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NFL Analysis: Megatron dominates stats-bloated WRs
By Frank Cooney,
http://sports.yahoo.com/news/nfl-analysis-megatron-dominates-stats-193037979--nfl.html
As NFL offenses take advantage of favorable rules, wide receivers are bloating their statistics with unprecedented prolific displays across the league, so mere numbers may be a bit deceiving when naming the top pass-catchers in the league.
Two dozen receivers gained more than 1,000 yards last season, but that counts New Orleans tight end Jimmy Graham, who would like to be considered a wide receiver but, for now, is just the best tight end in the game.
Five wide receivers had at least 100 catches and four more were at 90-plus. And 15 starting wideouts averaged at least 16 yards per catch.
Some of these receivers benefitted from great systems or quarterbacks, while others excelled in spite of mediocre quarterbacking or an overall bad offense. All of these players are addressed in this analysis by Sports Xchange reporters covering receivers on every NFL team.
And regardless of what method anyone uses to rate NFL players, there can be no doubt that Calvin Johnson of the Detroit Lions is No. 1. Megatron's talents are so obvious that even the NFL Network's questionable Top 100 got it right.
On Wednesday NFLN revealed Johnson was the top receiver for the third consecutive year and this time No. 2 overall, behind only quarterback Peyton Manning. Johnson was No. 3 overall the previous two years.
Johnson is impossible to stop. He is too big, fast, strong and focused. No single defender can handle him. Usually two or three can't do the job. Unless he slows down, he is on pace to create realistic conversations about challenging Jerry Rice as the best receiver in NFL history.
An attempt to have that conversation on NFL Network Wednesday night created acrimony on the set, with Deion Sanders denying the obvious facts. And this is a conversation that won't go away unless Johnson's career takes a sudden change.
As for the other 14 wide receivers in the NFLN's Top 100, there is plenty of room for question, starting with how the poll itself is handled.
Ballots are distributed in late November and can be filled out into April. And even with all that time, only 481 votes were cast (28 percent of active players). Obviously, there might be differences in perspective between votes in November or April. Furthermore, there is no attempt to balance or report the demographics of these votes -- players per team or conference -- which could account for even more differences.
Still that Top 100 will be widely cited. So for those who want to know the opinions of 481 players who voted somewhere between November and April, here is the results for wide receivers, showing wide receiver ranking/overall ranking
--1st wide receiver/2nd overall: Calvin Johnson, Detroit
--2/9: A. J. Green, Cincinnati
--3/16: Josh Gordon, Cleveland
--4/21: Andre Johnson, Houston (asking for trade)
--5/23: Antonio Brown, Pittsburgh
--6/25: Dez Bryant, Dallas
--7/36: Brandon Marshall, Chicago
--8/38: Larry Fitzgerald, Arizona
--9/44: Vincent Jackson, Tampa Bay
--10/49: Demaryius Thomas, Denver
--11/54: Alshon Jeffery, Chicago
--12/63: DeSean Jackson, Washington
--13/73: Wes Welker (Denver
--14/80: Pierre Garcon Washington
--15/83: Jordy Nelson, Green Bay.
So there's that, for what it's worth. But if you set aside the somewhat misleading, or bloated, stats and seriously ignore that flawed poll, the old-fashioned eyeball test would yield a different list. Just by watching them play, who appears to be the best wide receivers?
After Megatron, the call here would be Bryant of Dallas. His physical abilities are even more astonishing than his meltdowns, which are considerable (although he has reduced them the last two seasons). Usually the only person who can stop Bryant is Bryant himself when he gets all knotted up in frustration. Ah, life with the Cowboys.
Then there are a bunch of outstanding wide receivers who are on about the same level, more or less, led by Mr. Yards After Catch, Gordon of Cleveland, whose off-field issues may prevent him from playing for a spell, if not all season. This group would also include Houston's big Andre Johnson. It was reported Thursday Johnson is asking to be traded and that four teams were immediately interested.
And then there is Jackson, now of Washington, who not only was among the leaders in most of those statistical areas that we are not using in this eyeball test, but whose physical abilities are among the most entertaining in the league. Yet, it is difficult to know where he fits -- evidenced by Philadelphia coach Chip Kelly all but paying Jackson's cab fare out of town on the way to the Redskins. And Jackson will have that, ah, Chip on his shoulder this year that could make him even more interesting to watch.
Here is a closer look at all wide receivers worth mentioning in the NFL, as analyzed by Sports Xchange reporters who cover each team (teams listed alphabetically):
ST. LOUIS RAMS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Kenny Britt, Chris Givens. Backups -- Tavon Austin, Brian Quick, Stedman Bailey, Austin Pettis, T.J. Moe, Emory Blake, Jordan Harris, Austin Franklin, Jamaine Sherman.
Britt could be the wild card in this group. He brought passion and big-play ability to the offseason workouts, and has the ability to be the best receiver on the roster. Givens took a step back after a very good rookie season, and is determined to again be the big-play threat he was in 2012. Austin says he is more comfortable this season after some rookie-season struggles, and he is expected to be used in a variety of ways. This is a crucial season for Quick, who hasn't been consistent in his two seasons with the Rams. The third year is where many receivers start to make an impact, and if Quick doesn't step up, he might never be the player the team thought when he was selected with the first pick of the second round in the 2012 draft. Bailey's progress will be stymied by a suspension that will cost him the first four games of the season. He was coming on late in his rookie season last year, and the suspension comes at an inopportune time. Pettis is written off every year, but then has a strong offseason and manages to win a job in camp. That could happen again thanks to Bailey's suspension, but the question is what happens when Bailey returns. Moe is a local favorite after attending high school in the St. Louis area and excelling at the University of Missouri. However, it will be tough for him to make the roster, although the practice squad is a distinct possibility.
ARIZONA CARDINALS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Larry Fitzgerald, Michael Floyd. Backups -- Ted Ginn Jr., John Brown, Walt Powell, Brittan Golden, Jaron Brown, Kevin Ozier, Kelsey Pope, Dan Buckner.
Fitzgerald finished with fewer than 1,000 yards for the second consecutive year, but he scored 10 touchdowns, six more than in 2012. He hasn't lost anything. Floyd had a breakout season and improved greatly. QB Carson Palmer grew to trust him on deep passes, and Floyd came through. He played through a painful shoulder injury over the last month. The Cardinals added speed through free agency (Ginn) and the draft (Brown). Arians likes both of them and has a history of knowing how to use those types of players. The top four spots seem set. The other one or two are open.
ATLANTA FALCONS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Roddy White, Julio Jones. Backups -- Harry Douglas, Devin Hester, Drew Davis, Darius Johnson, Geraldo Boldewijn, Julian Jones, Freddie Martino, Bernard Reedy, Tramaine Thompson.
Jones, who underwent a complex right foot surgery, has started to run and should be ready for training camp. White suffered a family tragedy, but appears set to carry on. White came on strong down the stretch after he recovered from a high ankle sprain and a hamstring injury. Douglas stepped up and turned in a 1,000-yard season with the top two receivers hobbled. Hester, Johnson and Davis provide some strong depth at the position.
BALTIMORE RAVENS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Steve Smith, Torrey Smith. Backups -- Jacoby Jones, Marlon Brown, Michael Campanaro, Kamar Aiken, Deonte Thompson, LaQuan Williams, Gerrard Sheppard, Jeremy Butler, Jace Davis, Mike Willie.
The addition of Steve Smith should give the Ravens an injection of toughness and experience the team has missed since trading Anquan Boldin. Torrey Smith should have more room to operate with Steve Smith working underneath. Brown is a red-zone threat who led the team in touchdown catches as a rookie. Jones has speed and size working in his favor, but isn't the most well-rounded receiver. Campanaro is an option out of the slot.
BUFFALO BILLS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Sammy Watkins, Mike Williams. Backups -- Robert Woods, Marquise Goodwin, Marcus Easley, T.J. Graham, Kevin Elliott, Chris Hogan, Ramses Barden, Caleb Holley, Cordell Roberson, Chris Summers.
Watkins is expected to be the go-to guy from day one, but wide receiver is a difficult position for rookies to make a huge impact; there's a lot more to it than just running routes and catching the ball. And for as dynamic a player as Watkins is, he ran very simple spread offense routes in college -- quick screens and go routes, primarily -- and he will have to learn how to run the entire route tree, understand coverages, and know when he's the hot receiver in blitz situations. He should be fine, but it won't always be smooth. Williams has talent and you can expect similar production from him that the Bills got from departed Stevie Johnson. Woods and Goodwin will get plenty of time, but guys like Easley and Hogan will make the team more for their special teams work. As for Graham, he might be on the chopping block unless he has a great camp and preseason.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Kelvin Benjamin, Jerricho Cotchery. Backups -- Jason Avant, Brenton Bersin, Philly Brown, Toney Clemons, Tavarres King, Marcus Lucas, Marvin McNutt, Kealoha Pilares, De'Andre Presley, Tiquan Underwood.
Folks on the outside continue to ridicule this group, but some believe they are better than last year's lot. The 6-foot-5 Benjamin gives Newton a badly-needed red-zone threat, as does Cotchery, who scored 10 touchdowns with the Steelers in 2013. It is hard to see a No. 1 guy on the list. Benjamin could fill the role eventually, but he will have rookie growing pains. Bersin, King and McNutt will get a chance, and the coaches hope at least one emerges as a legit player.
CHICAGO BEARS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery. Backups -- Marquess Wilson, Josh Bellamy, Josh Morgan, Terrence Tolliver, Eric Weems, Chris Williams, Armanti Edwards, Micheal Spurlock.
