Rob Rang’s Top 5 Receivers
The 2022 receiver class may lack the elite talent at the top that last year’s group boasted with 2021 Offensive Rookie of the Year Ja’Marr Chase (Cincinnati Bengals) and Heisman Trophy winner DeVonta Smith (Philadelphia Eagles) but the depth is outstanding with a pick-your-own-flavor collection of future NFL standouts expected to be one of the most popular position groups among the first 50 picks. Better yet, future starters will likely still be on the board throughout the middle rounds. The Seahawks already boast two of the league’s best, of course, in DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett with plenty expected from last year’s top pick, Dee Eskridge, in his second season but one simply cannot have too many playmakers in today’s game.
1. Garrett Wilson, Ohio State, 6-0, 183, 4.38, First Round
Given that he starred for one of the league’s great football factories, Wilson is actually surprisingly unpolished as a route-runner. His speed and natural hands, however, give him the edge in a tightly-ranked top of the class. Similar to Smith, Wilson possesses excellent body control and sticky, strong hands to make circus grabs, as well as the breakaway speed to score from anywhere on the field.
2. Jameson Williams, Alabama, 6-2, 179, 4.35 (est.), First Round
In a testament to just how talented the Ohio State receiving corps was, Williams transferred to Alabama for more playing time, where he proved an instant star for new Heisman Trophy winner Bryce Young in 2021, exploding for 1,572 yards and 15 touchdowns after catching just 15 passes in his previous two years for the Buckeyes. Williams is a thoroughbred, using his long legs to swiftly accelerate downfield, tracking the ball beautifully. He suffered a torn ACL in the national championship game loss to Georgia and may miss the entire 2022 season in his recovery. Nevertheless, his talent justifies first round consideration.
3. Drake London, Southern California, 6-3, 219, 4.55 (est.), First Round
Drawing…