For fantasy football enthusiasts, assembling a championship-winning team revolves around the players you select during the draft. However, navigating the complexities of player analysis can be daunting. Fortunately, you need not face this challenge alone. Enter fantasy football guru Mike Lockhart. He’s here to lend his expertise and present the top-ten rookie players who are absolute must-haves for your fantasy football roster.
In the ever-evolving landscape of fantasy football, rookies play an increasingly crucial role. Including promising newcomers in your team can be a game-changer. These young talents often bring a fresh dimension to the game, surprising opponents and delivering performances that exceed expectations. Rookies’ untapped potential and hunger to prove themselves make them high-reward options for fantasy managers.
LUBBOCK, TEXAS – SEPTEMBER 24: Bijan Robinson #5 of the Texas Longhorns rushes for a touchdown ahead of Reggie Pearson Jr. #2 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Jones AT&T Stadium on September 24, 2022 in Lubbock, Texas. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Getty Images)
Lockhart’s understanding of the game extends to the realm of rookies, pinpointing the most promising talents that should not be overlooked during your fantasy football draft.
2023 FANTASY ROOKIE RANKINGS
1.) Bijan Robinson - Running Back, Atlanta Falcons
Texas RB Bijan Robinson is expected to be a first-round pick, but probably not as high as his abilities might suggest.
Syndication Detroit Free PressRobinson showcased his star potential during his freshman season with the Longhorns. At 5’11” and 216lbs, he’s primed to make an immediate impact in the NFL. Expect a Jonathan Taylor-like production right from the start, with his ability to catch passes and score touchdowns. Robinson should be a top 12 pick in most fantasy drafts.
2.) Jaxon Smith-Njigba - Wide Receiver, Seattle Seahawks
Ohio State WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba carries the ball in the open field. (Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch via Imagn Content Services)
As a pro-ready slot receiver, Smith-Njigba is set to shine on the field from day one. With Tyler Lockett’s age, injury risks, and inconsistency, Njigba will likely receive plenty of targets. While he may not be a high scorer, he’ll be a valuable asset in PPR leagues.
3.) Jahmyr Gibbs - Running Back, Detroit Lions
TUSCALOOSA, ALABAMA – NOVEMBER 26: Jahmyr Gibbs #1 of the Alabama Crimson Tide rushes against Caleb Wooden #21 of the Auburn Tigers during the second half at Bryant-Denny Stadium on November 26, 2022 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
With Jamaal Williams gone and DeAndre Swift traded, Gibbs steps into a lead role for the Lions. Sharing the backfield with David Montgomery, Gibbs is expected to receive ample touches and targets in Detroit’s multi-back system.
4.) Zach Charbonnet - Running Back, Seattle Seahawks
Sep 4, 2021; Pasadena, California, USA; UCLA Bruins running back Zach Charbonnet (24) runs the ball against Louisiana State Tigers cornerback Cordale Flott (25) during the first half the at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Seattle’s running back situation has been unstable for a while, but Charbonnet’s arrival could change that. With decent size and dual-threat abilities, he might find himself in a starting role. He’s shown great potential during his time at UCLA, making him an intriguing fantasy option.
5.) Zay Flowers - Wide Receiver, Baltimore Ravens
Oct 1, 2022; Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA; Boston College Eagles wide receiver Zay Flowers (4) runs with the ball during the first half against the Louisville Cardinals at Alumni Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
A star player for Boston College, Flowers’ speed and precise route running make him an exciting prospect for the Ravens. With Lamar Jackson’s playmaking abilities, Flowers could become a top target in Baltimore’s offense.
6.) Jordan Addison - Wide Receiver, Minnesota Vikings
Oct 15, 2022; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; USC Trojans wide receiver Jordan Addison (3) catches a pass against the Utah Utes in the second half at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Credit: Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports
With an impressive track record at the University of Pittsburgh, Addison now has a chance to shine in Minnesota. The departure of Adam Thielen opens up a major role for him, and he should see a significant number of targets alongside Justin Jefferson.
7.) Quentin Johnson - Wide Receiver, LA Chargers
GLENDALE, ARIZONA – DECEMBER 31: Wide receiver Quentin Johnston #1 of the TCU Horned Frogs runs with the football during the fourth quarter of the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium on December 31, 2022 in Glendale, Arizona. The Horned Frogs defeated the Wolverines 51-45. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Standing at 6’3” and 208 lbs, Johnson brings size and speed to the Chargers’ potent offense. While drops have been a concern, his potential impact is undeniable, especially as Keenan Allen gets older and Mike Williams’ consistency remains a question.
8.) Sam LaPorta - Tight End, Detroit Lions
Iowa tight end Sam LaPorta (84) runs after a catch as the Wildcats take on the Hawkeyes at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Saturday, Oct. 29, 2022. (Zach Boyden-Holmes/The Register/USA Today Network)
After trading TJ Hockinson last season, the Lions drafted Laporta to fill the tight end role. With good size and speed, he’s poised to make an immediate impact and potentially become a top target in Detroit’s passing game.
9.) Dalton Kincaid - Tight End, Buffalo
TEMPE, ARIZONA – SEPTEMBER 24: Tight end Dalton Kincaid #86 of the Utah Utes catches a 29-yard touchdown reception ahead of linebacker Connor Soelle #18 of the Arizona State Sun Devils during the first half of the NCAAF game at Sun Devil Stadium on September 24, 2022 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Buffalo’s pass-heavy approach suits Kincaid’s slot receiver capabilities. With his size and versatility, he has the potential to finish the season as a top 10 tight end, especially with the creativity of offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey.
10.) Bryce Young - Quarterback, Carolina Panthers
TUSCALOOSA, ALABAMA – NOVEMBER 19: Bryce Young #9 of the Alabama Crimson Tide looks to pass against the Austin Peay Governors during the first half at Bryant-Denny Stadium on November 19, 2022 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
The top pick in the 2023 draft, Young joins the Panthers with high expectations. Despite concerns about his size, he has a talented group of veteran weapons to work with. The addition of DJ Chark, Adam Thielen, Jonathon Mingo, and breakout candidate Terrance Mitchell could provide Young with a promising supporting cast.
