drake London has also been making headlines. In his first two years in the NFL, London has commanded a 25.9% target share and ranked WR17. Despite these impressive statistics, his fantasy points per game placed him at WR47 during that span. The tide may be turning for London, as he will have veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins throwing him the ball in 2024. With Cousins' experience and precision, London’s numbers could see a substantial boost, offering exciting prospects for fans and fantasy football enthusiasts alike.
Kyle Pitts’ Return
Another player on the rise is Kyle Pitts, who surpassed the 1,000-yard receiving mark as a rookie. Pitts faced challenges in late 2022, requiring MCL and PCL repair, which undoubtedly affected his performance the following season. In 2022, he received only 58 targets, but saw an increase to 90 targets in 2023. Pitts’ journey back to form will be critical for his team's offense, and his unique skill set makes him a standout tight end to watch.
Key Offseason Moves
The offseason brought significant changes across the league, particularly with the Raiders bolstering their backfield by signing Alexander Mattison. The Lions also made a notable move, trading up to draft Jameson Williams 12th overall. Unfortunately, Williams missed most of his rookie season and additional time in his sophomore season due to suspension. Despite these setbacks, he ranks WR5 in fantasy points per touch since entering the league in 2022, showcasing his potential for explosive plays when active.
Reflecting on Williams' situation, Jeff Risdon remarked, “I know they're excited about what they've got in him, and that's why they're not pursuing any other wide receivers and you will not see other wide receivers brought in. Agents have asked... Detroit is not interested in bringing in any receivers at this point.” This statement emphasizes the confidence the Lions have in Williams' ability to deliver.
Texans and the Impact of Joe Mixon
In a significant acquisition, the Texans brought in Joe Mixon, who had the fourth-most touches in the NFL last season with 309. This move is expected to substantially bolster their offensive capabilities. Meanwhile, Zack Moss and Chase Brown are anticipated to split the opportunities Mixon left behind in Cincinnati. Moss proved his mettle in 2023 with multiple games exceeding 20 fantasy points when given the lead role, whereas Brown had a more modest 58 touches last year.
As the 2023 NFL season unfolds, these emerging talents and strategic moves will shape the league’s competitive landscape. With new opportunities for young players and strategic adjustments by teams, fans have much to look forward to. The storylines that develop will undoubtedly add to the rich tapestry of the NFL, offering suspense, excitement, and moments of brilliance.