Every NFL season opens new chapters and narratives, and the 2023 season introduces a host of emerging talents poised to make their impact felt. Among the players to watch are Rachaad White of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Drake London, each bringing their own unique stories and skills to the field.
Rachaad White: Tampa Bay's Rising Star
Rachaad White flashed potential during his rookie season with 179 touches, while veteran teammate Leonard Fournette led the Buccaneers’ backfield with 269 opportunities. However, by 2023, Tampa Bay decided to usher in a new era. In a pivotal move, they parted ways with Fournette and chose not to significantly bolster their running back depth.
This decision paved the way for White, who stepped into the limelight, amassing the second-highest number of touches in the league with 336, trailing only Christian McCaffrey’s 339. White’s elevation to a key role in Tampa Bay's offense is a testament to the Buccaneers’ confidence in his abilities and potential to be a cornerstone of their offense.
Drake London: A Target Machine
Drake London has been another player under the spotlight, commanding a substantial 25.9% target share in his first two years, which saw him rank WR17. Despite this impressive target share, London’s fantasy points per game positioned him at WR47 during that span—an indication of the complexities and challenges he faced.
However, with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins set to throw him the ball in 2024, London’s fortunes could see a significant upswing. Cousins' experience and precision may provide London with the stability and opportunity he needs to rise to the next level. Former Raiders tight end Kyle Pitts, who surpassed the 1,000-yard receiving mark as a rookie, will also be a crucial part of this offensive equation. Pitts, having undergone MCL and PCL repairs in late 2022, rebounded with 90 targets in 2023 after receiving only 58 in 2022.
Offseason Moves and Strategic Additions
The NFL offseason is always a period of strategic moves and significant reshuffles. The Raiders, looking to enhance their backfield, signed Alexander Mattison. Meanwhile, the Detroit Lions made headlines by drafting Jameson Williams 12th overall after a notable trade-up maneuver. Despite missing most of his rookie season and facing suspension in his sophomore year, Williams has shown his mettle, ranking WR5 in fantasy points per touch since entering the league in 2022.
Addressing the team’s approach to Williams, NFL analyst Jeff Risdon noted, “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.” This confidence in Williams highlights the Lions’ commitment to developing his potential as a central figure in their passing game.
Texans' Acquisition and Cincinnati's Backfield Dynamics
In another significant move, the Houston Texans acquired Joe Mixon, who ranked fourth in the NFL last season with 309 touches. This acquisition marks a crucial bolster for the Texans’ offensive strategy, providing them with a proven running back capable of shouldering a heavy workload.
With Mixon's departure from Cincinnati, the Bengals will look to Zack Moss and Chase Brown to fill the void. Moss, who showcased his abilities with multiple games exceeding 20 fantasy points when given the lead role in 2023, will likely split opportunities with Brown, who had only 58 touches last year. This shared backfield dynamic will be vital as the Bengals adapt their offensive strategies in Mixon's absence.
The 2023 NFL season, with its myriad player movements and emerging stars, promises to be one of transformation and unpredictable narratives. Players like Rachaad White and Drake London are not just names to watch but potential game-changers whose journeys may define their teams' fortunes. As teams place their bets on young talent and strategic acquisitions, fans and analysts alike are set for a thrilling ride through another unforgettable season of football.