2023 Fantasy Football Predictions: Sleeper, Bust and Comeback Players Are All Receivers
Next up for SI Fantasy’s 2023 staff predictions is SI NFL writer Matt Verderame:
Top Sleeper: Jahan Dotson, WR, Commanders
Dotson was excellent in 12 games with the Commanders last year as a rookie, catching 35 passes for 523 yards and seven touchdowns. The big question is whether Washington's quarterback play holds him back, but after thriving in 2022 with Carson Wentz and Taylor Heinicke, there's reason to believe.
Look for Dotson to consistently beat single coverage with Terry McLaurin drawing the toughest assignments.
Brent Skeen/USA Today Sports
Top Bust: Odell Beckham Jr., WR, Baltimore Ravens
Beckham's sizzle doesn't match his recent production. Despite signing a deal this offseason worth up to $18 million, Beckham hasn't made a Pro Bowl since 2016, when he was with the Giants.
Although the Ravens are going to a more pass-happy offense under new coordinator Todd Monken, expect the most production from tight end Mark Andrews and receivers Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman. After all, Beckham has missed 30 games over the past three years.
Top Rookie: Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Lions
While the popular pick will be the Falcons' Bijan Robinson, give me Gibbs. The Lions have a prolific passing attack to back defenses off the line, along with one of the best fronts in the game.
Gibbs is electrifying in open space and there should be plenty to gobble up at Ford Field this year.
Comeback Player: Cooper Kupp, WR, Rams
Kupp earned a receiver's triple crown in 2021, leading the league in receptions, yards and touchdowns. He was limited to just nine games last year due to an ankle injury, but still managed 75 catches for 812 yards and six scores.
Now healthy, the 30-year-old Kupp should be one of the league's best pass-catchers once more. And judging by the Rams' depth chart, he'll be seeing plenty of targets from quarterback Matthew Stafford.
Late-Round QB: Deshaun Watson, Browns
Watson was awful in his six games with the Browns last year after returning from suspension. However, he's now had a full offseason in coach Kevin Stefanski's system and Cleveland has a good supporting cast around him including a top-tier offensive line, receivers Amari Cooper and Donovan Peoples-Jones and a running game that will make opponents stack the box. Don't be surprised if Watson returns to his previous form and puts forth a Pro Bowl year.
