Two Arizona Cardinals players have the potential to unexpectedly become key contributors and surprise fantasy football managers with breakout performances this season.
Fantasy football is a game of predictions, potential, and sometimes, surprises. While star players often dominate the headlines, the real excitement often comes from discovering those hidden gems—players who outperform expectations and become league-winners. This season, the Arizona Cardinals have several players who could unexpectedly emerge as key contributors and surprise fantasy football managers. Among these, two stand out due to their talent, opportunity, and potential for breakout performance: Rondale Moore and Trey McBride.
In this detailed analysis, we will explore why these two players could become fantasy surprises, examining their backgrounds, current team situations, potential for increased roles, and the factors that could lead to their breakout performances. We will also analyze how fantasy managers can capitalize on their potential and the risks involved.
1. The Arizona Cardinals: Context and Expectations
Before delving into individual players, it’s essential to understand the overall context of the Arizona Cardinals for the upcoming season.
The Cardinals are in a period of transition. With the departure of key veterans and the current roster rebuild, opportunities are ripe for emerging players to step into larger roles. The team is led by quarterback Kyler Murray, who, if healthy, provides a dynamic offensive presence. However, the supporting cast has seen changes, and the offensive scheme may lean on creative play-calling to maximize the talents of emerging playmakers.
This environment creates fertile ground for under-the-radar players to shine, especially those who can capitalize on increased targets and expanded responsibilities.
2. Rondale Moore: A Wide Receiver Poised for a Breakout
Background and Profile
Rondale Moore, drafted in 2021 out of Purdue University, entered the league with immense promise. Standing at 5’9” and weighing around 180 pounds, Moore is a shifty, explosive slot receiver known for his quickness, agility, and yards-after-catch ability.
Initially hampered by injuries, Moore has shown flashes of brilliance but has yet to fully realize his potential as a primary offensive weapon. His rookie season was promising, but inconsistent targets and team dynamics limited his production.
Current Role and Opportunity
With new offensive coordinator responsibilities and potential changes in the Cardinals’ offensive scheme, Moore could see an expanded role. The departure of veteran wide receivers and the emphasis on speed and agility-based routes make Moore an attractive target for increased snaps.
Furthermore, with the team potentially prioritizing quick passes and gadget plays, Moore’s skill set aligns well with a role as a primary slot receiver or even as a versatile weapon in motion. His ability to line up in various positions and create mismatches could lead to a significant uptick in targets.
Factors Supporting a Breakout
Increased Targets: If Moore can establish chemistry with Kyler Murray early, he could see a spike in targets, especially in the short and intermediate zones.
Health: Staying healthy is critical. If Moore can avoid injuries, his explosiveness will be on full display.
Offensive Scheme: A shift to a more creative and pass-heavy offense could play into Moore’s strengths.
Opposition Defenses: If defenses focus on stopping the team’s primary weapons, Moore could find soft spots in coverage.
Potential Fantasy Impact
Moore’s breakout could manifest in 80-100 receptions, 900+ yards, and 4-6 touchdowns. His yards-after-catch ability and versatility could translate into big-play potential, making him a valuable WR3 or flex option in fantasy leagues. His perceived value has been relatively low, which presents a value opportunity for savvy managers.
Risks and Caveats
Injury Risks: Moore’s history of injuries remains a concern.
Depth Chart Competition: The presence of other receivers could limit targets unless Moore seizes the opportunity.
Offensive Variability: If the team struggles offensively, production may be inconsistent.
3. Trey McBride: The Tight End with Hidden Upside
Background and Profile
Trey McBride, drafted in the second round out of Colorado State, is a talented tight end with a well-rounded skill set. Known for his reliable hands, route running, and ability to block, McBride has been viewed as a potential long-term replacement for veteran Zach Ertz.
His college production was impressive, and he demonstrated the ability to be a security blanket for quarterbacks. Coming into the NFL, expectations were high, but limited opportunities and team dynamics initially kept him under the radar.
Current Role and Opportunity
With Zach Ertz aging and the team in a rebuild mode, McBride is positioned for a larger role. If Ertz’s injury history persists or if the team decides to lean more heavily on tight ends as a security blanket for Kyler Murray, McBride could see a significant increase in targets.
Furthermore, the team’s offensive scheme, which emphasizes quick passes and versatile tight ends, could elevate McBride’s role. His blocking ability also makes him a key part of the running game, increasing his overall snap count.
Factors Supporting a Breakout
Target Share: As a young, athletic tight end, McBride could see a rise in targets, especially in the red zone.
Chemistry with Murray: Building rapport in training camp and preseason can translate into increased trust and volume.
Team Offensive Strategy: A focus on utilizing tight ends in multiple roles can boost his production.
Injury and Depth Chart: If Ertz continues to face injuries or if the team prefers to develop McBride, his opportunities will grow.
Potential Fantasy Impact
A breakout season for McBride could see him posting around 50-70 receptions, 500-700 yards, and 4-7 touchdowns. His dual-threat capability and red zone involvement make him an intriguing TE2 or even TE1 in some formats.
Risks and Caveats
Limited Experience: As a rookie or second-year player, he may need time to develop chemistry.
Offensive Line and Scheme: If the offensive line struggles or the scheme doesn’t favor tight ends, his production could be hampered.
Competition: The presence of other tight ends or pass catchers could limit targets.
4. Why These Two Players Are Likely to Surpass Expectations
While many players can be considered potential breakout candidates, Rondale Moore and Trey McBride’s combination of talent, opportunity, and team situation make them particularly promising.
Youth and Development: Both are young players with room to grow and improve their skill sets.
Opportunity: Their current team situation presents a clear pathway to increased targets and snaps.
Perceived Value: Both players are undervalued in many fantasy drafts, making them prime targets for late-round or waiver-wire pickups.
Matchup and Scheme Fit: Their skill sets align well with the team’s offensive strategies, especially if the Cardinals lean into quick passing and versatile usage.
5. Strategies for Fantasy Managers
To maximize the potential of Moore and McBride, managers should:
Monitor Training Camp Reports: Look for early indications of increased roles or chemistry developments.
Target in Late Rounds or as Waivers: Since their perceived value is low, they can be drafted late or picked up after the season starts.
Watch for Injuries and Usage Trends: Pay attention to injuries on the team and how coaches are utilizing them in preseason.
Diversify Lineup: Use them as flex options or depth pieces to capitalize on breakout games.
The 2023 NFL season presents an exciting opportunity for fantasy managers to discover unexpected stars. Rondale Moore and Trey McBride exemplify players who, based on their talent and situation, could surpass expectations and become pivotal contributors in fantasy leagues. Their potential breakout performances could significantly impact team success and fantasy standings alike.
By staying vigilant and proactive, fantasy managers can capitalize on these emerging talents, turning hidden potential into valuable points and gaining an edge over opponents. As always, patience, research, and a bit of luck will be key in unlocking their full fantasy potential this season.
