packers11
07-11-2007, 04:31 PM
With training camps approaching, Scouts Inc. ranks the NFL teams 1-32 at nine positions. Today's position: wide receiver.
1. Indianapolis Colts
An exceptional group of wide receivers got better with the addition of first-round selection Anthony Gonzalez. Marvin Harrison is still among the best wide receivers in the league and is playing at his typical Hall of Fame level. Although Reggie Wayne certainly benefits from having Harrison on the other side, he just gets better every season and is now a bona fide Pro Bowl pass-catcher. Harrison and Wayne are both tougher than they are given credit for. Former Ohio State star Gonzalez comes from a big-time college program and was productive at the highest level. He is one of the most polished receivers from this year's draft and should excel with the Colts. This group also benefits from having a pretty darn good quarterback throwing them the football.
2. Arizona Cardinals
Matt Leinart has an ultra-talented pair of wideouts at his disposal. Who do you roll the coverage to? Larry Fitzgerald has great size and enough speed to go along with sticky hands, a fantastic body control and rare ball skills. He excels in the red zone, can stretch the field or eat a cornerback alive with his possession routes. Anquan Boldin is probably the No. 2 option in this offense, but he is a true No. 1 on just about any other team in the league. He has great size and physicality. He is tough and makes a lot of big plays after the catch. He isn't a burner and has slight durability concerns, but he is very productive. These two thrive off each other; few teams in the league have a better situation at wide receiver. What is scary is that this tandem should get better.
3. St. Louis Rams
Torry Holt is an absolute superstar and is quite possibly the best wide receiver in the game today. For some reason, this guy simply does not get his due. He is a future Hall of Famer and continues to perform on a very high level. Holt can do it all and makes every member of this offense better. Isaac Bruce obviously is getting up in age and is not the dynamic weapon that he once was, but as No. 2 receivers go around the league, Bruce is still pretty formidable. St. Louis signed Drew Bennett in free agency to replace Kevin Curtis. Bennett will bring a much-needed big body to this group to complement the other wideouts. The No. 2 spot soon will belong to Bennett, and when he teams with Holt and Bruce, the Rams will find matchups to their advantage with regularity.
4. Cincinnati Bengals
This is an elite group of wide receivers, but Chris Henry's eight-game suspension will hurt. Henry has his problems off the field, but when he steps between the lines, he creates mismatches and consistently makes big plays. He is a touchdown machine. Although Henry will be missed, Tab Perry is a player who could blow up in Henry's absence. Perry is tough as nails, strong and determined with a great blend of size and speed. It can be argued that Chad Johnson is as good as any receiver in the league today, and diagnosing weaknesses in his game is difficult to do. T.J. Houshmandzadeh is an exceptional second option with a high football IQ who consistently exploits single coverage in the short and intermediate areas.
5. Detroit Lions
Is it too early to rank the Lions' wide receivers among the best in the business? Absolutely not. Calvin Johnson is just that good of a prospect. He is a rookie and surely will have some growing pains as all newcomers do, but Johnson is a superstar without physical weaknesses. He will get by on hard work and talent alone this year, and then be among the top players at the position in the next few years. Roy Williams is an out-of-this world athlete who is quickly becoming a complete receiver. Williams is already among the better players at his position and defenses will have a brutal time producing a game plan against this duo. Mike Furrey is solid and should do a great job in the slot and as the No. 3 receiver. QB Jon Kitna is a lucky man.
6. New England Patriots
The Pats' receiving corps would have ranked near the very bottom of this list one year ago, but times have changed. Adding Wes Welker, Donte' Stallworth and Randy Moss to the group will do that. Say what you want about Moss, but when he turns it on, there is no one like him. Of course, he is a wild card at this point, but we have a hunch that Tom Brady might get something out of him. Stallworth will benefit a great deal from all the attention that Moss will garner. Both players are exceptional deep threats and this group is just dripping with big-play potential. Welker is quick and reliable out of the slot. He should fit in very well. Last year's top receiver, Reche Caldwell, will allow the Patriots to exploit secondaries with an outstanding four-receiver set. This group is outstanding on paper, but needs to prove that it is worth our lofty ranking.
7. Denver Broncos
There is a noticeable drop-off after the top six receiver groups. Rod Smith has been a rock of consistency for Mike Shanahan over the past decade or so, but the veteran is beginning to show signs of slipping. Jay Cutler still will look his way when the chips are down, but Brandon Marshall should surpass Smith as the starter opposite Javon Walker. Marshall is a budding star with great tools. He will see a lot of single coverage next year and could make himself a household name in this offense. Walker is a legitimate No. 1 wide receiver who possesses an outstanding combination of size, explosiveness and deep speed. Expect an even better season from Walker in 2007 now that he is a year removed from his knee injury.
8. Dallas Cowboys
Terrell Owens and Terry Glenn are an aging starting duo, but they remain very formidable. For all the drama that Owens brings off the field, he is still a game-changing presence on Sundays. He dropped a lot of passes last year -- many of which would have gone for big plays and touchdowns -- but he played through a serious hand injury, which obviously hindered his ability to catch the ball cleanly. Owens has lost half a step, but is still a very good wideout who scores touchdowns in bunches and is a tough matchup for any cornerback. Glenn is a dynamic second receiver who still can stretch a defense or torture his opponents with crisp, short and intermediate routes. Patrick Crayton is tough and competitive, but overall, the Cowboys are lacking depth behind their veteran starters.
