espn top recievers - BMarsh # 14

[mikeauran]

1. Randy Moss
New England Patriots
Moss proved last season that his two-year lull in Oakland was an aberration, catching an NFL-record 23 TDs. On the Raiders, Moss lacked a quarterback who could consistently get him the ball, Obviously, that's no longer the case. Moss is no longer a sub-4.3 guy, but he can run sub-4.5. What separates him from almost every other wide receiver on this list is his ability to outjump any defensive back in the NFL. When you're 6-4, that's a huge advantage.

2. Terrell Owens
Dallas Cowboys
Like Moss, Owens does not seem to be slowed by age. The 34-year-old has never been a speed guy, but he remains one of the more physical receivers in the game. Owens has improved his route-running skills, which is the main reason his game has not fallen off. A negative: He had 10 drops last season, according to Stats LLC, tied for third in the NFL. In 2006, he led the NFL in drops with 17, according to Stats.

3. Steve Smith
Carolina Panthers
Even though his numbers dipped slightly in 2007 (87 catches, 1,002 yards, 7 TDs), you could make a case for Smith being the best receiver in the NFL. Smith, who suffered from poor quarterback play last season, is still the most explosive playmaker in the game. He has great speed and excellent run-after-catch ability.

4. Andre Johnson
Houston Texans
Johnson is big (6-3, 219), physical, runs solid routes and makes plays. In terms of physical tools, he is every bit as good as the three guys in front of him. He may have been overlooked in the past because of poor quarterback play (see David Carr 2003-06) but should improve as he works more with Matt Schaub. Johnson's numbers last season (60 catches, 851 yards) would have been more impressive if he had not missed seven games with an injury.

5. Reggie Wayne
Indianapolis Colts
The only real knock on Wayne is that he has always been 1B to Marvin Harrison, who was 1A. That's no longer the case as he is Peyton Manning's top option now. Wayne has sneaky speed, which can catch a corner off guard. He has a great feel for Indianapolis' system and the ability to find holes in a defense.

6. Larry Fitzgerald
Arizona Cardinals
There are always debates over who is the Cardinals' No. 1 receiver. We feel that player is Fitzgerald in large part because his counterpart, Anquan Boldin, has been unable to consistently get open. Fitzgerald does not have big-time speed, but he has great hands and knows how to use his size (6-3, 226) to separate from a defender.

7. Braylon Edwards
Cleveland Browns
After some early growing pains, Edwards has been as good as advertised. Edwards, who had nine touchdown catches in his first two seasons, had 16 in 2007. He has matured on and off the field, a big reason he has become one of the premier receivers in the game. One negative: He tied for the league lead (with Colts TE Dallas Clark) with drops with 12, according to Stats LLC.

8. Chad Johnson
Cincinnati Bengals
Johnson can rub people the wrong way with his antics, but teammate TJ Houshmandazedah would not be nearly as productive without Ocho Cinco commanding the attention he does. He is a major deep threat and terrific route runner. While he is not great after the catch and doesn't play an especially physical brand of football, Johnson is still an elite wideout. Although he seemed to have a quiet 2007, he had his best season for receiving yards (1,440) and caught 93 passes, the third-highest total of his career.

9. Plaxico Burress
New York Giants
The talent has never been a question. The work ethic and inconsistency have. That changed in 2007 when, despite missing many practices with ankle and knee injuries, Burress was able to step up on game day and deliver for the Super Bowl champs. His size (6-5) is special. Even slowed by the ankle last season, he was regularly able to outjump defenders.

10. Torry Holt
St. Louis Rams
His speed and quickness are not what they once were, but like the other receivers above him who are getting older, he just knows how to play the game. What we love about Holt is his ability to consistently find the open area in a zone. He is still a good enough route runner to turn a defensive back inside out. He is on the downside of his career, but that won't stop him from giving us a little more magic.

11. Anquan Boldin
Arizona Cardinals
If Owens is the most physical receiver in the game, Boldin is second. He runs defenders over with the ball in his hands. He makes up for his lack of speed by bullying smaller defensive backs to create separation. He plays with a ton of passion, something we love. Teammate Larry Fitzgerald, however, has surpassed him as the best receiver on the team.

12. Roy Williams
Detroit Lions
He is a little more talkative than we would like, but he plays the game with passion. He plays hard whether his team is winning or losing. Williams has matured as a route runner and is willing to go inside to do the dirty work. Expect a huge 2008 with free agency looming at the end of the season.

13. Marvin Harrison
Indianapolis Colts
Even though Harrison had an injury-riddled 2007, he is still can be productive. The question is for how long. Harrison missed 11 games with a knee injury last season and was a non-factor in the Colts' playoff loss to the Chargers. He no longer is the Colts' No. 1 receiver -- that job belongs to Reggie Wayne. This will be a crossroads season for the future Hall of Famer. When healthy, Harrison is an excellent route runner who can still excel on all three levels in the passing game.

