Silva: Sleepers & Busts 2023

Sleepers

Antonio Gibson

Gibson’s all-purpose game is obviously more dynamic than backfield competitor Brian Robinson’s, while new OC Eric Bieniemy has no allegiance to previous Washington draft picks. In the Commanders’ preseason opener, Gibson and Robinson shared time evenly, and Gibson can do a lot more with his touches. I plan on staying about 10 spots above ADP on Gibson and have been drafting him quite a bit.

Khalil Herbert

Hyperefficient behind now-Lion David Montgomery last season, Herbert averaged 5.7 yards per carry, finished No. 7 among qualified running backs in evaded tackles per touch (Player Profiler), and ranked No. 9 in yards created per touch (3.3). Consistently running with Chicago’s first-team offense in training camp and preseason games, Herbert has a good shot to lead the Bears’ ascending offense in touches.

De’Von Achane

April’s No. 84 overall pick, Achane has lit up camp and avoided a potential obstacle when the Dolphins passed on Dalvin Cook. A game-breaking speedster (4.32) comparable to ex-Lion Jahvid Best, Achane’s physical gifts are obviously superior to those of RB competitors Raheem Mostert and Jeffrey Wilson.

Kenneth Gainwell

Camp reports indicate Gainwell has an opportunity to pace Philly’s backfield in snaps, which shouldn’t surprise anyone aware that Gainwell handled a near-50% snap share in last season’s playoff run and averaged 13.3 touches in Philly’s three postseason games. While bellcow usage isn’t within Gainwell’s range of outcomes, he has a chance at an elevated role in an elite offense. The coaches trust him.