Fantasy Football Draft Guide: 5 league-winning players for 2023

With the NFL preseason well under way, hardcore fantasy football players are already getting their draft on. Every year, players emerge out of nowhere and post a league-winning campaign, so finding the next hidden star is imperative.
Skyy Moore of the Kansas City Chiefs scores in Super Bowl LVII  versus the Philadelphia Eagles.
Skyy Moore of the Kansas City Chiefs scores in Super Bowl LVII versus the Philadelphia Eagles. / Focus On Sport/GettyImages
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Javonte Williams stiff arms Cody Barton.
Javonte Williams stiff arms Cody Barton. / Steph Chambers/GettyImages

#4. Javonte Williams (ADP - 88.0, RB28)

Javonte Williams took the NFL by storm as a rookie in 2021, when he rumbled for 903 rushing yards despite starting just one game whilst in a timeshare with Melvin Gordon. Overall, the 23-year old produced 1219 scrimmage yards and seven scores (RB17), which made him a premier breakout candidate for the 2022 fantasy season.

In the Nathan Hackett and Russell Wilson-led, low-powered Denver Broncos offense, Williams struggled in 2022. Through four games, the tailback produced just 280 total yards and zero scores before tearing his ACL, PLC, and LCL. Despite staring at what is generally a career-altering injury, Williams tied his shoes and got to work, and as a result he's looked sharp this summer with no limitations.

With Sean Payton now leading the Broncos, the entire team's offensive outlook figures to be much improved. However, its worth noting that the former New Orleans Saints boss has always split touches amongst his RBs. This might mean more work for Semaje Perine, who hasn't cleared 400 rushing yards since 2017, and has never cleared 300 receiving yards - but we know what Alvin Kamara did in Payton's time in New Orleans.

Williams may or may not see the lion's share of touches in 2023, but assuming all is well with his knee, he'll go back to being one of the most elusive backs in the NFL. As such, the third-year pro should have an expanded receiving role, making him an easy RB2 candidate.