14. Brandon Marshall
Denver Broncos
Marshall is one of the best young receivers in the NFL. He is a big, physical receiver (6-4, 230) who places a lot of pressure on a secondary. He has the strength to separate off the line of scrimmage and the speed to attack all levels. He has strong, soft hands and is one of the best in the NFL after the catch.

[bronco militia]

that's a fair list

[Gcver2ver3]

i'm okay with this....

it's too early for them to crown B-Marsh as a top 5-10 WR right now...

but i truly believe B-Marsh is top 5 calibur right now and that others will recognize this by this season's end...

B-Marsh is a friggin monster...

give it time...

[rugbythug]

assuming he doesn't catch the Watts claw now

[kmonty]

Harrison way too low, IMO. One bad injury shouldn't be enough to drop him from top 3 to 13.

[El Guapo]

lol

[Beantown Bronco]

Harrison way too low, IMO. One bad injury shouldn't be enough to drop him from top 3 to 13.

When you're going to turn 36 before the season starts and you are coming off the most serious injury you've ever had, I don't think it's unrealistic to drop him to #13. Who on that list do you expect him to outperform next year? Maybe one or two guys, but then you'll also have at least one or two young guys (like Marshall) most likely leap-frogging him, so any potential movement back up the list would be negated.

I have a hard time expecting Harrison to finish in the top 10 this coming season, and that is what they are trying to determine.

[crowebomber]

Andre Johnson is way too high in my opinion. He's a guy with a lot of potential, but got hurt last year when he started putting up monster numbers. Dude has still only had just one 1,000 yard season.

[mikeauran]

Here is the whole list. it is long they rated the top 64. Stokley is # 58




There are so many questions and factors that needed to taken into account in ranking the NFL's top 64 receivers. For example:

What kind of numbers would Carolina's Steve Smith put up if he had Tom Brady or Peyton Manning slinging it to him every Sunday instead of Jake Delhomme? And what about Buffalo's Lee Evans, who has never had a proven, consistent QB throwing him the ball?

How do you judge Jerry Porter, a talented receiver who left the offensively challenged Raiders for the Jaguars in free agency? Will he see a revival now that he has escaped the Black Hole and is with a contender?

Where do you rank young up-and-comers Brandon Marshall of the Broncos and Dwayne Bowe of the Chiefs, both of whom demonstrated in 2007 that they can be top-flight receivers in the NFL?

And how do you balance the young with the old? In Pittsburgh, Hines Ward is being pushed by the promising Santonio Holmes. Green Bay has a similar situation with veteran Donald Driver and rising star Greg Jennings.

It should be interesting when we revisit this list at the end of the 2008 season.

1. Randy Moss
New England Patriots
Moss proved last season that his two-year lull in Oakland was an aberration, catching an NFL-record 23 TDs. On the Raiders, Moss lacked a quarterback who could consistently get him the ball, Obviously, that's no longer the case. Moss is no longer a sub-4.3 guy, but he can run sub-4.5. What separates him from almost every other wide receiver on this list is his ability to outjump any defensive back in the NFL. When you're 6-4, that's a huge advantage.

2. Terrell Owens
Dallas Cowboys
Like Moss, Owens does not seem to be slowed by age. The 34-year-old has never been a speed guy, but he remains one of the more physical receivers in the game. Owens has improved his route-running skills, which is the main reason his game has not fallen off. A negative: He had 10 drops last season, according to Stats LLC, tied for third in the NFL. In 2006, he led the NFL in drops with 17, according to Stats.

3. Steve Smith
Carolina Panthers
Even though his numbers dipped slightly in 2007 (87 catches, 1,002 yards, 7 TDs), you could make a case for Smith being the best receiver in the NFL. Smith, who suffered from poor quarterback play last season, is still the most explosive playmaker in the game. He has great speed and excellent run-after-catch ability.

4. Andre Johnson
Houston Texans
Johnson is big (6-3, 219), physical, runs solid routes and makes plays. In terms of physical tools, he is every bit as good as the three guys in front of him. He may have been overlooked in the past because of poor quarterback play (see David Carr 2003-06) but should improve as he works more with Matt Schaub. Johnson's numbers last season (60 catches, 851 yards) would have been more impressive if he had not missed seven games with an injury.

5. Reggie Wayne
Indianapolis Colts
The only real knock on Wayne is that he has always been 1B to Marvin Harrison, who was 1A. That's no longer the case as he is Peyton Manning's top option now. Wayne has sneaky speed, which can catch a corner off guard. He has a great feel for Indianapolis' system and the ability to find holes in a defense.

6. Larry Fitzgerald
Arizona Cardinals
There are always debates over who is the Cardinals' No. 1 receiver. We feel that player is Fitzgerald in large part because his counterpart, Anquan Boldin, has been unable to consistently get open. Fitzgerald does not have big-time speed, but he has great hands and knows how to use his size (6-3, 226) to separate from a defender.