9. Baltimore Ravens
Although Derrick Mason is on the decline, fellow wideouts Mark Clayton and Demetrius Williams are gaining steam and progressing very well in their young careers. Williams is one of the best young wide receivers who you have probably never heard of. He is a tall, angular guy who can stretch the field. Williams is going to be a good one. Clayton is a very mature player for such a young guy and has ascended rapidly. He isn't particularly big or physical, but he is extremely quick and makes a lot happen after the catch. Although Mason isn't what he once was and rarely scores, he is still a decent starting option who knows the tricks of his trade. It should be noted that this threesome also benefits a great deal from the presence that TE Todd Heap provides in the middle of the field.
10. Pittsburgh Steelers
Hines Ward has been nicked up a bit over the last two seasons, and with his physical style of play and age, he needs to prove that he can stay healthy for an entire season. That being said, Ward is still a very good player who brings toughness, leadership and attitude to the Steelers' offense. He exploits single coverage and has performed well even when the opposition rolls its coverage in his direction. Last year's first-rounder, Santonio Holmes, experienced some usual bumps in the road during his rookie season, but he finished the season very strong and has the looks of an explosive playmaker. Holmes should have a big year. Behind the starters, Pittsburgh's receiving corps is very average and the Steelers need someone to step up as the No. 3 guy.
11. N.Y. Giants
Much like the rest of the team, this is a wildly inconsistent unit that can blow up with big games or go in the tank when the chips are down. Eli Manning's accuracy leaves a lot to be desired and that cannot be overlooked. Plaxico Burress' skills jump off the film at you, but he's too inconsistent to be considered one of the top wideouts in the game. Amani Toomer is on his last legs, but still could provide a reliable possession target in 2007. Between youngsters Sinorice Moss and Steve Smith, the Giants should have Toomer's heir. Moss is undersized and many were quick to write him off during his rookie season, but he has the potential to be lightning in a bottle. Smith is less dynamic, but probably will be the guy Manning can count on, even as a very young player.
12. New Orleans Saints
The Saints' wide receiver group was very impressive last season, but they lost veteran Joe Horn. Horn will be replaced by first-round selection Robert Meachem. This is a very young group overall and 2006 rookie phenom Marques Colston will be leaned upon very heavily. Is he up to the challenge of performing with a bull's-eye on his chest as the No. 1 option? We have our doubts. He is a big, strong guy with glue hands, but he isn't very explosive. Devery Henderson and Meachem are both excellent speed guys who will stretch the field and open up the shorter throws for the other Saints' pass-catchers. Young receivers are risky, but this group will benefit from Drew Brees' outstanding accuracy, Reggie Bush's playmaking ability and Sean Payton's offensive scheme and play-calling.
13. Seattle Seahawks
Darrell Jackson is now in San Francisco, so Seattle will rely on Deion Branch a great deal, especially with the lack of playmakers at tight end. Branch is a smaller option who is tough, reliable and very quick. He is a fine second wide receiver, but doesn't have the ideal makeup to be a No. 1. Opposite Branch, the Seahawks will line up D.J. Hackett, whom many fans are not yet familiar with. Hackett is under the radar, but has all the tools to be a very good player. He is big, tough, can get deep and has been very productive in limited opportunities. Keep an eye on him. Nate Burleson or Bobby Engram will handle the No. 3 receiver role, while the other provides very solid depth. The expectations for Burleson were obviously too high this time last year, but he has a chance to rebound. Engram should be dependable in clutch situations.
14. Miami Dolphins
Although Chris Chambers is one of the most overrated players in the league, this is not a bad group from top to bottom. Miami surprised many people by drafting Ted Ginn Jr. with the ninth pick in the 2007 draft, but if he can get back to full health (he's recovering from a sprained foot), Ginn is an extremely dangerous player, both on offense and as a returner. His receiving skills are very raw and he drops too many passes, but he has world-class speed that translates to the football field very well. Expect him to be used on a lot of reverses and quick hitches to go along with deep streak routes, where he has the potential to just blow by most starting cornerbacks. Chambers certainly is talented, but needs to be a more consistent producer. Marty Booker is declining, but is still a solid player, even though he offers little big-play ability. Derek Hagan could surprise in his second season.
15. N.Y. Jets
Laveranues Coles is a big-time competitor who put together a very impressive 2006 season. Chad Pennington relies on Coles and Coles delivers. He is a street fighter who wants to win and can be effective in the short and intermediate areas. That being said, he isn't the ideal No. 1 guy. He isn't as explosive as he once was and doesn't get into the end zone with regularity. Opposite Coles, Jerricho Cotchery made a name for himself last season and could build on that. He's now considered a solid No. 2 wideout and New York is set with its starting tandem. There isn't much depth behind these two, however, and an injury to either starter could hurt this offense. This is not a big-play group.
16. Carolina Panthers
Keyshawn Johnson is out. Fellow USC alum Dwayne Jarrett is in. One thing that remains constant though is Steve Smith, who is clearly one of the elite playmakers in the league. Although he isn't big, Smith is pure electricity with uncanny body control and competitiveness. Smith plays big. He exploits double and sometimes triple coverage. But the Panthers need someone to step up on the other side. Someone must emerge from the trio of Jarrett, Drew Carter and Keary Colbert. Jarrett was extremely productive in a big-time college program, but he isn't very fast and needs a lot of work getting off the jam to excel at this level. Carter has a rare blend of size and long speed, but the finer points of his game need work. Colbert lacks the explosion needed to excel and has not transitioned to the NFL all that well. Smith should expect even more coverage in his direction.
