After researching all 32 teams over the past two months, it’s time to find some hidden gems. So here’s a look at my top fantasy breakouts for 2022:
QB Tua Tagovailoa, Miami Dolphins
When looking for a potential breakout quarterback, I’m looking for a player with a high ceiling who ranks as a backup option in this year’s drafts. Tua Tagovailoa failed to make an impact over his first two seasons with Miami, but the Dolphins gave him an explosive top-tier WR1 (Tyreek Hill) over the winter. As a result, he now leads an offense with three excellent receiving options (Jaylen Waddle and Mike Gesicki) plus a viable pass-catching back (Chase Edmonds). When adding Cedrick Wilson at wideout, Tagovailoa has the tools to outperform his price point in a big way in 2022. He is on a path to being a cheat QB1.
RB Travis Etienne, Jacksonville Jaguars
Despite missing last season, Travis Etienne continues to rise in fantasy drafts over the summer. The Jaguars made a change at head coach, helping the structure of their offense and the growth of Trevor Lawrence. Jacksonville doesn’t expect James Robinson to be ready for training camp, allowing Etienne a chance to seize the bulk of snaps entering Week 1. He has beast upside in the passing game with scoring and big-play ability. Etienne isn’t a player to finesse in 2022 while ranking 17th in the early draft season at running back. My first set of projections will be out this week, so check back at SI Sportsbook to see where he sits in the early rankings.