7. Braylon Edwards
Cleveland Browns
After some early growing pains, Edwards has been as good as advertised. Edwards, who had nine touchdown catches in his first two seasons, had 16 in 2007. He has matured on and off the field, a big reason he has become one of the premier receivers in the game. One negative: He tied for the league lead (with Colts TE Dallas Clark) with drops with 12, according to Stats LLC.

8. Chad Johnson
Cincinnati Bengals
Johnson can rub people the wrong way with his antics, but teammate TJ Houshmandazedah would not be nearly as productive without Ocho Cinco commanding the attention he does. He is a major deep threat and terrific route runner. While he is not great after the catch and doesn't play an especially physical brand of football, Johnson is still an elite wideout. Although he seemed to have a quiet 2007, he had his best season for receiving yards (1,440) and caught 93 passes, the third-highest total of his career.

9. Plaxico Burress
New York Giants
The talent has never been a question. The work ethic and inconsistency have. That changed in 2007 when, despite missing many practices with ankle and knee injuries, Burress was able to step up on game day and deliver for the Super Bowl champs. His size (6-5) is special. Even slowed by the ankle last season, he was regularly able to outjump defenders.

10. Torry Holt
St. Louis Rams
His speed and quickness are not what they once were, but like the other receivers above him who are getting older, he just knows how to play the game. What we love about Holt is his ability to consistently find the open area in a zone. He is still a good enough route runner to turn a defensive back inside out. He is on the downside of his career, but that won't stop him from giving us a little more magic.

11. Anquan Boldin
Arizona Cardinals
If Owens is the most physical receiver in the game, Boldin is second. He runs defenders over with the ball in his hands. He makes up for his lack of speed by bullying smaller defensive backs to create separation. He plays with a ton of passion, something we love. Teammate Larry Fitzgerald, however, has surpassed him as the best receiver on the team.

12. Roy Williams
Detroit Lions
He is a little more talkative than we would like, but he plays the game with passion. He plays hard whether his team is winning or losing. Williams has matured as a route runner and is willing to go inside to do the dirty work. Expect a huge 2008 with free agency looming at the end of the season.

13. Marvin Harrison
Indianapolis Colts
Even though Harrison had an injury-riddled 2007, he is still can be productive. The question is for how long. Harrison missed 11 games with a knee injury last season and was a non-factor in the Colts' playoff loss to the Chargers. He no longer is the Colts' No. 1 receiver -- that job belongs to Reggie Wayne. This will be a crossroads season for the future Hall of Famer. When healthy, Harrison is an excellent route runner who can still excel on all three levels in the passing game.

14. Brandon Marshall
Denver Broncos
Marshall is one of the best young receivers in the NFL. He is a big, physical receiver (6-4, 230) who places a lot of pressure on a secondary. He has the strength to separate off the line of scrimmage and the speed to attack all levels. He has strong, soft hands and is one of the best in the NFL after the catch.

15. Marques Colston
New Orleans Saints
Colston, a seventh-round pick in 2006, continues to play at a high level. He has good toughness and hands to go along with his size and strength. He's a physical presence in the middle of the field and in the red zone.

16. T.J. Houshmandzadeh
Cincinnati Bengals
Even though the focal point of the Bengals' passing game is Johnson, Houshmandzadeh quietly made the Pro Bowl last season. Houshmandzadeh is an excellent complement to Johnson, while being very productive in the short and intermediate areas in the passing game. He isn't especially quick, but is a very good route runner.

17. Greg Jennings
Green Bay Packers
Jennings is an explosive, young receiver who can play multiple spots in the Packers' spread formations. He has a strong knack for catching a short throw and taking it upfield. He averaged an impressive 17.4 yards per reception last season and led the Packers with 12 touchdowns. He is a smooth route runner and uses his burst to get into and out of cuts quickly. He has deceptive speed and has played with maturity beyond his age (24) and experience (two years in league).

18. Hines Ward
Pittsburgh Steelers
Ward makes tough catches in traffic and has been a very reliable receiver for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. He led the team in receptions last season despite missing three games. He has sure hands, an excellent feel for setting up defensive backs and runs reliable, crisp routes. His speed isn't exceptional, but he has shown the ability to make big plays deep downfield. He is one of the toughest receivers in the NFL and if there were a Hall of Fame for blocking wide receivers, Ward would be the first one in.

19. Santonio Holmes
Pittsburgh Steelers
Holmes is a talented, young receiver who continues to improve in offensive coordinator Bruce Arians' system. He is loaded with big-play ability (league-best 18.1 yards per catch last season) and could turn into a legitimate No. 1 wide receiver. Holmes' numbers have gone up in each of his two seasons in the league -- he had 49 catches for 824 yards in his rookie year and 52 catches for 942 yards last season despite missing three games with an injury.

