As a die-hard football fan, I am always on the lookout for the next hidden gem in the NFL Draft. So, I’ve compiled a list of nine potential sleepers who could make a big impact in the league in 2023. These players are not necessarily projected to go high in the draft, but they possess skills and attributes that make them intriguing prospects. From small-school standouts to under-the-radar contributors on powerhouse teams, these players have the potential to be future stars. Here are nine NFL Draft sleepers to watch in 2023.
Introduction
The 2023 NFL Draft is just around the corner, and teams are already starting to scout the top prospects. However, as we’ve seen in previous years, there are always a few picks that come out of nowhere and become major contributors to their teams. These “sleepers” can be found in the later rounds of the draft or even as undrafted free agents. In this article, we’ll be looking at nine NFL Draft sleepers to watch in 2023.
1. CB Tyrik Henderson, NC State
Henderson is a speedy corner with great recovery skills. He has the ability to shadow receivers deep down the field and break up passes at the last second. Henderson is also a willing tackler and can bring down ball-carriers in the open field. He may not have the ideal size for a cornerback at 5’10” and 185 pounds, but he makes up for it with his athleticism and technique.
2. RB Rahman Johnson, Texas
Johnson is a powerful runner who excels at running between the tackles. He has great vision and can quickly find holes in the defense. Johnson also has the speed to break off big runs and make defenders miss in the open field. He may not have the receiving skills that some teams look for in a running back, but his ability to gain yards on the ground will make him an asset to any team.
3. DE Thomas Booker, Stanford
Booker is a versatile defensive lineman who can play both inside and outside. He has a quick first step and can get into the backfield in a hurry. Booker is also strong at the point of attack and can shed blocks to make plays in the running game. He may not have the ideal size for a defensive end at 6’4″ and 275 pounds, but he makes up for it with his technique and motor.
4. WR Treylon Burks, Arkansas
Burks is a big wide receiver with excellent hands and body control. He has the ability to win jump balls and make catches in traffic. Burks is also a strong runner after the catch and can break tackles to gain extra yardage. He may not have elite speed, but his size and ball skills will make him a valuable red zone target for any team.
5. LB Micah McFadden, Indiana
McFadden is a tackling machine who can play both inside and outside linebacker. He has great instincts and can quickly diagnose plays. McFadden is also a strong blitzer and can get to the quarterback. He may not have the ideal size for a linebacker at 6’2″ and 230 pounds, but he makes up for it with his toughness and football IQ.
6. OT Alec Lindstrom, Boston College
Lindstrom is a technically sound offensive tackle who excels at pass protection. He has quick feet and can mirror defenders to keep them in front of him. Lindstrom is also a strong run blocker and can open up holes for his running back. He may not have the ideal size for a tackle at 6’4″ and 290 pounds, but he makes up for it with his technique and agility.
7. S Jaquan Brisker, Penn State
Brisker is a hard-hitting safety who can play both in the box and deep down the field. He has great range and can make plays on the ball in the air. Brisker is also a strong tackler and can make stops in the running game. He may not have the ideal size for a safety at 6’1″ and 210 pounds, but he makes up for it with his physicality and aggression.
8. QB Malik Willis, Liberty
Willis is an athletic quarterback who can make plays with his arm and his legs. He has a strong arm and can throw the ball deep down the field. Willis is also a dangerous runner and can make defenders miss in the open field. He may need to work on his accuracy and decision-making, but his athleticism and playmaking ability make him an intriguing prospect.
9. DT Jordan Davis, Georgia
Davis is a massive defensive tackle who can anchor the middle of the defensive line. He has great strength and can push offensive linemen into the backfield. Davis is also a good run defender and can disrupt plays in the running game. He may not have the ideal athleticism for a defensive tackle, but his size and strength make him a valuable asset in the trenches.
Conclusion
These nine players may not be the most highly touted prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft, but they all have the potential to be major contributors to their teams. Keep an eye out for these sleepers on draft day and throughout their careers in the NFL. With a little bit of luck and hard work, they may just become some of the biggest stars in the league.
