A timing and rhythm thrower with the pocket mobility to create space in traffic, Young fits the offensive scheme under first-year coach Brian Daboll. They can improve from last season and still not have as many wins. With tight end-friendly Ryan under center, Alie-Cox could post career numbers and emerge as the sneakiest breakout of the season. Tannehill has already shown a tendency to go to Philips in third-down situations because of his sure-handed pass catching and ability to find open windows. He should take quite a bit of pressure off of Mills, power the run game and allow the Texans to have an efficient and balanced offense. Plus, the upside if he stays healthy is that he can finish as a top-15 RB. Check out our ranking of the top 10 breakout candidates in fantasy heading into the season. He had 10.5 sacks and made the Pro Bowl as a rookie in 2019 but has had just 10 sacks in the 24 games since. He is coming off a rookie season in which he recorded five sacks in his first 11 games before a shoulder injury limited his effectiveness. The season will be a success if the Bills win the Super Bowl. Ja'Marr Chase. Bold prediction for 2022: The Saints will win the NFC South. Mike Clay: Drake London, Atlanta Falcons It signaled as much for guys like Zach Ertz and Dawson Knox, who scored fewer points than expected in 2020 before contributing in fantasy this past year. Depending on veteran Adam Thielen's health, it wouldn't be shocking to see Osborn emerge as the Vikings' next 1,000-yard receiver. Those players are all great, but the middle to later rounds is when everyone is really searching for a player that can greatly exceed expectations. If Mills improves and shows he could be the Texans' long-term answer at QB, the team will be in a great spot -- even if it doesn't make the playoffs. Gordon provides clarity at a position that has been rife with uncertainty. Heads began turning when All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams sang Darrisaw's praises following two days of joint practices between the Vikings and 49ers. 1 corner, coach Bill Belichick referred to Davon Godchaux as "one of the best defensive linemen in the league," while Matthew Judon and Josh Uche have been disruptive pass-rushers. 4 overall, has lockdown potential on the perimeter. The following browsers are supported: Chrome, Edge (v80 and later), Firefox and Safari. Richard Savill (Fantasy Six Pack), Trevor Lawrence (QB JAC) Eric Karabell: Travis Etienne Jr. The Bears have a lot of work to do in building around the former first-round pick, and they won't truly know whether he's their long-term option until the end of this season. Here are a . He has missed 28 of the past 29 games because of an injured left ankle. -- Barshop, The right tackle is going into the final season of the four-year, $32.5 million contract extension he signed in 2018. He has remained the Jets' top playmaker this summer. With limitations at the quarterback position and two downhill backs, Seattle is going to pound the ball between the tackles. Bold prediction for 2022: The Chargers will make the AFC Championship Game. He had career highs in receptions (77) and receiving yards (982) last season, but based on training camp and his play in the preseason (eight targets and five catches in two quarters), he should not have trouble surpassing both if he stays healthy. Liz Loza: Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Kansas City Chiefs The season will be a success if quarterback Davis Mills takes the next step. After attending every training camp practice and watching every preseason game, here are last-minute tips for players you could select in your draft. Stephania Bell: Darren Waller, Las Vegas Raiders -- Erin Dolan. The 2021 NFL Draft class looks poised to go down as an all-timer, and that's based solely on those who hit the ground running as rookies, namely Ja'Marr Chase and Micah Parsons, among others.There's still a good number of players who had ho-hum rookie seasons but look poised to be impact players in 2022. -- Courtney Cronin. -- Matt Bowen, It's a rebuilding season. In addition, we have preseason power rankings, fantasy breakout players, over/under on wins, depth charts, schedules and rosters for every team. On a team with Deebo Samuel and George Kittle, don't be surprised if it's Aiyuk who leads the team in receptions and receiving yards. 