A Season of Opportunities: Key NFL Players to Watch in 2023
The NFL's 2023 season introduces new opportunities for teams and players alike. Spotlighted among these players are emerging talents such as Rachaad White of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Drake London.
Rachaad White's Ascendancy
Rachaad White had a promising rookie year, demonstrating potential with 179 touches. His teammate, Leonard Fournette, however, dominated the backfield with 269 total opportunities in the 2022 season for Tampa Bay. By the 2023 season, the Buccaneers made the strategic decision to part ways with Fournette, slimming down their running back roster significantly.
White seized this opportunity, finishing second in the NFL with 336 touches, only slightly behind Christian McCaffrey's 339. His increased role signifies the Buccaneers' confidence in his capabilities, as they refrained from adding depth to the running back position.
Drake London's Growing Role
Drake London also drew attention, commanding a notable 25.9% target share in his first two years and ranking WR17. However, his fantasy points per game placed him at WR47 during that span, suggesting room for improvement. By 2024, London's prospects are set to improve with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins expected to lead the offense. This transition could be pivotal in enhancing his production and consistency.
Kyle Pitts' Journey
London's teammate, tight end Kyle Pitts, surpassed the 1,000-yard receiving mark as a rookie, setting high expectations early in his career. Despite an injury that required MCL and PCL repair in late 2022, Pitts maintained relevance with 58 targets in 2022 and 90 in 2023. His recovery and subsequent performance will be crucial for his continued impact on the field.
Offseason Moves and Their Impact
Several key team moves during the offseason added layers of intrigue to the upcoming season. The Raiders' signing of Alexander Mattison aims to strengthen their backfield, addressing their previous gaps.
Meanwhile, the Detroit Lions made a bold move by drafting Jameson Williams 12th overall after trading up. Williams' time on the field has been limited due to a suspension that marred both his rookie and sophomore seasons. Despite this, he has showcased his potential, ranking WR5 in fantasy points per touch since his 2022 debut. Jeff Risdon commented on the Lions' strategic bet on Williams, stating, “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.”
Texans and the Ripple Effect
In another notable shift, the Texans acquired Joe Mixon, who had the fourth-most touches in the NFL last season with 309. Mixon's departure from Cincinnati opens up a competition between Zack Moss and Chase Brown for the opportunities left behind. Moss, who had multiple games exceeding 20 fantasy points when given the lead role in 2023, and Brown, with only 58 touches last year, will both vie for dominance in the backfield.
The 2023 NFL season is shaping up to be dynamic, with the potential for emerging stars to make significant impacts. As teams adjust their strategies and new talents step into more prominent roles, fans can look forward to a season brimming with anticipation and excitement.