20. Lee Evans
Buffalo Bills
He is a speed receiver who has really never been able to hit his full potential, but that has to do more with his offensive system than him. It is hard to move Evans up this list because his numbers don't merit it, but we wonder how good he could be if he had a legit starting quarterback getting him the ball. His speed makes him one of the more feared vertical threats in the NFL.

21. Dwayne Bowe
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs had one of the worst offenses in the NFL last season. However, Bowe has all the makings of a premier No. 1 receiver. He caught 70 passes for 995 yards, best among all rookie receivers. He is a prototype receiver with savvy, body control and great hands.

22. Donald Driver
Green Bay Packers
Driver is fearless going across the middle and had a great relationship with QB Brett Favre. However, much like Greg Jennings, Driver must build a new relationship with quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Driver has tremendous change-of-direction skills and leaping ability.

23. Wes Welker
New England Patriots
Welker was an absolute steal by the Patriots last offseason. He is a smart, instinctive receiver who can read coverages on the move while finding soft spots in underneath zones. When he makes a catch, he takes it upfield immediately. There's no dancing with Welker. He was Tom Brady's favorite target in 2007 and tied for the NFL lead with 112 receptions. Despite being just 5-9 and 185 pounds, he is a much better blocker than many realize.

24. Joey Galloway
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Even at 36, Galloway continues to play at a high level. He is an explosive downfield threat who places a lot of pressure on the back end in deep zones. He is a quick, solid route runner with soft hands. He still has elite speed and has shown no signs of slowing down.

25. Deion Branch
Seattle Seahawks
A talented player, Branch has struggled with durability issues. He suffered an ACL injury in the divisional playoff game against the Packers and could miss the start of the 2008 season. However, when healthy, he has the ability to make explosive plays on all levels in the passing game. He has excellent speed and runs fluid routes. He is especially dangerous after the catch.

26. Roddy White
Atlanta Falcons
White had a breakout season in 2007. He displayed strong run-after-catch ability, breakaway speed and big-play potential. He tracks the deep ball well and has the extra gear to separate from defenders downfield. His speed makes him very dangerous after the catch. He has the ability to become the No. 1 receiver in new offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey's system.

27. Bernard Berrian
Minnesota Vikings
Now in Minnesota, Berrian will be called on to be the No. 1 wideout. He had a very impressive 2007 season in Chicago, despite the Bears' questionable quarterback play. When he entered the league, Berrian was a one-trick pony who was only a vertical threat, but he has progressed nicely and now brings more to the table. However, he's really a better fit as a No. 2 option. It will be interesting to see how he responds to the new challenges with the Vikings.

28. Chris Chambers
San Diego Chargers
A change of scenery did Chambers a lot of good last season. He faced far too much attention from opposing defenses in Miami's lackluster passing attack and simply is not good enough to thrive in that tough environment. But San Diego is utopia. Chambers should continue to produce against all the single coverage he is attracting. He can go up and make the spectacular grab and has a lot of big-play ability.

29. Javon Walker
Oakland Raiders
When healthy, Walker has a great combination of size and deep speed, but counting on him has become a risky proposition as his 2004 season (89 catches, 1,382 yards) with Green Bay seems like a long time ago. He has also publicly battled with each of his previous two organizations -- although that may have endeared him to Al Davis even further. Walker did little in 2007 for the Broncos. He could go in either direction on this list in '08.

30. Calvin Johnson
Detroit Lions
The expectations for Johnson's rookie year were obviously too high. His back problems and learning curve limited his productivity, but we feel his ascension up this list is a matter of time. Johnson has all the tools and is the ideal physical specimen for the position. He will be a great one -- eventually.

31. Bobby Engram
Seattle Seahawks
Is there a more reliable player in the league than Engram? Matt Hasselbeck's safety blanket simply gets it done, moves the chains and keeps drives alive. He isn't the biggest, fastest or most explosive receiver, but he has a great head for the game, runs terrific routes and catches everything thrown his way. Last season was Engram's best season yet, as he set a Seahawks' team record with 94 receptions and topped 1,000 yards receiving for the first time in his career..

32. Laveranues Coles
New York Jets
Coles isn't big (5-11, 193), but he is as tough as they come and the Jets' quarterbacks rely on him to get open. Coles has elite deep speed, but with the Jets' difficulties in pass protection and Chad Pennington's suspect arm strength, he hasn't been able to use these talents as much as expected. That could change with Kellen Clemens behind center and a revamped offensive line.

33. Santana Moss
Washington Redskins
Moss is small (5-10, 200), but few players in the league can rival his deep speed. He gets pushed around too much, can wear down and has trouble staying healthy. Also, he was tied for third in the league with 10 drops last season, according to Stats LLC. However, with new coach Jim Zorn expected to throw more often than the Redskins did in the past, Moss could have a resurgence. It is clear he will never be a top red zone option or a No. 1 wideout who can consistently handle double-teams, but Moss can be a difference-maker as a complementary option. Zorn will get the ball in his hands.

