The list of star wide receivers in the NFL is substantial. Veterans like DeAndre Hopkins and Julio Jones find themselves competing with younger wideouts like Justin Jefferson, CeeDee Lamb, and Chase Claypool, who are on track to have just as illustrious careers. The Scout sports staff gives their picks on who they think is the best wide receiver in the league.
DeAndre Hopkins
By Colten Kahler
The best wide receiver in the NFL is DeAndre Hopkins. My decision is really based on one idea, that if my life depended on one receiver catching a jump ball in the end zone, I’m picking Hopkins. Tyreek Hill is good, but I feel his speed allows him to get away with his hands not being as skilled. I think Hopkins is not only one of the best route runners, but he also has the best hands in the NFL.
Davante Adams
By Nick Zoll
Once a late second-round pick in 2014, the Fresno State product has evolved into one of the NFL’s best route runners and red zone threats. His ability to get separation against the best of the best (see: against Jalen Ramsey in 2021 NFC Divisional Round), as well as some of the most reliable hands in the league, elevate him above the rest. A league-high 18 receiving touchdowns in 2020 helped his team, the Green Bay Packers, reach the NFC Championship Game.
A lot of people make the argument that he wouldn’t be elite without Aaron Rodgers throwing him the ball, but Adams’ route running savvy and his nose for the end zone says otherwise.
Mike Evans
By Rodrigo Perez
When it comes to who the best wide receiver is, most people would point their finger to Davante Adams or Tyreek Hill, but one player who I would like to shine some light on is Tampa Bay Buccaneers wideout Mike Evans.
With his towering size, he is able to dominate defenders in the red zone and with his downfield speed, he is able to run faster than most wide receivers. Last year, No. 13 was able to put up over a thousand yards with an average of 14.4 yards per catch. For Mike Evans, 13 is his lucky number as he caught the same amount of touchdowns last season. Overall, Evans has the complete package, as his physique and speed help him gain those vital yards and catch some impressive touchdowns.
DK Metcalf
By Jonathan Michel
I’m partial to big-bodied receivers in the NFL. Maybe its because I miss the days of Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery on the Chicago Bears, but I think Metcalf stands out.
At 6-foot-4 and 229 pounds, Metcalf is a prime example of the saying “You can’t teach size.” Not only does Metcalf have a size advantage against virtually any cornerback he lines up against, he can put on the burners with a 4.3 40-yard dash. Metcalf’s numbers certainly impress, with over 1,300 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns last year, but remember, he is doing it all while having an arguably top-10 receiver Tyler Lockett on the Seahawks too. Imagine what Metcalf could do if he was clear-cut No. 1 wideout on the team.
