2023 NFL Preseason All-Rookie Team – As the 2023 NFL football season approaches, excitement is building among fans and experts alike. Before the training camp buzz influences predictions, it’s the perfect time to assemble a Preseason All-Rookie Team, highlighting the fresh faces expected to make an impact in their debut year. From talented quarterbacks to dominant defensive linemen, let’s take a closer look at these budding stars.
2023 NFL Preseason All-Rookie Team – Quarterback
Bryce Young (Panthers):
Bryce Young tops our list of rookie quarterbacks with the potential for greatness. The supportive environment he finds himself in with the Panthers, led by Frank Reich and an array of talented receivers, sets the stage for a promising start to his NFL journey. Young’s skill set and ability to make plays after the catch make him a prime candidate for a standout rookie campaign.
C.J. Stroud (Texans):
While Stroud faces a less-than-ideal situation in Houston, his polished passing skills and ability to lead an offense make him a strong second-team choice. Despite the challenges, Stroud’s talent should shine through, allowing him to make a significant impact in his rookie year.
Anthony Richardson (Colts):
Known for his tantalizing upside, Richardson may take some time to develop into a stable NFL quarterback. Nonetheless, his explosive playmaking abilities in Shane Steichen’s offense could generate some jaw-dropping moments early on, making him an honorable mention in our All-Rookie Team.
Running Back
Bijan Robinson (Falcons):
Robinson likened to Saquon Barkley without the blazing speed, is a force to be reckoned with. In a well-conceived Falcons ground game, he’s expected to receive RB1 touches, showcasing his tackling-breaking prowess and earning his place as a first-team selection.
Jahmyr Gibbs (Lions):
Gibbs’ effortless acceleration and long speed add dynamism to the Lions’ offensive scheme. Although sharing the spotlight with David Montgomery initially, Gibbs is likely to emerge as the RB1 in Detroit by November, giving him a spot on the second team.
DeWayne McBride (Vikings):
A seventh-round selection, McBride’s talent, and potential earned him an honorable mention. With Dalvin Cook’s departure, he finds himself in a running back room with strong support, making him a player to watch as he enters the NFL.
Perimeter Wide Receiver
Quentin Johnston (Chargers):
Johnston is a key addition to the Chargers’ receiver group, offering size and unique run-after-the-catch abilities. His compatibility with Justin Herbert’s elite quarterbacking skills positions him as a first-team standout.
Marvin Mims (Broncos):
Mims’ impressive speed and strong hands make him an intriguing fit in the Broncos’ passing offense. Despite the challenges of the team’s past season, Mims has the potential to shine alongside Courtland Sutton and Jerry Jeudy.
Tyler Scott (Bears):
Scott’s skill set resembles that of Mims, with similar strengths on the field. While facing competition from Darnell Mooney, his talent and athleticism make him a viable option for the Bears’ offense in the future.
Slot Wide Receiver
Jaxon Smith-Njigba (Seahawks):
Smith-Njigba’s ability to stand out in a crowded receiver room makes him a first-team selection. Despite sharing the field with D.K. Metcalf and Tyler Lockett, his fluidity, reliable hands, and route-running prowess should lead to many splash plays for the Seahawks.
Zay Flowers (Ravens):
Flowers’ well-rounded game and versatility make him a perfect fit for the Ravens’ evolving offense. With Todd Monken as the offensive coordinator, Flowers’ role as a spark plug will help ignite Baltimore’s new-look attack.
Tight End
Sam LaPorta (Lions):
Stepping into a TE1 role, LaPorta finds himself in a dynamic offensive attack with the Lions. His NFL frame and athleticism should make him a formidable target in Detroit’s aerial-driven offense.
Dalton Kincaid (Bills):
Although an older prospect, Kincaid’s electric route-running and steady hands make him a valuable addition to the Bills’ passing game. He will be a dependable slot target for Josh Allen, providing much-needed YAC for Buffalo’s offense.
Offensive Tackles
Darnell Wright (Bears) and Paris Johnson (Cardinals):
Wright’s pass-blocking skills and Johnson’s athleticism and length make them a formidable duo in the first-team selections. Their talents are expected to shine in their respective roles, with Wright dominating as a devastating right tackle and Johnson learning the nuances to thrive as a young offensive tackle.
Anton Harrison (Jaguars):
Harrison’s quick-strike offense with Trevor Lawrence allows him to excel as a tackle, improving the efficiency of the rookie’s pass blocking. His athleticism and quick adaptability bode well for his success in Jacksonville.
Interior Offensive Line
John Michael Schmitz (Giants) and O’Cyrus Torrence (Bills)
Schmitz, a plug-and-play center, and Torrence, with his impressive size and length, are expected to contribute immediately. Their presence in the first team highlights their potential impact on their respective teams.
Joe Tippmann (Jets)
Tippmann’s squeaky-clean center prospect makes him a second-team selection, where he’ll have the luxury of playing alongside two smart, powerful, and athletic guards Laken Tomlinson and Alijah Vera-Tucker.
Edge Rushers
Will Anderson (Texans) and Drew Sanders (Broncos)
Anderson’s craftiness, athleticism, and readiness for the NFL earned him a first-team spot. Alongside Greenard, he is expected to be a three-down standout in his rookie year. Sanders’ powerful outside rush and non-stop motor makes him a significant presence in Denver’s EDGE room.
Derick Hall (Seahawks):
Hall’s explosiveness, jolting hands, and strength through contact position him as a second-team pick. With Uchenna Nwosu as the main competition, Hall has the potential to be a steady disruptor in Seattle.
2023 NFL Preseason All-Rookie Team – Defensive Tackles
Jalen Carter (Eagles) and Calijah Kancey (Buccaneers):
Carter’s favorable situation in Philadelphia, playing alongside established rushers, makes him a first-team standout. Meanwhile, Kancey’s explosive nature and pass-rush counters are expected to shine playing alongside Vita Vea and Greg Gaines, earning him a place on the first team.
Colby Wooden (Packers):
Wooden’s relentless motor and block-shedding ability make him a standout second-team pick. His presence in Green Bay’s defense is expected to catalyze a surprising rookie campaign.
Kobie Turner (Rams):
Turner’s suddenness and flexibility in beating blocks make him an honorable mention, learning from none other than Aaron Donald, offering a unique learning experience as he enters the NFL.
With these young talents poised to make a mark in the 2023 season, NFL football fans have much to look forward to. Their journey from rookies to seasoned players will undoubtedly be a captivating one, adding excitement and suspense to the upcoming season. The NFL regular season betting picks will soon be up for bettors to place their bets on their favorite teams.
Hilbert Mayer
Sports Writer
Hilbert Mayer is a professional sports writer, betting analyst, and content strategist with over 15 years of experience in the sports industry. Before focusing on sports betting analysis and handicapping, Hilbert worked as a sports writer for various news outlets, covering everything from game recaps to in-depth matchup features. Today, he specializes in MLB, NFL, March Madness, and UFC betting, combining his journalistic background with deep statistical expertise and real-world betting insights. His proven track record, sharp reads, and ability to break down complex matchups make him a trusted voice among both casual bettors and seasoned sharps.
Published on: July 25, 2023
Last updated: April 1, 2025