34. D.J. Hackett
Carolina Panthers
When healthy, Hackett can make an awful lot happen on the field. He is big and a touchdown machine. However, he is simply not on the field nearly enough to rank higher on this list. It will be interesting to see how he performs in Carolina next to Steve Smith. They could be an extremely dangerous pair of wideouts -- if Hackett can stay healthy.

35. Jerry Porter
Jacksonville Jaguars
Ranking Porter this high might raise some eyebrows, but we have a hunch we might see what he has to offer now that he's out of Oakland. Physically, he pretty much has it all. He's big (6-2, 220), powerful and can stretch a defense. He could move up this board.

36. Kevin Curtis
Philadelphia Eagles
He isn't real big (6-0, 186), but he is dangerous after the catch and shows good toughness with the ball in his hands. His size will always be a drawback and he will not outfight many defensive backs for jump balls in the end zone. He isn't a No. 1 wideout, but Curtis is a solid No. 2 who should improve as he gets better acquainted with Donovan McNabb and Andy Reid's system.

37. Donte' Stallworth
Cleveland Browns
Stallworth is with his fourth team in his short career, which tells you a little about his true value. He can run past just about any defensive back in the league and offers a lot after the catch, but he is injury prone and inconsistent in just about every area. He will make some big plays for the Browns and will face a lot of single coverage with Braylon Edwards and Kellen Winslow as teammates. Just don't expect him to light it up week after week.

38. Vincent Jackson
San Diego Chargers
Much like Chris Chambers, Jackson benefits from playing in San Diego as LaDainian Tomlinson and Antonio Gates attract the majority of the opposing defense's attention. However, Jackson took his game up several notches in last season's playoffs and proved to be someone who also needs to be accounted for. He is a very good blocker, springing many of LT's big runs.

39. Jerricho Cotchery
New York Jets
He has a good feel for finding soft spots in zone coverage and can set up his defender well with his exceptional body control. He has steadily improved and his yards per catch was a career-high 13.8 yards last season. While his average was up, he is not a burner and will struggle to consistently stretch the field. The Jets' offensive line should give him more opportunities next season, but his ceiling is a No. 2 wideout.

40. Reggie Williams
Jacksonville Jaguars
A former No. 1 draft pick, he was a major disappointment until last year when he became a key contributor with his blocking in a run-first offense and abilities in the red zone. He has never been the featured receiver for Jacksonville, but he should benefit from the signing of Jerry Porter. Williams had 38 catches for 629 yards and 10 TDs in 2007. The arrow could finally be pointing up for him.

41. Derrick Mason
Baltimore Ravens
This 11-year veteran continues to rack up good numbers (103 catches in '07) for a club with a dismal offense. Mason's numbers are inflated because he was the main dump-off option in a Baltimore attack that could not go deep. He is not going to stretch the field and is no longer a dangerous threat on the edge, but he is consistent and can move the chains. He has lost a step, but he still has the quickness, agility, hands and instincts to be good.

[mikeauran]

Part Two:

42. Isaac Bruce
San Francisco 49ers
Bruce joined the 49ers this offseason after 13 outstanding seasons in St. Louis. This 14-year veteran is on the downside of his career and his skills are diminishing, but he might be able to give the marginal 49ers receiving corps some consistency.

43. Reggie Brown
Philadelphia Eagles
With the Philadelphia offense using Brian Westbrook as the No. 1 target in the passing game, Brown continues to put up solid numbers on the perimeter, but he will never be outstanding. With the addition of speedster Kevin Curtis, the Eagles refrained from using Brown as a downfield threat as much as they did in previous seasons, but he can stretch a defense. He doesn't strike fear in defenses and doesn't excel in any one area.

44. Chris Henry
Cincinnati Bengals
His combination of size (6-4, 200) and athleticism can be a tough matchup for many defenses, but he probably never will realize his potential for two reasons: off-the-field issues and health. If he ever put it all together, he could make a big jump up this list.

45. Patrick Crayton
Dallas Cowboys
With veteran receiver Terry Glenn injured most of the 2007 season, Crayton became one of Dallas' top targets. Most defensive coordinators devise their game plans to take away Owens and Jason Witten, which enables a third option to flourish in the Cowboys' air attack. He is not hesistant to throw his body around in the running game. Crayton, however, is a jack-of-many trades, master of none.

46. Amani Toomer
New York Giants
After 12 seasons, Toomer clearly has diminishing skills, but he continues to be a reliable target who gets by with instincts, toughness and solid hands. He has no fear in traffic.

47. Anthony Gonzalez
Indianapolis Colts
Gonzalez fit in well as a rookie, filling the void created by the injury to Marvin Harrison. Gonzalez has excellent hands, is an effective route runner and has good run-after-catch ability, which will likely only improve. He also is very bright -- a must in the Colts' offense -- and was quick to adapt to the speed of the NFL.

