Early Fantasy Football Sleepers: Running Backs (2023)

The 2022 fantasy football season has concluded. But is it ever too early to start thinking about next year?

For those looking to get an early edge on their league mates for the 2023 season, you’ve come to the right place. Obviously, we have to take any expectations with a grain of salt, as the playoffs and offseason could change our opinions of these players. Using our Expert Consensus Dynasty Rankings, let’s take a look at some potential sleepers to target in 2023.

Draft day will be here before you know it, after all.

If you want to dive deeper into fantasy football, be sure to check out our award-winning slate of Fantasy Football Tools as you navigate your season. From our Start/Sit Assistant – which provides your optimal lineup based on accurate consensus projections – to our Waiver Wire Assistant – which allows you to quickly see which available players will improve your team and by how much – we’ve got you covered this fantasy football season.

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Early Fantasy Football Sleepers: Running Backs (2023)

Cam Akers (RB – LAR): RB32 ECR

Akers has had a tremendous close to the season after starting the year in Sean McVay’s doghouse. He’s averaged at least five yards per carry in his last three games and has shown glimpses of the playmaking ability that made him a second-round pick. Plus, he’s doing this with no Matthew Stafford or Cooper Kupp.

After being on the trade block in the fall, Akers could enter 2023 as Los Angeles’ featured back. Of course, there are tons of questions regarding the Rams, particularly whether McVay will walk away from coaching. But Akers is another guy who fantasy players may have given up on after burning them for much of the 2022 campaign.

Khalil Herbert (RB – CHI): RB33 ECR

I’ve been a fan of Khalil Herbert this entire season, and I’m not jumping ship now. Herbert missed a chunk of the season with a hip injury but could be in line to be Chicago’s featured back if they opt to let David Montgomery walk in free agency. Herbert is a talented runner with a nice burst and power. Chicago has the No. 1 pick in the draft, a ton of draft picks and a franchise QB in Justin Fields. Herbert could be a breakout if he becomes the lead runner.