What NFL Players Will Breakout in 2023? This article identifies potential breakout stars for the 2023 NFL season, analyzing players based on talent, opportunity, and consistency. Promising quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, and defensive players are highlighted, with a focus on their potential to exceed expectations.
Defining a Breakout Player
Before we start naming names, it’s important to clarify what we mean by a “breakout player.” For the purposes of this article, a breakout player is someone who significantly exceeds expectations in the upcoming season. This could mean a substantial increase in statistics, a larger role in the offense or defense, or simply a dramatic improvement in overall performance.
Key Metrics for Breakout Potential
Several factors contribute to a player’s breakout potential. Let’s examine three key metrics:
Talent
Raw talent is undoubtedly the foundation for any breakout player. Athleticism, skill, and football IQ are essential ingredients for success.
Opportunity
Even the most talented players need opportunities to shine. A change in coaching staff, injuries to teammates, or increased playing time can open doors for breakout performances.
Consistency
Sustained excellence is crucial for true breakout status. Players who can consistently perform at a high level are more likely to capture the spotlight.
Quarterback Contenders
The quarterback position is often the catalyst for a team’s success. Here are two signal-callers poised for breakout seasons:
Jordan Love, Green Bay Packers
Love has been waiting in the wings for his chance to shine. With Aaron Rodgers’ departure, the stage is set for Love to prove his worth. If he can harness his talent and capitalize on the opportunity, he could become a breakout star.
Anthony Richardson, Indianapolis Colts
As the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, expectations are high for Richardson. With his combination of size, athleticism, and arm strength, he has the potential to be a dynamic playmaker.
Running Back Rising Stars
The running back position has seen a resurgence in recent years. These two players could be the next big things:
32 NFL players with breakout potential in 2023
| No. | Team | Player | Summary |
| 1 | Arizona Cardinals | EDGE B.J. Ojulari | A big, athletic pass rusher, compared to Haason Reddick. |
| 2 | Atlanta Falcons | S Richie Grant | Had 70 tackles and 2 interceptions in 2022; could excel with Jesse Bates alongside him. |
| 3 | Baltimore Ravens | WR Rashod Bateman | Potential top option in new offense if healthy. |
| 4 | Buffalo Bills | RB James Cook | Expected to be the lead back, showed promise at end of 2022. |
| 5 | Carolina Panthers | WR Shi Smith | Shifty receiver with potential, could get more reps. |
| 6 | Chicago Bears | S Jaquan Brisker | Dual-threat defensive back, could emerge as a top player. |
| 7 | Cincinnati Bengals | S Daxton Hill | Expected to play a larger role with Bates and Bell gone. |
| 8 | Cleveland Browns | WR Donovan Peoples-Jones | Developed chemistry with Deshaun Watson; potential standout. |
| 9 | Dallas Cowboys | LB Jabril Cox | Converted safety, expected to play a key role in defense. |
| 10 | Denver Broncos | TE Greg Dulcich | Could thrive in Sean Payton’s tight end-friendly offense. |
| 11 | Detroit Lions | DT Isaiah Buggs | Important rotational player, could benefit from playing alongside Aidan Hutchinson. |
| 12 | Green Bay Packers | TE Luke Musgrave | Highly athletic tight end, shown potential in OTAs. |
| 13 | Houston Texans | WR Xavier Hutchinson | Productive college receiver, could shine amid hype around other players. |
| 14 | Indianapolis Colts | CB Julius Brents | Local player, expected to start, potential Defensive Rookie of the Year. |
| 15 | Jacksonville Jaguars | WR Parker Washington | Slot receiver, good YAC potential, could be a key player. |
| 16 | Kansas City Chiefs | WR Justyn Ross | College standout, potential impact player if healthy. |
| 17 | Las Vegas Raiders | CB Nate Hobbs | Young cornerback with potential to become a top player. |
| 18 | Los Angeles Chargers | CB Ja’Sir Taylor | Likely to play more at nickel corner, good support in secondary. |
| 19 | Los Angeles Rams | WR Puka Nacua | Versatile player, could be a hidden gem in offense. |
| 20 | Miami Dolphins | EDGE Jaelan Phillips | Talented pass rusher, aiming for a double-digit sack season. |
| 21 | Minnesota Vikings | RB DeWayne McBride | Competing for backup role, powerful runner. |
| 22 | New England Patriots | QB Trace McSorley | Potential to see playing time if starters struggle. |
| 23 | New Orleans Saints | WR James Washington | Opportunity to secure a spot in a thin receiver room. |
| 24 | New York Giants | EDGE Azeez Ojulari | Part of a young, promising pass rush duo. |
| 25 | New York Jets | RB Michael Carter | Underused in 2022, could play a bigger role alongside Breece Hall. |
| 26 | Philadelphia Eagles | S Terrell Edmunds | Reliable safety, underrated player, joining a strong team. |
| 27 | Pittsburgh Steelers | WR Calvin Austin III | Could contribute as a slot receiver and in return game. |
| 28 | San Francisco 49ers | CB Deommodore Lenoir | Key player in playoffs, expected to continue strong play. |
| 29 | Seattle Seahawks | EDGE Darrell Taylor | Coming off a strong season, potential for a double-digit sack season. |
| 30 | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | EDGE Joe Tryon-Shoyinka | Versatile defensive player, more opportunities with strong line support. |
| 31 | Tennessee Titans | OT Andre Dillard | Former first-round pick, potential to become franchise left tackle. |
| 32 | Washington Commanders | QB Sam Howell | Potential surprise player, showed promise in 2022. |
Kyren Williams, Los Angeles Rams
Williams flashed potential as a rookie before suffering a season-ending injury. If he can stay healthy, he has the chance to become a versatile threat in the Rams’ offense.
