Best Intermediate Wide Receivers and Weakest Corps in the NFL
Ladd McConkey (Chargers, 54.7)
McConkey's receiving chart
Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr. caught plenty of the attention the general NFL audience devoted to rookie receivers, but there wasn't an impact felt stronger for a playoff team than Ladd McConkey. Jim Harbaugh's emphasis on toughness stole targets from the passing game and ticked time off the clock, but when Justin Herbert needed a sure set of hands in the middle of the field, his rookie was ready, willing, and able. Many believe that the Chargers will find an archetypal #1 receiver, but if McConkey continues to develop with Herbert and Harbaugh, then he could slide into a more prominent role seamlessly.
Nico Collins (Texans, 54.4)
Though an injury stole the meat of the Collins' season, his ascendance didn't match the expected one from Houston's offense as a whole. With all the focus on him, defenses were sure to add safeties to coverage, so Stroud wasn't able to find him deep often. Collins' length allows him to be a rangy target for his QB on his dominant side. Weeks 2 and 4 versus Chicago and Jacksonville respectively were his most productive between 10 and 20 yards with double-digit targets in the area. If the Texans can return to their offensive prowess from 2023, Stroud should have one of the premier pieces on the outside as his best friend.
Mike Evans (Buccaneers, 52.3)
A gold jacket has been measured for when the legendary Tampa Bay Buc retires. When Baker arrived in central Florida, both of his receivers on the edges were coming off the GOAT's final stint and continued their incredible play. Although Chris Godwin's injury troubles are rearing their ugliest head recently, Mike Evans burst past the age of 30 and stayed elite. Evans has always had the length of a tight end and 230 pounds to fill out his frame, making him a hassle to box out on slant and in routes. Surely more Canton-worthy plays are expected in 2025 with the three-time defending NFC South champions.
Amon-Ra St. Brown (Lions, 48.2)
St. Brown's intermediate receiving profile
Ben Johnson finally departing to his first head coaching job shouldn't affect St. Brown's production in 2025. He abused dead center of the field, forcing multiple players to bring him down regularly. Aside from Detroit's only two losses, St. Brown rarely breeched double figures in targets, but clearly leapt into a different category. His appearances in the slot separate him from others like him, but new OC John Morton may have different plans to utilize St. Brown's talent.
Tyreek Hill (Dolphins, 47.4)
Much has been said about Hill's straight-line speed and for good reason, but as a Chiefs fan, I was exposed to his auxiliary abilities earlier than some. Tua's arm strength may have hindered targets near the sideline, leaving Tyreek to be more effective through the heart of defenses. With Waddle contributing as an elite #2, the Dolphins offense should substantiate extraordinarily if they want to truly compete in the division that has Josh Allen owning it, so Tyreek's value is wildly important.
The Five Weakest WR Corps in the NFL (and potential replacements)
New England Patriots (54.2 Threat rating)
Picks 4, 38, 69
Kansas City Chiefs (55.4 Threat rating)
Picks 31, 63, 66
New Orleans Saints (55.6 Threat rating)
Picks 9, 40, 71
Buffalo Bills (57.4 Threat rating)
Picks 30, 56, 62
Pittsburgh Steelers (60.1 Threat rating)
Picks 21, 83, 123
2025 WR Prospects Comparisons
Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona- Drake London, Falcons
Lengthy possession receivers
London's coverage profile
Matthew Golden, Texas- Jordan Addison, Vikings
Explosive and dynamic #2
Addison's receiving chart
Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State- Jaxon Smith-Njigba
Ex-Buckeyes and slot monsters
JSN's alignment profile
Luther Burden, Missouri- Rashee Rice
Rice's alignment profile from 2023
Thick-bodied YAC monsters
As we dive in, we look forward to the conversation, debate, and your feedback. Hit us up at @fieldvisionmi on X, @fieldvisionsports on Instagram, or on our website www.fieldvisionsports.com.
