With training camp approaching, it’s that time of the year to start finalizing plans for the fantasy football season. That means taking a look at some potential breakout candidates for the 2023 fantasy season.
The Patriots had a top finisher in Rhamondre Stevenson last season. So that will obviously be a name to continue keeping an eye on. This list will focus on the players in 2023 you need to pay attention to on your big board leading up to your draft.
One piece of advice is to not pick all of the players from this list, as its never a good idea to stack your team with players competing for targets. With that said, here are three fantasy football breakout candidates for the Patriots in 2023:
Rhamondre Stevenson, RB
Rhamondre Stevenson was the Patriots’ 2022 offense.
Although it was an overall terrible offensive year for the team, Stevenson managed to break out as a workhorse back, leading both in rushing and receptions.
With Bill O’Brien in the mix, the Patriots could look to scheme more impactful touches for the 25-year-old entering his third NFL season. Although some would say not to trust a Patriots running back, the case may be different this year with Stevenson creeping towards elite levels.
He is poised for another big year in fantasy football, and he could in fact be the one running back the Patriots do overextend themselves to retain. You can probably snag Stevenson in the end of the first round at the earliest in deeper leagues, but he will likely go anywhere in Round 2.
JuJu Smith-Schuster, WR
JuJu Smith-Schuster has had some rough fantasy seasons since his breakout 2018 campaign, but if the Patriots end up signing DeAndre Hopkins or if DeVante Parker has a solid year, Smith-Schuster, who typically thrives as a No. 2 option, could be sneaky dangerous.
Smith-Schuster is good with run after the catch ability, and he has good hands to be a pure possession and high-reception output player. In a PPR format, it may be wise to target Smith-Schuster in the later rounds, as Mac Jones will be looking for his new security blanket on third downs.
Mike Gesicki
Mike Gesicki looked like one of the better tight ends in football from 2019-2021, but he had a down year in 2022. Reconnecting with Bill O’Brien, who recruited him to Penn State but ultimately never coached him, could work wonders for his game in 2023.
Gesicki is in a contract year at just 27 years old, and he’ll be working with O’Brien’s heavy use of 12 personnel, alongside Hunter Henry. Gesicki is often touted as more receiver than tight end and could thrive with the new-look Patriots offense that has plenty of pass-catchers to go around.
A resurgent Mac Jones in Year 3 could work wonders for the uber-talented Gesicki, who should be available to be had at the backend of fantasy drafts.
