As the NFL barrels past the first quarter of 2023, a few surprises managed to capture the attention of the football world.
As mentioned, life in the NFL moves fast. In fact, the 2023 campaign just eclipsed twenty-five percent complete. Granted, everyone can figure out who the household names that make multiple plays every single week. With that said, who are the talents that fly under the national radar but made noise early and hope to continue that trend? Below, the three names of the players that should garner more attention so far.
DaRon Bland
When Trevon Diggs tore his ACL, many predicted the rapid decline of the Cowboys’ secondary. No one informed DaRon Bland that he should lay down. Instead, all the second-year corner has done is tie for the league in interceptions and lead in pick-sixes. On balance, you’d expect an inexperienced corner would wilt under the heat that an NFL corner endures. Bland stepped up, driving on the ball with abandon and securing stops. Additionally, those gaudy stats pale in comparison to allowing zero touchdowns. The league loves to pass. Quarterbacks do not fear a single cornerback. Now, offense will openly attack an opponent. So far, Bland stepped up.
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De’Von Achane
For the entirety of the NFL, teams place an extremely high importance on speed. Like the axiom states, ” you cannot teach speed” In Achane, upon first blush, the Dolphins drafted a speedy back that would operate as a change of pace. Six combined touchdowns and a mind-melting 11.4 yards per rush sets the pace. While everyone knows those lofty numbers will drop, holding it over the first quarter of the season remains impressive. In Achane, the Dolphins do not have a plodding back that drives the pile. On the other hand, few teams can line up a running with the potential to house any play, regardless of where the offense snaps from. With speed on the outside, Achane will force teams to pay attention to the run game. Miami employs the fastest offense in football.
Puka Nacua
With Cooper Kupp returning this weekend, the Rams needed anyone to get open. What they didn’t expect is the 2023 fifth-rounder to grab passes and impress. With Nacua, do not expect a game-breaker or explosion. However, the former BYU standout excels in the physical aspect of the game. That is to say, he thrives with the ability to ward off corners with handfighting and just enough quickness to gain the slightest measure of separation. Nacua leads the league with thirty-nine catches. As Kupp gets back into the swing, the Rams now boast two quality NFL wide receivers that will make life miserable for defenses.