17. Philadelphia Eagles
Although Philadelphia lost Donte' Stallworth to free agency, the Eagles amply replaced him with another speed merchant in Kevin Curtis. The former Ram is ready to be a No. 2 wideout and should excel in Andy Reid's receiver-friendly scheme. He is very intelligent and should fit in well in Philadelphia. Reggie Brown has shown signs of becoming a playmaker, but he is not yet a legit No. 1 option -- although we feel he might warrant that distinction very soon. The depth behind these two players is very young and an injury to either starter would be a concern.
18. Chicago Bears
Bernard Berrian exceeded all expectations last year and became a very dangerous deep threat. He isn't real strong or physical, but he can fly and that deep speed can change a game very quickly. He is a bit of a one-trick pony, though, and needs to further refine his skills. Muhsin Muhammad is a big, strong veteran who isn't real dynamic, but is a solid possession option. Neither Berrien nor Muhammad should be considered a true No. 1 wideout. The Bears have a wild card in Mark Bradley. Bradley has had a very difficult time overcoming injuries, but if he can stay healthy and gain some valuable game experience, he has a chance to develop into the Bears' best wide receiver.
19. Cleveland Browns
Braylon Edwards has the makings of a big-time receiver, but he hasn't gotten a ton of help from Cleveland's quarterbacks and he needs to work much harder on taking his game to the next level. He is certainly capable. He is not a burner, but he is big with good ball skills and strength. Opposite Edwards is another big receiver in Joe Jurevicius. Jurevicius is an adequate, yet unspectacular, No. 2 wideout and should provide some much-needed reliability and consistency to Cleveland's passing game if he can stay healthy. For depth, the Browns have three intriguing players in Joshua Cribbs, a converted quarterback who is an exceptional special teams player and returner, Travis Wilson, a big, talented young receiver, and Tim Carter, whom the Browns picked up from the Giants in the Reuben Droughns trade. If one of these three makes great strides, the Browns' pass-catchers could be formidable.
20. Atlanta Falcons
There is talent here, but the production has been poor. Tight end Alge Crumpler is the top option for Michael Vick, and that limits the wide receiver production in this offense. Vick's accuracy issues are also to blame, but the Falcons' wideouts have simply not played well or made Vick's job any easier. Michael Jenkins has deep speed and is very tall, but needs to use those abilities more proficiently. Roddy White could rebound from a very disappointing 2006 season. He has the tools you are looking for in a starter at the position. Atlanta will be without Brian Finneran due to another serious injury, but adding Joe Horn in free agency should pay dividends both on and off the field. He should be a positive role model for Jenkins and White.
21. Buffalo Bills
Lee Evans has not had a big-time quarterback or supporting cast around him, but there are few wide receivers in this guy's class when it comes to going deep. He is instant electricity and is capable of changing a game quickly. Somewhat quietly, Evans has become one of the top dozen or so wide receivers in the game today and he should improve. Unfortunately for Evans and the Bills, there is little around this budding superstar. The Bills absolutely need to get more from their other pass-catchers, but Evans is good enough to excel even when opposing defenses are keying on him.
22. Washington Redskins
Obviously, the Redskins did not get their money's worth with the acquisitions of Antwaan Randle El and Brandon Lloyd. They envisioned a dangerous three-receiver attack with these two and Santana Moss. The truth of the matter is that they still have one excellent wideout in Moss and two players who are much better suited as No. 3 receivers. Moss is small, but he is extremely dangerous when healthy. He can turn a hitch route into a 70-yard touchdown in the blink of an eye and can challenge any secondary deep. The Redskins' quarterback output has been subpar and we expect Jason Campbell to be much improved this season, but they simply have to get more from Randle El and Lloyd.
23. San Diego Chargers
The Chargers recognized their weakness at wide receiver and were aggressive in their selection of Craig Davis in the first round of this year's draft. Davis brings something that this great offense was lacking -- speed on the edge. Obviously, Antonio Gates is the featured receiver in San Diego's offense. But Davis' deep speed will force defenses to stay honest, which should open up room for both Gates in the middle of the field and for LaDainian Tomlinson in the run game. Eric Parker has great hands and good quickness. He will play a valuable role and should begin the season as a starter. The Chargers have a rare bird in Vincent Jackson, who is a massive wideout with impressive physical tools. This could be his breakout season. Jackson has become an effective blocker as well and can be key in springing Tomlinson on long runs. Keenan McCardell's stay in San Diego is over and this is now a young group on the rise.
24. Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars added Dennis Northcutt in free agency. They overpaid for his services, but he should give them a decent slot receiver and punt returner. He isn't much of a big-play guy and isn't overly reliable, but he is a veteran and quick. Ernest Wilford probably will be reduced to the No. 4 receiver. He is big and strong with some red-zone abilities, but lacks the quickness or speed to separate. Jacksonville's pair of first-rounders, Matt Jones and Reggie Williams, both showed flashes of promise last year, but much more is required if the Jaguars are going to mount a formidable passing attack. Both players, Jones in particular, have a lot of upside and need to take the next step in their development. Jones has the abilities to be a serious mismatch with his rare combination of speed and size, but he hasn't played the position enough to develop properly. Someone really needs to step up in this group.