Bijan Robinson, Atlanta Falcons
As the top running back in the 2023 draft, Robinson enters the league with immense hype. His combination of power, speed, and receiving skills make him a potential Offensive Rookie of the Year candidate.
Wide Receiver Wonders
Explosive wide receivers can transform an offense. These two players have the potential to make a major impact:
Rashod Bateman, Baltimore Ravens
Bateman showed promise in his limited playing time before injuries derailed his 2022 season. If he can stay healthy, he has the talent to be a dominant force in the Ravens’ passing game.
Jahan Dotson, Washington Commanders
Dotson had a solid rookie season, showcasing his playmaking ability. With increased targets and experience, he could emerge as a true No. 1 receiver.
Defensive Dominators
A strong defense can be the backbone of a championship team. These two defenders have the potential to wreak havoc:
Jalen Carter, Philadelphia Eagles
Carter was a highly-rated defensive tackle prospect before character concerns impacted his draft stock. If he can put his past behind him, he has the talent to be a disruptive force on the Eagles’ defensive line.
Christian Gonzalez, New England Patriots
The Patriots selected Gonzalez with the 17th overall pick in the 2023 draft. With his length, athleticism, and ball skills, he has the potential to be a shutdown cornerback.
The X-Factor: Other Positions
While quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, and defensive stars often grab the headlines, breakout players can emerge from any position. Keep an eye on tight ends, offensive linemen, and defensive linemen who might surprise us.
Conclusion
The NFL is a league of constant change, and new stars emerge every season. The players highlighted in this article have the potential to be among the breakout performers of 2023. However, injuries, scheme changes, and unexpected developments can impact their trajectories. Ultimately, the most exciting aspect of the NFL is the unpredictability of it all.
FAQs of What NFL Players Will Breakout in 2023?
General Questions
Q: What defines a breakout player?
A: A breakout player is someone who significantly exceeds expectations in a given season. This could involve a substantial increase in statistics, a larger role in the team, or a dramatic improvement in overall performance.
Q: What factors contribute to a player’s breakout potential?
A: Several factors influence a player’s breakout potential, including raw talent, opportunity, and consistency.
Player-Specific Questions
Q: Who are the potential breakout quarterbacks for 2023?
A: Jordan Love of the Green Bay Packers and Anthony Richardson of the Indianapolis Colts are two quarterbacks with high breakout potential.
Q: Can you name some running backs to watch for in 2023?
A: Kyren Williams of the Los Angeles Rams and Bijan Robinson of the Atlanta Falcons are two running backs with the potential for breakout seasons.
Q: Which wide receivers could have breakout years?
A: Rashod Bateman of the Baltimore Ravens and Jahan Dotson of the Washington Commanders are wide receivers with the potential to make a significant impact.
Q: Are there any defensive players to keep an eye on?
A: Jalen Carter of the Philadelphia Eagles and Christian Gonzalez of the New England Patriots are two defensive players with breakout potential.
Additional Questions
Q: Can players from other positions also have breakout seasons?
A: Absolutely! While quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, and defensive stars often grab the headlines, breakout players can emerge from any position, including tight ends, offensive linemen, and defensive linemen.
Q: How can I stay updated on potential breakout players?
A: Following sports news outlets, watching games closely, and analyzing player statistics can help you identify potential breakout stars.
