The wide receiver position continues to be one of the most exciting in fantasy football. Every year, we get anywhere from one to two new superstar players, and it makes navigating the position challenging for fantasy football purposes. The best way to navigate these decisions is by following tier-based ranks. It allows you some flexibility when choosing players and also gives you some leeway when wanting to trust your gut, even though a player may be ranked a spot or two higher than the guy you want.
My strategy at wide receiver is usually just – yes. I want all the wide receivers, and I will figure out the rest later. In 2024, I am adjusting that slightly. If I am drafting early in round one, I wait until the second round to take my WR1. If I am drafting late, then I am usually double-tapping the wide receiver position unless a running back from the top six of my running back rankings falls to me. When I am completely torn between two wide receivers, the main factors I am considering are opportunity, route running, and quarterback/offense. Check out my tier-based rankings below, and let’s win some titles together.
Tier 1
1. Ja’Marr Chase (WR, CIN) – Ja’Marr Chase had his first 100-reception season in 2023. He continues to be one of the best wide receivers in the NFL, and we could see him take another step in 2024. Offensive line concerns and trying to keep Burrow healthy have forced the Bengals to get creative with Chase’s usage. He has seen his average depth-of-target drop each of the last three seasons as they start to use him on slant and dagger routes significantly more often than his rookie season. For PPR leagues, this can bring tremendous value. Chase has never finished higher than WR5; this year, that changes.
2. Amon-Ra St. Brown (WR, DET) – The meteoric rise of Amon-Ra St. Brown over the last few seasons has been something special to witness. He is the safest of the elite tier of wide receivers. He posted 15 or more fantasy points in 16 games last season, if you include the playoffs. He caught nearly 120 passes while eclipsing 1,500 yards. St. Brown isn’t likely to be posting double-digit touchdowns, but in full PPR leagues, he doesn’t need to. I am comfortable drafting him anywhere in my top five picks this year.
3. CeeDee Lamb (WR, DAL) –CeeDee Lamb finished second in fantasy points per game, catching 135 balls and accruing over 1,700 yards and 12 touchdowns. He is an elite route runner and an alpha wide receiver. Lamb is one of the few candidates to lead the league in receiving in 2024. Right now, the only question about him is how long he will hold out with his contract concerns.
Tier 2
4. Garrett Wilson (WR, NYJ) –Garrett Wilson is my favorite dark horse candidate to lead the league in receiving yards this year. He is the only player in NFL history to earn 300+ targets in his first two seasons. His catchable target rate in the last two seasons ranked 65th and 92nd. Enter Aaron Rodgers. Even if Rodgers is 50% of who we are used to seeing, that is a massive step up for Wilson. You can snag him at round 1/2 turn, and that is a screaming value.
5. Tyreek Hill (WR, MIA) –Tyreek Hill has been an absolute menace the last two seasons with the Dolphins. He saw incredible efficiency last season (3.8 yards per reception). He also benefitted from Jaylen Waddle’s injury. I do expect a slight regression and loss of volume for Hill this year, but not enough to knock him too far down. Draft him confidently and enjoy the ride.
6. Justin Jefferson (WR, MIN) –Justin Jefferson played in only ten games last season, yet he kept his 1,000-yard season streak alive. He is far and away the best wide receiver in the NFL right now. He falls slightly here because his entire season will be quarterbacked by one of Sam Darnold or rookie JJ McCarthy. For NFL purposes, both signal callers will be OK, but for fantasy, we should expect inconsistency and less scoring opportunity. Jefferson has proven to be elite even without cousins, so don’t be surprised if he surpasses this WR6 ranking.
7. Marvin Harrison Jr. (WR, ARI) – Marvin Harrison Jr. is one of the highest-graded rookie prospects I have ever seen. I graded him just above Ja’Marr Chase in the offseason process, and he landed in a situation where he should immediately demand targets from Kyler Murray. Harrison should contend for 150 targets in year one for a team that will be throwing all season long due to their uninspiring defense. He has the highest ADP of any rookie in recent memory, but the juice is worth the squeeze in this instance. I am drafting him in round two with zero hesitations.
8. A.J. Brown (WR, PHI) –A.J. Brown looked like he was going to break records on his way to becoming the WR1 overall last season before his week ten bye. After that, it was a different story. The Eagles’ implosion is the reason that Brown benefits from the fast-paced scheme of Kellen Moore, and that is something we should all be grateful for. There is a good chance Brown will get moved all around the formation this year, and that bodes well for his fantasy value. He is an easy pick at his current WR9 ADP.
9. Puka Nacua (WR, LAR) – Puka Nacua was what dreams were made of last season. He set rookie records and established himself as a top-ten wide receiver for years to come. Paired with the wide receiver kingmaker himself, Matthew Stafford, once again, Puka should continue to build on his remarkable rookie year. He averaged 2.5 fantasy points per touch last season, and even if we saw the best season of his career last year, it is well within his range of outcomes to eclipse the 1,200-yard mark again this year. Puka is here to stay, and you can draft him with confidence.
Tier 3
10. Michael Pittman Jr. (WR, IND) –Somehow Michael Pittman Jr. is always slept on. He may not have the top five wide out in a range of outcomes, but he should be locked into the top 15 position. Pittman should secure anywhere from 130-150 targets in this Colts offense and should be the only highly invested pass catcher from the Indianapolis offense. I expect more scoring opportunities in 2024, and he is also likely to surpass that 1,000-yard receiving threshold we all care about so much.
