by: James Brooks
I was excited to get into these rankings this week because I'm going to be breaking down the top 5 at the Wide Receiver position. My excitement stems from the fact that this position, seemingly more than any other over the past year, has been the most volatile at the top tier (not counting the Peyton Manning injury). Twelve months ago people could, and some were, making a case for Roddy White as the new King of Receivers. Fast forward to now and those people aren't quite as boisterous. (Myself included.) And Holy Calvin Johnson! But more on him later. Obvious spoiler alert, sorry.
There's a real fight for the crown now. Unlike the other glamour positions, running back and quarterback, where not much has changed. Adrian Peterson is reminding everyone who forgot about All Day, that he's still the cream of the crop at his position. Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers are taking care of business in a class of their own. Whichever you prefer, there's no contest they are the 'Elite'. Last years Superbowl Champ and Unanimous MVP on top again...whats new. But don't worry, I see you Drew Brees. Another day maybe. Alright, enough about them, we're here to debate wide receivers.
5. Greg Jennings- Green Bay
Often under looked in this discussion, Jennings is quietly going about his business and making his case to be a member of this class. Maybe a product of his offensive system and future HOF quarterback, but at the end of the day his numbers don't lie. He's averaged 1,220 yards/season over the last three years and through five games this season has 448 yards and 4 touchdowns. He's well on pace to continue producing with consistency. He's a big-play maker as well, averageing over 14 yards per catch in six straight seasons now. Oh and did I mention he hasn't missed a game in over 3 years?
Since coming to New England from Miami, Wes has terrorized the AFC. He's the example of what a talented guy can do when his talents are utilized correctly. This 5'9" technically precise speedster, with Brady at the helm, has become almost uncoverable. Welker racks up the catches like debt. 432 catches over the last 4 years for New England. A slightly down year last year (by Brady to Welker standards), but with games this year of 160, 81, 217, 158, and 124 yards, I'd say that glitch has been ironed out.
3. Larry Fitzgerald- Arizona
It's that same old Steve Smith story with Larry. "If he had a good quarterback..." It's never been an excuse for him, as he just keeps being the model of professional receiver that he's been throughout his career. Fitzgerald is a surefire Hall of Famer and imagine what he might have done with an Aaron Rodgers pulling the trigger for ten years or so. He probably has the best hands in the league, and in his eighth year, is still one of the best in the league. Although, I couldn't put him at the top of the list right now, there's not a team in the history of football, that wouldn't love to have this guy on their team.
What can I say about Megatron that hasn't already been said over the past few weeks. The man is an absolute freak. He has 9 touchdowns already through his first 5 games. There doesn't appear to be anyone that can cover him down in the red zone. If Matthew Stafford can stay healthy, we may be looking at one of the all-time great seasons. Megatron is young, freakishly athletic, and talented. While I couldn't bring myself to put him #1 just yet, the upside potential is unreal. With the mojo they have going up in Detroit these days, there's a very good chance Johnson asserts himself into that top spot by season's end.
No huge shocker here. Although I understand it is by no means unanimous. Andre was Megatron before Megatron. Six foot three, 235 lbs., with speed, hands, and can jump. Five seasons over 1,100 yards and although he has never put up double digit touchdowns has consistently provided at least 8 TD in four straight seasons. (in 2007 he only needed 9 games to get 8 touchdowns) I don't see him as near the red-zone threat as Calvin, but up and down the field on a possession by possession basis, I think he outshines Calvin Johnson. The biggest concern is his health. He has been injured here and there throughout his career, and has already essentially missed two games this season. But when healthy, he's the best...for now.
Megatron!!!
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