The frenzy of the 2023 NFL Draft has concluded, the dust has settled, and a new wave of rookies are ready to make their mark. This rookie class looks promising and is packed with talented players poised to make an immediate impact in just their first year. Let’s dig deeper into these fresh faces, their potential roles, and the expectations that come with their new NFL jerseys.
Bijan Robinson, RB, Atlanta Falcons
Robinson, the exceptionally talented Texas Longhorns running back, was selected eighth overall by the Atlanta Falcons, becoming just the second back taken in the top 10 since 2018. Many have compared Robinson’s skills to the other top 10 drafted runner, Saquan Barkley, who won the 2018 Offensive Rookie of the Year.
Robinson’s exceptional skills provide a golden opportunity to enhance the Falcons’ potent ground game. Coach Arthur Smith has hinted at a diverse role for Robinson, suggesting his involvement in the passing game during the upcoming NFL season.
Bryce Young, QB, Carolina Panthers
Alabama’s Bryce Young is now at the helm of the Carolina Panthers’ offense, tasked with steadying a team that ranked low in passing yards and quarterback rating last season. While Young might not make a statistical splash immediately due to a patchwork receiving corps, he could still excel by introducing stability to a franchise that has long craved it.
Young’s size has been a point of discussion throughout the offseason. The 2021 Heisman Trophy is just 5’10”. However, while this would have been a bigger deal in the past, the game has changed; Kyler Murray is the same size, but his athleticism and arm strength have helped quiet critics who felt he was too small to play in the NFL. The same goes for Russell Wilson.
Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Detroit Lions
Picked 12th overall, Jahmyr Gibbs will play a significant role in the Detroit Lions’ offense, especially after they parted ways with Jamaal Williams and D’Andre Swift. With a game drawing comparisons to Alvin Kamara, this Alabama product’s dynamic play could come to life in the passing game.
Gibbs should have plenty of chances to generate big plays alongside newcomer David Montgomery, formerly with the Chicago Bears. The Lions missed out on the postseason a year ago but finished strong at 9-8, beating the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau in the regular season finale, eliminating them from getting into the playoffs.
Anthony Richardson, QB, Indianapolis Colts
The physically imposing Richardson will bring a distinctive look to the Colts’ offense. Although his passing skills may require further development, his powerful rushing ability should make him dangerous as a rookie. He ran for 654 yards and scored nine touchdowns on the ground last year at Florida while throwing for 2,549 yards. As he adjusts to the pro game, Richardson’s dynamic style will keep opponents guessing.
Jordan Addison, WR, Minnesota Vikings
The USC star is a pro-ready pass catcher who could immediately impact the Minnesota Vikings’ offense. Despite not boasting typical first-round receiver physical attributes, Addison’s speed, and route-running abilities have been turning heads. With Adam Thielen’s 107 targets up for grabs, Addison should find an immediate niche within the Vikings’ offensive system.
Will Anderson Jr., DE/OLB, Houston Texans
Houston’s willingness to give up a potentially high first-round pick in 2024 to acquire Anderson at the third overall spot speaks volumes about his significance in revitalizing the franchise. As a two-time unanimous All-American from Alabama, Anderson now assumes the role of DeMeco Ryans’ defensive foundation on a unit that lacks essential building blocks.
To keep an eye on how Anderson and the Texans’ rebuild progresses throughout the season, fans can check FanDuel’s NFL standings. Here, weekly updates and performance metrics will clearly show the team’s development under their new cornerstone.
Zay Flowers, WR, Ravens
Flowers is a versatile receiver with solid speed and agility, although his size might limit his catch radius. While his addition suggests a more pass-happy Ravens in 2023, offensive coordinator Todd Monken’s known preference for the power run game defines his position on this list. Still, the Ravens thrive on their speed with Lamar Jackson running the offense, so they will find ways to utilize Flowers’ strengths in many different packages.
Sam LaPorta, TE, Lions
Resembling another Iowa Hawkeye superstar, George Kittle, LaPorta is a highly athletic receiver with the potential for plenty of targets in Ben Johnson’s offense. The early pick suggests the Lions’ desire to feature this year’s tight end position. LaPorta should step right into the role T.J. Hockenson excelled in before he was traded to the Vikings.