25. San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers' wide receiving corps will have a much different look this year, but it might not be much of an improvement. Ashley Lelie can't be counted on, but his talent-- especially his ability to threaten a defense deep -- is apparent. San Francisco also traded for Darrell Jackson from the Seahawks. Seattle apparently was not too worried about dealing Jackson to a divisional rival and got only a fourth-round pick in return. This is because Jackson lacks toughness and is not the most reliable guy around. He does have big-play ability, though. Arnaz Battle will play a big role this season and San Francisco also drafted Jason Hill, who could be a surprise rookie producer. Overall, this group isn't special and Alex Smith will surely be looking to TE Vernon Davis more than last year in the passing game.
26. Houston Texans
This low ranking is not an indictment on Andre Johnson in any way. He is a great player who is stuck in a very bad situation. He will continue to draw extra coverage in every game he plays as the Texans really don't have much else. Johnson, who led the league in receptions last season, is the total package and is just beginning to come into his own. Eric Moulds is gone, and although he was far from outstanding, he at least had some pedigree. Houston drafted Jacoby Jones in the third round and unless he totally self destructs, he will be thrust into early playing time. That is asking an awful lot from a rookie from Lane College. Jerome Mathis, when healthy, is an ultra-fast deep threat. But he hasn't developed his other receiving skills to this point. Kevin Walter is a solid player, but not someone you want to build your passing game around.
27. Oakland Raiders
The Raiders passed on Calvin Johnson in the draft and dealt Randy Moss to the Patriots. Without those two immensely talented receivers, they still could get adequate production from their current stable of receivers. Jerry Porter and Ronald Curry will start. Neither can be considered reliable, but both are capable of being very productive. Curry just needs to stay healthy. The Raiders took a chance on draft day by trading for former USC star Mike Williams, who be reunited with former Trojans assistant Lane Kiffin -- now the Raiders head coach. Williams was a very high draft pick by the Lions for a reason -- he is massive and was a matchup nightmare in college -- but he did little to speak of in Detroit. Doug Gabriel, Travis Taylor, Alvis Whitted, Johnnie Morant and rookie Johnnie Lee Higgins provide good depth, but there probably isn't enough room on the roster to keep all of them. There is a lot of uncertainty with this group.
28. Green Bay PackersYou gotta love Donald Driver. He is just rock solid. Driver would not be the star at a combine, but he makes play after play every week. Unfortunately, he is the only player on this roster who Brett Favre can completely rely on. Greg Jennings burst onto the scene as a rookie, but quickly fizzled out and struggled with injuries as the grind of the NFL season took its toll. Robert Ferguson has tools to work with, but has not developed as hoped. The Packers selected James Jones in this year's draft. Jones will be counted on to push for the No. 3 receiver spot. Outside of Driver, who is getting up in age, the Packers lack real weapons at wide receiver.
29. Kansas City Chiefs
With tight end Tony Gonzalez as their top receiving target, the Chiefs have gotten by with Eddie Kennison as their No. 1 wide receiver. But he simply is not good enough for such a role. Kansas City finally addressed this problem by selecting Dwayne Bowe in this year's draft. Although he might never be a true No. 1 receiver, Bowe is super tough, big and strong. He will help the running game and should quickly become a starter. Samie Parker has not developed into a quality starter, but should be adequate out of the slot in subpackages. Bowe has promise, but overall, there isn't a lot to get excited about here.
30. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Joey Galloway is an excellent receiver who seems to be defying time, but the poor guy needs more help around him. He still has supreme speed and the ability to make a lot of big plays. Michael Clayton's career has plummeted since his impressive rookie campaign. He absolutely must regain that level of play if Tampa Bay is going to be able to throw the ball with any consistency. Maurice Stovall is big and can create mismatches in the red zone, but overall, there is very little to get excited about with the Buccaneers' receivers outside of Galloway. On the bright side, Tampa Bay's offensive line should be improved, which should help the passing game quite a bit.
31. Tennessee Titans
It was a tough call picking the worst group of receivers in the league between the Vikings and Titans. Tennessee lost Drew Bennett to free agency and that could really sting. The Titans signed David Givens before last season and his knee injury puts his ability to contribute still in jeopardy. They could use Givens in a big way, as he would provide a decent safety valve for Vince Young. Rookie Paul Williams is very inconsistent, but he was a nice risk for this team to take and he has a chance to surprise. Brandon Jones will see plenty of passes. He is physical and catches everything thrown his way. Tennessee has not done its young quarterback any favors with this group of targets.
32. Minnesota Vikings
This is the worst group of wide receivers in the league and there is a good chance that Minnesota's passing game will be awful this season. Troy Williamson has been a bust since entering the league, but he has a chance to rebound in this system and live up to his vast potential -- if he can catch the football. There is a lot to like about his ability, though. The Vikings signed Bobby Wade, who should start opposite Williamson. He is not starting material. Sidney Rice, Minnesota's second-round pick, is a good-looking prospect, but should not be counted on to be a major contributor in his rookie season -- although he might have to be to save this group.