The Marshall-Jeffery threat for receiving, athleticism and ability to run with the ball afterward is difficult for any team to match. Only Houston's Andre Johnson (221) has more catches among NFL receivers than Marshall (218) has had since he became a Bear in 2012. The expectation for Marshall and Jeffery both in a second year within this offense is more open catches downfield and less reliance on their ability to make leaping catches in a crowd. Much of this will depend on Cutler and his offensive line. Beyond these two, the Bears are in trouble. Wilson has added 10 pounds and is much stronger, but has one career catch and no idea how to beat NFL defensive backs consistently. He's also more a long strider and not the choppy-stepped, good-hands, power type who seems a better fit in the slot. Between those three, there is no Olympic-speed class of receiver, although all three have good speed. Morgan, Bellamy and Williams have shown some ability, but none are sure-handed. Edwards and Spurlock are on the roster more as special teams players. Weems often looks the best among all those fighting for the No. 3 and No. 4 spot in practices because of his experience in the league and the system.
CINCINNATI BENGALS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- A.J. Green, Marvin Jones, Mohamed Sanu. Backups -- Dane Sanzenbacher, Cobi Hamilton, Brandon Taint, Ryan Whalen, James Wright, Jasper Collins, Colin Lockett, Alex Nuetz.
Green caught more passes in his first three seasons than any other receiver in NFL history and only Randy Moss gained more yards in his first three years. Green's no secret; the others around him provide the intrigue. Expect Jones to be the Day 1 starter opposite Green attempting to build on his 10 touchdowns last year. Sanu, who lost the No. 2 job to Jones, will be more streamlined in his role as the slot receiver, his natural position, backed up by Sanzenbacher. A battle at the back end of the room will be waged between Whalen, Wright, Hamilton and Taint. If the Bengals can find another alternative as a kickoff returner, Taint could be expendable because he's never been able to break through as a receiver during his three years in Cincinnati.
CLEVELAND BROWNS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Josh Gordon, Nate Burleson. Backups -- Miles Austin, Andrew Hawkins, Anthony Armstrong, Travis Benjamin, Kenny Shaw, Taylor Gabriel, Charles Johnson, Willie Snead, Chandler Jones, Jonathan Krause, Conner Vernon.
Until the Browns hear otherwise, which they undoubtedly will, Gordon is on the active roster. He reportedly tested positive for marijuana and was then charged with a DUI just last week. But Browns expect to know Gordon's fate before the start of training camp. He faces an indefinite ban for a third offense. It would be a huge loss to the offense because he led the NFL with 1,646 receiving yards last year. The battle for starting jobs will be closely watched in training camp if Gordon, as expected, is banished. Austin, Burleson and Hawkins all figure to play prominent roles, yet all three are coming off injury-plagued seasons in 2013. Ditto for Benjamin, who might begin camp on PUP as he continues his recovery from a torn ACL. Johnson is also recovering from a knee injury. Armstrong was out of football last year, but he has an advantage because he played in Shanahan's offense with the Redskins. Jones showed in minicamp he can catch the deep pass. The Browns could have a decent receiving corps if each player lives up to his potential, but that might be a lot to ask.
DALLAS COWBOYS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Dez Bryant, Terrance Williams. Backups -- Cole Beasley, Dwayne Harris, Devin Street, Tim Benford, Chris Boyd, LaRon Byrd, Jamar Newsome, L'Danian Washington.
The sky is the limit for Bryant, who is only poised to get better after catching 93 passes for 1,233 yards and 13 touchdowns in earning his first Pro Bowl invitation last season. Williams takes over full time at receiver opposite Bryant with Miles Austin released in the offseason. But it will not represent much of a change as Williams took over the job last season with Austin out with injury. Williams, a 2013 third-round pick, caught 44 passes for 736 yards and five touchdowns. He has looked comfortable in the offseason in his permanent role, which should bode well for the Cowboys. Look for Dwayne Harris and Cole Beasley to handle the inside receiver roles on third down. The Cowboys have big plans for Beasley and he will be an integral part of the offense. They like the big-play ability of rookie fifth-round pick Devin Street. He looked like he belonged in OTAs and minicamp and could play his way into a role in training camp.
DENVER BRONCOS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Demaryius Thomas, Wes Welker, Emmanuel Sanders. Backups -- Andre Caldwell, Cody Latimer, Isaiah Burse, Bennie Fowler, Greg Hardin, Jordan Norwood, Greg Wilson, Nathan Palmer.
The present and future are firmly in place. The starting trio of the present should be among the league's most explosive units, even without free-agent departure Eric Decker. General manager John Elway wants to get a long-term deal done with Thomas before training camp; he and free-agent pickup Sanders are the future, along with Latimer, a big, talented second-round pick who displayed a flair for athletic, leaping catches during OTAs. Welker is the present; he's in the last year of his two-year contract, and suffered a pair of concussions in 2013. Caldwell is the experienced backup, and Burse, a rookie who received the biggest bonus of the Broncos' undrafted class, is a potential slot receiver of the future and the likely kickoff and punt returner of the present.
DETROIT LIONS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Calvin Johnson, Golden Taint. Backups -- Ryan Broyles, Jeremy Ross, Kris Durham, Kevin Ogletree, Patrick Edwards, T.J. Jones, Corey Fuller, Naaman Roosevelt, Cody Wilson, Andrew Peacock.
Taint is a massive upgrade over the No. 2 receivers Johnson has played with during his career, and the former Seahawks receiver will have no problem finding open space. Behind them, though, the cupboard is mostly bare unless Broyles recovers well from his Achilles injury. Ross is the sleeper of the group, and Jones and Fuller -- sixth-round picks the last two seasons -- are likely battling for the same spot.
GREEN BAY PACKERS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Jordy Nelson, Randall Cobb. Backups -- Jarrett Boykin, Davante Adams, Jared Abbrederis, Jeff Janis, Myles White, Chris Harper, Kevin Dorsey, Alex Gillett.
Anticipation is the Packers could have some big news before the pads come on for opening day of training camp July 26 -- perhaps a double dose of it. The dynamic duo of seventh-year Nelson and fourth-year Cobb are ripe for lucrative contract extensions as they head into the final year of their respective deals. Nelson is overdue for his first Pro Bowl nod, coming off a career-best season of 92 receptions for more than 1,375 yards and nine touchdowns (including the playoffs). The versatile Cobb recovered in time from a significant leg injury he sustained in the fifth game last season to be on the receiving end of the unforgettable fourth-down heave from Aaron Rodgers for a 48-yard touchdown in the final minute that lifted the Packers to the NFC North-clinching win at Chicago. What shakes out between those two starters will be compelling to watch throughout camp. Three or four spots should come down to ascending third-year player Boykin (49 catches, three touchdowns last season), the drafted rookie trio of Adams (second round), Abbrederis (fifth) and Janis (seventh), and second-year holdovers White and Harper, the latter of whom suffered a hamstring injury during organized team activities in May.
HOUSTON TEXANS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Andre Johnson, DeAndre Hopkins. Backups -- DeVier Posey, Keshawn Martin, Alan Bonner, Mike Thomas, Alex Lemon, EZ Nwachukwu, Localtan Bester, Travis Labhart, Anthony McClung, Kofi Hughes.
Johnson missed all the spring workouts and on Thursday it was reported he wanted to be traded which was quickly followed by information that four teams were already interested. If the Oakland Raiders aren't one, then somebody is asleep at the switch. The Texans traded Johnson's longtime battery mate, quarterback Matt Schaub, to the Raiders in March and, for now, the starting quarterback in Houston is Ryan Fitzpatrick, with local hero Case Keenum and strong-armed rookie Tom Savage fighting for the backup job. Johnson has three years and $31.5 million in base salary left on his contract but does not want to be part of another rebuilding project. If he stays healthy, he should have a third consecutive outstanding season. He turns 33 July 11, but deep speed was never his game, so losing a step won't be as noticeable.
Watch Hopkins, last year's first-round pick, take a big step forward. He is a hard worker who's acrobatic and, like Johnson, not a deep threat. Posey took advantage of Johnson's absence to get more reps during the offseason and impressed the coaches. He's a season removed from surgery on an Achilles tendon and could be a breakout player if he gets playing time on the outside. Martin is the team's best slot receiver because he can work the middle of the field. Thomas is a crafty veteran who'll compete for a spot on the team. Bonner, who spent his rookie season on injured reserve, has deep speed and some elusiveness, but he could get caught up in a numbers game.
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Reggie Wayne, T.Y. Hilton, Hakeem Nicks. Backups -- Ryan Lankford, Josh Lenz, Donte Moncrief, Greg Moore, Da'Rick Rogers, Eric Thomas, Tony Washington, Griff Whalen.
Wayne should be good to go when training camp starts after missing most of last year with a knee injury. Hilton continues to get better and is one of the most impressive young receivers in the league. Nicks is looking for redemption after a down year with the Giants in 2013. Moncrief looked good in offseason work and is expected to be in the rotation. The question now is who will ultimately emerge from a group that consists of Rogers and Whalen to be the final receiver on the roster. Rogers has outstanding skills and size but consistency remains an issue. Whalen knows the offense inside and out. LaVon Brazill was expected to compete, but he will miss the entire season because of a league suspension for substance abuse.
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Cecil Shorts, Allen Robinson, Marqise Lee. Backups -- Mike Brown, Allen Hurns, Ace Sanders, Kerry Taylor, Tandon Doss, Chad Bumphis, Lamaar Thomas, Damian Copeland, Nathan Slaughter.
