The 2023 NFL Draft is complete, and now it’s time to get into those dynasty rookie drafts! Every league has its own scoring system, but the following IDPs will likely get you the most consistent points in most league formats. Let’s take a look at a handful of players who should come off the boards the earliest in your rookie drafts. Let’s start with the defensive backs.
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S Brian Branch, Detroit (from Alabama)
Branch played the same position as Minkah Fitzpatrick at Alabama and possesses many of the same strengths as the current Steeler. There’s a glaring need at safety for the Lions defense despite the addition of Chauncey Gardner-Johnson. Tracy Walker and Kerby Joseph don't have the level of athleticism that Branch and Gardner-Johnson possess, so expect a total overhaul of the Lion defensive backfield sooner rather than later. Branch could immediately fill the nickel spot, but Gardner-Johnson is also adept at that spot. That said, Branch has all the tools and measurables to become a top-line fantasy defensive back in a short time.
S Jordan Battle, Cincinnati (from Alabama)
Gone are both Jessie Bates and Vonn Bell, so there will be opportunities for Battle to make an instant impact. And knowing how productive both Bates and Bell were in the Bengal defensive system, it stands to reason this size/speed specimen will be on the field early. He’s adept at both pass and run coverage and could be a top-tier fantasy defensive back if he’s able to supplant Dax Hill or show promise as a free safety and be better than free-agent addition Nick Scott.
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