CeeDee cashes in, sets stage for rookie WR class

Now that the Dallas Cowboys finally quieted the daily discussion about wide receiver CeeDeee Lamb with a massive contract, there is no doubt the trend is to covet these pass catchers second only to the almighty quarterback.

The prolific All-Pro wideout agreed to a four-year, $136 million extension Monday, ensuring he will be with Dallas in the foreseeable future.

Lamb joins Justin Jefferson, A.J. Brown, Amon-Ra St. Brown and Tyreek Hill among wideouts averaging more than $30 million annually. Lamb’s annual average salary of $34 million rates only behind Jefferson ($35 million) for the most in league history among non-quarterbacks. Lamb received a $38 million signing bonus, establishing a record at his position.

These astronomical figures have NFL GMs pouring double shots of whiskey as they balance their budgets while trying to assemble a championship-caliber team.

That said, teams attempted to mitigate the expense of their veterans by drafting seven wide receivers in the first round this year, and it appears that eleven rookie wide receivers will be starters when the season opens in a few minutes. With equally as many vying for a significant role if a starter were to miss any time in front of them.

That first-round haul of wideouts is the highest number since 2004—and three more were selected within the top five picks of the second round. This group also had the rare feat of having three first-round receivers picked within the top ten overall.

While CeeDee and the other newly paid vet WRs bank their blessings, let’s take a look at the newbies who will be making their mark this season.

New breed of starters

1. Marvin Harrison Jr.: 6-3, 202
   Draft: 1st round, 4th , Cardinals

Marvin Harrison Jr. has had an outstanding college career at Ohio State. As a highly touted recruit, he quickly surpassed expectations with impressive performances on the field. Over his tenure, Harrison has been known for his exceptional route running, hands, and ability to make big plays. His freshman year saw him make an immediate impact, and he continued to shine with each passing season. By his sophomore year, he had become one of the top wide receivers in the nation, earning numerous accolades and breaking several school records. His college career has solidified his status as one of the premier talents in college football history, setting the stage for him to break free of the comparisons to his father, and create his own NFL legacy.

2. Malik Nabers: 6-1, 188
   Draft: 1st round, 6th overall, New York Giants

Malik Nabers' rookie season in the NFL appears promising due to his impressive collegiate performance and skill set. With his explosive playmaking, strong hands, and precise route running, Nabers is poised to make an immediate impact. However, his success will depend on his ability to adjust to the faster-paced game and more intricate defensive schemes of the NFL. One challenge he might face is overcoming any potential shortcomings in quarterback play from Daniel Jones and the often questionable play-calling of the Giants' offense.

3. Keon Coleman: 6-4, 210
   Draft: 2nd round, 33rd overall, Buffalo Bills

Keon Coleman's future in the Bills' offense looks very promising. His outstanding physical attributes and incredible athleticism, precise route-running, and playmaking skills have Coleman poised to be a valuable addition to the team. Under the guidance of a skilled quarterback like Josh Allen, Coleman stands to gain from accurate, powerful throws and a fast-paced offensive strategy. His exceptional body control and hand-eye coordination, as demonstrated in this impressive highlight against Syracuse, showcased his ability to make remarkable plays out of the improbable.

4. Xavier Worthy: 6-1, 160
   Draft: 1st round, 28th overall, Kansas City Chiefs

Tyreek Hill 2.0 has been unleashed and the Chiefs invested draft stock to solidify he’s parked in their garage. Known for his explosive speed, sharp route-running, and playmaking ability, Worthy brings a dynamic element to the team. His knack for creating separation and making big plays will complement the Chiefs' high-octane offensive scheme, enhancing their vertical passing game. With a talented quarterback like Patrick Mahomes orchestrating the offense, Worthy’s potential to stretch the field and capitalize on deep passes makes him a valuable asset to the Chiefs.

5. Ladd McConkey: 6-0, 185
   Draft: 2nd round, 34th overall, Los Angeles Chargers

McConkey adds a dynamic edge to the Chargers receiving corps that lost two high-profile veterans this offseason. His ability to create separation and make crucial catches will enhance the Chargers' passing game, offering quarterback Justin Herbert a reliable and versatile target—something that last year’s first-round selection Quentin Johnston failed to provide.