It's hard to call Robinson and Lee starters as the two rookie receivers missed most of the OTAs and all of the team's minicamp with injuries. The injuries do not appear to be of a serious nature, though Robinson's injury was a hamstring that could come back to limit him in the early going of training camp. The concern was and still is, that the second-round picks missed out on valuable practice time getting comfortable with Henne. Their mishaps opened the door for veterans like Brown, Sanders and Doss to get a foot-hold on a starting position, but they were also on the sidelines much of the time and lost out on such an opportunity. At one point, the Jaguars' top seven receivers were all watching the action as spectators. The four or five receivers left to work with Henne are far down the depth chart with only Taylor likely to have a chance to make the team. Even team leader Shorts was sidelined with a calf injury and after missing time the last two seasons with concussion and groin injuries, Shorts needs to be on the field in this his contract year.
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Dwayne Bowe, Donnie Avery. Backups -- Junior Hemingway, A.J. Jenkins, Weston Dressler, Kyle Williams, Frankie Hammond, Jerrell Jackson, Fred Williams, Albert Wilson, Darryl Surgent, Deon Anthony, Mark Harrison.
Most observers considered wide receiver the biggest need for the Chiefs going into the 2014 season. But they did not address the position like they were worried, not making a big free-agent signing or using a draft choice for a receiver. Dressler was signed out of the Canadian Football League, but he's a diminutive slot-type receiver, unlikely to be able to handle a full game in the offense. The Chiefs will continue to seek more production out of Bowe and Avery; they combined last year for 110 catches, fewer receptions than league-leader Pierre Garcon (113.) They had 1,184 yards, or fewer than 15 individual receivers and their seven touchdown catches were far from the 16 league-leader Jimmy Graham put on the scoreboard.
MIAMI DOLPHINS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Mike Wallace, Brian Hartline, Brandon Gibson. Backups -- Jarvis Landry, Rishard Matthews, Armon Binns, Marcus Thigpen, Damian Williams, Kevin Cone, Gerald Ford, Stephen Williams, Matt Hazel, Rantavious Wooten, Ryan Spadola.
This is a reliable veteran unit that could blow up into a playmaking unit. One key is Wallace (73 receptions, 930 yards, five touchdowns). His ability to connect with QB Ryan Tannehill on the deep ball would give this offense the element it's lacked for years. Hartline (1,016 yards) has had back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons. And if Gibson (knee) can stay healthy, he'll prove valuable as a slot receiver. Landry seems to be a playmaker and could add a dynamic element from the slot or outside. Matthews could provide even more quality depth.
MINNESOTA VIKINGS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Cordarrelle Patterson, Greg Jennings. Backups -- Jerome Simpson, Jarius Wright, Rodney Smith, Adam Thielen, Kamar Jorden, Kain Colter, Donte Foster, Erik Lora.
Patterson should follow his All-Pro kickoff return season with a breakout offensive season under a coordinator who won't let his many talents rot away on the sideline. Jennings has a much better rapport with Cassel, a veteran he respects, so he's happy that the Ponder experiment is essentially over. Simpson returns on a third consecutive one-year, prove-it deal. If he can ever stay out of trouble off the field, he'd be a dependable asset as a leaper who can stretch the field. Wright is the most underrated player on the team. He's built for the slot, but has deceptive speed and a standout double move that's sneaky. The fifth receiver last year was former quarterback Joe Webb, who left via free agency. The bar isn't high. Smith looks the part, but drops too many passes. Thielen, a practice-squad player as a rookie last year, made greater strides than any other Viking during the offseason. He's a hard worker with speed, good hands and improving body control down the field.
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Julian Edelman, Danny Amendola, Aaron Dobson. Backups -- Brandon LaFell, Josh Boyce, Kenbrell Thompkins, Matthew Slater, Jeremy Gallon, Wilson Van Hooser, Jeremy Johnson, Reese Wiggins.
Edelman re-signed to return as the No. 1 target for his good friend Brady after notching career bests with 105 catches, 1,056 yards and six touchdowns last season. It was the first year he was able to stay healthy in his first five seasons, and also his first chance at regular playing time with the departure of Wes Welker. He took full advantage and if he can stay healthy again is going to catch a lot of balls, even though his ability to carry the offense and make plays down the stretch were an issue last season. While Edelman took advantage of his chances in 2013, Amendola suffered a torn groin in Week 1 and never got on track in his first season after signing a $30 million deal in New England. Despite a career-high 11.7-yard average on his 54 receptions, Amendola was never a consistent playmaker nor a favored target of Brady in 2013. Given his contract, he'll be expected to do more in his second season or his time with the Patriots might not last much longer than that. Dobson had 37 catches for 519 yards and four scores as a rookie second-round pick. He missed the bulk of the offseason after foot surgery, but will certainly be expected to compete for the starting job on the outside and make big strides in his second season. He's likely the team's most talented outside receiver with the potential to make some plays down the field. LaFell was brought aboard through free agency and could compete for a role as a bigger possession receiver and maybe even extra tight end. LaFell had career highs with 49 catches and five touchdowns with the Panthers last fall, but also brings a reputation for too many dropped passes as he tries to build a rapport with Brady, something that got off to a slow start as the veteran missed a big chunk of spring practice to an unknown injury. Thompkins caught 32 passes with four touchdowns as an undrafted rookie last fall and at times almost seemed like one of Brady's top targets. But he battled injury and inconsistency as the year wore on. He had an up-and-down spring and his spot with the team could depend on the health of Dobson and LaFell. Boyce is an intriguing second-year former fourth-round pick with plenty of speed. He never got things going as a rookie after missing time to injury last summer. He only caught nine passes a year ago, but also has the ability to be a kick returner, something the Patriots have lacked save for a couple late-season bursts by Blount. Gallon was a receptions machine at Michigan, but the undersized slot receiver may have a tough time finding a job at that crowded spot as a seventh-round pick with limited speed. Slater is New England's special teams captain and occasional deep threat, but really is a receiver on the roster only and not in terms of planning at the position. Van Hooser, Johnson and Wiggins are all rookie free agents with very limited chances of sticking around past August.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Marques Colston, Kenny Stills. Backups -- Brandin Cooks, Robert Meachem, Nick Toon, Joseph Morgan, Andy Tanner, Charles Hawkins, Brandon Coleman, Seantavius Jones, Steve Hull.
Even though Graham is a big part of the passing attack, Colston remains a big target for Brees. He had 75 catches for 943 yards and five TDs as the top wide receiver target even though his numbers were slightly down because Thomas and Sproles combined for 148 receptions and 1,117 yards. Stills, a fifth-round draft pick, had a nice rookie campaign in averaging 20.0 yards a catch with five on 32 receptions. His numbers should go up with the departure of Lance Moore although Cooks, who could be utilized some in the backfield, will be in the mix as an all-around threat in the slot and out wide. Meachem has lost a step of his deep speed, but is a reliable downfield blocker. Toon hasn't done much in two seasons, but had a solid off-season. He could vie for a roster spot along with Morgan, who is another deep threat if he can overcome injuries.
NEW YORK GIANTS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Victor Cruz, Rueben Randle. Backups -- Odell Beckham Jr., Mario Manningham, Trindon Holliday, Jerrel Jernigan, Julian Talley, Preston Parker, Corey Washington, Marcus Harris.
Ben McAdoo's West Coast offense is going to put more on the shoulders of the receivers, who will have fewer sight adjustments to make and who will get to display their speed by racking up the yards after the catch. Cruz, who's 100 perfect recovered from his season-ending knee injury, will lead the way while the team hopes that Randle and rookie Beckham, the latter of whom was limited this spring due to hamstring issues, can help take some of the pressure off Cruz. Speaking of Randle, he could see time as a slot receiver. With Manningham's status uncertain -- he continues to struggle with his surgically repaired knee -- Holliday has a chance to step up and contribute on offense. Jernigan finished last year strong, but he is not a lock for a roster spot, as he has proven he's not able to contribute on special teams, a role the fourth and fifth receivers would have to show they can handle.
NEW YORK JETS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Eric Decker, Jeremy Kerley. Backups -- David Nelson, Greg Salas, Stephen Hill, Jacoby Ford, Shaq Evans, Quincy Enunwa, Jalen Saunders, Clyde Gates, Saalim Hakim, Michael Campbell.
What is this? An actual set of NFL-caliber wide receivers? Decker may not be a true No. 1, but he provides legitimacy and a reliable set of hands for Smith, especially in the red zone. Kerley, the Jets' top receiver by default the last two years, is a perfectly fine slot receiver, though the Jets likely drafted his replacement this spring in Saunders. Nelson was impressive after being signed off the street last season and is in the lead for No. 3 receiver duties. Hill looked great in the spring, which is no surprise for a player who has always impressed in sweats. But after two disappointing and injury-prone seasons, the former second-round pick faces an uphill battle to beat out the veteran Salas and rookies Evans and Enunwa for the final receiver spots. Ford is likely to contribute solely as an explosive kickoff returner.
OAKLAND RAIDERS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- James Jones, Rod Streater. Backups -- Andre Holmes, Denarius Moore, Juron Criner, Brice Butler, Mike Davis, Greg Little, Greg Jenkins, Seth Roberts, Rashaan Vaughn.