1 overall draft pick plays close to his 2020 level -- when he had an 11-5 record and a playoff win -- there's enough talent around him on offense and the defense is good enough to make Carolina a playoff contender. Young has the physical tools to be an elite edge-rusher. -- Bowen, Waller missed most of the second half of training camp with what was described as a hamstring issue, even as rumors floated that the 2020 Pro Bowl tight end was "holding in," waiting for a contract extension. Keith Lipscomb: Hayden Hurst, Cincinnati Bengals -- Bowen, The quarterback played through a right elbow injury last season and is still dealing with soreness. That could mean massive volume on a team that is expected to trail often. Opportunity is everything. Daniel Dopp: Derek Carr, QB, Las Vegas Raiders -- Liz Loza, A very tough number because it feels like they'll have 10 or 11 wins. "A very minor procedure. The 6-foot, 247-pound back can hammer the ball between the tackles with the footwork to scoot past defenders. -- Anita Marks. Marcas Grant and Michael F. Florio are back for another edition of the NFL Fantasy Football Podcast! Its difficult to project James Robinson to be 100%. -- Nick Wagoner, Lost in the shuffle of Aiyuk's slow start to last season was the fact that he was one of the 15 most productive receivers in the league from Week 9 on. -- Bowen. Yes, Burrow is emerging as one of the league's top quarterbacks, but that has yet to translate to the high-end QB1 fantasy output that his ADP suggests. That said, there are several reasons to expect bigger things in 2023 from the 24-year-old sophomore. If they don't, Atlanta will know it has to be in the draft or free agency quarterback market next offseason. While Adams will take some defensive attention away from Waller, he's also going to take away targets. Each analyst named a sleeper and a bust for each of the major offensive positions, as well as one breakout candidate. As we enter into the heart of fantasy football draft season, the ESPN Fantasy Football experts are here to bring you their latest sleepers, busts and breakout players for the 2022 campaign, as defined here: Sleeper: A player who is being overlooked and will outperform his average draft position (ADP) in 2022. By rule, he'll miss at least four games, and it wouldn't be surprising to see him miss a few more. But Toney also passes the eye test, as not many humans have his combination of speed and shiftiness. The offense will click more, and they should have enough to make a legitimate title run. Without one or both of them, however, the line is a major question. A healthy Derrick Henry is their best weapon, but I see regression looming for this team, especially after losing wideouts A.J. Matt Bowen: James Conner -- Reiss. If those two live up to expectations, Tagovailoa will be a top-12 QB, maybe higher. -- Stephen Holder, The All-Pro linebacker practiced last week for the first time since last season and said the recent surgery to resolve a nerve issue that was causing lower-body pain has set him up to be pain-free for the first time since his rookie season in 2018. The NFC East is very winnable -- even more so following the injury to Cowboys left tackle Tyron Smith -- and the conference overall looks kind of weak, if we're being honest. He had an opportunity to lead the Titans on a game-winning drive against the Bengals in the divisional playoff game last season, but he joined Brett Favre and Dom Strock as the only quarterbacks since 1980 to throw an interception in the final minute of a tie game in the postseason. He can be much like Hurts was in 2020, which is a better fantasy QB than real-life QB. Matt Bowen: Cole Kmet It is true that a table set with fine offensive cutlery has led to fantasy disappointments before, but Russell Wilson has just too much of the ideal pedigree that provides a chemistry to power this offense. Fantasy managers who drafted these players last season know very well how . Etienne boasts Alvin Kamara characteristics as a runner and pass-catcher. The surrounding players are there, but it's hard to see 11-plus wins with the unproven Lance. I expect a similar target share or more in 2022, with major touchdown progression to show off. First-round pick Tyler Smith was said to be the left tackle of the future as he competed for the left guard spot. He's had some lockdown matchups with Jaguars receivers, including Kirk, and his confidence is soaring -- which is always a big thing for corners. -- Bowen, The Jaguars picked up the fifth-year option on outside linebacker Allen, but 2022 is a big year for him if he wants to earn a long-term deal. After missing his entire rookie season with a foot injury, the former first-round pick has flashed on preseason tape in Year 2. Bold prediction for 2022: Mayfield will sign a contract extension with Carolina in December. It seems likely that Lock will find the field at some point this season. Gardner-Johnson, there's no question about him starting outside Marshon Lattimore. Bold prediction for 2022: Carr will throw a career-high 35 touchdown passes in McDaniels' offense. Is there a player you like, or is it . Wilson starts the season with a knee