As we're deep into the off-season with the draft behind us and training camp still some time away, it's the perfect opportunity to rank all the position groups in the NFC North. I've already shared my quarterback rankings, so next up are the wide receiver rankings. The NFC North is loaded with talent at this position, making it both fun and challenging to rank them. In this article, I aim to be as objective as possible in my rankings. I'll be using specific criteria to evaluate each player, which will help guide my rankings across each position.
- NFL Production
- Potential
- X-Factor(s): Unique skills or qualities that make the player stand out.
- Floor
- Intangibles: Leadership, work ethic, etc.
- Physical Traits
Here are my wide receiver rankings for the NFC North heading into the 2024 season.
1. Justin Jefferson, Minnesota Vikings
2023 Stats: 68 Receptions (Tied-42nd) | 1,074 yards (19th) | 5 TD (Tied-35th)
*Missed 7 games due to injury
Crafting this list was challenging, but ranking the number one spot was easy. Justin Jefferson isn't just the best wide receiver in the NFC North; he's the best in the entire NFL. JJ McCarthy should be very happy.
2. Amon-Ra St. Brown, Detroit Lions
2023 Stats: 119 Receptions (Tied-2nd) | 1,515 yards (3rd) | 10 TD (Tied-4th)
Amon has a strong argument for being the top WR in the NFC North, backed by his impressive performances. Despite this, I ranked him at number two. At 24 years old, St. Brown signed his first major contract extension and is expected to be a significant problem for opposing defenses for years to come. I truly love his game.
3. DJ Moore, Chicago Bears
2023 Stats: 96 Receptions (13th) | 1,364 yards (6th) | 8 TD (Tied-8th)
DJ Moore is one of the most underrated wide receivers in the NFL. He consistently delivers strong performances regardless of who his quarterback is. The YAC god is entering his prime at just 26 years old.
4. Keenan Allen, Chicago Bears
2023 Stats: 108 Receptions (6th) | 1,243 yards (11th) | 7 TD (Tied-18th)
*Missed 4 games due to injury
If you looked up "consistency" in the dictionary, you'd see a picture of Keenan Allen. Despite missing four games in 2023, he had a career year in his 11th season. As a reliable possession receiver, he will be a valuable weapon in helping Caleb Williams adjust to the next level. At 32, Allen's game is only getting better with age, like fine wine.
5. Jordan Addison, Minnesota Vikings
2023 Stats: 70 Receptions (40th) | 911 yards (11th) | 10 TD (Tied-4th)
Jordan Addison had an impressive rookie season. While Justin Jefferson's absence gave him more opportunities, his talent is undeniable. At just 22 years old, he is an exciting player to watch and is only beginning to show his full potential.
6. Jayden Reed, Green Bay Packers
2023 Stats: 64 Receptions (Tied-48th) | 793 yards (42nd) | 8 TD (Tied-8th)
Jayden Reed, much like Jordan Addison, had an impressive rookie season. It would have been interesting to see his stats if Packers QB Jordan Love hadn't started the season slowly. Nonetheless, the Packers have a strong young wide receiver core. Among them, Reed stands out to me as the top performer heading into the 2024 season.
7. Rome Odunze, Chicago Bears
2023 Stats: N/A
2023 College Stats: 92 Receptions | 1,640 yards | 13 TD
*2024 Rookie
Rome is the third Chicago Bear to make this list, even though he hasn't played a professional snap yet. I believe the number 9 overall pick will adapt quickly and make a significant impact in his rookie season. While he might not reach 1,000 yards because of the presence of DJ Moore and Keenan Allen, he will still be a major challenge for opposing defenses from the jump. I can see him rising into the top 3 in the NFC North within the next few years.
8. Romeo Doubs, Green Bay Packers
2023 Stats: 59 Receptions (Tied-57th) | 674 yards (55th) | 8 TD (Tied-8th)
Similar to his teammate Jayden Reed, Romeo Doubs was a touchdown machine in 2023. As Doubs enters his third NFL season, I anticipate his production will increase with Jordan Love becoming more comfortable in his second year.