Scouts Inc. watches games, breaks down film and studies football from all angles for ESPN.com.
1. Indianapolis Colts
An exceptional group of wide receivers got better with the addition of first-round selection Anthony Gonzalez. Marvin Harrison is still among the best wide receivers in the league and is playing at his typical Hall of Fame level. Although Reggie Wayne certainly benefits from having Harrison on the other side, he just gets better every season and is now a bona fide Pro Bowl pass-catcher. Harrison and Wayne are both tougher than they are given credit for. Former Ohio State star Gonzalez comes from a big-time college program and was productive at the highest level. He is one of the most polished receivers from this year's draft and should excel with the Colts. This group also benefits from having a pretty darn good quarterback throwing them the football.
2. Arizona Cardinals
Matt Leinart has an ultra-talented pair of wideouts at his disposal. Who do you roll the coverage to? Larry Fitzgerald has great size and enough speed to go along with sticky hands, a fantastic body control and rare ball skills. He excels in the red zone, can stretch the field or eat a cornerback alive with his possession routes. Anquan Boldin is probably the No. 2 option in this offense, but he is a true No. 1 on just about any other team in the league. He has great size and physicality. He is tough and makes a lot of big plays after the catch. He isn't a burner and has slight durability concerns, but he is very productive. These two thrive off each other; few teams in the league have a better situation at wide receiver. What is scary is that this tandem should get better.
3. St. Louis Rams
Torry Holt is an absolute superstar and is quite possibly the best wide receiver in the game today. For some reason, this guy simply does not get his due. He is a future Hall of Famer and continues to perform on a very high level. Holt can do it all and makes every member of this offense better. Isaac Bruce obviously is getting up in age and is not the dynamic weapon that he once was, but as No. 2 receivers go around the league, Bruce is still pretty formidable. St. Louis signed Drew Bennett in free agency to replace Kevin Curtis. Bennett will bring a much-needed big body to this group to complement the other wideouts. The No. 2 spot soon will belong to Bennett, and when he teams with Holt and Bruce, the Rams will find matchups to their advantage with regularity.
4. Cincinnati Bengals
This is an elite group of wide receivers, but Chris Henry's eight-game suspension will hurt. Henry has his problems off the field, but when he steps between the lines, he creates mismatches and consistently makes big plays. He is a touchdown machine. Although Henry will be missed, Tab Perry is a player who could blow up in Henry's absence. Perry is tough as nails, strong and determined with a great blend of size and speed. It can be argued that Chad Johnson is as good as any receiver in the league today, and diagnosing weaknesses in his game is difficult to do. T.J. Houshmandzadeh is an exceptional second option with a high football IQ who consistently exploits single coverage in the short and intermediate areas.
5. Detroit Lions
Is it too early to rank the Lions' wide receivers among the best in the business? Absolutely not. Calvin Johnson is just that good of a prospect. He is a rookie and surely will have some growing pains as all newcomers do, but Johnson is a superstar without physical weaknesses. He will get by on hard work and talent alone this year, and then be among the top players at the position in the next few years. Roy Williams is an out-of-this world athlete who is quickly becoming a complete receiver. Williams is already among the better players at his position and defenses will have a brutal time producing a game plan against this duo. Mike Furrey is solid and should do a great job in the slot and as the No. 3 receiver. QB Jon Kitna is a lucky man.
6. New England Patriots
The Pats' receiving corps would have ranked near the very bottom of this list one year ago, but times have changed. Adding Wes Welker, Donte' Stallworth and Randy Moss to the group will do that. Say what you want about Moss, but when he turns it on, there is no one like him. Of course, he is a wild card at this point, but we have a hunch that Tom Brady might get something out of him. Stallworth will benefit a great deal from all the attention that Moss will garner. Both players are exceptional deep threats and this group is just dripping with big-play potential. Welker is quick and reliable out of the slot. He should fit in very well. Last year's top receiver, Reche Caldwell, will allow the Patriots to exploit secondaries with an outstanding four-receiver set. This group is outstanding on paper, but needs to prove that it is worth our lofty ranking.
7. Denver Broncos
There is a noticeable drop-off after the top six receiver groups. Rod Smith has been a rock of consistency for Mike Shanahan over the past decade or so, but the veteran is beginning to show signs of slipping. Jay Cutler still will look his way when the chips are down, but Brandon Marshall should surpass Smith as the starter opposite Javon Walker. Marshall is a budding star with great tools. He will see a lot of single coverage next year and could make himself a household name in this offense. Walker is a legitimate No. 1 wide receiver who possesses an outstanding combination of size, explosiveness and deep speed. Expect an even better season from Walker in 2007 now that he is a year removed from his knee injury.
8. Dallas Cowboys
Terrell Owens and Terry Glenn are an aging starting duo, but they remain very formidable. For all the drama that Owens brings off the field, he is still a game-changing presence on Sundays. He dropped a lot of passes last year -- many of which would have gone for big plays and touchdowns -- but he played through a serious hand injury, which obviously hindered his ability to catch the ball cleanly. Owens has lost half a step, but is still a very good wideout who scores touchdowns in bunches and is a tough matchup for any cornerback. Glenn is a dynamic second receiver who still can stretch a defense or torture his opponents with crisp, short and intermediate routes. Patrick Crayton is tough and competitive, but overall, the Cowboys are lacking depth behind their veteran starters.
