As the 2023 NFL season approaches, fantasy football enthusiasts are gearing up for their drafts, scouring injury reports, depth charts, and offseason news to curate the perfect roster. With countless players vying for a spot in your lineup, here’s a breakdown of must-have players for your fantasy football roster this year.
Quarterbacks
1. Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs)
The reigning MVP and Super Bowl champion continues to be a top choice due to his explosive playmaking ability. With a talented receiving corps, Mahomes is a safe pick to produce elite numbers week in and week out.
2. Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills)
Allen has consistently delivered high fantasy points thanks to his dual-threat capability—both as a passer and a runner. His connection with Stefon Diggs makes him one of the most reliable QBs to draft.
3. Jalen Hurts (Philadelphia Eagles)
After a breakout 2022 season, Hurts has solidified himself as an elite fantasy quarterback. His ability to score on the ground and through the air positions him as a must-have in drafts.
Running Backs
1. Christian McCaffrey (San Francisco 49ers)
When healthy, McCaffrey is a league-winning player, contributing significantly in both rushing and receiving. His role in Kyle Shanahan’s offense should guarantee plenty of touches.
2. Austin Ekeler (Los Angeles Chargers)
Ekeler has proven to be a PPR goldmine, consistently catching passes out of the backfield while also being a capable rusher. His high volume of targets makes him invaluable in most scoring formats.
3. Derrick Henry (Tennessee Titans)
Henry is a freight train of a running back who can change a game with his ability to break tackles and gain long yardage. As long as he remains healthy, he’s a locked-in RB1 option.
Wide Receivers
1. Justin Jefferson (Minnesota Vikings)
Jefferson has quickly established himself as one of the top wide receivers in fantasy football. With his elite route-running and ability to make contested catches, he’s a first-round talent.
2. Ja’Marr Chase (Cincinnati Bengals)
Chase proved to be a top target for Joe Burrow during his rookie season and continued to shine in 2022. His deep-threat ability makes him a must-have for teams looking to rack up points.
3. Tyreek Hill (Miami Dolphins)
Hill’s speed and big-play potential make him one of the most explosive receivers in the game. His connection with Tua Tagovailoa is strong, and he is in the conversation for the highest ceiling among WRs.
Tight Ends
1. Travis Kelce (Kansas City Chiefs)
No surprise here—Kelce remains the top tight end in fantasy. In a high-powered offense like Kansas City, his ability to consistently find the end zone makes him a weekly starter.
2. Mark Andrews (Baltimore Ravens)
Andrews is a key focal point of the Ravens’ passing attack. His connection with Lamar Jackson elevates his value, and he remains one of the few tight ends capable of putting up WR-like numbers.
3. T.J. Hockenson (Minnesota Vikings)
After a mid-season trade to the Vikings, Hockenson showcased his potential as a go-to target. He should continue to thrive in Minnesota’s offense, making him a valuable asset in the tight end landscape.
Defense/Special Teams
1. Buffalo Bills
Renowned for their aggressive pass rush and secondary, the Bills defense has the playmakers to force turnovers while keeping opponents off the scoreboard. They are a solid selection for a franchise defense.
2. San Francisco 49ers
With a strong linebacking corps and an elite defensive line, the 49ers can create havoc for opposing offenses. Their ability to score defensive touchdowns makes them highly coveted.
3. Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys boast a playmaking defense that excels in forcing turnovers and returning them for touchdowns. Their easy-to-spot schedule increases their appeal for fantasy owners.
Conclusion
As the countdown to draft day continues, these must-have players stand out as foundational pieces for your fantasy football roster in 2023. While injuries and unpredictable performances happen every season, acquiring a blend of reliability and explosive potential gives you a competitive edge in the fantasy landscape. Stay tuned to updates throughout the preseason to refine your strategies and make selections that can lead you to championships. Happy drafting!
