Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
For a look at part 1 of my WR rankings, click here.
26.) Charles Johnson, Vikings – Was Teddy Bridgewater’s go-to WR down the stretch last year and their rapport has carried over to training camp this season. Johnson has locked up a starting spot opposite deep-threat Mike Wallace and should lead the Vikings in receiving targets. The former 7th round pick from Grand Valley St came out of nowhere last season, but has the size (6’2 | 217), speed (4.38), and athleticism (39.5″ vert, 11.1 broad) to be a legit #1 WR.
27.) Martavis Bryant, Steelers – One of the buzziest receivers in this year’s draft despite only 26 receptions as a rookie. His 31% TD/catch ratio is unsustainable, but being the only 6 foot plus WR should make him a frequent red zone option for the Steelers and should keep that ratio respectable. Bryant is a legit talent, but with a lot of mouths to feed in Pittsburgh I’m not sure Bryant gets enough targets to warrant his lofty draft position. He’s an exciting player who is going to have some monster fantasy lines this season, but his inconsistency and lack of consistent targets kept him out of my top 25.
28.) Allen Robinson, Jaguars – He struggled with injures early and late last season, but had a useful six game stretch mid-season where he averaged roughly six catches per game. The Jags O-line had trouble keeping their QB clean and running the ball which hurt their passing game and in turn Robinson. He’s the most talented WR on the Jags roster and with some improvements across the board offensively, Robinson’s numbers could spike significantly.
29.) Golden Tate, Lions – Had some huge games last season and is a good receiver, but 4 of his 5 best games came during weeks while Megatron was either out completely or left early with an injury. If Johnson stays healthy for 16 games, how many targets will there be for Tate? I think he is still startable as a good WR3, but I’m not comfortable taking him anywhere near his current 5th round ADP.
30.) Victor Cruz, Giants – The 28-year old Cruz is coming off not one, but two disappointing seasons with just 4 TDs the last full season he was healthy. I think there is a chance Reuben Randle has a better season than Cruz, but I’m giving him the benefit of the doubt unless I see a reason not to during the preseason. Cruz could find an extra gear this season to try and keep up with Beckham, which he may do in receptions but still probably fall short by a few TDs. That being said, as a slot receiver in the Giants high-volume offense Cruz could put up enough stats to be a good WR3 with WR2 upside.