Every NFL season is a fresh canvas, and the 2023 season promises to be no different, brimming with new talents and significant shifts in team dynamics. Among the most intriguing players to watch this year are Rachaad White of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Drake London. Both bring unique potential to their roles, and their performances could significantly impact their teams' fortunes.
Emerging Talents
Rachaad White, a young running back for the Buccaneers, had an impressive rookie season with 179 touches, demonstrating his capability and readiness to take on a more significant role. However, it was Leonard Fournette who overshadowed him with 269 total opportunities in 2022. By 2023, Tampa Bay decided to part ways with Fournette and didn't make significant additions to their running back roster, effectively putting their faith in White. This decision proved fruitful as White rose to the occasion, accumulating 336 touches, second only to Christian McCaffrey’s 339. White's progression underscores the Buccaneers' strategic planning and belief in his potential.
On the receiving front, Drake London has been making waves in his initial seasons. Over his first two years, London commanded a substantial 25.9% target share and was ranked WR17. Despite his solid target share, his fantasy points per game placed him at WR47. Looking to boost his performance, London will have the experienced Kirk Cousins as his quarterback in 2024, a development fans are eager to see play out.
Veteran Presence and Injury Comebacks
Kyle Pitts has also been a notable figure in the NFL since surpassing the 1,000-yard receiving mark as a rookie. However, Pitts' journey hasn't been without challenges. He required MCL and PCL repair in late 2022, which impacted his opportunities. In 2022, he received only 58 targets, while 2023 saw a slight increase to 90 targets. The anticipation surrounds how Pitts will bounce back and whether he can recapture his exceptional rookie form.
Strategic Moves in the Offseason
The Raiders made a strategic acquisition during the offseason, signing Alexander Mattison to strengthen their backfield. This move is seen as a bolstering effort, aimed at providing more depth and options for their offensive plays.
Meanwhile, the Detroit Lions have shown their strategic intent by drafting Jameson Williams 12th overall after trading up. Williams, however, has faced hurdles in his NFL journey. He missed a significant portion of his rookie season and additional time in his sophomore season due to suspension. Despite these setbacks, Williams has shown flashes of brilliance, ranking WR5 in fantasy points per touch since entering the league in 2022.
Jeff Risdon provided insight into the Lions’ confidence in their receiving ranks, noting, “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 stance underscores the Lions’ belief in the current capabilities and future potential of Williams and their other receivers.
Changes and Expectations
The Houston Texans made a notable move by acquiring Joe Mixon, who recorded the fourth-most touches in the NFL last season with 309. This acquisition is expected to bolster their offensive capabilities significantly. In Cincinnati, Mixon's departure opens opportunities for Zack Moss and Chase Brown to step up. Moss had several impressive games exceeding 20 fantasy points when given the lead role in 2023, while Brown is looking to make a mark, having had only 58 touches last year.
The 2023 NFL season is already shaping up to be one of calculated risks, burgeoning talents, and pivotal moves. Rachaad White and Drake London stand out as players whose growth and performance will be closely watched. With changing team rosters and strategic acquisitions, NFL enthusiasts have much to look forward to as the drama of the gridiron unfolds.