9. Baltimore Ravens
Although Derrick Mason is on the decline, fellow wideouts Mark Clayton and Demetrius Williams are gaining steam and progressing very well in their young careers. Williams is one of the best young wide receivers who you have probably never heard of. He is a tall, angular guy who can stretch the field. Williams is going to be a good one. Clayton is a very mature player for such a young guy and has ascended rapidly. He isn't particularly big or physical, but he is extremely quick and makes a lot happen after the catch. Although Mason isn't what he once was and rarely scores, he is still a decent starting option who knows the tricks of his trade. It should be noted that this threesome also benefits a great deal from the presence that TE Todd Heap provides in the middle of the field.
10. Pittsburgh Steelers
Hines Ward has been nicked up a bit over the last two seasons, and with his physical style of play and age, he needs to prove that he can stay healthy for an entire season. That being said, Ward is still a very good player who brings toughness, leadership and attitude to the Steelers' offense. He exploits single coverage and has performed well even when the opposition rolls its coverage in his direction. Last year's first-rounder, Santonio Holmes, experienced some usual bumps in the road during his rookie season, but he finished the season very strong and has the looks of an explosive playmaker. Holmes should have a big year. Behind the starters, Pittsburgh's receiving corps is very average and the Steelers need someone to step up as the No. 3 guy.
11. N.Y. Giants
Much like the rest of the team, this is a wildly inconsistent unit that can blow up with big games or go in the tank when the chips are down. Eli Manning's accuracy leaves a lot to be desired and that cannot be overlooked. Plaxico Burress' skills jump off the film at you, but he's too inconsistent to be considered one of the top wideouts in the game. Amani Toomer is on his last legs, but still could provide a reliable possession target in 2007. Between youngsters Sinorice Moss and Steve Smith, the Giants should have Toomer's heir. Moss is undersized and many were quick to write him off during his rookie season, but he has the potential to be lightning in a bottle. Smith is less dynamic, but probably will be the guy Manning can count on, even as a very young player.
12. New Orleans Saints
The Saints' wide receiver group was very impressive last season, but they lost veteran Joe Horn. Horn will be replaced by first-round selection Robert Meachem. This is a very young group overall and 2006 rookie phenom Marques Colston will be leaned upon very heavily. Is he up to the challenge of performing with a bull's-eye on his chest as the No. 1 option? We have our doubts. He is a big, strong guy with glue hands, but he isn't very explosive. Devery Henderson and Meachem are both excellent speed guys who will stretch the field and open up the shorter throws for the other Saints' pass-catchers. Young receivers are risky, but this group will benefit from Drew Brees' outstanding accuracy, Reggie Bush's playmaking ability and Sean Payton's offensive scheme and play-calling.
13. Seattle Seahawks
Darrell Jackson is now in San Francisco, so Seattle will rely on Deion Branch a great deal, especially with the lack of playmakers at tight end. Branch is a smaller option who is tough, reliable and very quick. He is a fine second wide receiver, but doesn't have the ideal makeup to be a No. 1. Opposite Branch, the Seahawks will line up D.J. Hackett, whom many fans are not yet familiar with. Hackett is under the radar, but has all the tools to be a very good player. He is big, tough, can get deep and has been very productive in limited opportunities. Keep an eye on him. Nate Burleson or Bobby Engram will handle the No. 3 receiver role, while the other provides very solid depth. The expectations for Burleson were obviously too high this time last year, but he has a chance to rebound. Engram should be dependable in clutch situations.
14. Miami Dolphins
Although Chris Chambers is one of the most overrated players in the league, this is not a bad group from top to bottom. Miami surprised many people by drafting Ted Ginn Jr. with the ninth pick in the 2007 draft, but if he can get back to full health (he's recovering from a sprained foot), Ginn is an extremely dangerous player, both on offense and as a returner. His receiving skills are very raw and he drops too many passes, but he has world-class speed that translates to the football field very well. Expect him to be used on a lot of reverses and quick hitches to go along with deep streak routes, where he has the potential to just blow by most starting cornerbacks. Chambers certainly is talented, but needs to be a more consistent producer. Marty Booker is declining, but is still a solid player, even though he offers little big-play ability. Derek Hagan could surprise in his second season.
15. N.Y. Jets
Laveranues Coles is a big-time competitor who put together a very impressive 2006 season. Chad Pennington relies on Coles and Coles delivers. He is a street fighter who wants to win and can be effective in the short and intermediate areas. That being said, he isn't the ideal No. 1 guy. He isn't as explosive as he once was and doesn't get into the end zone with regularity. Opposite Coles, Jerricho Cotchery made a name for himself last season and could build on that. He's now considered a solid No. 2 wideout and New York is set with its starting tandem. There isn't much depth behind these two, however, and an injury to either starter could hurt this offense. This is not a big-play group.
16. Carolina Panthers
Keyshawn Johnson is out. Fellow USC alum Dwayne Jarrett is in. One thing that remains constant though is Steve Smith, who is clearly one of the elite playmakers in the league. Although he isn't big, Smith is pure electricity with uncanny body control and competitiveness. Smith plays big. He exploits double and sometimes triple coverage. But the Panthers need someone to step up on the other side. Someone must emerge from the trio of Jarrett, Drew Carter and Keary Colbert. Jarrett was extremely productive in a big-time college program, but he isn't very fast and needs a lot of work getting off the jam to excel at this level. Carter has a rare blend of size and long speed, but the finer points of his game need work. Colbert lacks the explosion needed to excel and has not transitioned to the NFL all that well. Smith should expect even more coverage in his direction.
