Jonathan Taylor Insights and Top Players Returning from Injuries

 

As the 2023 NFL preseason wraps up this Sunday, focus shifts to the regular season and the highly anticipated fantasy football.

Two key strategies for a successful fantasy football draft are seeking value and minimizing risk. Players whose draft stock has declined due to injuries might still offer value but can be risky choices.

Past league champions like Jonathan Taylor or Cooper Kupp don't necessarily ensure health or a return to their previous performance levels in 2023.

Odell Beckham Jr., a three-time Pro Bowler, hasn't completely bounced back from the ankle and leg injuries he faced in 2017.

Below are the top players returning from 2022 injuries, accompanied by the latest average draft position (ADP) data from FantasyPros, with recommendations for their draft day value.

All analysis is based on PPR (points per reception) scoring.

Notably, Indianapolis Colts' Jonathan Taylor is making a comeback. The 2021 rushing champion faced an ankle problem and was sidelined after Week 15. Key to consider is Taylor's injury history. At 24, he's attracted trade interest from the Colts, and there's potential for re-injury. With a history of 926 carries over three college seasons at Wisconsin and another 756 with Indianapolis, Taylor's risk is palpable. However, with an ADP of 22, he's appealing. Managers should plan for contingencies as Taylor remains on the PUP list. Yet, if available at the end of Round 2 or start of Round 3, he's a viable option.

New York Jets' Breece Hall, after an impressive 2022 rookie season, suffered an ACL tear. While he seems fit for the season's start, his initial performance might be subdued. With an ADP of 40, Dalvin Cook's inclusion, and Aaron Rodgers likely favoring a pass-heavy approach in New York, Hall should be viewed as a flex starter with potential.

Despite a current ADP of 17, Tony Pollard, who encountered a leg injury in the postseason, is one I'd be wary of. Expected to kick off 2023 with the Dallas Cowboys, a shared responsibility setup might be in place. As per ESPN's Dan Graziano, the Cowboys perceive Pollard as an asset that shouldn't be overburdened. Pollard should be seen as an upper-tier RB2, but perhaps not worth a mid-second-round pick.

Javonte Williams, with an ADP of 69, presents a brighter outlook. After recovering from an ACL injury last season, the anticipated Denver Broncos starter debuted in this preseason's Week 2. While sharing playtime with Samaje Perine, Williams should solidly stand as an RB2.