injury, and the team begins its schedule with four straight games against AFC North opponents. He looked as quick and smooth as he ever has this summer, and with left tackle Tyron Smith's injury, the Cowboys will lean on the run. Detroit's coaching staff is doing its best to keep the hype under control, but there's no denying his early production. This year, he will be the No. Recording 16 career touchdowns of 40-plus yards at Clemson, there's no denying Etienne's skills in space. That unit can create disruption, take the ball away and slow down the best quarterbacks in the league, including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Tom Brady, who has yet to beat the Saints in four regular-season games over the past two years. If Elliott can transform into a consistently disruptive force inside, Cleveland's defensive line featuring Myles Garrett and Jadeveon Clowney will be all the more daunting for opposing QBs. "I thought he was at the top of his game and that's a great development for us." -- Legwold, Fantasy breakout candidate: KJ Hamler, WR, Hamler is a true downfield threat who is back to health after an ACL tear in his left knee. Waller was limited to 11 games due to injury last season, causing his numbers to plummet compared to the season before, when he finished with 107 receptions, 1,196 yards and nine touchdowns. The Rams have a tough road schedule in 2022, but the expectation in the building is certainly to be back hoisting that trophy in February 2023. Let's get started with the Arizona Cardinals and go in alphabetical order: Jump to a team: Marcas Grant and Michael F. Florio are back for a Super Bowl edition of the NFL Fantasy Football Podcast! While there are still injury concerns, you already get a discount baked into his ADP with him going as an RB3. Lions fans might have higher expectations, but a truly successful campaign would be hitting that benchmark and improving Detroit's standing in the NFC North. Eric Karabell: Michael Thomas His competition is Rex Burkhead, and after one breakout game in the preseason, really it was just five touches, Pierce took over that starting gig. Cook's departure frees up 80-plus targets, which could lead to some monster efforts for the South Alabama product. I love the upside, but I don't love having to bank on that sort of growth out of my third-round pick. He had his best year when Calais Campbell and Yannick Ngakoue were with him. Warrants out for arrest of draft prospect Carter, Out of dark, Rodgers vows decision coming soon, Bengals not trading Higgins: 'Find your own' WR, Bucs to cut Fournette; RB says it was his request, Seahawks consider QB at No. That's a lofty expectation for a team that failed to advance to the playoffs last season and has appeared in the postseason only twice since 2013. 1 seed. NFL and the NFL shield design are registered trademarks of the National Football League.The team names, logos and uniform designs are registered trademarks of the teams indicated. With the pocket poise and mechanics to produce in coach Arthur Smith's offense, the rookie out of Cincinnati gets the nod much earlier than expected. Depending on the size of your league, Freiermuth (TE11 ADP) isn't being counted on to start across the board in fantasy this year. Brown and Julio Jones. Dynasty Fantasy Football Trade Advice: Targets Before NFL Free Agency, Ideal NFL Free Agency Landing Spots: Running Backs (2023 Fantasy Football), 2023 NFL Free Agent Running Backs: Kareem Hunt (Fantasy Football), Breakout Running Backs to Draft: Kenneth Walker III (2023 Fantasy Football), 10 Most Important Players of the Offseason (2023 Fantasy Football), Dynasty Rookie Draft Advice: Players to Avoid (2023 Fantasy Football), No, I'm a California resident looking for the California Consumer Privacy Act form. Tristan H. Cockcroft: Irv Smith Jr. They do not trust him near the goal line as he became the only running back in the Super Bowl era with more than 750 yards and no rushing TDs. The season will be a success if the Bucs win the Super Bowl and only if they win the Super Bowl. -- Rothstein, Fantasy breakout candidate: Drake London, WR, With the 6-foot-4 frame to play as a boundary X receiver or bump inside as a big slot target, London is the pick here, given the volume he should see opposite tight end Kyle Pitts. The Seahawks believe their revamped defensive scheme can get Adams back to being a pass-rushing force, but he's got to stay healthy to do that. That designation is a sign Kmet is due for a fantasy breakout. -- Liz Loza, The Colts have one of the easiest schedules in the league after a 9-8 season, and don't forget that Jonathan Taylor led the league with 1,811 rushing yards last season. Joe Kaiser: Evan Engram, Jacksonville Jaguars Chase Edmonds is going to be a