6. Ja'lynn Polk: 6-2, 190
   Draft: 2nd round, 37th overall, New England Patriots

After serving as a supporting role to Rome Odunze during his final year at Washington, Jalynn Polk is prepared to step into the spotlight as the leading receiver for the Patriots. In a receiving corps that includes aging veterans and rookie Javon Baker, Polk has the chance to become the primary target. While he'll need to navigate the challenges of working with first-year quarterback Drake Maye, developing strong chemistry between them could position Polk and Maye as key cornerstones in a dynamic and promising offensive system.

7. Xavier Legette: 6-1, 217
   Draft: 1st round, 32nd overall, Carolina Panthers

Not only did Legette sneak his way into the bottom of the first round, but he is also the first graduate of the former LSU Head Coach Ed Ogeron’s hooked-on country grammar class. Alright, I kid, I kid…

Xavier Leggett boasts a well-rounded skill set that makes him a standout player. Known for his impressive physicality, he combines size and strength with explosive speed and agility. Leggett's route-running is precise, allowing him to create separation from defenders effectively. His reliable hands and ability to make contested catches add to his playmaking abilities. Additionally, he has a strong grasp of offensive schemes and can adapt to different roles, whether stretching the field or serving as a key possession receiver. Overall, his versatility and athleticism will be relied upon to jumpstart the career of last year’s No. 1 overall selection, Bryce Young.

8. Adonai Mitchell: 6-4, 190
   Draft: 2nd round, 52nd overall, Indianapolis Colts

An early injury to Josh Downs has elevated Mitchell to the No. 2 receiver position for the Colts this preseason, and he’s already demonstrating his abilities to secure his spot when Downs returns. With a wealth of physical talent, Mitchell has the potential to challenge opposing secondaries consistently. However, his main challenge will be managing the chip on his shoulder from being the 11th receiver chosen in this draft. Additionally, he’ll need to adapt to the dynamics of working with second-year starter Anthony Richardson, who may struggle with accuracy and might make plays with his legs even when Mitchell is wide open downfield.

9. Brian Thomas Jr.: 6-5, 198
   Draft: 1st round, 23rd overall, Jacksonville Jaguars

Thomas Jr. has all the tools and playmaking abilities to be a No. 1 in this league. However, he was drafted by a team that invested heavily in the position in the free agent market in recent years by signing Christian Kirk and Gabe Davis. In due time he will overtake Davis and become a viable option for Trevor Lawrence to target in the passing game moving forward.

10. Rome Odunze: 6-3, 200
    Draft: 1st round, 9th overall, Chicago Bears

Odunze finds himself as a member of a prolific trio of pass catchers in similar territory to Brian Thomas Jr. The Bears extended DJ Moore’s contract and traded for target monster Keenan Allen. Being that there are three Washington Huskies on this list of players this is a familiar situation for Odunze who will begin to carve out his role in the offense and garner the trust of his new best friend, Caleb Williams.

11. Jalen McMillan: 6-1, 180
    Draft: 3rd round, 92nd overall, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

After playing a secondary role with the Washington Huskies, McMillan now joins a group of seasoned veterans nearing the end of their careers. Mike Evans has become a reliable red zone target, and Chris Godwin has excelled in the slot when healthy. This situation presents a promising opportunity for McMillan to make an impact. With his youthful playmaking skills, he has the potential to stretch the field and provide Baker Mayfield with a dependable deep-ball threat for occasional big plays throughout the season.

Waiting in the Wings

1. Javon Baker: 6-2, 195
   Draft: 4th round, 110th overall, New England Patriots

With Tyquan Thornton, K.J. Osborn, and Jalen Reagor ahead of his on the depth chart it is just a matter of time Baker will be joining fellow rookie WR Polk, in three WR packages for the Patriots.

2. Troy Franklin: 6-2, 170
   Draft: 4th round, 102nd overall, Denver Broncos

With the surprising release of Tim Patrick from the Denver Broncos it opens a door for Franklin to share the WR3 role with fellow rookie Devaughn Vele.

3. Ricky Pearsall: 6-1, 200
   Draft: 1st round, 31st overall, San Francisco 49ers

The 49ers didn’t invest a first-round pick on Pearsall for him to ride the pine all season long. Unfortunately, a shoulder injury early in preseason has slowed his development to grasp the offense, and the long drown-out process of trading Brandon Aiyuk has muffled up the 49er’s plans with him too.

