Top 10 Breakout Players Entering 2023: As training camps open up for the upcoming 2023 NFL season, excitement mounts among fans as we anticipate what unfolds on the field. Now is the time to shift our attention from theoretical possibilities and onto actual players who could shine during this upcoming campaign – let’s look closely at 10 teams and their most likely breakout players:
Arizona Cardinals: Isaiah Simmons
Position: Linebacker. After three years of experimenting with him as a linebacker, the Cardinals have taken steps to return Isaiah Simmons to his natural playmaking role. Simmons’ versatility caused havoc at Clemson University, and they hope that by fully exploiting their full potential this season, they can unleash it, as seen with Haason Reddick before it’s nearly too late; thus, his success and breakthrough depend upon their team being able to use his talents effectively.
Top 10 Breakout Players Entering 2023: Kyle Pitts – Atlanta Falcons
While it might seem unlikely, selecting Pitts as a breakout candidate would seem odd at first glance; injuries and setbacks undid his 2022 season. Even so, Pitts was still targeted on 28% of routes run, which shows his importance to Atlanta Falcons’ offense. Unfortunately, his potential was limited by inaccurate throws; with Desmond Ridder as his quarterback, though, he may see tremendous success going forward if healthy.
Derrick Brown of the Carolina Panthers
Position: Defensive Tackle Derrick Brown’s impressive performance last season put him among the premier interior defenders for run defense. Under Ejiro Evero’s watchful guidance as coordinator of Panther’s defense, Brown could become an even more disruptive force on the field.
Jaquan Brisker of the Chicago Bears demonstrated his versatility as a rookie by filling various roles on the field. If his tackling can improve, Brisker could become a versatile safety who fills an essential playmaking role for the Bears’ defense.
Cincinnati Bengals: Daxton Hill
Position: Safety When key players left via free agency, the Bengals turned to Hill and Nick Scott for their safety needs. Under defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo’s guidance, Hill displayed both athleticism and ball skills that allowed him to make significant contributions on defense.
Cleveland Browns: Elijah Moore
Elijah Moore had difficulty in New York, but with Cleveland, he can showcase his dynamic playmaking ability and become one of the top receivers for their passing game. Thanks to improved quarterback play and slot usage, Moore could emerge as an impact player, becoming one of the Browns’ key passing targets.
Rashod Bateman of the Baltimore Ravens will serve as wide receiver, though his injuries have limited his playing time and output. If healthy, however, Bateman could become Lamar Jackson’s primary receiving option under Baltimore’s new offensive system.
Greg Rousseau of the Buffalo Bills will play Defensive End. However, after showing early promise last season, injuries to key players hampered his production and decreased productivity. With an extended stint playing alongside Von Miller, he could see an upswing in production, leading him toward double-digit sacks for 2019.
Dallas Cowboys: Sam Williams
Position: Defensive End Sam Williams saw limited action last season due to the Cowboys’ formidable pass-rushing talent pool; however, with increased opportunities and Demarcus Lawrence and Micah Parsons supporting him more frequently this year, Williams could disrupt opposing offenses with greater ease.
Baron Browning of the Denver Broncos made a name for himself with his pass-rushing ability even amid injuries to key defensive players, with impressive speed off of the line and the potential to become an impact player on defense for Denver.
As training camps progress, breakout players should be monitored closely as they may make a significant difference to their respective teams during the 2023 NFL season.
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 22, 2023
Last updated: July 22, 2023