Unveiling Late-Round Fantasy Sleepers: Your 2023 Draft Day Goldmine!
Hey there, fantasy football enthusiasts! We know you're all about dominating your drafts and leaving your league mates in the dust. Today, we're diving deep into the late rounds to unearth some fantasy sleepers that could be your draft day goldmine. So, grab a coffee, get comfy, and let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and fantasy sleepers late round.
Why Late-Round Sleepers Matter
Before we dive into our list, let's quickly chat about why focusing on late-round sleepers is so crucial. In fantasy football, the middle and late rounds are where you can find hidden gems that can turn your season around. These players often come at a bargain price, allowing you to invest heavily in early-round studs. Plus, finding a late-round sleeper who outperforms their draft position is one of the most satisfying feelings in fantasy football!
Our Methodology: Finding the Best Late-Round Sleepers
To create this list, we've considered several factors:
- 1. ADP (Average Draft Position): We've focused on players currently going in the double-digit rounds.
- 2. Upside: We're looking for players with the potential to far exceed their draft position.
- 3. Opportunity: A player's talent means nothing if they don't get the chance to shine. We've considered each player's role and situation.
- 4. Risk: We've tried to minimize risk by avoiding players with injury concerns or uncertain situations.
Now, let's meet our 2023 late-round fantasy sleepers!
Quarterbacks: The New breed of Game Managers
Geno Smith, Seattle Seahawks
ADP: QB25
Geno Smith might not be the sexiest name on this list, but hear us out. He finished as a top-10 fantasy QB last season, throwing for 4,000 yards and 30 TDs. With DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett still in town, and the addition of rookie WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Smith has the weapons to repeat his 2022 success. Don't be surprised if Geno continues to silence his critics and provides excellent value as your QB2.
Kenny Pickett, Pittsburgh Steelers
ADP: QB29
A rookie QB might not seem like a sleeper, but hear us out. Kenny Pickett has all the tools to be a successful fantasy QB: a strong arm, mobility, and a knack for making plays. With weapons like Najee Harris, Diontae Johnson, and rookie WR Jordan Addison, Pickett has the support he needs to make an impact in his rookie season. If you're looking for a QB with high upside in the late rounds, Kenny Pickett is your guy.
Running Backs: The Unsung Heroes
Rachaad White, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ADP: RB45
Rachaad White burst onto the scene as a rookie, totaling over 500 yards from scrimmage and scoring five TDs. With Leonard Fournette now in Carolina, White is poised to take on a larger role in Tampa Bay's offense. He's a versatile back who can catch passes out of the backfield and even line up as a receiver. If you're looking for a high-upside RB in the late rounds, White is your man.
Damien Harris, Buffalo Bills
ADP: RB43
Damien Harris is joining a Bills offense that averaged the second-most points per game last season. With Devin Singletary now in Houston, Harris is destined to be Buffalo's lead back. He's a powerful runner with a nose for the end zone, and he'll have plenty of opportunities with Josh Allen and the Bills' high-flying offense. Don't sleep on Damien Harris in the late rounds.
Wide Receivers: The X-Factors
Skyy Moore, Denver Broncos
ADP: WR52
Skyy Moore was a second-round steal for the Broncos, and he's ready to make an impact in his rookie season. With Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton commanding attention from defenses, Moore should have plenty of opportunities to shine. He's an explosive playmaker with great route-running ability, and he'll have a chance to put up big numbers in Denver's offense.
Darnell Mooney, Chicago Bears
ADP: WR54
Darnell Mooney is entering a critical third season, and he's poised for a breakout. With the addition of QB Justin Fields' new weapons (TE Darnell Wright and WR Chase Claypool), Mooney should see more favorable matchups. He's a speedy receiver with great separation skills, and he has the potential to explode in Chicago's offense.
Tight Ends: The Forgotten Position
Chigoziem Okonkwo, Tennessee Titans
ADP: TE23
Chigoziem Okonkwo is a sleeper you need to know about. He's a dynamic athlete with great hands and the speed to create separation. With the Titans' offense struggling to find consistency last season, Okonkwo should have plenty of opportunities to make an impact. If you're looking for a late-round TE with high upside, Okonkwo is your guy.
Zach Gentry, Pittsburgh Steelers
ADP: TE24
Zach Gentry might not be the sexiest name, but he's destined for a breakout in 2023. With the Steelers' offense taking a step forward and Kenny Pickett under center, Gentry should have plenty of opportunities to shine. He's a big, physical receiver who can make plays in the red zone. Don't sleep on Zach Gentry in the late rounds.
Defenses and Kickers: The Dark Horses
Cincinnati Bengals Defense
ADP: DST18
The Bengals' defense took a significant step forward last season, finishing as a top-10 fantasy DST. With a young, talented core and a coaching staff that knows how to scheme, Cincinnati's defense is primed for another big year. If you're looking for a late-round DST with high upside, the Bengals are your team.
Jason Myers, Seattle Seahawks
ADP: K21
Jason Myers might not be the sexiest name, but he's quietly been one of the most consistent kickers in fantasy football. He's made at least 90% of his kicks in four of the last five seasons, and he's a reliable option in the late rounds. If you're looking for a kicker who won't kill your team, Myers is your guy.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, folks! Our list of 2023 late-round fantasy sleepers is stacked with talent and upside. Remember, finding these hidden gems is all about doing your research and being patient. Don't reach for a player just because they're popular; wait for value and pounce when your sleeper is available.
Thanks for joining us on this wild ride, fantasy football fans. We can't wait to see which late-round sleepers make a splash in your leagues this season. Until next time, happy drafting!