Jones had his two best seasons with the Packers since he began a rigorous offseason training regimen and will discover what life is like without Aaron Rodgers. His steady presence and professionalism will add to the Raiders if he can continue to produce. Streater, with 60 receptions for 888 yards in his second season, continues to improve to the point where the Raiders wonder where his ceiling actually is. Holmes caught 28 passes for 431 yards and was in the regular rotation for the second half of the season. He is the best jump-and-catch target on the roster. Moore caught 46 passes for 695 yards and five touchdowns, but always leaves the coaching staff wanting more, going invisible for long stretches and dropping the occasional pass. Criner, in his third year, needs to display some consistency to stick. Little signed after being cut by Cleveland, where he dropped too many passes. His start in Oakland was promising. Jenkins, a converted college quarterback, has special teams skill and is a developing talent at wide receiver. Butler played early in the season but was surpassed on the depth chart by others by midseason.
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Jeremy Maclin, Riley Cooper. Backups -- Jordan Matthews, Brad Smith, Arrelious Benn, Josh Huff, Will Murphy, Jeff Maehl, Damaris Johnson, Ifeanyi Momah, B.J. Cunningham. Quron Pratt.
The big question with this group is how will they pick up the slack for DeSean Jackson, who was released in March despite coming off an 82-catch, 1,300-yard, nine-touchdown season. Maclin, who caught 258 passes in his first four NFL seasons, sat out all of last year with a torn ACL. If he can make a successful comeback, it will be a huge boost to the offense. He's not quite as fast as Jackson, but is bigger and more consistent, particularly in the red zone. The 6-foot-3, 222-pound Cooper had a breakout season after Maclin got hurt. Time will tell whether he can be just as productive without Jackson drawing the coverage attention. Head coach Chip Kelly's pre-training camp plan is to put the 6-foot-3, rookie second-rounder Matthews in the slot against smaller nickel corners. Matthews is highly intelligent, an outstanding route-runner and has terrific hands. Kelly also is high on Huff, who, like Maehl and Murphy, played for him at Oregon.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Antonio Brown, Markus Wheaton. Backups -- Lance Moore, Martavis Bryant, Justin Brown, Darrius Heyward-Bey, Derek Moye.
During minicamp, offensive coordinator Todd Haley said this receiving corps is "as deep a group as I have ever been around." Brown is a Pro Bowler and is at his best when Roethlisberger gets him in position to run after the catch. Wheaton is an unknown commodity, but he possesses the raw ability to thrive in this offense. Moore, signed as a free agent after spending his first nine seasons with the Saints, is slated to take over in the slot. He was a quick study this spring and developed a good rapport with Roethlisberger. Bryant, at 6-foot-4, is the tall target Roethlisberger has been coveting for years. Look for the Steelers to use him in the red zone. Heyward-Bey, Smith and Moye will battle it out for the fifth receiver spot. Brown, who spent last year on the practice squad, opened some eyes with a very good spring showing.
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Keenan Allen, Malcom Floyd. Backups -- Vincent Brown, Eddie Royal, Seyi Ajirotutu, Tevin Reese, Javontee Herndon, Micha Hatfield, Brelan Chancellor, Torrence Allen.
Allen was the steal of the draft, leading all rookie receivers last year in every significant category despite going in the third round. He'll have to prove his big year wasn't a fluke as defenses will be zeroing in on him this season. Floyd is back from a neck injury and he can supply some balance for Allen and keep some of the defensive heat rolled in his direction. But Floyd has to be on the field, and that has been an issue throughout his career. Brown's progress stalled last year as he and Rivers had difficulties getting on the same page. The team loves his route-running but he needs to be more consistent this season. Ajirotutu gives Rivers the big target he loves downfield; Reese could give Rivers the speed he lacks in his targets on the outside.
SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Anquan Boldin, Michael Crabtree. Backups -- Stevie Johnson, Quinton Patton, Brandon Lloyd, Bruce Ellington, Kassim Osgood, Jon Baldwin, Chuck Jacobs, David Reed, Devon Wylie.
The 49ers spent the offseason upgrading their group of receivers hoping to see far more production than they did last year in the regular season when Crabtree was out after suffering an Achilles injury in OTAs. The passing game was far better in the playoffs with Crabtree back joining Boldin, who had one of the best seasons of his career in his first year in San Francisco. Boldin's 1,179 yards were his best since 2009 in Arizona. Johnson was added from Buffalo in a draft-day trade for a fourth-round pick. San Francisco believes Johnson can give the Seahawks' talented secondary all it can handle given the way he excels at getting off the line of scrimmage against press coverage. Patton made some crucial grabs late in the season after missing most of his rookie year with a fractured foot. The team added Ellington in the fourth round of the draft to compete for the job returning kicks and punts while also working as a slot specialist who shows good speed and acceleration in small spaces.
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Percy Harvin, Doug Baldwin. Backups -- Jermaine Kearse, Paul Richardson, Sidney Rice, Kevin Norwood, Ricardo Lockette, Bryan Walters, Chris Matthews, Arceto Clark, Taylor Price, Phil Bates, Kevin Smith.
While Seattle lost Golden Taint in free agency, many around the team think this unit could be better than it was a year ago. The key is keeping Harvin, who missed all but one regular-season game last year, healthy. So far so good as he was a consistent standout during OTAs and minicamp. Baldwin signed a new three-year deal after catching 50 passes last season and emerging as the team's best third-down threat, and will play more on the outside this year to fill in for Taint. Richardson, the team's first pick in the second round, could emerge as the third starter in three-receiver sets, when Harvin or Baldwin could move inside. Richardson may have the best straight-line speed of any of the receivers who seem a given to make the team. Kearse, an undrafted free agent in 2012, made some of the team's biggest plays of the season in a reserve role and has a rare ability to adjust to the ball in the air. Norwood, a fourth-round pick, appears likely to make the team as a possession-type receiver, a good complement to Richardson's explosiveness. Rice was cut after missing the second half of last season with an ACL injury, then re-signed to a vastly reduced salary. But he appears on track to be healthy for camp, and if so, will be hard to dislodge from a roster spot. But there are lots of intriguing talents behind those players. Lockette may be the fastest player on the roster and came up big on special teams late last season. Matthews, signed out of the CFL, is 6-foot-5 and could be a big-target option if Rice isn't healthy. Walters has some of the best hands on the team and also was getting looks at punt returner during the offseason (as were Harvin and Baldwin).
TAMPA BAY BUCANNEERS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Vincent Jackson, Mike Evans. Backups -- Louis Murphy, Chris Owusu, Lavelle Hawkins, Eric Page.
Jackson and Evans are similar to what McCown had in Chicago with wideouts Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery. Both are tall, explosive, and able to come down with the 50-percent balls that are so critical in the NFL. Murphy had an outstanding offseason and has the inside track on winning the job at slot receiver. Owusu, one of Andrew Luck's favorite targets at Stanford, provides rare 4.4 speed and a player to stretch the field.
TENNESSEE TITANS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Kendall Wright, Justin Hunter. Backups -- Nate Washington, Michael Preston, Marc Mariani, Derek Hagan, Brian Robiskie, Jaz Reynolds, Derel Walker.
Wright has emerged as the best of this group in his two years in the league. Now, Whisenhunt wants to challenge him to take his game to the next level. Somewhat pigeon-holed as a slot receiver, Wright needs to develop as a deep threat, and a receiver down the seam on occasion as well. Hunter is being counted upon to make a big leap after occasional flashes as a rookie, while the steady Washington will still get plenty of work, as the Titans may use three-receiver sets a lot. Behind those three, things are murky, where Preston and Mariani (out two years with injuries) try to fend off journeymen pickups Hagan and Robiskie. Undrafted free agents Reynolds and Walker are long shots and don't rule out a waiver pickup inching someone off the roster following final cuts.
WASHINGTON REDSKINS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Pierre Garcon, DeSean Jackson. Backups -- Andre Roberts, Santana Moss, Leonard Hankerson, Aldrick Robinson, Nick Williams, Ryan Grant, Cody Hoffman, Lee Doss, Rashard Lawrence, Rashad Ross, Jerry Rice, Jr.
After being bothered by a toe injury for most of his Washington debut in 2012, Garcon had a monster 2013. He had at least six catches in all but two games en route to topping Hall of Famer Art Monk's franchise record with 113. Garcon, who thrives on contact in the open field, finished with 1,346 yards despite the lack of an effective receiver opposite him. To remedy that problem, the Redskins signed the speedy Jackson, who had often torn them up while starring for Philadelphia. Jackson scored 43 touchdowns in six seasons with the Eagles (32 on catches, three on runs, four on kickoff returns and four on punt returns).
Before Jackson surprisingly became available because of a falling-out with Eagles coach Chip Kelly, Washington had signed the less volatile Roberts to be its No. 2 receiver. Now Roberts, who was solid as a starter in Arizona in 2011 and 2012, will be the first man off the bench. Moss, Washington's top receiver from 2005-10, will try to hold onto a roster spot at 35 with his savvy and quickness. Hankerson, at 6-foot-2, 210, the Redskins' only experienced big receiver, might not return from knee surgery until well into camp which could affect his chances of making the team for the opener. Robinson averaged 20.8 yards per catch the past two years but hauled in just 29 balls. Williams got into five games as a rookie free agent in 2013 but is unlikely to fend off fifth-rounder Grant, who had a strong spring. Hoffman was the most noticed of the four undrafted rookie wideouts this spring because he's 6-4, but he's not very fast. Rice, the son of the greatest receiver, is just 5-10 and had tryouts with Baltimore and San Francisco before signing with Washington in June 26.
