Every NFL season ushers in a fresh array of narratives and potential breakout stars. For the 2023 season, fans and analysts alike have their eyes set on a variety of emerging talents who are poised to make significant impacts. Among the most notable are Rachaad White of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Drake London.
The Rise of Rachaad White
Rachaad White showcased considerable promise during his rookie season, registering 179 touches alongside a highly productive Leonard Fournette, who dominated the backfield with 269 total opportunities in 2022. However, in a pivotal move, the Buccaneers decided to part ways with Fournette heading into 2023, leaving a considerable gap in their running back depth chart.
This decision thrust White into a leading role where he did not disappoint. By the end of the 2023 season, he was second in the NFL with an impressive 336 touches, surpassed only by the dynamic Christian McCaffrey’s 339. White's increased workload marks him as a key figure to watch as the Buccaneers reshape their offensive strategy moving forward.
Drake London's Emerging Stardom
Drake London has steadily commanded attention since his entry into the NFL. Over his first two seasons, London achieved a commanding 25.9% target share, solidifying his role as a primary receiver and finishing as WR17 in the rankings. However, his fantasy points per game have only managed to place him at WR47, reflecting room for growth and higher production.
The 2024 season promises a significant shift for London, as veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins steps in. With a seasoned quarterback at the helm, London's role and productivity are expected to elevate, potentially shifting the dynamics of the Falcons' offensive play.
Kyle Pitts: Bouncing Back?
Kyle Pitts, another talent on the Falcons' roster, burst onto the scene by surpassing the 1,000-yard receiving mark as a rookie. However, his career temporarily derailed with a severe knee injury that required MCL and PCL repairs in late 2022. Despite his injury woes, Pitts managed to secure 58 targets in 2022 and received 90 targets in 2023, signaling a recovery in progress.
Other Key Moves and Acquisitions
The Raiders made significant strides in the offseason, signing Alexander Mattison to bolster their backfield. For the Lions, the key move was drafting Jameson Williams 12th overall after trading up. While Williams missed most of his rookie season and additional time in his sophomore year due to suspension, his limited playtime did not overshadow his efficiency. Williams ranks WR5 in fantasy points per touch since entering the league, hinting at enormous potential if he can stay on the field.
On the Texans' front, the team made a headline-acquisition, bringing in Joe Mixon, who had the fourth-most touches in the NFL last season with 309. This acquisition left the Cincinnati Bengals with a backfield gap now expected to be filled by Zack Moss and Chase Brown. Moss showed flashes of brilliance with multiple games exceeding 20 fantasy points when given the lead role in 2023, while Brown contributed 58 touches last year.
Addressing roster depth and lineup strategies has been a focal point across the league. For example, Jeff Risdon noted that Detroit is confident in its current wide receiver lineup, 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.”
The moves made by various teams highlight the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL, where the balance between veteran experience and emerging talent can significantly influence a franchise's trajectory. With these developments, the 2023 NFL season promises to be one filled with excitement, anticipation, and the undeniable potential for breakout performances. The progress and promise shown by players like White, London, Pitts, and Williams will undoubtedly be critical narratives to follow as the season unfolds.