On day three of the 2023 NFL Draft, General Managers and scouting departments have a golden opportunity to showcase their skills by identifying hidden talents and securing great value for their teams. In fact, some of the greatest players in NFL history were selected in the later rounds of the draft. This is why successful teams are always diligent in making the most of these picks.
During this year’s draft, there was a noticeable trend with quarterbacks being selected in the hopes of discovering the next Brock Purdy, a franchise talent who defies the odds. Meanwhile, running backs and receivers also found their rightful place in the league.
Given the abundance of picks made on day three, it’s only fitting to recognize the winners and losers of this eventful day in the NFL draft.
Roschon Johnson – HB, 115th overall to the Chicago Bears
In the 2023 NFL draft, Roschon Johnson was selected as the backup running back and teammate of Bijan Robinson, the first running back chosen. Despite being a productive player during his four years with the Longhorns, Johnson’s playing time was limited due to his snap shares. However, he has the advantage of having fewer carries than many of his peers, which means he has fresh legs and untapped potential.
This makes Johnson one of the most intriguing prospects in this year’s draft class, with an outstanding upside as one of the biggest question marks. The fact that he was drafted by Chicago in the fourth round could work in his favor, as the Bears lack an assertive RB1 on their roster. With David Montgomery now in Detroit and Khalil Herbert still developing, Johnson could have an opportunity to earn a significant role as a rookie making him a day three winner.
For those who play fantasy football, Johnson’s potential rise in the Bears’ depth chart is worth keeping an eye on. As a fourth-round pick, he could be a valuable late-round addition to your team, especially if he emerges as a reliable contributor.
Chase Brown – HB, 163rd overall to the Cincinnati Bengals
Chase Brown was one of the most exciting late round prospects to study during the pre-draft process. With over 2,600 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns in his last two seasons at Illinois, Brown has shown that he’s a shifty, quick player who can make a significant impact.
Although his size may have limited his draft potential, the Cincinnati Bengals have now secured Brown as an insurance policy, given rumors of Joe Mixon potentially being cut if he refuses to accept a salary reduction. If Mixon were to leave, Brown’s usage could skyrocket, and he has the skills to make the most of the opportunity.
Brown is a speedy player who can make excellent cuts and set up defenders in the open field, making him a fun prospect to watch. Bengals fans may grow to love him if he’s given a chance to shine in the absence of Mixon. For fantasy football players, Brown is a name to keep on your radar in case he’s called upon to contribute in a meaningful way.
Josh Whyle – TE, 147th overall to the Tennessee Titans
In this year’s draft, the Tennessee Titans were in dire need of some pass-catching threats on offense. Fortunately, they found one in Josh Whyle, a former Cincinnati Bearcats receiver, whom they drafted in the fourth round.
Whyle is an athletic tight end with reliable hands, excellent control of his body, and a knack for making plays downfield. While he was initially expected to be a TE2 with potential upside, the Titans offer him a chance to start sooner rather than later.
Although Chigozeim Okonkwo is currently listed as the starter, his stats from last season – 450 yards and three touchdowns – aren’t particularly impressive. During training camp, Whyle will have an opportunity to earn some reps and prove himself as a later-round talent who can start some games this year. This could inject some much-needed energy into an offense that’s been lacking in recent seasons.
For fantasy football players, Whyle is a player to watch, as he could end up being a valuable asset for the Titans if he manages to secure a starting role.
Kayshon Boutte – WR, 187th overall to the New England Patriots
The New England Patriots’ wide receiver corps has been a concern for some time, with few clear starters beyond Juju Smith-Schuster. Many expected the Patriots to address this need in the draft, but they waited until the sixth round to select Kayshon Boutte out of LSU.
Boutte was once considered one of the best receivers in college football, but his last few years at LSU were marked by controversy and underachievement. However, the talent is clearly there, and he now has an opportunity to compete for a starting role on a team that badly needs help at the position.
Despite being a late round pick, Boutte’s talent far exceeds his draft position, and he could be a steal if he can focus and mature under the guidance of Bill Belichick and his staff. For fantasy football managers, he’s worth considering as a depth option with significant upside.
Michael Carter – RB, New York Jets
Michael Carter is expected to remain in the Jets’ running back rotation this season, but the team’s fourth-round selection, Izzy Abanikanda out of Pitt, could give him a run for his money. Abanikanda has been praised by the organization for his explosiveness and ability to make big plays, which will put pressure on Carter to perform.
With the Jets already having a crowded backfield with the likes of Breece Hall, Carter will have to work hard to earn his share of touches. Nevertheless, the addition of Abanikanda gives the Jets an exciting new weapon in their offensive arsenal and could make for an intriguing fantasy football option.
Josh Palmer – WR, L.A. Chargers
The Chargers used their first-round pick to select Quentin Johnston, which automatically moved Josh Palmer down the depth chart on day one of the draft. However, they didn’t stop there and added Derius Davis out of TCU in the fourth round.
Davis is a smaller receiver with great playmaking ability after the catch and the speed to get downfield and serve as a deep threat for Justin Herbert. The Chargers’ offense lacked that kind of speed and playmaking ability, which they addressed by drafting two receivers.
These additions aren’t good news for Josh Palmer, who may find himself competing for the fourth target spot in the Chargers’ offense. Furthermore, considering the amount of volume they’ve been giving to running back Austin Ekeler, Palmer’s production opportunities this coming season are at high risk making him a day three loser.