48. Sidney Rice
Minnesota Vikings
There were durability concerns with Rice coming out of college, and he didn't do a lot to ease those concerns as a rookie. Rice has an excellent combination of size (6-4, 202) and athleticism. There probably will be a direct correlation between his performance and whether Minnesota gets better play at quarterback.

49. Mark Clayton
Baltimore Ravens
A first-round pick, Clayton hasn't become a No. 1 target in the Ravens' offense. A lot of his struggles are tied to marginal quarterback play over the past couple of seasons, but he hasn't progressed as a route runner and hasn't mastered nuances of the position.

50. Bryant Johnson
San Francisco 49ers
Johnson has been a solid receiver, but he hasn't become the top-tier target many experts projected. Many of his problems have stemmed from inconsistent quarterback play and marginal pass protection. Johnson is still a relatively young receiver and we expect him to improve.

51. Roscoe Parrish
Buffalo Bills
Parrish has been a versatile player for the Bills. He is a No. 3 receiver who is best in the slot and using his quickness and run-after-catch ability in space. His biggest contribution, however, may come on special teams handling punts and kickoffs.

52. Michael Jenkins
Atlanta Falcons
Jenkins is a long strider who takes too long to build up speed. He can stretch the field and has rare size (6-4, 217) for the position. Jenkins has not been aided by great quarterback play, but his lack of quickness and ability to explode out of his cuts will always hamper him.

53. Terry Glenn
Dallas Cowboys
Glenn came into the league with premier speed and still has more than most. However, he is getting beat up at the end of his career, and he has never been very eager to go over the middle to catch balls in traffic.

54. Ronald Curry
Oakland Raiders
Despite not having a top-notch supporting cast, Curry has been productive. Although he has battled injury issues, he still belongs on this list because he is strong, physical in attacking the ball in the air and has excellent hands. With changes in Oakland of late (Jerry Porter left for Jaguars), this will be a critical season for Curry. How well he and QB JaMarcus Russell mesh will be crucial for the Raiders' passing game.

55. Muhsin Muhammad
Carolina Panthers
Muhammad would have been a top-20 receiver in his prime, but at 34 he has lost some of his physical skills. He still runs precise routes and knows how to use his size and strength to win battles for the ball, but he no longer can run by people and is not a major threat on deep routes. He drops too many easy passes.

56. David Patten
New Orleans Saints
Patten is quick, shifty and has deceptive deep speed. If not for a couple of injury-plagued years as well as his lack of size (5-10, 190), he could have landed in the top half of this list.

57. Demetrius Williams
Baltimore Ravens
Williams sneaks into this list thanks to his good physical skills. He still must prove he can be a consistent threat and produce in the clutch, but he shows enough big-play ability and flashes of skill to give him the benefit of doubt.

58. Brandon Stokley
Denver Broncos
Stokley, a nine-year vet, would have landed higher on the list when he was in the prime of his career. He is a solid third receiver, but he lacks premier speed.

59. Justin Gage
Tennessee Titans
Gage resurrected his career in Tennessee as he became the Titans' leading receiver in 2007. He uses his size and athleticism to position himself against defenders and does a good job catching the ball in traffic or in the red zone. He lacks the downfield speed to be a deep threat, but can be counted on to make a catch when able to find the soft spot or seam in zone coverages.

60. Joe Jurevicius
Cleveland Browns
He has always been a team's third receiver because of a lack of speed. He knows how to read coverages and find the soft spots in zone coverage. Because of his size (6-5, 232) and competitiveness, he can be dangerous in the red zone. He had 50 catches last season, the third most in his 10-year career.

61. Nate Burleson
Seattle Seahawks
Burleson has No. 2 WR skills, but because of his lack of speed, you'd rather have him as your third receiver. He fits the system in Seattle thanks to his ability to read coverages and his fluid, nimble route-running skills. He is not very dangerous after the catch and is not a great blocker.

62. Marty Booker
Chicago Bears
Booker is consistent, but he no longer possesses deep speed and is not explosive out of his breaks. He is a decent safety valve option in intermediate zones, but he isn't flashy and won't create big plays on his own.

63. Drew Bennett
St. Louis Rams
Bennett is a huge target (6-5, 206) who lost some of his effectiveness when he left the Tennessee Titans for the St. Louis Rams in 2007. He is not as dangerous on deep balls as he once was.

64. James Jones
Green Bay Packers
Jones made a big impression during his rookie year in Green Bay with 47 catches, the longest 79 yards. He uses his size (6-1, 207) and athleticism to compete for the ball and win his share of jump-ball situations. He is a good route runner, but he lacks big-time speed, which will prevent him from being an elite receiver.

[vancejohnson82]

i think harrison and holt should be swapped....

b-marsh is right around the correct number...one up or two up at highest

I'm assuming Colbert is #66???

[Beantown Bronco]

Deion Branch is way too high at #25 IMO.