--Frank Cooney, founder and publisher of The Sports Xchange and NFLDraftScout.com, covered the NFL and the draft since the 1960s and is a selector for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
By Frank Cooney,
http://sports.yahoo.com/news/nfl-analysis-megatron-dominates-stats-193037979--nfl.html
As NFL offenses take advantage of favorable rules, wide receivers are bloating their statistics with unprecedented prolific displays across the league, so mere numbers may be a bit deceiving when naming the top pass-catchers in the league.
Two dozen receivers gained more than 1,000 yards last season, but that counts New Orleans tight end Jimmy Graham, who would like to be considered a wide receiver but, for now, is just the best tight end in the game.
Five wide receivers had at least 100 catches and four more were at 90-plus. And 15 starting wideouts averaged at least 16 yards per catch.
Some of these receivers benefitted from great systems or quarterbacks, while others excelled in spite of mediocre quarterbacking or an overall bad offense. All of these players are addressed in this analysis by Sports Xchange reporters covering receivers on every NFL team.
And regardless of what method anyone uses to rate NFL players, there can be no doubt that Calvin Johnson of the Detroit Lions is No. 1. Megatron's talents are so obvious that even the NFL Network's questionable Top 100 got it right.
On Wednesday NFLN revealed Johnson was the top receiver for the third consecutive year and this time No. 2 overall, behind only quarterback Peyton Manning. Johnson was No. 3 overall the previous two years.
Johnson is impossible to stop. He is too big, fast, strong and focused. No single defender can handle him. Usually two or three can't do the job. Unless he slows down, he is on pace to create realistic conversations about challenging Jerry Rice as the best receiver in NFL history.
An attempt to have that conversation on NFL Network Wednesday night created acrimony on the set, with Deion Sanders denying the obvious facts. And this is a conversation that won't go away unless Johnson's career takes a sudden change.
As for the other 14 wide receivers in the NFLN's Top 100, there is plenty of room for question, starting with how the poll itself is handled.
Ballots are distributed in late November and can be filled out into April. And even with all that time, only 481 votes were cast (28 percent of active players). Obviously, there might be differences in perspective between votes in November or April. Furthermore, there is no attempt to balance or report the demographics of these votes -- players per team or conference -- which could account for even more differences.
Still that Top 100 will be widely cited. So for those who want to know the opinions of 481 players who voted somewhere between November and April, here is the results for wide receivers, showing wide receiver ranking/overall ranking
--1st wide receiver/2nd overall: Calvin Johnson, Detroit
--2/9: A. J. Green, Cincinnati
--3/16: Josh Gordon, Cleveland
--4/21: Andre Johnson, Houston (asking for trade)
--5/23: Antonio Brown, Pittsburgh
--6/25: Dez Bryant, Dallas
--7/36: Brandon Marshall, Chicago
--8/38: Larry Fitzgerald, Arizona
--9/44: Vincent Jackson, Tampa Bay
--10/49: Demaryius Thomas, Denver
--11/54: Alshon Jeffery, Chicago
--12/63: DeSean Jackson, Washington
--13/73: Wes Welker (Denver
--14/80: Pierre Garcon Washington
--15/83: Jordy Nelson, Green Bay.
So there's that, for what it's worth. But if you set aside the somewhat misleading, or bloated, stats and seriously ignore that flawed poll, the old-fashioned eyeball test would yield a different list. Just by watching them play, who appears to be the best wide receivers?
After Megatron, the call here would be Bryant of Dallas. His physical abilities are even more astonishing than his meltdowns, which are considerable (although he has reduced them the last two seasons). Usually the only person who can stop Bryant is Bryant himself when he gets all knotted up in frustration. Ah, life with the Cowboys.
Then there are a bunch of outstanding wide receivers who are on about the same level, more or less, led by Mr. Yards After Catch, Gordon of Cleveland, whose off-field issues may prevent him from playing for a spell, if not all season. This group would also include Houston's big Andre Johnson. It was reported Thursday Johnson is asking to be traded and that four teams were immediately interested.
And then there is Jackson, now of Washington, who not only was among the leaders in most of those statistical areas that we are not using in this eyeball test, but whose physical abilities are among the most entertaining in the league. Yet, it is difficult to know where he fits -- evidenced by Philadelphia coach Chip Kelly all but paying Jackson's cab fare out of town on the way to the Redskins. And Jackson will have that, ah, Chip on his shoulder this year that could make him even more interesting to watch.
Here is a closer look at all wide receivers worth mentioning in the NFL, as analyzed by Sports Xchange reporters who cover each team (teams listed alphabetically):
ST. LOUIS RAMS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Kenny Britt, Chris Givens. Backups -- Tavon Austin, Brian Quick, Stedman Bailey, Austin Pettis, T.J. Moe, Emory Blake, Jordan Harris, Austin Franklin, Jamaine Sherman.
Britt could be the wild card in this group. He brought passion and big-play ability to the offseason workouts, and has the ability to be the best receiver on the roster. Givens took a step back after a very good rookie season, and is determined to again be the big-play threat he was in 2012. Austin says he is more comfortable this season after some rookie-season struggles, and he is expected to be used in a variety of ways. This is a crucial season for Quick, who hasn't been consistent in his two seasons with the Rams. The third year is where many receivers start to make an impact, and if Quick doesn't step up, he might never be the player the team thought when he was selected with the first pick of the second round in the 2012 draft. Bailey's progress will be stymied by a suspension that will cost him the first four games of the season. He was coming on late in his rookie season last year, and the suspension comes at an inopportune time. Pettis is written off every year, but then has a strong offseason and manages to win a job in camp. That could happen again thanks to Bailey's suspension, but the question is what happens when Bailey returns. Moe is a local favorite after attending high school in the St. Louis area and excelling at the University of Missouri. However, it will be tough for him to make the roster, although the practice squad is a distinct possibility.
ARIZONA CARDINALS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Larry Fitzgerald, Michael Floyd. Backups -- Ted Ginn Jr., John Brown, Walt Powell, Brittan Golden, Jaron Brown, Kevin Ozier, Kelsey Pope, Dan Buckner.
Fitzgerald finished with fewer than 1,000 yards for the second consecutive year, but he scored 10 touchdowns, six more than in 2012. He hasn't lost anything. Floyd had a breakout season and improved greatly. QB Carson Palmer grew to trust him on deep passes, and Floyd came through. He played through a painful shoulder injury over the last month. The Cardinals added speed through free agency (Ginn) and the draft (Brown). Arians likes both of them and has a history of knowing how to use those types of players. The top four spots seem set. The other one or two are open.
ATLANTA FALCONS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Roddy White, Julio Jones. Backups -- Harry Douglas, Devin Hester, Drew Davis, Darius Johnson, Geraldo Boldewijn, Julian Jones, Freddie Martino, Bernard Reedy, Tramaine Thompson.
Jones, who underwent a complex right foot surgery, has started to run and should be ready for training camp. White suffered a family tragedy, but appears set to carry on. White came on strong down the stretch after he recovered from a high ankle sprain and a hamstring injury. Douglas stepped up and turned in a 1,000-yard season with the top two receivers hobbled. Hester, Johnson and Davis provide some strong depth at the position.
BALTIMORE RAVENS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Steve Smith, Torrey Smith. Backups -- Jacoby Jones, Marlon Brown, Michael Campanaro, Kamar Aiken, Deonte Thompson, LaQuan Williams, Gerrard Sheppard, Jeremy Butler, Jace Davis, Mike Willie.
The addition of Steve Smith should give the Ravens an injection of toughness and experience the team has missed since trading Anquan Boldin. Torrey Smith should have more room to operate with Steve Smith working underneath. Brown is a red-zone threat who led the team in touchdown catches as a rookie. Jones has speed and size working in his favor, but isn't the most well-rounded receiver. Campanaro is an option out of the slot.
BUFFALO BILLS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Sammy Watkins, Mike Williams. Backups -- Robert Woods, Marquise Goodwin, Marcus Easley, T.J. Graham, Kevin Elliott, Chris Hogan, Ramses Barden, Caleb Holley, Cordell Roberson, Chris Summers.
Watkins is expected to be the go-to guy from day one, but wide receiver is a difficult position for rookies to make a huge impact; there's a lot more to it than just running routes and catching the ball. And for as dynamic a player as Watkins is, he ran very simple spread offense routes in college -- quick screens and go routes, primarily -- and he will have to learn how to run the entire route tree, understand coverages, and know when he's the hot receiver in blitz situations. He should be fine, but it won't always be smooth. Williams has talent and you can expect similar production from him that the Bills got from departed Stevie Johnson. Woods and Goodwin will get plenty of time, but guys like Easley and Hogan will make the team more for their special teams work. As for Graham, he might be on the chopping block unless he has a great camp and preseason.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Kelvin Benjamin, Jerricho Cotchery. Backups -- Jason Avant, Brenton Bersin, Philly Brown, Toney Clemons, Tavarres King, Marcus Lucas, Marvin McNutt, Kealoha Pilares, De'Andre Presley, Tiquan Underwood.
Folks on the outside continue to ridicule this group, but some believe they are better than last year's lot. The 6-foot-5 Benjamin gives Newton a badly-needed red-zone threat, as does Cotchery, who scored 10 touchdowns with the Steelers in 2013. It is hard to see a No. 1 guy on the list. Benjamin could fill the role eventually, but he will have rookie growing pains. Bersin, King and McNutt will get a chance, and the coaches hope at least one emerges as a legit player.
CHICAGO BEARS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery. Backups -- Marquess Wilson, Josh Bellamy, Josh Morgan, Terrence Tolliver, Eric Weems, Chris Williams, Armanti Edwards, Micheal Spurlock.
