As the new fantasy football season approaches, savvy owners are scouring rosters to identify potential sleeper picks. While star players dominate headlines, it’s often the under-the-radar athletes who can make a significant impact on your fantasy roster. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best sleeper picks for this year, along with their projections and why they deserve a spot on your fantasy team.
What Makes a Sleeper Pick?
Sleeper picks are typically players who are undervalued or overlooked by mainstream rankings but have the potential to exceed their draft position significantly. Factors to consider when evaluating sleepers include:
- Emerging talent from prior seasons
- Favorable team situations or coaching changes
- Improved health or injury recoveries
- Positive offseason developments
Quarterback Sleepers
1. Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars
Projected Stats: 4,000 passing yards, 30 touchdowns
After a rollercoaster rookie season, Lawrence showed significant improvement in his second year under head coach Doug Pederson. With a more stable offensive line and the added weaponry of Calvin Ridley, Lawrence is primed for a breakout campaign. Expect him to comfortably exceed his current ADP.
2. Daniel Jones, New York Giants
Projected Stats: 3,800 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, 600 rushing yards
Jones had a surprisingly productive season in 2022, complemented by a coaching staff that maximized his dual-threat ability. With more experience and the addition of weapons like Jalin Hyatt, he has the potential to finish as a top-12 quarterback.
Running Back Sleepers
3. Brian Robinson Jr., Washington Commanders
Projected Stats: 1,100 rushing yards, 8 touchdowns
Robinson’s rookie season was marred by injury, but he proved he could handle significant carries upon his return. As the Commanders’ lead back, he’ll benefit from a focus on the run game and could become a solid RB2 with touchdown potential.
4. Khalil Herbert, Chicago Bears
Projected Stats: 900 rushing yards, 7 touchdowns
With David Montgomery’s departure, Herbert is poised to lead the Bears’ rushing attack. His explosive running style and improved offensive line present a high upside for fantasy managers willing to take a chance.
Wide Receiver Sleepers
5. Jahan Dotson, Washington Commanders
Projected Stats: 1,000 receiving yards, 8 touchdowns
Dotson flashed serious potential in his rookie year, particularly when healthy. With a developing rapport with quarterback Sam Howell, he could emerge as the team’s primary target, making him a prime candidate for a fantasy draft.
6. Skyy Moore, Kansas City Chiefs
Projected Stats: 800 receiving yards, 6 touchdowns
After a quiet rookie season, Moore enters 2023 with a chance to step up in a potent Chiefs offense. The team’s wide receiver room lacks established depth, allowing him the opportunity to flourish.
Tight End Sleepers
7. Chigoziem Okonkwo, Tennessee Titans
Projected Stats: 600 receiving yards, 5 touchdowns
Okonkwo had a promising debut season and showed he could make plays in critical situations. With a focus on revitalizing the passing game, he could easily become a reliable option in the Titans’ offense, especially in the red zone.
8. David Njoku, Cleveland Browns
Projected Stats: 700 receiving yards, 6 touchdowns
Njoku is an intriguing target with the potential for substantial upside, especially given the expected growth of quarterback Deshaun Watson. In an offense looking to diversify, he can serve as both a safety blanket and a red-zone threat.
Closing Thoughts
Every fantasy season brings surprises, and identifying sleeper picks can give you a significant edge over your competition. Remember, monitoring training camps and keeping an eye on injuries and depth charts can further inform your decisions. While these under-the-radar players may not have the same buzz as household names, they could very well be the difference-makers you need to secure a championship.
Good Luck!
As you prepare for your upcoming fantasy drafts, keep these projections in mind. Happy drafting, and may the fantasy gods smile upon you this season!