11. Drake London (WR, ATL) –Drake London is in a make-or-break season. With all the talent in the world, London has been at or near the top of dynasty managers’ wide receiver targets the last few seasons. The problem has always been who is getting him the ball. The Falcons remedied that this year by adding Kirk Cousins and eventually going on to draft Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick. Now, regardless of whether you think the pick was wise (It wasn’t), London’s future looks bright with competent quarterback play. Expect London to set the fantasy world on fire in his first season with the new regime.
12. Brandon Aiyuk (WR, SF) –It is challenging to nail down a spot for Brandon Aiyuk right now, with trade rumors swirling. With that being said, Aiyuk is a bonafide superstar. He was one of the most efficient pass catchers in the NFL last season while competing for targets with Deebo Samuel, George Kittle, and Christian McCaffrey. If he can land somewhere that will give him 135+ targets, we could see a WR1 overall season. The favorites to land Aiyuk right now seem to be the Steelers and the Browns. Both teams could get Aiyuk close to those numbers, but both also have worse quarterback play. If you are drafting soon, know this. Aiyuk is a baller and can find success in any of his three current options to play football in 2024. At a WR15 ADP you should be buying every single time.
13. Malik Nabers (WR, NYG) –The Giants drafted Malik Nabers sixth overall in the hopes that he can become Odell Beckham 2.0 for them this season. With Daniel Jones’s return and Saquon Barkley’s departure, look for Nabers to feast in full-point PPR leagues. He should see upwards of 130 targets in this offense, and even if Daniel Jones’s arm strength can be limiting, Nabers makes his money after the catch, accruing over 500 yards after the catch in his final collegiate season.
14. Jaylen Waddle (WR, MIA) –Jaylen Waddle has seen his production dip each of the last few seasons, but his efficiency metrics are firm. He might not be the target hog he was during his rookie season, with Tyreek Hill leading the way, but Waddle has a chance to re-emerge as an elite fantasy weapon in 2024. Last season, he was hampered by injury, and while that may always be a part of his game, he should be locked into 125 targets on one of the league’s most explosive offenses.
15. Nico Collins (WR, HOU) –The Texans’ breakout season rested largely on Nico Collins’ shoulders. He posted an impressive 1,297 receiving yards on 80 receptions and eight touchdowns. Collins is a superstar in the making. He has proven to be an elite route runner while also having the physicality and football IQ to be a team’s WR1. The addition of Stefon Diggs may hurt his overall volume, but Diggs showed signs of slowing down last season and may eat more into Tank Dell’s value than he will Collins’.
16. Mike Evans (WR, TB) –There may not be a more reliable wide receiver in the NFL than Mike Evans. He has posted at least 1,000 yards in 10 seasons (his entire career) and has averaged just under double-digit touchdowns per season. The Hall of Fame is calling, but Evans isn’t quite ready to go. In year 11, he returns with Baker Mayfield, who revived his career in Tampa Bay last season. As long as Evans is healthy he is an easy pick in drafts. His ADP sits between WR14-16, and you can rest easy floating Evans into your WR2 spot on your roster.
17. Chris Olave (WR, NO) –Everyone is waiting for the Chris Olave breakout, but I am tentative to say it’s coming this year. Derek Carr struggles to push the ball downfield and has dealt with severe injuries in nearly every season in the league. The Saints offense has two players you are investing in, Olave and Alvin Kamara, in spite of Carr. He should see the volume surpass the 1,000-yard mark, and he is able to create separation at will. Olave is a low-ceiling, high-floor player in full PPR leagues. I wouldn’t trust him as my WR1, but WR2 feels right.
18. DJ Moore (WR, CHI) – DJ Moore got the richest wide receiver contract in Bears history just last week. The team has tied him to Caleb Williams for the next four years. That is good for dynasty and redraft. DJ Moore should lead the Bears in targets this season as the do-it-all pass catcher. He had the best season of his career last year, catching nearly 100 passes for 1,364 yards and eight touchdowns, which was the most in his career. Chicago’s offense should be making a lot more trips to the red zone this year as well, which elevates Moore’s ceiling.
19. DeVonta Smith (WR, PHI) –The Eagles’ offense stalled out for the second half of last year, and while AJ Brown saw a drop in production, that was when DeVonta Smith shined brightest. Smith recorded four games of over 15 fantasy points in the final seven games, and his usage was far more consistent. Kellen Moore now takes over as OC in Philadelphia and his fast paced system and creative play calling could mean big things for Smith. He will always have a bit of a limited ceiling, but Smith is one of the best WR2s in fantasy football. He could catapult into the elite tier of pass catcher should Brown miss any time.
20. DK Metcalf (WR, SEA) –There may not be a more physically dominant wide receiver in the NFL than DK Metcalf. Seemingly locked in as a high-end WR2, Metcalf still has more to prove in 2024. The new OC, Ryan Grubb, could help him get there. We should see a transition from the typical run-heavy scheme we are used to in Seattle, and with that, Metcalf has a chance for a breakout as he enters some of the apex years for wide receiver production. The one question that still needs answering is which Geno Smith we will get this year and if we could see Sam Howell get some run this season.
Tier 4
21. Davante Adams (WR, LV) –Is this the year we see Davante Adams finally hit that wide receiver age cliff? While I don’t know if it will be all Adams’ fault, the Raiders’ passing game is headed toward a disastrous season. With one of Gardner Minshew or Aidan O’Connel manning the helm, the potential that Adams shows anything like his early career is limited. Last season was already a significant drop off from his typical value due to the lack of touchdowns, and that concern is still there for 2024. He also has to deal with newcomer Brock Bowers, who will demand targets as well. Adams may end up slightly higher than where I have this season, but the ceiling is lower than in years past, and the risk is much higher.