The Marshall-Jeffery threat for receiving, athleticism and ability to run with the ball afterward is difficult for any team to match. Only Houston's Andre Johnson (221) has more catches among NFL receivers than Marshall (218) has had since he became a Bear in 2012. The expectation for Marshall and Jeffery both in a second year within this offense is more open catches downfield and less reliance on their ability to make leaping catches in a crowd. Much of this will depend on Cutler and his offensive line. Beyond these two, the Bears are in trouble. Wilson has added 10 pounds and is much stronger, but has one career catch and no idea how to beat NFL defensive backs consistently. He's also more a long strider and not the choppy-stepped, good-hands, power type who seems a better fit in the slot. Between those three, there is no Olympic-speed class of receiver, although all three have good speed. Morgan, Bellamy and Williams have shown some ability, but none are sure-handed. Edwards and Spurlock are on the roster more as special teams players. Weems often looks the best among all those fighting for the No. 3 and No. 4 spot in practices because of his experience in the league and the system.
CINCINNATI BENGALS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- A.J. Green, Marvin Jones, Mohamed Sanu. Backups -- Dane Sanzenbacher, Cobi Hamilton, Brandon Taint, Ryan Whalen, James Wright, Jasper Collins, Colin Lockett, Alex Nuetz.
Green caught more passes in his first three seasons than any other receiver in NFL history and only Randy Moss gained more yards in his first three years. Green's no secret; the others around him provide the intrigue. Expect Jones to be the Day 1 starter opposite Green attempting to build on his 10 touchdowns last year. Sanu, who lost the No. 2 job to Jones, will be more streamlined in his role as the slot receiver, his natural position, backed up by Sanzenbacher. A battle at the back end of the room will be waged between Whalen, Wright, Hamilton and Taint. If the Bengals can find another alternative as a kickoff returner, Taint could be expendable because he's never been able to break through as a receiver during his three years in Cincinnati.
CLEVELAND BROWNS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Josh Gordon, Nate Burleson. Backups -- Miles Austin, Andrew Hawkins, Anthony Armstrong, Travis Benjamin, Kenny Shaw, Taylor Gabriel, Charles Johnson, Willie Snead, Chandler Jones, Jonathan Krause, Conner Vernon.
Until the Browns hear otherwise, which they undoubtedly will, Gordon is on the active roster. He reportedly tested positive for marijuana and was then charged with a DUI just last week. But Browns expect to know Gordon's fate before the start of training camp. He faces an indefinite ban for a third offense. It would be a huge loss to the offense because he led the NFL with 1,646 receiving yards last year. The battle for starting jobs will be closely watched in training camp if Gordon, as expected, is banished. Austin, Burleson and Hawkins all figure to play prominent roles, yet all three are coming off injury-plagued seasons in 2013. Ditto for Benjamin, who might begin camp on PUP as he continues his recovery from a torn ACL. Johnson is also recovering from a knee injury. Armstrong was out of football last year, but he has an advantage because he played in Shanahan's offense with the Redskins. Jones showed in minicamp he can catch the deep pass. The Browns could have a decent receiving corps if each player lives up to his potential, but that might be a lot to ask.
DALLAS COWBOYS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Dez Bryant, Terrance Williams. Backups -- Cole Beasley, Dwayne Harris, Devin Street, Tim Benford, Chris Boyd, LaRon Byrd, Jamar Newsome, L'Danian Washington.
The sky is the limit for Bryant, who is only poised to get better after catching 93 passes for 1,233 yards and 13 touchdowns in earning his first Pro Bowl invitation last season. Williams takes over full time at receiver opposite Bryant with Miles Austin released in the offseason. But it will not represent much of a change as Williams took over the job last season with Austin out with injury. Williams, a 2013 third-round pick, caught 44 passes for 736 yards and five touchdowns. He has looked comfortable in the offseason in his permanent role, which should bode well for the Cowboys. Look for Dwayne Harris and Cole Beasley to handle the inside receiver roles on third down. The Cowboys have big plans for Beasley and he will be an integral part of the offense. They like the big-play ability of rookie fifth-round pick Devin Street. He looked like he belonged in OTAs and minicamp and could play his way into a role in training camp.
DENVER BRONCOS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Demaryius Thomas, Wes Welker, Emmanuel Sanders. Backups -- Andre Caldwell, Cody Latimer, Isaiah Burse, Bennie Fowler, Greg Hardin, Jordan Norwood, Greg Wilson, Nathan Palmer.
The present and future are firmly in place. The starting trio of the present should be among the league's most explosive units, even without free-agent departure Eric Decker. General manager John Elway wants to get a long-term deal done with Thomas before training camp; he and free-agent pickup Sanders are the future, along with Latimer, a big, talented second-round pick who displayed a flair for athletic, leaping catches during OTAs. Welker is the present; he's in the last year of his two-year contract, and suffered a pair of concussions in 2013. Caldwell is the experienced backup, and Burse, a rookie who received the biggest bonus of the Broncos' undrafted class, is a potential slot receiver of the future and the likely kickoff and punt returner of the present.
DETROIT LIONS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Calvin Johnson, Golden Taint. Backups -- Ryan Broyles, Jeremy Ross, Kris Durham, Kevin Ogletree, Patrick Edwards, T.J. Jones, Corey Fuller, Naaman Roosevelt, Cody Wilson, Andrew Peacock.
Taint is a massive upgrade over the No. 2 receivers Johnson has played with during his career, and the former Seahawks receiver will have no problem finding open space. Behind them, though, the cupboard is mostly bare unless Broyles recovers well from his Achilles injury. Ross is the sleeper of the group, and Jones and Fuller -- sixth-round picks the last two seasons -- are likely battling for the same spot.
GREEN BAY PACKERS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Jordy Nelson, Randall Cobb. Backups -- Jarrett Boykin, Davante Adams, Jared Abbrederis, Jeff Janis, Myles White, Chris Harper, Kevin Dorsey, Alex Gillett.
Anticipation is the Packers could have some big news before the pads come on for opening day of training camp July 26 -- perhaps a double dose of it. The dynamic duo of seventh-year Nelson and fourth-year Cobb are ripe for lucrative contract extensions as they head into the final year of their respective deals. Nelson is overdue for his first Pro Bowl nod, coming off a career-best season of 92 receptions for more than 1,375 yards and nine touchdowns (including the playoffs). The versatile Cobb recovered in time from a significant leg injury he sustained in the fifth game last season to be on the receiving end of the unforgettable fourth-down heave from Aaron Rodgers for a 48-yard touchdown in the final minute that lifted the Packers to the NFC North-clinching win at Chicago. What shakes out between those two starters will be compelling to watch throughout camp. Three or four spots should come down to ascending third-year player Boykin (49 catches, three touchdowns last season), the drafted rookie trio of Adams (second round), Abbrederis (fifth) and Janis (seventh), and second-year holdovers White and Harper, the latter of whom suffered a hamstring injury during organized team activities in May.
HOUSTON TEXANS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Andre Johnson, DeAndre Hopkins. Backups -- DeVier Posey, Keshawn Martin, Alan Bonner, Mike Thomas, Alex Lemon, EZ Nwachukwu, Localtan Bester, Travis Labhart, Anthony McClung, Kofi Hughes.
Johnson missed all the spring workouts and on Thursday it was reported he wanted to be traded which was quickly followed by information that four teams were already interested. If the Oakland Raiders aren't one, then somebody is asleep at the switch. The Texans traded Johnson's longtime battery mate, quarterback Matt Schaub, to the Raiders in March and, for now, the starting quarterback in Houston is Ryan Fitzpatrick, with local hero Case Keenum and strong-armed rookie Tom Savage fighting for the backup job. Johnson has three years and $31.5 million in base salary left on his contract but does not want to be part of another rebuilding project. If he stays healthy, he should have a third consecutive outstanding season. He turns 33 July 11, but deep speed was never his game, so losing a step won't be as noticeable.
Watch Hopkins, last year's first-round pick, take a big step forward. He is a hard worker who's acrobatic and, like Johnson, not a deep threat. Posey took advantage of Johnson's absence to get more reps during the offseason and impressed the coaches. He's a season removed from surgery on an Achilles tendon and could be a breakout player if he gets playing time on the outside. Martin is the team's best slot receiver because he can work the middle of the field. Thomas is a crafty veteran who'll compete for a spot on the team. Bonner, who spent his rookie season on injured reserve, has deep speed and some elusiveness, but he could get caught up in a numbers game.
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Reggie Wayne, T.Y. Hilton, Hakeem Nicks. Backups -- Ryan Lankford, Josh Lenz, Donte Moncrief, Greg Moore, Da'Rick Rogers, Eric Thomas, Tony Washington, Griff Whalen.
Wayne should be good to go when training camp starts after missing most of last year with a knee injury. Hilton continues to get better and is one of the most impressive young receivers in the league. Nicks is looking for redemption after a down year with the Giants in 2013. Moncrief looked good in offseason work and is expected to be in the rotation. The question now is who will ultimately emerge from a group that consists of Rogers and Whalen to be the final receiver on the roster. Rogers has outstanding skills and size but consistency remains an issue. Whalen knows the offense inside and out. LaVon Brazill was expected to compete, but he will miss the entire season because of a league suspension for substance abuse.
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Cecil Shorts, Allen Robinson, Marqise Lee. Backups -- Mike Brown, Allen Hurns, Ace Sanders, Kerry Taylor, Tandon Doss, Chad Bumphis, Lamaar Thomas, Damian Copeland, Nathan Slaughter.
