Every NFL season is a tapestry of shifting dynamics and emerging talents, and the 2023 season is drawing particular attention to a few standout players. Among the names to watch this year are Rachaad White from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Drake London, who have both exhibited promising performances early in their careers.
The Rise of Rachaad White
Rachaad White demonstrated considerable potential as a rookie, handling 179 touches in his debut season. His teammate, Leonard Fournette, had a commanding presence with 269 total opportunities in 2022, but the Buccaneers' decision to move on from Fournette in 2023 has elevated White into a more prominent role. With minimal additions to the running back depth chart, White quickly ascended, recording an impressive 336 touches. This figure placed him second in the NFL, just behind Christian McCaffrey's 339 touches.
Drake London's Target Share and Fantasy Implications
On the receiving end, Drake London has made his mark by commanding a 25.9% target share over his first two years, earning him the WR17 ranking. However, his fantasy points per game saw him position at WR47 during that period. An intriguing element for London’s 2024 campaign is the addition of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, which could provide the consistency and precision to boost London's productivity further.
Kyle Pitts' Journey and Expectations
Another key player to watch is Kyle Pitts, who showcased his immense potential by surpassing the 1,000-yard receiving mark in his rookie season. However, his momentum was disrupted by MCL and PCL injuries that required surgical repair in late 2022. Despite these setbacks, Pitts still saw a notable amount of targets, with 58 in 2022 and 90 in 2023, indicating his persistent role in the offense.
Rookies, Trades, and Suspensions
The offseason has been a period of significant moves and investments in young talent. The Las Vegas Raiders made a decisive move by signing Alexander Mattison to deepen their backfield reserves. Meanwhile, the Detroit Lions made a bold statement by drafting Jameson Williams 12th overall after trading up. Williams' career, though promising, has been marred by availability issues, missing substantial time during his first two seasons due to suspension. Yet, when he has played, his efficiency is undeniable, ranking as WR5 in fantasy points per touch since his 2022 debut.
Another notable acquisition involves the Houston Texans who secured Joe Mixon, one of the league's most productive running backs last season with 309 touches. His departure from Cincinnati opens the door for Zack Moss and Chase Brown to step up. Moss has shown he can deliver strong fantasy performances, exceeding 20 points in multiple games when given the lead role in 2023. Conversely, Chase Brown, with only 58 touches last year, will look to capitalize on the additional opportunities left by Mixon.
The Detroit Lions' Commitment
One voice that encapsulates the confidence and strategic direction of an NFL team is Jeff Risdon, who offered insight into the Detroit Lions' approach regarding their receiving corps. "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," Risdon stated. This endorsement highlights the Lions' belief in their current roster and indicates a strategic focus on developing their drafted talent rather than seeking external reinforcements.
The 2023 NFL season, like every season, is unfolding with a unique narrative crafted by emerging stars, strategic trades, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As these players continue to evolve and new dynamics emerge, the anticipation and excitement around the league remain as palpable as ever.