22. Cooper Kupp (WR, LAR) –Cooper Kupp still has plenty left in the tank, evidenced by his final stretch of games. His 17-game pace would have put him over 1,000 yards and 84 receptions. While Kupp may be more of a 1B rather than a bonafide one in the Rams’ new offense, he has been leading the way in training camp thus far, and that is not something to be ignored. He has dealt with injury in every season since 2021, which is why he falls as far as he does, but there are far worse options than Kupp when it comes to your team’s WR2.
23. George Pickens (WR, PIT) –If the Steelers do not find a way to bring Brandon Aiyuk to Pittsburgh, George Pickens will be in for a breakout season. While WR23 might be less exciting to you, it matters for fantasy football. Last season, he ended the year as WR30, and with the additions of Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, Pickens should be getting an upgrade no matter who wins the job. Wilson is notorious for pushing the ball downfield. It got him into trouble in Denver, accruing a high number of sacks while waiting too long for plays to develop. Justin Fields can get through his first read and his first read only. That is why he hyper-targeted DJ Moore in Chicago last year. Both benefit Pickens, who should be able to win in contested catch situations and is a dominant X wide receiver.
24. Deebo Samuel Sr. (WR, SF) –One of the most unique playmakers in the NFL, Deebo Samuel, has the ability to win in ways that most other wide receivers can only dream of. That’s why the fantasy world is constantly looking for the next Deebo. In the back half of the season, Deebo averaged over 18 fantasy points per game, behind only CeeDee Lamb. If Brandon Aiyuk gets traded, Deebo will jump up to WR18 for me, but until that happens, he is a high-upside player who has a lot of target competition.
25. Tee Higgins (WR, CIN) –The offseason questions about Tee Higgins left us hoping he would land somewhere he could establish himself as the WR1 for an offense. Unfortunately, fantasy managers will have to wait one more season for that. Higgins is the WR2 for a Joe Burrow-led offense, so he could land near the top of this tier instead of the bottom. That being said, he has dealt with injury regularly in his career and usually becomes an afterthought when Burrow and Chase are clicking. Capped in the low-200 fantasy points range until he moves on, Higgins isn’t generally going to win you weeks. He is a fine WR2, but if you can roll him out as your WR3 or FLEX, you will be much happier.
26. Amari Cooper (WR, CLE) –Amari Cooper is a decent value in 2024 as a player who should surpass 1,000 receiving yards once again. The real value with Cooper is if Deshaun Watson is able to regain some of his former glory. If that were to happen, then Cooper could flirt with top-15 wide receiver production. The path is there, and he is a rock-solid WR3.
27. Zay Flowers (WR, BAL) – It isn’t clear how the Ravens will use Zay Flowers this year. He proved he deserved to be their WR1, but he had inconsistent usage as it appeared the Ravens were trying to figure out how to use his skill set. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Flowers be the number two option on this offense behind Mark Andrews. Todd Monken’s system continues to evolve for the Ravens, and Flowers has a fair chance to eclipse the 1,000-yard mark in year two. He is a strong WR3 with upside.
28. Christian Kirk (WR, JAC) – I would not be surprised to see Christian Kirk lead the Jaguars in targets this season. His role is well established, and even as the Jags add outside pass-catchers, Kirk shouldn’t see a massive reduction in volume. While he isn’t likely to see the eight touchdowns number from two years ago in full PPR, his receptions should be able to keep him in the WR3 conversation. He was on pace for 81 receptions last year, which fell just shy of his breakout season in 2022.
29. Tank Dell (WR, HOU) –Tank Dell fought against the BMI mob in his rookie season, and he won. He was averaging over 2.0 yards per route run and being one of the most essential playmakers for the Texans. There are questions about his being able to hold up for an entire season and how the targets will be distributed between Dell, Stefon Diggs, and Nico Collins, but you should be buying this offense, and he may be the most affordable option.
Tier 5
30. Keenan Allen (WR, CHI) –Keenan Allen has been one of the most prolific wide receivers in the NFL during his career. Last season was one of Allen’s best of his career, even with him missing time due to an injury. Now he joins a crowded Chicago wide receiver room but should be able to compete for the WR1 role with DJ Moore and even play more in the slot in three wide receiver sets. Allen has spent his entire career winning with his route running and nuance, not his athleticism, so he could have more career left than people think.
31. Terry McLaurin (WR, WAS) –Terry McLaurin has been a victim of poor quarterback play his entire career. He brings speed and elite route running to a Commanders’ offense that needs him with the ball in his hands to succeed. While McLaurin can expect an upgrade at quarterback, he is still a rookie and a mobile one. He should continue to flirt with WR2/WR3 production in his age-28 season.
32. Stefon Diggs (WR, HOU) –We started to see glimpses of Stefon Diggs’ decline last season. He is still a strong route runner, but his usage did change for the first time in a long time. Diggs joins a crowded wide receiver room in Houston and should compete with Tank Dell for the WR2 role on the team. It’s hard to project his usage, but don’t be surprised if we don’t see the Stefon Diggs of 2022 again. The risk is much higher than in years past as he enters his age-31 season, but the good news is that this has already been baked into his cost.