It's hard to call Robinson and Lee starters as the two rookie receivers missed most of the OTAs and all of the team's minicamp with injuries. The injuries do not appear to be of a serious nature, though Robinson's injury was a hamstring that could come back to limit him in the early going of training camp. The concern was and still is, that the second-round picks missed out on valuable practice time getting comfortable with Henne. Their mishaps opened the door for veterans like Brown, Sanders and Doss to get a foot-hold on a starting position, but they were also on the sidelines much of the time and lost out on such an opportunity. At one point, the Jaguars' top seven receivers were all watching the action as spectators. The four or five receivers left to work with Henne are far down the depth chart with only Taylor likely to have a chance to make the team. Even team leader Shorts was sidelined with a calf injury and after missing time the last two seasons with concussion and groin injuries, Shorts needs to be on the field in this his contract year.
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Dwayne Bowe, Donnie Avery. Backups -- Junior Hemingway, A.J. Jenkins, Weston Dressler, Kyle Williams, Frankie Hammond, Jerrell Jackson, Fred Williams, Albert Wilson, Darryl Surgent, Deon Anthony, Mark Harrison.
Most observers considered wide receiver the biggest need for the Chiefs going into the 2014 season. But they did not address the position like they were worried, not making a big free-agent signing or using a draft choice for a receiver. Dressler was signed out of the Canadian Football League, but he's a diminutive slot-type receiver, unlikely to be able to handle a full game in the offense. The Chiefs will continue to seek more production out of Bowe and Avery; they combined last year for 110 catches, fewer receptions than league-leader Pierre Garcon (113.) They had 1,184 yards, or fewer than 15 individual receivers and their seven touchdown catches were far from the 16 league-leader Jimmy Graham put on the scoreboard.
MIAMI DOLPHINS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Mike Wallace, Brian Hartline, Brandon Gibson. Backups -- Jarvis Landry, Rishard Matthews, Armon Binns, Marcus Thigpen, Damian Williams, Kevin Cone, Gerald Ford, Stephen Williams, Matt Hazel, Rantavious Wooten, Ryan Spadola.
This is a reliable veteran unit that could blow up into a playmaking unit. One key is Wallace (73 receptions, 930 yards, five touchdowns). His ability to connect with QB Ryan Tannehill on the deep ball would give this offense the element it's lacked for years. Hartline (1,016 yards) has had back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons. And if Gibson (knee) can stay healthy, he'll prove valuable as a slot receiver. Landry seems to be a playmaker and could add a dynamic element from the slot or outside. Matthews could provide even more quality depth.
MINNESOTA VIKINGS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Cordarrelle Patterson, Greg Jennings. Backups -- Jerome Simpson, Jarius Wright, Rodney Smith, Adam Thielen, Kamar Jorden, Kain Colter, Donte Foster, Erik Lora.
Patterson should follow his All-Pro kickoff return season with a breakout offensive season under a coordinator who won't let his many talents rot away on the sideline. Jennings has a much better rapport with Cassel, a veteran he respects, so he's happy that the Ponder experiment is essentially over. Simpson returns on a third consecutive one-year, prove-it deal. If he can ever stay out of trouble off the field, he'd be a dependable asset as a leaper who can stretch the field. Wright is the most underrated player on the team. He's built for the slot, but has deceptive speed and a standout double move that's sneaky. The fifth receiver last year was former quarterback Joe Webb, who left via free agency. The bar isn't high. Smith looks the part, but drops too many passes. Thielen, a practice-squad player as a rookie last year, made greater strides than any other Viking during the offseason. He's a hard worker with speed, good hands and improving body control down the field.
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Julian Edelman, Danny Amendola, Aaron Dobson. Backups -- Brandon LaFell, Josh Boyce, Kenbrell Thompkins, Matthew Slater, Jeremy Gallon, Wilson Van Hooser, Jeremy Johnson, Reese Wiggins.
Edelman re-signed to return as the No. 1 target for his good friend Brady after notching career bests with 105 catches, 1,056 yards and six touchdowns last season. It was the first year he was able to stay healthy in his first five seasons, and also his first chance at regular playing time with the departure of Wes Welker. He took full advantage and if he can stay healthy again is going to catch a lot of balls, even though his ability to carry the offense and make plays down the stretch were an issue last season. While Edelman took advantage of his chances in 2013, Amendola suffered a torn groin in Week 1 and never got on track in his first season after signing a $30 million deal in New England. Despite a career-high 11.7-yard average on his 54 receptions, Amendola was never a consistent playmaker nor a favored target of Brady in 2013. Given his contract, he'll be expected to do more in his second season or his time with the Patriots might not last much longer than that. Dobson had 37 catches for 519 yards and four scores as a rookie second-round pick. He missed the bulk of the offseason after foot surgery, but will certainly be expected to compete for the starting job on the outside and make big strides in his second season. He's likely the team's most talented outside receiver with the potential to make some plays down the field. LaFell was brought aboard through free agency and could compete for a role as a bigger possession receiver and maybe even extra tight end. LaFell had career highs with 49 catches and five touchdowns with the Panthers last fall, but also brings a reputation for too many dropped passes as he tries to build a rapport with Brady, something that got off to a slow start as the veteran missed a big chunk of spring practice to an unknown injury. Thompkins caught 32 passes with four touchdowns as an undrafted rookie last fall and at times almost seemed like one of Brady's top targets. But he battled injury and inconsistency as the year wore on. He had an up-and-down spring and his spot with the team could depend on the health of Dobson and LaFell. Boyce is an intriguing second-year former fourth-round pick with plenty of speed. He never got things going as a rookie after missing time to injury last summer. He only caught nine passes a year ago, but also has the ability to be a kick returner, something the Patriots have lacked save for a couple late-season bursts by Blount. Gallon was a receptions machine at Michigan, but the undersized slot receiver may have a tough time finding a job at that crowded spot as a seventh-round pick with limited speed. Slater is New England's special teams captain and occasional deep threat, but really is a receiver on the roster only and not in terms of planning at the position. Van Hooser, Johnson and Wiggins are all rookie free agents with very limited chances of sticking around past August.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Marques Colston, Kenny Stills. Backups -- Brandin Cooks, Robert Meachem, Nick Toon, Joseph Morgan, Andy Tanner, Charles Hawkins, Brandon Coleman, Seantavius Jones, Steve Hull.
Even though Graham is a big part of the passing attack, Colston remains a big target for Brees. He had 75 catches for 943 yards and five TDs as the top wide receiver target even though his numbers were slightly down because Thomas and Sproles combined for 148 receptions and 1,117 yards. Stills, a fifth-round draft pick, had a nice rookie campaign in averaging 20.0 yards a catch with five on 32 receptions. His numbers should go up with the departure of Lance Moore although Cooks, who could be utilized some in the backfield, will be in the mix as an all-around threat in the slot and out wide. Meachem has lost a step of his deep speed, but is a reliable downfield blocker. Toon hasn't done much in two seasons, but had a solid off-season. He could vie for a roster spot along with Morgan, who is another deep threat if he can overcome injuries.
NEW YORK GIANTS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Victor Cruz, Rueben Randle. Backups -- Odell Beckham Jr., Mario Manningham, Trindon Holliday, Jerrel Jernigan, Julian Talley, Preston Parker, Corey Washington, Marcus Harris.
Ben McAdoo's West Coast offense is going to put more on the shoulders of the receivers, who will have fewer sight adjustments to make and who will get to display their speed by racking up the yards after the catch. Cruz, who's 100 perfect recovered from his season-ending knee injury, will lead the way while the team hopes that Randle and rookie Beckham, the latter of whom was limited this spring due to hamstring issues, can help take some of the pressure off Cruz. Speaking of Randle, he could see time as a slot receiver. With Manningham's status uncertain -- he continues to struggle with his surgically repaired knee -- Holliday has a chance to step up and contribute on offense. Jernigan finished last year strong, but he is not a lock for a roster spot, as he has proven he's not able to contribute on special teams, a role the fourth and fifth receivers would have to show they can handle.
NEW YORK JETS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Eric Decker, Jeremy Kerley. Backups -- David Nelson, Greg Salas, Stephen Hill, Jacoby Ford, Shaq Evans, Quincy Enunwa, Jalen Saunders, Clyde Gates, Saalim Hakim, Michael Campbell.
What is this? An actual set of NFL-caliber wide receivers? Decker may not be a true No. 1, but he provides legitimacy and a reliable set of hands for Smith, especially in the red zone. Kerley, the Jets' top receiver by default the last two years, is a perfectly fine slot receiver, though the Jets likely drafted his replacement this spring in Saunders. Nelson was impressive after being signed off the street last season and is in the lead for No. 3 receiver duties. Hill looked great in the spring, which is no surprise for a player who has always impressed in sweats. But after two disappointing and injury-prone seasons, the former second-round pick faces an uphill battle to beat out the veteran Salas and rookies Evans and Enunwa for the final receiver spots. Ford is likely to contribute solely as an explosive kickoff returner.
OAKLAND RAIDERS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- James Jones, Rod Streater. Backups -- Andre Holmes, Denarius Moore, Juron Criner, Brice Butler, Mike Davis, Greg Little, Greg Jenkins, Seth Roberts, Rashaan Vaughn.
