Unveiling Hidden Gems and Potential Pitfalls for Your Draft

August 12, 2023

Unveiling Hidden Gems and Potential Pitfalls for Your Draft

Hidden Gems & Potential Pitfalls

While the kickoff of the 2023 NFL season is still on the horizon, the excitement of fantasy drafts is upon us. As we embark on the journey to build our winning rosters, the pursuit of uncovering those diamond-in-the-rough sleepers and avoiding potential busts becomes paramount. To enhance your odds of championship success, we’ve assembled a comprehensive draft guide featuring our top-30 rankings for point-per-reception (PPR) leagues, along with a spotlight on a sleeper and a potential bust at each of the key positions.

Top-30 PPR Rankings

Justin Jefferson, WR,
Minnesota Vikings
Christian McCaffrey, RB,
San Francisco 49ers
Ja’Marr Chase, WR,
Cincinnati Bengals
Austin Ekeler, RB,
Los Angeles Chargers
Cooper Kupp, WR,
Los Angeles Rams
Travis Kelce, TE,
Kansas City Chiefs
Tyreek Hill, WR,
Miami Dolphins
Stefon Diggs, WR,
Buffalo Bills
Saquon Barkley, RB,
New York Giants
Bijan Robinson, RB,
Atlanta Falcons
Davante Adams, WR,
Las Vegas Raiders
CeeDee Lamb, WR,
Dallas Cowboys
Amon-Ra St. Brown, WR,
Detroit Lions
Garrett Wilson, WR,
New York Jets
A.J. Brown, WR,
Philadelphia Eagles
Jaylen Waddle, WR,
Miami Dolphins
Derrick Henry, RB,
Tennessee Titans
Nick Chubb, RB,
Cleveland Browns
Tony Pollard, RB,
Dallas Cowboys
DeVonta Smith, WR,
Philadelphia Eagles
Jonathan Taylor, RB,
Indianapolis Colts
DK Metcalf, WR,
Seattle Seahawks
Chris Olave, WR,
New Orleans Saints
Josh Jacobs, RB,
Las Vegas Raiders
Travis Etienne Jr., RB,
Jacksonville Jaguars
Rhamondre Stevenson, RB,
New England Patriots
Patrick Mahomes, QB,
Kansas City Chiefs
Tee Higgins, WR,
Cincinnati Bengals
Deebo Samuel, WR,
San Francisco 49ers
Breece Hall, RB,
New York Jets

Top Sleeper & Bust Picks

As we gear up for another thrilling season of fantasy football, it’s not just about picking your star players. It’s about uncovering hidden gems—sleepers—that can turn the tide in your favor and avoiding potential pitfalls—busts—that might derail your championship dreams. In this quest for fantasy glory, knowledge is your greatest weapon. So, let’s dive into the world of sleepers and busts, where strategy and foresight reign supreme.

Quarterbacks

Sleeper

Anthony Richardson, Indianapolis Colts

Anthony Richardson

The Colts' calculated investment in Anthony Richardson, the No. 4 draft pick, is a testament to their strategic vision. Richardson's dynamic athleticism and cannon-like arm project an immediate impact. While refining his aerial game remains a work in progress, his knack for explosive plays adds a layer of fantasy potential that could elevate both his floor and ceiling.

Bust

Dak Prescott, Dallas Cowboys

Dak Prescott

The Cowboys' strategic pivot toward a more balanced offense could cast a shadow on Prescott's fantasy output. While he's had dazzling moments, his statistical returns have sometimes left much to be desired. A dwindling rushing contribution and a potential dip in passing volume raises valid concerns regarding Prescott's fantasy outlook.

Running Backs

Sleeper

Alexander Mattison, Minnesota Vikings

Alexander Mattison

With the departure of Dalvin Cook, Alexander Mattison steps into the spotlight. Adept at seizing opportunities in Cook's absence, Mattison's track record speaks for itself. Averaging 21.5 carries and 4.8 receptions for 129.5 scrimmage yards and 0.8 touchdowns in his 2021 starts, Mattison's history as a capable RB1 in the lead role makes him an alluring sleeper with breakout written all over him.

Bust

Kenneth Walker III, Seattle Seahawks

Kenneth Walker III

Walker's dazzling rookie season is met with uncertainty due to Seattle's acquisition of Zach Charbonnet. The second-round selection introduces ambiguity to Walker's role, suggesting a possible committee dynamic. Coupled with a lingering groin injury, Walker's fantasy appeal comes with a considerable element of risk.

Wide Receivers

Sleeper

Elijah Moore, Cleveland Browns

Elijah Moore

Elijah Moore's past fantasy flair coupled with his new partnership with Deshaun Watson positions him as a sleeper worth monitoring. He showcased flashes of brilliance in 2021 and Cleveland's mid-season trade for him signifies unwavering confidence in his potential resurgence. With the added allure of a top-tier quarterback connection, Moore is primed for a fantasy revival.

Bust

Tyler Lockett, Seattle Seahawks

Tyler Lockett

Seattle's offseason changes and the rise of rookie Jaxon Smith-Njigba adds complexity to Tyler Lockett's role. With DK Metcalf commanding significant target share, Lockett's streak of consistent performance hangs in the balance. As the target distribution evolves, Lockett's fantasy value could potentially face a decline.

Tight Ends

Sleeper

Jake Ferguson, Dallas Cowboys

Jake Ferguson

Ferguson's sophomore season shines brightly as he ascends the depth chart, capitalizing on Dalton Schultz's departure. With a promising role in the Cowboys' dynamic passing attack, Ferguson's snap share and route participation are poised to soar. As he competes for snaps with rookie Luke Schoonmaker, Ferguson's fantasy impact is set to surge. The Cowboys' penchant for targeting their TEs and Ferguson's potential TE1 status could translate to numbers resembling Schultz's past three years (66 receptions, 667 yards, 5.7 TDs).

Bust

George Kittle, San Francisco 49ers

George Kittle

While Kittle remains a viable fantasy starter, a return to elite status seems uncertain. His elevated TD rate in the previous season masked a modest 16% target share and 10.2 fantasy PPG. Durability concerns and a crowded receiving corps raise questions about his outlook. Although he boasts impressive abilities, Kittle's performance might gravitate towards mid- to back-end TE1 territory.

As we embark on this exhilarating journey through the 2023 fantasy football season, remember that every selection holds the potential to define your path to glory. Armed with insights, intuition, and a dash of luck, craft a roster that marries established stars with these tantalizing sleepers. Let the games begin!

Step into the Gridiron Gauntlet

Embrace the exhilarating journey of the fantasy football season. Let the touchdowns, trades, and tactical triumphs fuel your passion. Experience the thrill week by week, and stay up-to-date with your team’s performance on the ESPN app.