Blockbuster trades, contract disputes, and key draft picks have all transpired in the offseason. Now that teams are set for the year, here are the top eight wide receiver corps as the 2024 NFL season kicks off.
1. San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers have a star-studded pass-catching unit. The offense features some of the league’s best receivers in Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel. The talent doesn’t end there since San Francisco’s arsenal also includes George Kittle and Christian McCaffrey. No other unit runs as deep as the 49ers.
2. Philadelphia Eagles
A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith are one of the best receiver duos in the league. Brown showcased his skills on Saturday night against the Green Bay Packers. Brown broke free from Jaire Alexander for a 67-yard touchdown. The Eagles also added Saquon Barkley in the offseason. His first game for Philly included three touchdowns.
3. Miami Dolphins
Tyreek Hill is arguably the best receiver in the league. He is on the hunt to be the NFL‘s first 2,000-yard receiver. He has an accurate deep-ball passer in Tua Tagovailoa. Hill’s counterpart, Jaylen Waddle, amassed over 1,014 yards through 72 receptions in 2023.
Jonnu Smith isn’t a huge playmaker in the receiving game; however, running backs Raheem Mostert and De’Von Achane make up a talented backfield.
4. Minnesota Vikings
There’s a reason Justin Jefferson is the highest-paid receiver in the league. The receiver posted 1,074 yards through 68 receptions. Jordan Addison had some notable 2023 highlights, but it was T.J. Hockenson who cemented himself as a top tight end in the NFL last season. Minnesota also added Aaron Jones in the offseason who is a solid pass-catcher.
5. Detroit Lions
Amon-Ra St. Brown is one of the league’s most dependable pass-catchers. In 2023, the receiver surpassed 1,500 yards. His performance made Brown an All-Pro for the first time last season. Jameson Williams is expected to put up higher numbers this year. Sam LaPorta was also a big contributor to Detroit. The Lions made it as far as the NFC Championship game last season and it wouldn’t be surprising if Detroit returned this year.
6. Chicago Bears
The arrival of Caleb Williams to the franchise has sparked much excitement for fans. Williams certainly has the supporting cast in D.J. Moore, Keenan Allen, and rookie Rome Odunze to be a winning team. The Bears also added D’Andre Swift who is a pass-catching option.
7. Houston Texans
The Texans are slated to be an elite unit this season with the arrival of Stefon Diggs. Although his numbers weren’t as strong in 2023, Diggs is still one of the top receivers in the league. Nico Collins had a breakout season last year and Tank Dell had some good moments when he was healthy.
8. Los Angeles Rams
Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua are both record-setting receivers. Nacua had a historic rookie season as the Triple Crown winner was sidelined by an injury. There are some question marks regarding the duo, including a potential sophomore slump for Nacua and whether Kupp can remain healthy. Aside from the receiver duo, the Rams don’t have much of a supporting cast in the pass-rush unit. Although Jordan Whittington is a rookie to watch out for as the season unfolds.