33. Diontae Johnson (WR, CAR) –Diontae Johnson could be in line for a breakout season in full PPR leagues. Now the lead target for Bryce Young and the Carolina Panthers, Johnson should see 130+ targets, which, even with his history of drops, means fantasy success. Johnson, with the help of OC Dave Canales, has a chance to reclaim some of his 2021 form. The Panthers are still a team near the bottom of the league, so don’t expect Diontae Johnson to be a surprise WR1, but he is an excellent option at his WR38 ADP.
34. Jaxon Smith-Njigba (WR, SEA) –Jaxon Smith-Njigba is going to be an interesting player to watch in the new Seahawks offense. He has the skill set to win at every level of the field but has a limited ceiling while competing with both DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. He also has to navigate a new offense in year two and hopes that Geno Smith can improve over his 2023 results. JSN has a wide range of outcomes this year, but to be a true league-winning option like his profile implies, he would need an injury to Metcalf, who should be the first option for Smith.
35. Jayden Reed (WR, GB) – The Packers’ wide receivers are an enigma for the 2024 season. Jayden Reed is the most talented but is best suited to play slot wide receiver, which limits his ability to get on the field. He was a touchdown machine in 2023, and while that is likely to regress this season, Reed still has the potential to take another step. Reed was only on the field in two wide sets twice during the entire season, which is a staggeringly low number. If he wants to jump into WR2 territory, he will need to establish himself as an option in those scenarios. He is a like not love for redraft.
36. Chris Godwin (WR, TB) –Chris Godwin has been mostly a disappointment since his 2018 breakout season. Stuck as a low-end WR2 or high-end WR3 most of his career, Godwin has some hope heading into 2024. The talk out of training camp is that Godwin will get more time out of the slot, a role that led to him having the most success he has ever had in the NFL. It remains to be seen if the Buccaneers will deliver on that promise, and Godwin is approaching the wide receiver age cliff. There’s a lot of potential, and the acquisition cost is low. He is a player I am rostering in most of my redraft leagues.
37. Ladd McConkey (WR, LAC) –The Chargers passed on Malik Nabers early in the draft and chose to draft Ladd McConkey instead a round later. McConkey has the route-running chops to be a true breakout candidate for the Bolts this season. His profile has some concerns, though. Never the lead target of the Georgia offense (Brock Bowers), McConkey wasn’t able to notch a thousand-yard season in his collegiate career. He also dealt with injuries on and off, an issue he found himself dealing with early again in training camp. McConkey looks like he could be an excellent NFL player while providing modest fantasy value in his rookie campaign.
38. Rome Odunze (WR, CHI) –It feels weird to say that Rome Odunze was the WR3 of this year’s draft class, but he was. In a class that gave us Marvin Harrison Jr. and Malik Nabers, Odunze somehow became an incredible consolation prize for the Chicago Bears. Odunze is an elite route runner who dominates in contested catch situations. He can win at every level of the field and has a fair shot to take over WR2 duties from Keenan Allen before the season ends. That being said, it looks to be more of a slow burn for Odunze, who will have to earn that playing time behind two of the league’s best pass catchers.
Tier 6
39. Rashee Rice (WR, KC) –If it wasn’t for Rashee Rice’s looming suspension, he would find himself in the mid-20s at the position. Unfortunately, we do have to worry about his off-the-field issues, and with that uncertainty, the rookie breakout for Patrick Mahomes is an afterthought. Currently, Rice is around WR36, and he still feels like he may be too high. If he were to fall a round in ADP or we were to get more clarity on his suspension, I would be more comfortable pulling the trigger. He also has new competition for targets in rookie Xavier Worthy and veteran Marquise “Hollywood” Brown.
40. Christian Watson (WR, GB) –Christian Watson is an old-school X receiver at his best. He can beat defenders with this strength and athleticism and makes some highlight plays that litter your social media feeds. The issue is Watson can’t stay healthy. This offseason, he shared that he has a discrepancy in the weight of his legs, which has led to his multiple soft tissue injuries. As they work to remedy this, Watson remains limited. If he can put his injuries behind him and develop a more complete route tree, Watson could be in the top-15 conversation, but until then, there are too many other options for Jordan Love to utilize for me to buy in on Watson.
41. Calvin Ridley (WR, TEN) –Turning into something of a journeyman, Calvin Ridley starts his Titans career. He was inconsistent, to say the least, last season with some game-altering drops. Ridley appeared to be off-schedule with Lawrence for more weeks than not. Now he joins a Titans offense with a much worse option at quarterback in Will Levis and a team that is not likely to get into scoring territory very often. He has a low ceiling and a low floor, as things stand now.
42. Marquise Brown (WR, KC) –Marquise “Hollywood” Brown is not who we thought he was. Brown is a solid role player in the NFL, which renders him useless in most fantasy football leagues. This season, he should benefit early season from a Rice suspension, but that utility is more than likely gone by week four.
43. Brian Thomas Jr. (WR, JAC) –Brian Thomas Jr. scored 17 touchdowns in his final year at LSU. He should immediately fill in as the Jaguars X receiver, and he has decent route-running ability. The Jaguars were desperate for a more reliable option in the red zone last season, and Thomas should be able to help right away. He is far from a sure thing, but as far as upside and opportunity go, he has it in bunches.
Tier 7
44. DeAndre Hopkins (WR, TEN) –DeAndre Hopkins is currently banged up, but at 32 years old, he does not have much ceiling to work with. Will Levis’ leadership of this offense is less than ideal, as he may struggle to produce a single top-40 wide receiver. Even when Hop is healthy, there is a fair chance he will slot behind Calvin Ridley for targets.