17. Philadelphia Eagles
Although Philadelphia lost Donte' Stallworth to free agency, the Eagles amply replaced him with another speed merchant in Kevin Curtis. The former Ram is ready to be a No. 2 wideout and should excel in Andy Reid's receiver-friendly scheme. He is very intelligent and should fit in well in Philadelphia. Reggie Brown has shown signs of becoming a playmaker, but he is not yet a legit No. 1 option -- although we feel he might warrant that distinction very soon. The depth behind these two players is very young and an injury to either starter would be a concern.
18. Chicago Bears
Bernard Berrian exceeded all expectations last year and became a very dangerous deep threat. He isn't real strong or physical, but he can fly and that deep speed can change a game very quickly. He is a bit of a one-trick pony, though, and needs to further refine his skills. Muhsin Muhammad is a big, strong veteran who isn't real dynamic, but is a solid possession option. Neither Berrien nor Muhammad should be considered a true No. 1 wideout. The Bears have a wild card in Mark Bradley. Bradley has had a very difficult time overcoming injuries, but if he can stay healthy and gain some valuable game experience, he has a chance to develop into the Bears' best wide receiver.
19. Cleveland Browns
Braylon Edwards has the makings of a big-time receiver, but he hasn't gotten a ton of help from Cleveland's quarterbacks and he needs to work much harder on taking his game to the next level. He is certainly capable. He is not a burner, but he is big with good ball skills and strength. Opposite Edwards is another big receiver in Joe Jurevicius. Jurevicius is an adequate, yet unspectacular, No. 2 wideout and should provide some much-needed reliability and consistency to Cleveland's passing game if he can stay healthy. For depth, the Browns have three intriguing players in Joshua Cribbs, a converted quarterback who is an exceptional special teams player and returner, Travis Wilson, a big, talented young receiver, and Tim Carter, whom the Browns picked up from the Giants in the Reuben Droughns trade. If one of these three makes great strides, the Browns' pass-catchers could be formidable.
20. Atlanta Falcons
There is talent here, but the production has been poor. Tight end Alge Crumpler is the top option for Michael Vick, and that limits the wide receiver production in this offense. Vick's accuracy issues are also to blame, but the Falcons' wideouts have simply not played well or made Vick's job any easier. Michael Jenkins has deep speed and is very tall, but needs to use those abilities more proficiently. Roddy White could rebound from a very disappointing 2006 season. He has the tools you are looking for in a starter at the position. Atlanta will be without Brian Finneran due to another serious injury, but adding Joe Horn in free agency should pay dividends both on and off the field. He should be a positive role model for Jenkins and White.
21. Buffalo Bills
Lee Evans has not had a big-time quarterback or supporting cast around him, but there are few wide receivers in this guy's class when it comes to going deep. He is instant electricity and is capable of changing a game quickly. Somewhat quietly, Evans has become one of the top dozen or so wide receivers in the game today and he should improve. Unfortunately for Evans and the Bills, there is little around this budding superstar. The Bills absolutely need to get more from their other pass-catchers, but Evans is good enough to excel even when opposing defenses are keying on him.
22. Washington Redskins
Obviously, the Redskins did not get their money's worth with the acquisitions of Antwaan Randle El and Brandon Lloyd. They envisioned a dangerous three-receiver attack with these two and Santana Moss. The truth of the matter is that they still have one excellent wideout in Moss and two players who are much better suited as No. 3 receivers. Moss is small, but he is extremely dangerous when healthy. He can turn a hitch route into a 70-yard touchdown in the blink of an eye and can challenge any secondary deep. The Redskins' quarterback output has been subpar and we expect Jason Campbell to be much improved this season, but they simply have to get more from Randle El and Lloyd.
23. San Diego Chargers
The Chargers recognized their weakness at wide receiver and were aggressive in their selection of Craig Davis in the first round of this year's draft. Davis brings something that this great offense was lacking -- speed on the edge. Obviously, Antonio Gates is the featured receiver in San Diego's offense. But Davis' deep speed will force defenses to stay honest, which should open up room for both Gates in the middle of the field and for LaDainian Tomlinson in the run game. Eric Parker has great hands and good quickness. He will play a valuable role and should begin the season as a starter. The Chargers have a rare bird in Vincent Jackson, who is a massive wideout with impressive physical tools. This could be his breakout season. Jackson has become an effective blocker as well and can be key in springing Tomlinson on long runs. Keenan McCardell's stay in San Diego is over and this is now a young group on the rise.
24. Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars added Dennis Northcutt in free agency. They overpaid for his services, but he should give them a decent slot receiver and punt returner. He isn't much of a big-play guy and isn't overly reliable, but he is a veteran and quick. Ernest Wilford probably will be reduced to the No. 4 receiver. He is big and strong with some red-zone abilities, but lacks the quickness or speed to separate. Jacksonville's pair of first-rounders, Matt Jones and Reggie Williams, both showed flashes of promise last year, but much more is required if the Jaguars are going to mount a formidable passing attack. Both players, Jones in particular, have a lot of upside and need to take the next step in their development. Jones has the abilities to be a serious mismatch with his rare combination of speed and size, but he hasn't played the position enough to develop properly. Someone really needs to step up in this group.