[crowebomber]

Deion Branch is way too high at #25 IMO.

I agree. I'd take Coles or Derrick Mason to put up better numbers than Branch, and there are at least 6-8 young guys - who are ranked worse - who will have better years than Branch.

[TheChamp24]

i think harrison and holt should be swapped....

b-marsh is right around the correct number...one up or two up at highest

I'm assuming Colbert is #66???

If anything, Holt should be higher. Holt is definitely better than Burress. Burress is not a top 10 WR, that is just wrong IMO. I'd take Holt, Harrison, and Marshall all before him.

[KCStud]

I'd take Greg Jennings over Marques Colston but that's just me

[Beantown Bronco]

If anything, Holt should be higher. Holt is definitely better than Burress. Burress is not a top 10 WR, that is just wrong IMO. I'd take Holt, Harrison, and Marshall all before him.

Only three guys had more TDs than Burress last year, and he had over 1,000 yds receiving.....and that was with two bad wheels and a liability under center.....or at least one that played like a stiff for 3/4 of the season.

[Gcver2ver3]

Looking over the list, I see some question marks in my opinion...

Tory Holt is too high...

Chad Johnson is too low...

TJ Hous is too high...

Lee Evans is too low...

Sananio Holmes is too high...

Javon Walker is too low...

Greg Jennings is too high (he's not better than Donald Driver)

Santana Moss is too low...


Of course it's always easy to critique someone else's rankings...so let me say that overall I think the ranking is pretty good...

[Kaylore]

Tory Holt should be in the top five.

[Gcver2ver3]

If anything, Holt should be higher. Holt is definitely better than Burress. Burress is not a top 10 WR, that is just wrong IMO. I'd take Holt, Harrison, and Marshall all before him.

wow...i disagree...

i know the guy hasn't been as consistent as he should but when he's on he's literally unguardable...

i think Plax is an elite WR...

Plus Holt is ranked too high...

Holt 3 years ago is a top 5 WR but not anymore...

[nickademus]

Andre Johnson is way too high in my opinion. He's a guy with a lot of potential, but got hurt last year when he started putting up monster numbers. Dude has still only had just one 1,000 yard season.

he has been putting up big #s for a while. he had good #s with david carr as his qb but injuries have been a concern.

[2KBack]

Rod Smith is too low

[Gcver2ver3]

Rod Smith is too low

rep...

[crowebomber]

he has been putting up big #s for a while. he had good #s with david carr as his qb but injuries have been a concern.

OK, he had two 1000+ yard seasons, but 4th? Larry Fitzgerald has had two seasons with more than 1400 yards, and he splits those with Anquan Boldin who has three seasons of 1200, 1300 and 1400 yards (he was drafted the same year as Johnson). Both of those guys are ranked lower than Johnson here. I could probably make a case for many more guys being ranked higher than Johnson. Maybe 10th, but not 4th.

[maher_tyler]

that's a fair list

I agree...kinda figured that thats who'd be infront of him..thing is, marshall is only going into his 3rd season!!

[TheReverend]

Okay, where the **** is Glen Martinez...?!

[TheChamp24]

Only three guys had more TDs than Burress last year, and he had over 1,000 yds receiving.....and that was with two bad wheels and a liability under center.....or at least one that played like a stiff for 3/4 of the season.

out of his 8 years in the league, I'd say he was good in 3 of those years, with another okay year in 2006. Nothing elite, which is what I rank the top 10 as.

wow...i disagree...

i know the guy hasn't been as consistent as he should but when he's on he's literally unguardable...

i think Plax is an elite WR...

Plus Holt is ranked too high...

Holt 3 years ago is a top 5 WR but not anymore...

Plax isn't unguardable, 8 years in the league, 3 good years, 1 okay year and a bunch of average years at best.
I'll talk about Holt right after this:

Looking over the list, I see some question marks in my opinion...

Tory Holt is too high...

Chad Johnson is too low...

TJ Hous is too high...

Lee Evans is too low...

Sananio Holmes is too high...

Javon Walker is too low...

Greg Jennings is too high (he's not better than Donald Driver)

Santana Moss is too low...


Of course it's always easy to critique someone else's rankings...so let me say that overall I think the ranking is pretty good...

Holt last year had more receptions and yards than Burress, while still had reasonable TD's with 7. The guy is basically a virtual lock to get at least 90 catches, 1,100 yards and 7 TD's a season. I don't know about you, but thats pretty spectacular. He probably has a good 3-4 years performing at this level, similar to Harrison.

[Beantown Bronco]

out of his 8 years in the league, I'd say he was good in 3 of those years, with another okay year in 2006. Nothing elite, which is what I rank the top 10 as.



Plax isn't unguardable, 8 years in the league, 3 good years, 1 okay year and a bunch of average years at best.
I'll talk about Holt right after this:



Holt last year had more receptions and yards than Burress, while still had reasonable TD's with 7. The guy is basically a virtual lock to get at least 90 catches, 1,100 yards and 7 TD's a season. I don't know about you, but thats pretty spectacular. He probably has a good 3-4 years performing at this level, similar to Harrison.