big beneficiary of Hill and Waddle. -- Eric Moody. How long will it take? Daniel Dopp: Michael Thomas, New Orleans Saints Top Breakout Candidates on Each NFL Team (2022 Fantasy Football) by FantasyPros Staff | @FantasyPros Jun 13, 2022 Breakouts. Bold prediction for 2022: Defensive end Chase Young will register 12.5 sacks. Cam Akers (RB LAR) The season will be a success if QB Baker Mayfield becomes the player the Browns thought he would be. The Raiders have multiple pass catchers who can get open with their route-running traits. Players to Buy Back in on in 2022 Stefon Diggs finished as the WR7 in total points and the WR10 in fantasy PPG after finishing third in both of those in 2020. The team would like nothing more than for Trubisky to succeed and nurture Kenny Pickett along. -- Louis-Jacques. Bold prediction for 2022: Myles Garrett will win Defensive Player of the Year. 2022 NFL draft by round. The shoulder strain that kept him off the practice field last summer is 100 percent. You could see glimpses of that during joint practices with the Miami Dolphins and Tennessee Titans. Olave was able to accomplish this while playing alongside fellow first-round pick Garrett Wilson and projected 2023 first-rounder Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Eric Moody: Matt Ryan, Indianapolis Colts Another rocky season will spark speculation about finding a replacement in the QB-rich 2023 draft. Sure, he hasn't done so much in his NFL career, but last season he finished inside the top four in completion percentage and yards per attempt on throws of at least 20 air yards. Sometimes its a rookie in a good landing spot. Sure, Lawrence had a rough rookie season, but Urban Meyer was running a three-ring circus in Jacksonville last year, so Im happy to give Lawrence a mulligan. Ultimately, if Hunt wants a big contract next offseason, either from the Browns or another team, he'll need to produce this season while staying relatively healthy. Gilmore will turn 32 on Sept. 19, but so far, he doesn't look his age. Steven Pintado (The Fantasy Coaches), Jerry Jeudy (WR DEN) Wilson still has the uncanny ability to extend plays, and Jeudy has the talent to find open space in such situations. Gabe Davis is the only player in NFL history to have over 200 yards and four touchdowns in a playoff game. The speedy wideout won the camp battle at slot receiver over Jamison Crowder, and the offense is going into the campaign with an emphasis on improving yards after catch (last in the league in YAC per reception in 2021), which could mean big things for McKenzie. -- Bowen. Derek Brown (FantasyPros). The Cowboys' hope is they are in the playoff chase when Tyron Smith is able to return. -- Bowen. Daniel Dopp: James Conner He fell into a situation where he will be the unquestioned Day One WR1 for the Falcons. But what if Elliott has a terrific season? When looking for a breakout player, I'm mindful of several key factors: the player's skill set and the chance for it to improve from one year to the next, the role he may play and the offense that he plays in. He's a physical receiver who is willing to work the dirty areas of the field, and he's more explosive than you think after the catch. If Akers gets anything close to the sort of workload Todd Gurley that got during McVays first two seasons with the Rams, the young running back is going to be a fantasy force. -- Eric Moody. Even if he misses time, on a per-game basis, he is very likely to outlive his draft cost. From our Start/Sit Assistant which provides your optimal lineup based on accurate consensus projections to our Trade Analyzer which allows you to instantly find out if a trade offer benefits you or your opponent weve got you covered this fantasy football season. Collins emerged as the Texans' No. The running back might not ultimately be what he was in his rookie year (1,307 rushing yards), but this is the most explosive he has looked in a while. I still have low expectations for this team as their biggest upgrade is head coach Doug Pederson. Kadarius Toney averaged 2.2 yards per route ran last season and had a 30-percent target share when he was on the field. He was a top-eight receiver in Weeks 8-12 in receptions, yards and TDs before getting hurt. This season will be a positive if Wilson improves significantly in every area and leaves no doubt that he has the talent, durability and mental makeup to lead the Jets to a championship. -- Matt Bowen, This offseason, the Ravens improved their offensive line to further protect Jackson and solidify their running game. -- Cimini, Fantasy breakout candidate: Elijah Moore, WR, Lots of intriguing candidates on the Jets with rookies Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall. 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