Jones had his two best seasons with the Packers since he began a rigorous offseason training regimen and will discover what life is like without Aaron Rodgers. His steady presence and professionalism will add to the Raiders if he can continue to produce. Streater, with 60 receptions for 888 yards in his second season, continues to improve to the point where the Raiders wonder where his ceiling actually is. Holmes caught 28 passes for 431 yards and was in the regular rotation for the second half of the season. He is the best jump-and-catch target on the roster. Moore caught 46 passes for 695 yards and five touchdowns, but always leaves the coaching staff wanting more, going invisible for long stretches and dropping the occasional pass. Criner, in his third year, needs to display some consistency to stick. Little signed after being cut by Cleveland, where he dropped too many passes. His start in Oakland was promising. Jenkins, a converted college quarterback, has special teams skill and is a developing talent at wide receiver. Butler played early in the season but was surpassed on the depth chart by others by midseason.
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Jeremy Maclin, Riley Cooper. Backups -- Jordan Matthews, Brad Smith, Arrelious Benn, Josh Huff, Will Murphy, Jeff Maehl, Damaris Johnson, Ifeanyi Momah, B.J. Cunningham. Quron Pratt.
The big question with this group is how will they pick up the slack for DeSean Jackson, who was released in March despite coming off an 82-catch, 1,300-yard, nine-touchdown season. Maclin, who caught 258 passes in his first four NFL seasons, sat out all of last year with a torn ACL. If he can make a successful comeback, it will be a huge boost to the offense. He's not quite as fast as Jackson, but is bigger and more consistent, particularly in the red zone. The 6-foot-3, 222-pound Cooper had a breakout season after Maclin got hurt. Time will tell whether he can be just as productive without Jackson drawing the coverage attention. Head coach Chip Kelly's pre-training camp plan is to put the 6-foot-3, rookie second-rounder Matthews in the slot against smaller nickel corners. Matthews is highly intelligent, an outstanding route-runner and has terrific hands. Kelly also is high on Huff, who, like Maehl and Murphy, played for him at Oregon.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Antonio Brown, Markus Wheaton. Backups -- Lance Moore, Martavis Bryant, Justin Brown, Darrius Heyward-Bey, Derek Moye.
During minicamp, offensive coordinator Todd Haley said this receiving corps is "as deep a group as I have ever been around." Brown is a Pro Bowler and is at his best when Roethlisberger gets him in position to run after the catch. Wheaton is an unknown commodity, but he possesses the raw ability to thrive in this offense. Moore, signed as a free agent after spending his first nine seasons with the Saints, is slated to take over in the slot. He was a quick study this spring and developed a good rapport with Roethlisberger. Bryant, at 6-foot-4, is the tall target Roethlisberger has been coveting for years. Look for the Steelers to use him in the red zone. Heyward-Bey, Smith and Moye will battle it out for the fifth receiver spot. Brown, who spent last year on the practice squad, opened some eyes with a very good spring showing.
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Keenan Allen, Malcom Floyd. Backups -- Vincent Brown, Eddie Royal, Seyi Ajirotutu, Tevin Reese, Javontee Herndon, Micha Hatfield, Brelan Chancellor, Torrence Allen.
Allen was the steal of the draft, leading all rookie receivers last year in every significant category despite going in the third round. He'll have to prove his big year wasn't a fluke as defenses will be zeroing in on him this season. Floyd is back from a neck injury and he can supply some balance for Allen and keep some of the defensive heat rolled in his direction. But Floyd has to be on the field, and that has been an issue throughout his career. Brown's progress stalled last year as he and Rivers had difficulties getting on the same page. The team loves his route-running but he needs to be more consistent this season. Ajirotutu gives Rivers the big target he loves downfield; Reese could give Rivers the speed he lacks in his targets on the outside.
SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Anquan Boldin, Michael Crabtree. Backups -- Stevie Johnson, Quinton Patton, Brandon Lloyd, Bruce Ellington, Kassim Osgood, Jon Baldwin, Chuck Jacobs, David Reed, Devon Wylie.
The 49ers spent the offseason upgrading their group of receivers hoping to see far more production than they did last year in the regular season when Crabtree was out after suffering an Achilles injury in OTAs. The passing game was far better in the playoffs with Crabtree back joining Boldin, who had one of the best seasons of his career in his first year in San Francisco. Boldin's 1,179 yards were his best since 2009 in Arizona. Johnson was added from Buffalo in a draft-day trade for a fourth-round pick. San Francisco believes Johnson can give the Seahawks' talented secondary all it can handle given the way he excels at getting off the line of scrimmage against press coverage. Patton made some crucial grabs late in the season after missing most of his rookie year with a fractured foot. The team added Ellington in the fourth round of the draft to compete for the job returning kicks and punts while also working as a slot specialist who shows good speed and acceleration in small spaces.
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Percy Harvin, Doug Baldwin. Backups -- Jermaine Kearse, Paul Richardson, Sidney Rice, Kevin Norwood, Ricardo Lockette, Bryan Walters, Chris Matthews, Arceto Clark, Taylor Price, Phil Bates, Kevin Smith.
While Seattle lost Golden Taint in free agency, many around the team think this unit could be better than it was a year ago. The key is keeping Harvin, who missed all but one regular-season game last year, healthy. So far so good as he was a consistent standout during OTAs and minicamp. Baldwin signed a new three-year deal after catching 50 passes last season and emerging as the team's best third-down threat, and will play more on the outside this year to fill in for Taint. Richardson, the team's first pick in the second round, could emerge as the third starter in three-receiver sets, when Harvin or Baldwin could move inside. Richardson may have the best straight-line speed of any of the receivers who seem a given to make the team. Kearse, an undrafted free agent in 2012, made some of the team's biggest plays of the season in a reserve role and has a rare ability to adjust to the ball in the air. Norwood, a fourth-round pick, appears likely to make the team as a possession-type receiver, a good complement to Richardson's explosiveness. Rice was cut after missing the second half of last season with an ACL injury, then re-signed to a vastly reduced salary. But he appears on track to be healthy for camp, and if so, will be hard to dislodge from a roster spot. But there are lots of intriguing talents behind those players. Lockette may be the fastest player on the roster and came up big on special teams late last season. Matthews, signed out of the CFL, is 6-foot-5 and could be a big-target option if Rice isn't healthy. Walters has some of the best hands on the team and also was getting looks at punt returner during the offseason (as were Harvin and Baldwin).
TAMPA BAY BUCANNEERS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Vincent Jackson, Mike Evans. Backups -- Louis Murphy, Chris Owusu, Lavelle Hawkins, Eric Page.
Jackson and Evans are similar to what McCown had in Chicago with wideouts Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery. Both are tall, explosive, and able to come down with the 50-percent balls that are so critical in the NFL. Murphy had an outstanding offseason and has the inside track on winning the job at slot receiver. Owusu, one of Andrew Luck's favorite targets at Stanford, provides rare 4.4 speed and a player to stretch the field.
TENNESSEE TITANS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Kendall Wright, Justin Hunter. Backups -- Nate Washington, Michael Preston, Marc Mariani, Derek Hagan, Brian Robiskie, Jaz Reynolds, Derel Walker.
Wright has emerged as the best of this group in his two years in the league. Now, Whisenhunt wants to challenge him to take his game to the next level. Somewhat pigeon-holed as a slot receiver, Wright needs to develop as a deep threat, and a receiver down the seam on occasion as well. Hunter is being counted upon to make a big leap after occasional flashes as a rookie, while the steady Washington will still get plenty of work, as the Titans may use three-receiver sets a lot. Behind those three, things are murky, where Preston and Mariani (out two years with injuries) try to fend off journeymen pickups Hagan and Robiskie. Undrafted free agents Reynolds and Walker are long shots and don't rule out a waiver pickup inching someone off the roster following final cuts.
WASHINGTON REDSKINS
--WIDE RECEIVERS: Starters -- Pierre Garcon, DeSean Jackson. Backups -- Andre Roberts, Santana Moss, Leonard Hankerson, Aldrick Robinson, Nick Williams, Ryan Grant, Cody Hoffman, Lee Doss, Rashard Lawrence, Rashad Ross, Jerry Rice, Jr.
After being bothered by a toe injury for most of his Washington debut in 2012, Garcon had a monster 2013. He had at least six catches in all but two games en route to topping Hall of Famer Art Monk's franchise record with 113. Garcon, who thrives on contact in the open field, finished with 1,346 yards despite the lack of an effective receiver opposite him. To remedy that problem, the Redskins signed the speedy Jackson, who had often torn them up while starring for Philadelphia. Jackson scored 43 touchdowns in six seasons with the Eagles (32 on catches, three on runs, four on kickoff returns and four on punt returns).
Before Jackson surprisingly became available because of a falling-out with Eagles coach Chip Kelly, Washington had signed the less volatile Roberts to be its No. 2 receiver. Now Roberts, who was solid as a starter in Arizona in 2011 and 2012, will be the first man off the bench. Moss, Washington's top receiver from 2005-10, will try to hold onto a roster spot at 35 with his savvy and quickness. Hankerson, at 6-foot-2, 210, the Redskins' only experienced big receiver, might not return from knee surgery until well into camp which could affect his chances of making the team for the opener. Robinson averaged 20.8 yards per catch the past two years but hauled in just 29 balls. Williams got into five games as a rookie free agent in 2013 but is unlikely to fend off fifth-rounder Grant, who had a strong spring. Hoffman was the most noticed of the four undrafted rookie wideouts this spring because he's 6-4, but he's not very fast. Rice, the son of the greatest receiver, is just 5-10 and had tryouts with Baltimore and San Francisco before signing with Washington in June 26.
--Frank Cooney, founder and publisher of The Sports Xchange and NFLDraftScout.com, covered the NFL and the draft since the 1960s and is a selector for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