45. Dontayvion Wicks (WR, GB) –Dontayvion Wicks is my personal favorite of the Packers’ young wide receivers. He is a premier route runner and navigates spacing and body control well. I would not be surprised to see Wicks lead this team in all receiving categories in 2024. That being said, Wicks has a long way to go to earn that role. Currently, he sits as the WR4 on the depth chart. His current ADP of WR65 is going to rise as we get further along in the preseason, but if it holds anywhere near that, he is a screaming buy.
46. Jordan Addison (WR, MIN) –Jordan Addison was already due for regression in 2024 before his off-the-field concerns. While Addison should serve a suspension this season, we don’t know when or for how long. That is not a gamble. I am taking on a pass catcher who gained most of his value from touchdowns and has to navigate a new quarterback or two, one of which is a rookie.
47. Courtland Sutton (WR, DEN) –If going out with a whimper was a fantasy football player, it would be Courtland Sutton. He scored ten touchdowns last year, but he did not score at a sustainable pace. Now, he doesn’t only have regression coming his way, but he goes from Russell Wilson to one of Bo Nix or Jarrett Stidham. Expect a reduction in receptions, yardage, and touchdowns in 2024.
48. Xavier Worthy (WR, KC) –Last year, the Chiefs were unable to equip Patrick Mahomes with a fully functioning wide receiver core. Obviously, Rashee Rice rose to the occasion to some degree, but they needed more. Enter Xavier Worthy. Worthy is a bit raw as a route runner, but he has killer speed and could develop into a major playmaker for the Chiefs with the right coaching. If Rice were to miss more than four games, Worthy may move up this list some out of necessity alone.
49. Jakobi Meyers (WR, LV) –Jakobi Meyers was underrated as a Patriot, so it was good to see him eclipse 100 targets in his first season as a Raider. There is more untapped potential for Meyers, but it is unlikely we see that potential realized in 2024. Aidan O’Connell and Gardner Minshew are not the quarterbacks you want for a pass catcher on your fantasy roster. Not only that, but Meyers will contend with Davante Adams and Brock Bowers this season. I like the player a lot, but his fantasy arrow is pointing down.
50. Tyler Lockett (WR, SEA) –Tyler Lockett never got the respect he deserved as a bonafide stud at the wide receiver position, and unfortunately, it doesn’t look like that will change as he started to decline in 2023. Lockett led the Seahawks in targets last season with 122, but this year, he will have a difficult time fighting off both DK Metcalf and Jaxon Smith-Njigba in Ryan Grubb’s new system. My rough projections have him falling short of 100 targets for the first time since 2018.
51. Khalil Shakir (WR, BUF) –There is a fair chance that Khalil Shakir leads the Buffalo Bills in targets. Rookie Keon Coleman is a raw prospect, and Curtis Samuel has never been able to shoulder the load of a WR1 in the NFL. Shakir has shown flashes of greatness but has not yet been given the volume to really impact fantasy football. I don’t think it will always be pretty, and it may completely fall apart, but Shakir could play a nice role for fantasy managers who are ravaged by bye weeks or injuries.
Tier 8
52. Jameson Williams (WR, DET) –Jameson Williams might never happen, but I would be lying if I said I wasn’t holding on to hope for one more season. Between injury and suspension, Williams has never been able to secure his footing in the NFL. The Lions coaching staff has been very positive about Williams this training camp, though, which has not always been the sentiment around the Alabama product.
53. Curtis Samuel (WR, BUF) –Curtis Samuel has given all fantasy managers hope at one point or another, and in 2024, I know he is doing the same to some of you. He has only ever eclipsed the 800-yard receiving mark once in his career, and while he may do the same for the Bills, it isn’t likely. Keon Coleman and Khalil Shakir would be my bets to lead the wide receivers in targets. Samuel’s NFL impact should be much more significant than his fantasy one.
54. Keon Coleman (WR, BUF) –Keon Coleman is a raw prospect, but he has all the physical gifts to succeed at the next level. Coleman presents more dynasty value than redraft, as this year may be a bit of learn-on-the-job experience, and that is not something fantasy managers will want to invest in during their drafts.
55. Ja’Lynn Polk (WR, NE) –The rookie wide receiver who is being slept on the most is Ja’Lynn Polk. He proved in college that he has great route running ability and sure hands. He fell in large part due to his lack of athleticism, and the Patriots may have found their top target earner for the foreseeable future. The early season could be a grind as the Patriots navigate Drake Maye’s development, but once the two can establish some chemistry, Polk could take off the final month of the season.
56. Josh Downs (WR, IND) –Josh Downs just suffered a high ankle sprain, which could derail some of his season, but the talent is there. He was one of the best route runners in the NFL as a rookie, and his hands are vise grips. If he is able to get healthy and get time with Anthony Richardson, he could be a surprise breakout candidate in 2024. Give Downs the Z receiver role and let him create for the Colts’ offense. The reason he falls this far is the Colts run-first and run-second game plan.
57. Adonai Mitchell (WR, IND) –Adonai Mitchell is an athletic freak at wide receiver, and not only that, but he is a more than competent route runner. He may share the outside wide receiver work with Alec Pierce to start the season, but make no mistake, Mitchell is the playmaker. If the Colts did choose to air it out more, Mitchell could be a special player, but as things stand now, he is more of a dynasty stash than a redraft sleeper.
58. Xavier Legette (WR, CAR) –Xavier Legette was a late breakout in college. He had one season of production in South Carolina and has a way to go as a route runner. The good news is he has a fair chance to win the WR2 role for the Panthers in his rookie season. The bad news is that that is not a very exciting role for fantasy football.
