Having a receiver capable of making big plays is essential in this era of football. Which NFL wide receivers will dominate in 2022?
Completing plays down the field has always been part of the formula to winning games in the NFL.
Throughout the past few years, quarterbacks and receivers have recorded record-breaking numbers – making the aerial attack an essential part of success.
With an important upcoming season ahead, here are a few wideouts that should stand out among their peers.
NFL WR No.5 Deebo Samuel, San Francisco 49ers
Versatility at the position has helped receivers across the league stand out from their peers. Deebo Samuel and the 49ers proved this to be true last season.
Head Coach Kyle Shanahan and his offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel used their No.1 wideout in various ways to succeed in 2021.
Deebo’s impact at the running back, slot, and receiver positions demonstrated how much of a threat when on the field. His 365 yards on the ground, and eight touchdowns last season have teams on high alert.
Samuel’s ability to line up anywhere within the offensive formation has earned him the right to be a top 5 receiver for the upcoming season.
His 1,405 yards and 167 receptions made defensive backs cringe when lining up across from No.19.
If the 49ers can rely on their gunslingers to run the offense, Samuel will have an opportunity to rack up more all-purpose yards this season.
NFL WR no. 4: Justin Jefferson, Minnesota Vikings
Winning a divisional title in the NFC North is a task that requires full strength. After years of rebuilding, the Minnesota Vikings have the pieces to make a run toward being crowned the new champions.
Contributions from Dalvin Cook and Kirk Cousins have turned the Vikings into a competitive team. With the help of last year’s first-round draft pick, the Vikings have an opportunity to win the division this upcoming season.
Defensive backs struggled to kill Justin Jefferson’s confidence in 2021. Louisiana State University’s former standout receiver scorched opposing defenses in his first season as a professional.
His 1,616 yards and 10 touchdowns ranked Jefferson in the top 10 in both categories. If the Vikings needed a big play, their rookie receiver did not hesitate to step up.
The future is bright for the Vikings’ young route runner. His 108 receptions last season finished fourth best in the league – and will only increase in the upcoming season.
When Jefferson has the ball good things happen. His 15.0 yards per catch average helped the Vikings finish in the top fifteen in passing yards in 2021.
NFL WR no. 3: Ja’Marr Chase, Cincinnati Bengals
The 2021 rookie class of receivers did not waste time making their mark on the gridiron. While Justin Jefferson torched opposing defenses, the Bengals witnessed similar results from their first-round selection.
Ja’Marr Chase and Joe Burrow carried their collegiate connection to the professional stage – combining for over 1,400 yards in the air last season.
Their journey to Super Bowl LVI will only increase the duo’s confidence as they prepare for the new year.
A repeat performance is the goal for Cincinnati’s No.1 receiver.
His 13 touchdown receptions in 2021 finished third best in the league and should increase in the upcoming season.
While quarterbacks and receivers work on developing their on-field chemistry, Chase and Burrow can rely on their past successes to help their team this season.
NFL WR no. 2: Cooper Kupp, Los Angeles Rams
Capturing a Super Bowl victory has a way of increasing value in the NFL.
After an impressive performance on the big stage, Cooper Kupp is receiving his flowers. Since joining the league in 2017, Kupp worked to become a top receiver.
His 40 career receiving touchdowns demonstrate the former third-rounder’s ability to make plays. When his team needed a big play in crucial situations last season, Kupp responded.
His 145 receptions ranked first in the league among active receivers last season.
Stellar route running and speed should help the Rams’ leading receiver have similar results in the upcoming season.
With quarterback Matthew Stafford under center, Los Angeles is ready to have another impressive season. Kupp’s 191 targets in 2021 were the most by any receiver on the team.
NFL WR no. 1: Davante Adams, Las Vegas Raiders
Losing Davante Adams in a trade to the Raiders will take a toll on Green Bay’s productivity this season. Adams helped No.12 establish a winning tradition while playing at Lambeau Field.
Now that his stint with the Packers is over, Adams must focus on helping his new quarterback obtain similar success.
Reuniting with his former college quarterback could increase production for the dangerous receiver.
While attending Fresno State, Derek Carr and his primary receiver dominated opposing defenses. Not much has changed for both players since joining the professional ranks.
Last season, Davante Adams ranked second in receptions, third in receiving yards, and fifth in touchdowns.
Adjusting the offense will not take long for a receiver that is ready for prime time.
With help from players such as Josh Jacobs and Darren Waller, the Raiders offense will have its best regular season since having Amari Cooper and Darren McFadden.
NFL Wide Receivers Honorable Mention: Tyreek Hill
Relocating to South Beach has caused some concerns for NFL analysts when discussing season projections for Kansas City’s former speedster.
Under the arm of Patrick Mahomes, Tyreek Hill was a top 5 receiver. His speed, route running, and explosiveness put defenders in a difficult position when trying to defend.
Despite his ability to make plays in big moments, many enthusiasts wonder if Tua Tagovailoa will hinder the cheetah’s success. Miami’s quarterback inexperience will cause Hill to work harder in Miami, but he is still a threat from any position on the gridiron.
Fans who enjoy high-scoring NFL action will have a blast watching the upcoming season. As quarterback talent throughout the league increases, the need for talented wide receivers will continue to rise.
As we count down the weeks remaining until the opening day, we can rely on these players to put on a show under the lights in 2022.