Letters from camp, and Canton

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So first and foremost, I received my shirt, and I’d like to thank you for that. At the time of writing this question, I haven’t had a chance to wear it yet, but it certainly feels very comfy. So thank you!

I’m curious, how many roster spots does it look like will be dedicated to wide receivers? It’s pretty clear three are taken already by DJ Moore, Robbie Anderson, and Terrace Marshall Jr.. Andre Roberts was brought in as a return specialist, which would be another spot, and Brandon Zylstra is a core special teamer (giving that shout-out to emergency kicker, too) which is another spot. It also feels like Rashard Higgins is going to lock up a spot, though of course, nothing is given. If that all stands, that’s six right there. Does this seem like a year of at least seven, giving a guy like Shi Smith his chance to prove himself, or even Keith Kirkwood, or does it look like it could be maxed out at six to keep roster spots open for more depth in other positions like the secondary, and defensive line? — Eric, Brick, NJ

First off, you’re welcome, Eric. I got a shipment of merch to our Friends Of The Mailbag before camp started, because I value the contributions of all of our people here. You’re like family.

As to the receivers, you forgot at least one. C.J. Saunders (who you can read all about here) is out there running with the starters as a slot receiver. He’s small, and it’s tempting to think of him as an underdog, but he’s out on the field making plays.

When Jaycee Horn endorses a receiver, you know he’s legit. “He can definitely sneak up on you,” Horn said at camp. “By now, every DB knows when you go out there against him, you better have your cleats tied and be ready to work if C.J. is lined up across from you.”

He’s little. But he runs sharp routes, is where he’s supposed to be, and catches everything. Quarterbacks like throwing it to him.

It’s going to be a fascinating competition, complicated by the fact…