You have to look at the author's criteria for his selections. You do realize is based off more than just pure numbers, don't you?

You have to take into account the system they played in, the QB(s) they had throwing them the ball, and where they are TODAY.....not what they have done over their careers. Is he basing Randy Moss' ranking on his years in Oakland? Nope. Otherwise, there's no way he'd be #1.

[Gcver2ver3]

out of his 8 years in the league, I'd say he was good in 3 of those years, with another okay year in 2006. Nothing elite, which is what I rank the top 10 as.



Plax isn't unguardable, 8 years in the league, 3 good years, 1 okay year and a bunch of average years at best.
I'll talk about Holt right after this:



Holt last year had more receptions and yards than Burress, while still had reasonable TD's with 7. The guy is basically a virtual lock to get at least 90 catches, 1,100 yards and 7 TD's a season. I don't know about you, but thats pretty spectacular. He probably has a good 3-4 years performing at this level, similar to Harrison.

all what you're saying is fine and dandy but this isn't about the past...

if i had to take a WR right now who would i take?

i would take Plax on a heartbeat...

he's a monster and whether you want to believe it or not...he can't be covered one on one when the chips are down...

[TheChamp24]

You have to look at the author's criteria for his selections. You do realize is based off more than just pure numbers, don't you?

You have to take into account the system they played in, the QB(s) they had throwing them the ball, and where they are TODAY.....not what they have done over their careers. Is he basing Randy Moss' ranking on his years in Oakland? Nope. Otherwise, there's no way he'd be #1.

So, Holt having an injured Bulger and Frerotte throwing the ball to him last year means nothing, but Burress having Eli Manning hinders his stats?
Holt probably would be putting up better numbers if he had more consistent/better QB play.
I'd rather rank the guys who show they do it every year over guys who have some flashes.

all what you're saying is fine and dandy but this isn't about the past...

if i had to take a WR right now who would i take?

i would take Plax on a heartbeat...

he's a monster and whether you want to believe it or not...he can't be covered one on one when the chips are down...

Where does this love for Plaxico come from? You're acting like he's the best WR in the game, which of course he isn't. I think he's a solid WR, but I just prefer Holt over him.

[Beantown Bronco]

So, Holt having an injured Bulger and Frerotte throwing the ball to him last year means nothing, but Burress having Eli Manning hinders his stats?

Actually, yes. Pass heavy offense run by Bulger (even when injured) and Frerotte (underrated backup - in the last 10+ years, Denver's passing numbers haven't been better than they were the year he took over for Griese) will tend to help WR numbers.

[lod01]

Andre Johnson is way too high in my opinion. He's a guy with a lot of potential, but got hurt last year when he started putting up monster numbers. Dude has still only had just one 1,000 yard season.

You try and consistently get 1000 yards with Carr (the biggest farce at the QB position in NFL history) as your QB from day 1.

[Gcver2ver3]

Where does this love for Plaxico come from? You're acting like he's the best WR in the game, which of course he isn't. I think he's a solid WR, but I just prefer Holt over him.

I've always been big on Plax...

He hasn't lived up to his potential. He has the skills to be arguably the best but has at times been inconsistent...

I never said he was the best in the game, i was just saying that I'd take him over holt at this stage in their careers...

Holt has had a HOF type career so it's not like I think he sucks or anything...but he's on the decline and I think you'll come to realize that during the 2008 season...

Plax on the other hand still has a few good ones left in him...

Don't sleep on Plax, he's better than you think.

[crowebomber]

You try and consistently get 1000 yards with Carr (the biggest farce at the QB position in NFL history) as your QB from day 1.

Still, potential shouldn't factor that highly into giving the guy the #4 slot. If that were the case, Lee Evans (who they rank at 20th) should be right up there with him. They have put up similar numbers over the past few seasons and Evans probably has as crappy or crappier quarterbacks (Losman and then a rookie Edwards last year).

[Gcver2ver3]

Still, potential shouldn't factor that highly into giving the guy the #4 slot. If that were the case, Lee Evans (who they rank at 20th) should be right up there with him. They have put up similar numbers over the past few seasons and Evans probably has as crappy or crappier quarterbacks (Losman and then a rookie Edwards last year).

i thought from the outset that lee evans was ranked too low...

[Punisher]

Dwayne Bowe is better than all those people ??? :~ohyah!: :~ohyah!:

[DB_champ24]

Dwayne Bowe is better than all those people ??? :~ohyah!: :~ohyah!:

Hahaha I know seriously! Holt should easily be in the top 5..Hes a lock every year for atleast 1000 yards and 90 catches with a nice amount of TDs as someone said. Hes also a guy everyone on here would love as hes not flashy and a drama queen.