Fantasy Football Sleepers 2023 (Before Training Camp)
The fantasy football season may be months away, but it’s never too early to start preparing for your drafts. Identifying sleepers can give you a significant advantage. In this article, we’ll highlight early 2023 fantasy football sleepers across various positions.
From quarterbacks to running backs, wide receivers to tight ends, here are 7 of my favorite early sleepers for fantasy football in 2023. Be sure to check out our updated 2023 Fantasy Football Rankings so you know where to draft these sleepers to dominate your draft.
Fantasy Football Sleepers 2023
Mac Jones
Quarterback, New England Patriots
After a challenging sophomore season, Mac Jones is poised for a bounce-back year. This off-season, the Patriots have made some big changes. In addition to a new offensive coordinator in Bill O’Brien, the Patriots also added JuJu Smith-Schuster and Mike Gesicki to Jones’ pass-catching arsenal.
Jones should have the support he needs to improve his fantasy football production in 2023 as a result. Keep an eye on Jones as a potential value pick in later rounds of your fantasy drafts this year.
Deshaun Watson
Quarterback, Cleveland Browns
Despite a tumultuous few seasons, Deshaun Watson has proven himself as an elite quarterback in the past. With an improved wide receiver group — the Browns traded for Elijah Moore and drafted Cedric Tillman — and a full offseason in the Browns’ system, Watson has the potential to be a dynamic dual-threat talent and a valuable buy-low candidate at his position.
Undoubtedly, his off-the-field issues remain a concern. However, the upside of his talent cannot be ignored. This makes him an intriguing option for those willing to take a risk. Watson is a league-winner at his current price point if he pops.
Ty Chandler
Running Back, Minnesota Vikings
With the release of Dalvin Cook, Ty Chandler becomes an intriguing late-round dart throw in fantasy leagues. Especially in dynasty fantasy football startup drafts. While Alexander Mattison is expected to be the lead back, Chandler’s speed, pass-catching ability, and potential significant role in an unsettled backfield make him an appealing sleeper pick.
As a fifth-round pick from North Carolina, Chandler has showcased exciting flashes in the preseason. Additionally, his 4.38 speed at 204 pounds gives him an edge in space. Keep an eye on his development and his opportunity to carve out a valuable role in the Minnesota backfield.
Samaje Perine
Running Back, Denver Broncos
If Javonte Williams’ recovery from a knee injury progresses slowly, Samaje Perine could see increased opportunities in the Broncos’ offense. Perine showcased his ability to deliver quality fantasy production when given the chance last season with the Bengals.
Perine emerged as a top-end fantasy back when Joe Mixon was sidelined. On top of that, his versatility as a pass-catcher makes him an intriguing Flex option for fantasy football PPR leagues this year. With additional upside, depending on Williams’ future.
Furthermore, Russell Wilson needs a reliable ground game around him to flourish in new HC Sean Payton’s system. Perine could play a significant role in supporting the quarterback’s rebound season. Look for Perine to be a valuable asset, in the short term if Williams is not ready to start the season. And, in the long term as part of a timeshare in an improved Denver offense.
Diontae Johnson
Wide Receiver, Pittsburgh Steelers
After a historic season with zero touchdowns, Diontae Johnson is poised for positive regression. Many analysts predict that Johnson will catch a touchdown pass in 2023, which he’s certainly overdue for. Overall, this makes him a prime bounce-back candidate for fantasy football.
With Kenny Pickett showing promise as the Steelers’ quarterback entering his second season, Johnson has the potential to outperform his previous year’s production. Despite his impressive reception numbers, his lack of touchdowns depressed his fantasy value in 2022.
However, with the anticipated positive touchdown regression, Johnson represents a great value pick in drafts. Finally, his current average draft position may underestimate his potential.
Jordan Addison
Wide Receiver, Minnesota Vikings
As the projected No. 2 wide receiver in Minnesota behind Justin Jefferson, rookie Jordan Addison has an opportunity to make an impact. With the departure of Adam Thielen and a pass-heavy offense, there should be plenty of targets available for Addison to capitalize on.
Playing alongside the best wide receiver in fantasy football only enhances his potential. Additionally, the Vikings had one of the highest pass percentages in the league last season, indicating a favorable environment for Addison’s production. Keep an eye on his development and his chemistry
Dalton Kincaid
Tight End, Buffalo Bills
While rookie tight ends often face challenges in their first season, Dalton Kincaid could have a unique role in the Bills’ offense. Assuming that the Bills continue to feature the pass — they were 14th in team pass plays per game (33.8) last season under OC Ken Dorsey — they’ll need someone to step up as the No. 2 pass-catcher behind Stefon Diggs.
Although Kincaid is a tight end, he has the versatility in his skillset to line up all over the formation and emerge as that reliable secondary pass catcher that the Bills’ offense has been missing since the departure of Cole Beasley. Kincaid could step up as a hybrid receiver/tight end and provide fantasy football value in an explosive offense.
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