The 2023 NFL season is set to be a thrilling ride with a host of emerging talents ready to leave their mark. As the Tampa Bay Buccaneers look to rebuild, one of the key players to watch is Rachaad White, who has shown immense potential. With the Buccaneers moving on from Leonard Fournette and not adding much depth to their running back roster, White is expected to carry a significant load. He was second in the NFL with 336 touches last season, trailing only Christian McCaffrey’s 339, suggesting his crucial role within the team.
Last season, White had 179 touches as a rookie, overshadowed by Fournette's 269 total opportunities. With Fournette out of the picture, the stage is set for White to further solidify his standing. The Buccaneers' strategic decision indicates their confidence in White’s abilities to command the backfield. His performance this season could be a defining factor in the Buccaneers' offensive strategy as they seek to regain their competitive edge.
Meanwhile, wide receiver Drake London is another player drawing significant attention. Over his first two years with the team, London commanded a 25.9% target share and ranked WR17, although his fantasy points per game placed him at WR47 during that span. The shift in dynamics comes with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins set to throw him the ball in 2024, potentially boosting his productivity and on-field impact.
London’s trajectory in the NFL has parallels with that of Kyle Pitts, who impressively surpassed the 1,000-yard receiving mark as a rookie. Despite requiring MCL and PCL repairs late in 2022, Pitts rebounded to receive 90 targets in 2023, up from just 58 in 2022. His ability to make a comeback after a significant injury demonstrates the resilience and skill these young pros bring to their respective teams.
The Raiders have also made moves to strengthen their roster by signing Alexander Mattison during the offseason. This addition is expected to bolster their backfield, adding depth and experience to their lineup. In a bid to remain competitive, the Lions aggressively moved up to draft Jameson Williams 12th overall. Despite missing most of his rookie season and additional time in his sophomore season due to suspension, Williams has shown flashes of brilliance. Since entering the league in 2022, he ranks WR5 in fantasy points per touch, showcasing his high-impact potential when available.
The Texans made a significant acquisition by bringing in Joe Mixon, who had the fourth-most touches in the NFL last season with 309. His arrival fills a critical gap and is expected to bring consistency and experience to the Texans' backfield. On the flip side, the Bengals will look to Zack Moss and Chase Brown to split the opportunities vacated by Mixon. Moss has already proved his capability, exceeding 20 fantasy points in several games when given the lead role in 2023, while Brown, who had only 58 touches last year, is poised to step up.
One noteworthy perspective comes from Jeff Risdon, shedding light on the Lions’ strategic moves: “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 comment highlights the Lions’ confidence in Williams and their contentment with their current roster.
The early focus on these emerging players and strategic team decisions set the stage for an exhilarating NFL season. With potential breakout performances on the horizon, fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing how these young stars develop and how their teams adapt to maximize their capabilities. The 2023 season promises to not only showcase individual talents but also the evolving dynamics within teams, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of the NFL.