59. Joshua Palmer (WR, LAC) –The Chargers pass catchers are in flux with the departures of Mike Williams and, of course, Keenan Allen. The most senior wide receiver for the Chargers is Joshua Palmer. Palmer should be the number two option behind Ladd McConkey this year. We will need to see things shake out a little more in camp to have a clear picture of what that will look like in season, but you could do a lot worse than one of Justin Herbert’s top targets.
Tier 9
60. Rashid Shaheed (WR, NO) –The Saints are not an offense I would recommend investing in outside of the superstars, but if you want a dart throw that can take one to the house any time he touches the ball, then Rashid Shaheed is your guy. He is a playmaker with the ball in his hands and has started to develop a more complete route tree. There is talent there; we just need Derek Carr to survive an NFL season unscathed to see much from it. Shaheed could also provide some value as a kick returner if your league scores return yards or return touchdowns.
61. Brandin Cooks (WR, DAL) –Brandin Cooks remains the Dallas Cowboys’ WR2. His target volume and yardage totals have dropped each of his last three seasons (134,93,81). That being said, he was able to post eight touchdowns last season and has little new competition in that area. Cooks is a fine dart throw on his touchdown opportunity alone.
62. Mike Williams (WR, NYJ) –Mike Williams is returning from an ACL tear and entering the season with a new team, the New York Jets. He will play opposite Garrett Wilson, which bodes well for him as he tries to return to the game at age 30. His path to success for fantasy managers in 2024 will be his usage in the red zone and Aaron Rodgers’ healthy return. He is firmly in the WR4/5 range for this season if everyone can stay healthy.
63. Romeo Doubs (WR, GB) –Romeo Doubs is often the man forgotten for the Green Bay Packers. Doubs is a do-it-all receiver who can make plays at every level of the field. The problem is he is surrounded by specialists who fit the offense well. Doubs has a chance to crack the starting lineup for week one and probably has a slight edge over Dontayvion Wicks. The problem is that Wicks should supplant him early in the season, forcing Doubs to be a rotational player.
64. Jahan Dotson (WR, WAS) –Jahan Dotson was a popular breakout candidate last season, but he wasn’t able to deliver. The issue for Dotson is he is a worse version of what the Commanders already have in Terry McLaurin. Neither player has been able to impress much while the Commanders hovered near the bottom of the league. Jayden Daniels is the new signal caller in Washington, though, and with that excitement comes more opportunity for Dotson. While he profiles as a FLEX type of player, when all is going well, the Commanders may rely more on their running backs (Austin Ekeler and Brian Robinson) than they have in years past, leaving very few targets for the second or third option in the passing game.
65. Jerry Jeudy (WR, CLE) –Jerry Jeudy’s time in the spotlight is rapidly coming to an end. The Broncos finally traded him to the Cleveland Browns this year, where he will contend for the number two job behind Amari Cooper. Jeudy may be able to find success in the slot if Deshaun Watson can return from his shoulder injury at 100%. Ultimately, Jeudy feels like a low-ceiling, low-floor player.
66. Adam Thielen (WR, CAR) –Adam Thielen eclipsed 1,000 yards for only the third time in his career in 2023. Even with the abysmal Panthers offense, the sheer volume of opportunities was able to make him a WR2 for fantasy football. 2024 might be different. The team made a conscious effort to add weapons to help develop Bryce Young. Diontae Johnson and rookie Xavier Legette both look to take meaningful snaps from Thielen this season. Entering his age-33 season, he is a fine bench stash if Legette doesn’t pan out because this team will be throwing all four quarters.
67. Gabe Davis (WR, JAC) –There are very few rollercoasters I want to experience less than the Gabe Davis experience. Davis had nine games with two or fewer receptions and only five with four or more. The catch is that in those five games, he was WR14 or higher. He gets a fresh start in Jacksonville, which is desperate for playmakers, but Davis still probably falls behind Brian Thomas Jr., Christian Kirk, and Evan Engram for targets.
68. DeMario Douglas (WR, NE) –DeMario Douglas was the lone bright spot for the New England Patriots in 2024. If he is healthy, Douglas should start the season as the team’s top wide receiver. He does have a smaller frame (5’8″, 192lbs), which may limit him to the slot, but if Drake Maye emerges as a premier quarterback in his rookie season, Douglas could be a tremendous value.
69. Michael Wilson (WR, ARI) –Michael Wilson has a lot more competition for targets than he did last season. Marvin Harrison Jr. and Zay Jones both joined the Cardinals this offseason, while Greg Dortch will also return to the team. The Cardinals should be throwing a lot in 2024, but I do not foresee that being a ton of value for Wilson, who will likely rotate on the outside with Zay Jones. My current projections have him eclipsing the 600-yard mark
70. Javon Baker (WR, NE) –Javon Baker is a fourth-round pick out of UCF. He was initially at the University of Alabama before struggling to find playing time. The move proved to be a good one, as Baker posted just under 2,000 receiving yards in his final two seasons. The good news for Baker is that he has a chance to be the Patriots’ X-receiver of the future. The challenging part is that it might not be that fruitful of a role until we get to the later parts of the season.
71. Darnell Mooney (WR, ATL) –One of the more intriguing post-hype sleepers this year is undoubtedly Darnell Mooney. Mooney is a strong route runner and a popular breakout candidate just a year ago. The Justin Fields experiment made that dream come to a screaming halt, though, and Mooney chose to move on to the new-look Atlanta Falcons. If Kirk Cousins stays healthy, Mooney could provide a Jordan Addison-like season, although with fewer touchdowns. The offense is loaded with talent, so Mooney may be stuck as the fourth option, but the talent is there.