4. Jordan Whittington: 6-1, 206
   Draft: 6th round, 213th overall, Los Angeles Rams

McVay and the Rams have found another late round still that can become a reliable target for Matthew Stafford. If either Nacua or Kupp have any setbacks this season due to injury look for Whittington to be a replacement part with tremendous upside to keep the offense humming without skipping a beat.

5. Jermaine Burton: 6-0, 200
   Draft: 3rd round, 80th overall, Cincinnati Bengals

It seems the competition between Burton and Losivas has wrapped up, with Losivas securing the WR3 position heading into Week 1. Despite this, Burton demonstrated significant big-play potential during the preseason. Once he matures and becomes a more consistent presence in both the locker room and on the practice field, he could become a valuable contributor to the Bengals' offense.

6. Malachi Corley: 5-11, 200
   Draft: 3rd round, 65th overall, New York Jets

When the New York Jets drafted Corley, he was compared to Deebo Samuel due to his versatile skill set. However, Xavier Gibson is set to take the initial lead for the WR3 position, thanks to the explosive breakaway speed he showcased as a dynamic return specialist. Additionally, veteran Mike Williams is returning from injury before Week 1, and Allen Lazard, a favorite of Rodgers from their time with the Packers, is also a key presence on the depth chart.

7. Roman Wilson: 6-0, 180
   Draft: 3rd round, 84th overall, Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers are expected to focus on a run-heavy offense, driven by the one-two punch of Warren and Harris. They are likely to implement a two-quarterback system featuring Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, which further underscores their commitment to a run-first approach. Roman Wilson stands to benefit from competing with two veterans who have yet to prove themselves as standout wide receivers positioned ahead of him on the depth chart.

8. Devontez Walker: 6-3, 175
   Draft: 4th round, 113th overall, Baltimore Ravens

Walker finds himself in a tough situation due to circumstances beyond his control. The Ravens have rarely used a WR2, let alone a potential WR4, in their offensive scheme. With Zay Flowers firmly established as the clear WR1, it will be challenging for Walker to make a significant impact as a rookie this season.

9. Luke McCaffrey: 6-2, 200
   Draft: 3rd round, 100th overall, Washington Commanders

McCaffrey has demonstrated that his family's athleticism is truly exceptional. The recent trade of Johan Dotson to the division-rival Eagles has shifted the entire WR depth chart, moving everyone up a spot. Olamide Zaccheaus has yet to establish himself as a reliable WR throughout his career, making it increasingly likely that Christian McCaffrey's little brother will see action in three-wide receiver sets sooner rather than later.

10. Casey Washington: 6-2, 190
    Draft: 6th round, 187th overall, Atlanta Falcons

With Rondale Moore sidelined for the season due to a preseason injury, Ray Ray McCloud will initially step in as the WR3. However, Washington, a promising young rookie with dynamic playmaking skills, is poised to challenge McCloud for playing time as the season unfolds.

11. Johnny Wilson: 6-7, 235
    Draft: 6th round, 185th overall, Philadelphia Eagles

For Wilson, the worst-case scenario might have been getting drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles, a team known for its heavy reliance on the controversial goal line "tush push." This strategy minimizes the opportunities for Wilson to leverage his impressive size and jump ball skills. To complicate things further, the Eagles recently acquired Johan Dotson from division rivals the Commanders, which has pushed Wilson further down the depth chart.

12. Jha'Quan Jackson: 5-9, 185
    Draft: 6th round, 182nd overall, Tennessee Titans

With DeAndre Hopkins aging and already facing injury concerns, Jackson represents a fresh face in the new regime. He has the potential to surpass the previous regime’s Treylon Burks and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, emerging as a strong option behind the trio of veteran starters.

13. Devaughn Vele: 6-4, 205
    Draft: 7th round, 235th overall, Denver Broncos

In an unexpected turn, the Broncos are likely to release Tim Patrick, who shares a similar build with Vele and had been a favored target of newly announced starting rookie QB Bo Nix. This decision could pave the way for Vele to step into a significant role in the Broncos' offense moving forward.

14. Isaiah Williams: 5-10, 180
    Undrafted Rookie FA, Detroit Lions

The Lions have released veteran wide receiver Donovan Peoples-Jones, creating an opportunity for Williams to potentially emerge as the next hidden gem discovered by GM Brad Holmes.

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