Johnson leads deep receiving class
With the NFL’s continuing trend toward pass-happy offense and spread formations becoming more popular, the wide receiver position is perhaps deeper than it’s ever been. Last season 16 wideouts exceeded the once-sacred 1,000-yard threshold, and 10 cracked double-digit touchdown receptions. But these receivers, at least fantasy-wise, are a cut above the rest:
1. Andre Johnson, Texans
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With the NFL’s continuing trend toward pass-happy offense and spread formations becoming more popular, the wide receiver position is perhaps deeper than it’s ever been. Last season 16 wideouts exceeded the once-sacred 1,000-yard threshold, and 10 cracked double-digit touchdown receptions. But these receivers, at least fantasy-wise, are a cut above the rest:
1. Andre Johnson, Texans
OUTLOOK: Had 86 catches for 1,216 yards and eight TDs in an “off” year, but should rebound and be closer to his 108-catch, 1,572-yard averages of the two seasons prior.
2. Roddy White, Falcons
OUTLOOK: Coming off his best season (115 catches, 1,389 yards and 10 TDs) and the addition of deep threat Julio Jones should help free him of some double-teams.
3. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals
OUTLOOK: Managed 90 receptions for 1,137 yards and six TDs despite messy QB situation. He was targeted 174 times last year, and we figure Kevin Kolb will hit the target more often.
4. Calvin Johnson, Lions
OUTLOOK: Had 1,120 yards and 12 touchdowns despite catching most of his passes from Shaun Hill. If Matthew Stafford can stay healthy…
5. Hakeem Nicks, Giants
OUTLOOK: Big-play threat coming off a 1,052-yard, 11-TD season. Nicks is entering his third year and, with Steve Smith and Kevin Boss gone, he’ll see more passes and red zone opportunities.
6. Reggie Wayne, Colts
OUTLOOK: Wayne turns 33 in November so age could become a factor, but he’s shown no decline thus far.
7. Greg Jennings, Packers
OUTLOOK: Spread-it-around offense, but he’s Rodgers’ favorite target and had 1,265 yards and 12 TDs.
8. Miles Austin, Cowboys
OUTLOOK: Had 1,041 yards and seven TDs despite Tony Romo’s absence. He should score double-digit touchdowns in Cowboys’ offense.
9. Mike Wallace, Steelers
OUTLOOK: One of the league’s fastest receivers. Had 1,257 yards and 10 TDs and poised for huge season in third year.
10. Vincent Jackson, Chargers
OUTLOOK: The 6-5 receiver is a downfield target in an offense that’s grown more reliant on the pass the last few seasons.
11. Dwayne Bowe, Chiefs
OUTLOOK: Inconsistent – caught 54 percent of passes thrown to him – but did have 15 TDs. Expect a drop-off in that offense.
12. Mike Williams, Buccaneers
OUTLOOK: Had 965 yards and 11 TDs as a rookie. He and QB Josh Freeman have great potential.
13. DeSean Jackson, Eagles
OUTLOOK: Limited route repertoire so his value diminishes in PPR leagues, but he’s a game-breaker as a receiver and returner.
14. Brandon Lloyd, Broncos
OUTLOOK: Thrown to 152 times and broke out (1,448 yards, 11 TDs), but has new system and conservative head coach.
15. Dez Bryant, Cowboys
OUTLOOK: Big-play, second-year receiver who’ll benefit from having Austin and Jason Witten draw safety attention. Also an explosive return man.
16. Marques Colston, Saints
OUTLOOK: Hasn’t cracked double-digit touchdowns since 2007, but is the No. 1 receiver in a high-scoring offense.
17. Santonio Holmes, Jets
OUTLOOK: Was thrown to eight times per game last season. Now more familiar with the offense and is the unquestioned No. 1.
18. Wes Welker, Patriots
OUTLOOK: Tremendous value in PPR leagues, averaging 108 catches per year since 2007.
19. Kenny Britt, Titans
OUTLOOK: Downfield receiver could be poised for breakout year with an accurate passer (Matt Hasselbeck).
20. Mario Manningham, Giants
OUTLOOK: Had 944 yards and nine TDs and becomes Eli Manning’s No. 2 receiver.
21. Brandon Marshall, Dolphins
OUTLOOK: Quietly had a solid first season in Miami with 86 catches for 1,014 yards.
22. Anquan Boldin, Ravens
OUTLOOK: With Derrick Mason and Todd Heap gone, look for Joe Flacco to lock onto him.
23. Steve Johnson, Bills
OUTLOOK: Had breakout season (1,073 yards, 10 TDs) and will again be the Bills’ only go-to guy.
24. Jeremy Maclin, Eagles
OUTLOOK: Explosive receiver in an explosive offense. Has missed training camp but expects to be ready for Week 1.
25. Percy Harvin, Vikings
OUTLOOK: Versatile speedster is the Vikings’ top receiver and could become Donovan McNabb’s favorite target.