Tier 10
72. Quentin Johnston (WR, LAC) –It is too early to write off Quentin Johnston entirely, especially when you look at the wide receiver group for the Chargers. That being said, it’s been all bad for the year-two wideout. He continues to struggle with focus drops and lacks the aggressiveness he was able to dominate with in college. In his first season, he was used as an outside wide receiver almost exclusively, and he struggled running a complete route tree. If he is able to take a step forward and be used out of the slot, we could see a revival of his career until we see any evidence of those things happening, though he is, at best, a late-round dart throw.
73. Wan’Dale Robinson (WR, NYG) –We have yet to really see what a full-strength Wan’Dale Robinson can do. He showed some flashes in his rookie season before tearing his ACL, and in his first year back, he was able to improve his production while eclipsing 50 receiving yards in four games. With Daniel Jones’ return and Robinson having recovered from his injury for another year, we could see him step into the WR2 role for the Giants. Determining how much value that brings to your fantasy rosters is the only question.
74. Marvin Mims Jr. (WR, DEN) –I am less than bullish on Marvin Mims Jr. He should get the opportunity in the Broncos offense, but we have very little evidence that he can do anything with those chances. He may be better suited as a kick returner in the NFL. If you are in the late rounds of your draft and desperate for a wide receiver, you could do worse than Mims.
75. Jermaine Burton (WR, CIN) –Jermaine Burton may be the mid-to-late-season waiver wire priority that breaks the bank. He is a strong route runner and plays aggressive at the catch point. He fell in the draft due to some off-the-field concerns but lands with Joe Burrow and a Bengals team that has questions behind Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. If either were to miss time, Burton could be a league-winning option at wide receiver.
76. Troy Franklin (WR, DEN) –Troy Franklin was touted as a potential second-round pick in the NFL draft. After a below-average showing at the combine, he ended up falling to round four. The Broncos did trade up to acquire their rookie quarterbacks’ favorite weapon in college, though, and that should matter. Franklin is a fine dynasty stash, but for redraft purposes, the road for both him and Nix to get on the field together is a long one, especially with some reports out of camp that he has been struggling with drops.
77. Demarcus Robinson (WR, LAR) –Demarcus Robinson is firmly entrenched as the Los Angeles Rams’ WR3. That may carry some value, but deciding when that will be is not a game I recommend playing. Target volume is likely going to be consolidated with Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, assuming both stay healthy.
78. Elijah Moore (WR, CLE) –I have finally conceded that Elijah Moore’s breakout season isn’t coming. He is set up to be a rotational player out of the slot for the Cleveland Browns. If Deshaun Watson can reclaim some of his former glory, Moore has some redraft intrigue, but until we see any evidence of that, it is not difficult to move past his name in the draft queue.
79. Rashod Bateman (WR, BAL) –Rashod Bateman is probably not someone you are drafting in redraft leagues, but he is the betting favorite to be second on the depth chart behind Zay Flowers. The Ravens staff continue to praise the once highly touted wide receiver, but staying healthy has been a massive problem for Bateman. Assuming both Andrews and Flowers are healthy, there isn’t likely enough volume for Bateman to succeed.
80. Roman Wilson (WR, PIT) –Roman Wilson comes out of Michigan and is on track to be the Pittsburgh Steelers’ WR2. In college, his athleticism limited him from seeing elite usage, which may be an obstacle at the NFL level as well. While he isn’t an elite route runner, he has shown enough to be able to win when put in the right situations.
81. Ricky Pearsall (WR, SF) –Ricky Pearsall would be the primary beneficiary of a Brandon Aiyuk trade. If Aiyuk does get moved, Pearsall makes a jump into the early 50s at the position with the potential to go even higher. If he can stay healthy, Pearsall could have 100+ targets fall into his lap. His best skill set is route running, which is one of the few things that allows young pass catchers to thrive early in their careers.
82. Jalin Hyatt (WR, NYG) –Jalin Hyatt is the younger Darius Slayton. He has a long way to go as a route runner, but he is young enough to put it together. I don’t hate Hyatt as a deep league stash, but in leagues under 12 teams, he is better left on waivers.
83. Darius Slayton (WR, NYG) –We already know what Darius Slayton is at this point in his career. He tends to settle in around 750 yards with the occasional touchdown. He gets Daniel Jones back in 2024, but he also now has a true alpha in Malik Nabers to compete with for targets. If you NEED to have a Giants wide receiver on your team and you aren’t able to snag Nabers, there are other options I would look to before Slayton.
84. Tyler Boyd (WR, TEN) –Tyler Boyd signed a contract with the Tennesee Titans this offseason and should immediately be the starting slot wide receiver. If he can establish himself as the safety blanket for second-year quarterback Will Levis, Boyd could prove to be a steal in full PPR leagues. The real problem for Boyd is that Levis is more of a gunslinger than a hit-the-underneath receiver kind of quarterback.
85. Zay Jones (WR, ARI) –Zay Jones should be able to compete with Michael Wilson this season to be the Cardinals’ WR2 behind Marvin Harrison Jr. Jones had a minor breakout just two seasons ago before being hampered by an injury last season. On an offense that should be throwing the ball a ton and a number of questions at wide receiver, Jones could have some bye-week streamer viability in 2024.