25. San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers' wide receiving corps will have a much different look this year, but it might not be much of an improvement. Ashley Lelie can't be counted on, but his talent-- especially his ability to threaten a defense deep -- is apparent. San Francisco also traded for Darrell Jackson from the Seahawks. Seattle apparently was not too worried about dealing Jackson to a divisional rival and got only a fourth-round pick in return. This is because Jackson lacks toughness and is not the most reliable guy around. He does have big-play ability, though. Arnaz Battle will play a big role this season and San Francisco also drafted Jason Hill, who could be a surprise rookie producer. Overall, this group isn't special and Alex Smith will surely be looking to TE Vernon Davis more than last year in the passing game.
26. Houston Texans
This low ranking is not an indictment on Andre Johnson in any way. He is a great player who is stuck in a very bad situation. He will continue to draw extra coverage in every game he plays as the Texans really don't have much else. Johnson, who led the league in receptions last season, is the total package and is just beginning to come into his own. Eric Moulds is gone, and although he was far from outstanding, he at least had some pedigree. Houston drafted Jacoby Jones in the third round and unless he totally self destructs, he will be thrust into early playing time. That is asking an awful lot from a rookie from Lane College. Jerome Mathis, when healthy, is an ultra-fast deep threat. But he hasn't developed his other receiving skills to this point. Kevin Walter is a solid player, but not someone you want to build your passing game around.
27. Oakland Raiders
The Raiders passed on Calvin Johnson in the draft and dealt Randy Moss to the Patriots. Without those two immensely talented receivers, they still could get adequate production from their current stable of receivers. Jerry Porter and Ronald Curry will start. Neither can be considered reliable, but both are capable of being very productive. Curry just needs to stay healthy. The Raiders took a chance on draft day by trading for former USC star Mike Williams, who be reunited with former Trojans assistant Lane Kiffin -- now the Raiders head coach. Williams was a very high draft pick by the Lions for a reason -- he is massive and was a matchup nightmare in college -- but he did little to speak of in Detroit. Doug Gabriel, Travis Taylor, Alvis Whitted, Johnnie Morant and rookie Johnnie Lee Higgins provide good depth, but there probably isn't enough room on the roster to keep all of them. There is a lot of uncertainty with this group.
28. Green Bay PackersYou gotta love Donald Driver. He is just rock solid. Driver would not be the star at a combine, but he makes play after play every week. Unfortunately, he is the only player on this roster who Brett Favre can completely rely on. Greg Jennings burst onto the scene as a rookie, but quickly fizzled out and struggled with injuries as the grind of the NFL season took its toll. Robert Ferguson has tools to work with, but has not developed as hoped. The Packers selected James Jones in this year's draft. Jones will be counted on to push for the No. 3 receiver spot. Outside of Driver, who is getting up in age, the Packers lack real weapons at wide receiver.
29. Kansas City Chiefs
With tight end Tony Gonzalez as their top receiving target, the Chiefs have gotten by with Eddie Kennison as their No. 1 wide receiver. But he simply is not good enough for such a role. Kansas City finally addressed this problem by selecting Dwayne Bowe in this year's draft. Although he might never be a true No. 1 receiver, Bowe is super tough, big and strong. He will help the running game and should quickly become a starter. Samie Parker has not developed into a quality starter, but should be adequate out of the slot in subpackages. Bowe has promise, but overall, there isn't a lot to get excited about here.
30. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Joey Galloway is an excellent receiver who seems to be defying time, but the poor guy needs more help around him. He still has supreme speed and the ability to make a lot of big plays. Michael Clayton's career has plummeted since his impressive rookie campaign. He absolutely must regain that level of play if Tampa Bay is going to be able to throw the ball with any consistency. Maurice Stovall is big and can create mismatches in the red zone, but overall, there is very little to get excited about with the Buccaneers' receivers outside of Galloway. On the bright side, Tampa Bay's offensive line should be improved, which should help the passing game quite a bit.
31. Tennessee Titans
It was a tough call picking the worst group of receivers in the league between the Vikings and Titans. Tennessee lost Drew Bennett to free agency and that could really sting. The Titans signed David Givens before last season and his knee injury puts his ability to contribute still in jeopardy. They could use Givens in a big way, as he would provide a decent safety valve for Vince Young. Rookie Paul Williams is very inconsistent, but he was a nice risk for this team to take and he has a chance to surprise. Brandon Jones will see plenty of passes. He is physical and catches everything thrown his way. Tennessee has not done its young quarterback any favors with this group of targets.
32. Minnesota Vikings
This is the worst group of wide receivers in the league and there is a good chance that Minnesota's passing game will be awful this season. Troy Williamson has been a bust since entering the league, but he has a chance to rebound in this system and live up to his vast potential -- if he can catch the football. There is a lot to like about his ability, though. The Vikings signed Bobby Wade, who should start opposite Williamson. He is not starting material. Sidney Rice, Minnesota's second-round pick, is a good-looking prospect, but should not be counted on to be a major contributor in his rookie season -- although he might have to be to save this group.
Scouts Inc. watches games, breaks down film and studies football from all angles for ESPN.com.