86. Kendrick Bourne (WR, NE) – Kendrick Bourne is a bit of the forgotten man in New England. He is looking to return after tearing his ACL last season. If all goes well in his recovery, Bourne should start the season as the starting Pats’ X wide receiver. He could have some sneaky early-season value, but with rookies Ja’Lynn Polk and Javon Baker pushing him for snaps, I wouldn’t be surprised to start to see a drop in usage after the first month of the season.
87. Malachi Corley (WR, NYJ) –Malachi Corley has a fair shot to be the Jets’ starting slot wide receiver in 2024. With Aaron Rodgers returning from a torn Achilles, there are questions about what kind of production you can really expect for Corley, but he may be worth a late-round dart throw. Corley is dangerous with the ball in his hands, generating tons of yards after the catch, and has impressive strength for a player of his size. Reminiscent of a poor man’s DJ Moore, there is potential here, but it may be more in 2025 than it is this year.
88. Treylon Burks (WR, TEN) –Treylon Burks has 665 receiving yards combined between his first two seasons in the NFL. He proved to be a mostly raw athletic player who wasn’t able to translate his game to the NFL level. The Titans brought in Calvin Ridley and Tyler Boyd this offseason to go alongside veteran DeAndre Hopkins (currently injured). It doesn’t look like Burks will have much of a role in 2024, and even if he did get regular snaps, you would be hoping for WR3 production at best.
89. Odell Beckham Jr. (WR, MIA) –Odell Beckham Jr. is now a Miami Dolphin as he heads into his age-31 season. He looks to be firmly entrenched as their WR3 as long as he is healthy, but with so many mouths to feed in Miami and Tyreek Hill demanding target volume, Beckham is better left on waivers.
90. DJ Chark Jr. (WR, LAC) –DJ Chark signed with the Chargers this offseason as they adjusted course to become one of the NFL’s more run-heavy teams. Even with limited competition, Chark is more of a deep threat. It would be best if you didn’t put too much energy into trying to guess when he will hit.
91. A.T. Perry (WR, NO) –A.T. Perry had a few moments last season but did not see the field much. The 6’5, 205-pound receiver may have a shot to start opposite Chris Olave in 2024, and even with Derek Carr being a shell of himself, Perry has some deep-league streamer appeal if he can earn the WR2 role.
92. Jonathan Mingo (WR, CAR) –Jonathan Mingo is probably going to drop out of this list in the near future. He is way off the radar for redraft leagues, and most dynasty managers are just waiting to make sure they have an official time of death. Mingo struggled in his rookie season as a route runner and was able to keep up with the mental part of the game, ultimately posting 418 receiving yards in 15 games.
93. Jalen McMillan (WR, TB) –Jalen McMillan played at the University of Washington, where he posted impressive numbers for the Huskies. He dealt with injuries that ultimately lowered his draft stock, but McMillan has deep sleeper written all over him. Already gaining praise out of training camp, McMillan can line up all over the formation and has a fair chance to win immediate playing time in the Buccaneers’ new-look offense.
94. Trey Palmer (WR, TB) –Trey Palmer is slowly losing his grip on the Buccaneers’ WR3 role. Usually aligned in the slot, Palmer may be replaced by Chris Godwin, who will move inside more than he did in years past. Rookie Jalen McMillan has a fair chance to beat Palmer on any snaps on the outside, as well. He is a long shot in 2024, but if Godwin were to miss time due to injury, Palmer is likely the next man up in three wide receiver sets.
95. Devontez Walker (WR, BAL) –Devontez Walker joins a Baltimore wide receiver core of Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman. If Walker proves that his explosiveness can bring a dynamic element to the passing game, he will have plenty of opportunities to establish himself as an every-down player for the Ravens. The question is, will the Ravens pass enough for it to matter?
96.Alec Pierce (WR, IND) – Alec Pierce really only makes this list due to Josh Downs’s recent injury. You typically aren’t overly excited about the third pass-catching option on a run-first offense, but Pierce has a shot at competing for the WR2 job as long as Downs is off the field.
97. Cedric Tillman (WR, CLE) –Cedric Tillman was virtually nonexistent in his rookie season but could find himself playing regular snaps in 2024. The Browns have Amari Cooper, Jerry Jeudy, and Elijah Moore also in this wide receiver room. Still, Tillman has been competing in camp, and both Jeudy and Moore may be better suited to lineup in the slot rather than across from Cooper.
98.Andrei Iosivas (WR, CIN) –Andrei Losivas has been slowly climbing up my rankings. He is battling it out with Jermaine Burton to be Joe Burrow’s WR3, but he has the physical tools to compete at the NFL level, and both Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase are no strangers to injury.
99. Tyler Scott (WR, CHI) –With the offseason additions in Chicago, Tyler Scott falls to the Bears’ WR4. He is off the fantasy radar as long as everyone stays healthy, but in deep leagues, Scott has some intrigue if one of the top three pass catchers were to miss time in a likely high-powered offense.
100. K.J. Osborn (WR, NE) –K.J. Osborn left the Vikings this offseason and headed to the rebuilding New England Patriots. In years past, Osborn has been capped as a desperation play for fantasy football. Averaging over 600 receiving yards and five touchdowns per season, Obsorn is more of an NFL role player than a fantasy football one. His only hope of making a significant impact would be if Kendrick Bourne and/or Demario Douglas were to miss time.
Photos courtesy of Icon Sportswire
Adapted by Kurt Wasemiller (@kurtwasemiller on Twitter / @kurt_player02 on Instagram)
