Wide Receiver Options

[OldSchool101]

I’m just done with having 1 high end #1 and excusing the others being low end #3 to #4-5 WR types. That’s not a good approach and it’s unfair to #12. We should be better than a #10 Offense. How in the world to you get league MVP at QB and barely crack a top 10 Offense?

Lack of weapons, lack of pass protection and run support that’s how.

We need 2 upper echelon #1 #2 types and another pass catching TE besides Tonyan. Then 1 more upgrade at OL. We should have 4-5 Offensive selections before Round 4 is out.
Including a Day 1.

 

[tynimiller]

I’m just done with having 1 high end #1 and excusing the others being low end #3 to #4-5 WR types. That’s not a good approach and it’s unfair to #12. We should be better than a #10 Offense.

We need 2 upper echelon #1 #2 types and another pass catching TE besides Tonyan. Then 1 more upgrade at OL

2 upper echelon WRs, a TE weapon....

I think folks need to realize that unless you hit a draft pick, it is extremely rare to have an All Pro (upper echelon) RB, TE, WR, QB let alone WRx2, TE, RB, QB

We have the best QB arguably in the game presently.
We have one of the best duo RBs there is.
TE is a wildcard, but worst case average/dependable/predictable
WR presently sucks as a whole - but could quickly become balanced at least.

I think of those four skill positions we have the most important one and then of the other two you need two of the three with elite NFL talent...unfortunately right now our "elite" players are in the same position RB.

 

[Voyageur]

One of the things people forget is that Rodgers was responsible for the Packers having lesser receivers in depth. He was talented enough to throw the ball around, and hit his main receiver, that pushing for someone in the draft at a high level wasn't necessary. They effectively used those picks for what they felt were higher needs.

That said, I'm not certain they still don't believe they can make a go of it with mid range receivers, with one who can step up.

I'll save judgment on where this is heading until after the draft, and midway through preseason, when I see how the perceived group of receivers looks.

 

[kevans74]

In his 4 years in GB, most as our "#2" WR MVS averaged 41 receptions for an average of 538 yds/season. I'm really hoping without a top-end #1 getting 115+ receptions and 1,300 yds/season, but a pretty good #1 AND #2 we'll see each get 65-70 receptions and 750-800 yds/season from 2 new WR's in GB. With Lazard still as #3 he'll continue getting his 35-40 receptions for 475 yds./season and the offense will be much better balanced and unpredictable.

This 100% and why I stated in another thread that if wr get 2 good WRs, AR may actually have a BETTER year

 

[tynimiller]

Dolphins confirming teams are calling about Parker trade - no confirmation Gute was one but you gotta think we are. They had Weddle, added Cedric Wilson and Tyreek Hill....Parker isn't going to be there in 2022.

Little bit of a dive into Parker for folks compared to others you'll recognize - all of course upper echelon WRs presently:

	Parker	Adams	Cooper	Evans
2021 Yards	515	1553	865	1035
2021 YPC	12.9	12.6	12.7	14
2021 PFF Grade	72.8	92.7	72.9	72.8
2021 Snaps	539	886	834	915
2021 Yards/Snap	0.955	1.753	1.037	1.131
Ctch%	54.8%	72.8%	65.4%	64.9%
2020 Yards	793	1374	1114	1006
2020 YPC	12.6	11.9	12.1	14.4
2020 PFF Grade	76.4	92.2	75.9	74.1
2020 Snaps	726	774	944	856
2020 Yards/Snap	1.092	1.775	1.180	1.175
Ctch%	61.2%	77.2%	70.8%	64.2%
2019 Yards	1202	997	1189	1157
2019 YPC	16.7	12	15.1	17.3
2019 PFF Grade	79.2	83.5	84.2	85.7
2019 Snaps	905	678	845	792
2019 Yards/Snap	1.328	1.471	1.407	1.461
Ctch%	56.3%	65.4%	66.4%	56.8%

 

[Magooch]

Following up my previous post...

Something I have seen a lot is the idea that we won't be able to replace Davante's production (well, and MVS and etc I guess) with just one guy and that we should more or less be approaching it as "WR by committee" and looking to add multiple WRs - whether that is by FA, trade, or multiple draft picks - to combine to try and get close to that production.

So, anyways, it got me curious in looking at rookie WR production for the last few years: How many teams have "Double-dipped" in the draft, and what was the total first-year production they got out of their rookie WRs they drafted?

Keep in mind that in some cases these later-round WRs are really drafted as return specialists (though still listed as WRs), but I'm including everyone just for posterity's sake. So, like before, this is in the last five years' drafts, only expanded now to all seven rounds - looking just at teams who took multiple WRs in a single draft class. I may be missing someone but I think it's fairly thorough.

2017
The Titans drafted Corey Davis (1/5) and Taywan Taylor (3/72). They combined for 50 receptions, 606 yards, and 1 TD.
The Bengals drafted John Ross (1/9) and Josh Malone (4/128). They combined for 6 receptions, 63 yards, and 1 TD. (All by Malone)
The Rams drafted Cooper Kupp (3/69) and Josh Reynolds (1/117). They combined for 73 receptions, 973 yards, and 6 TD.
The Jets drafted ArDarius Stewart (3/79) and Chad Hansen (4/141). They combined for 15 receptions, 176 yards, and 0 TD.
The Seahawks drafted Amara Darboh (3/106) and David Moore (7/226). They combined for 8 receptions, 71 yards, and 0 TD.
The Eagles drafted Mack Hollins (4/118) and Shelton Gibson (5/166). They combined for 18 receptions, 237 yards, and 1 TD.
The Cowboys drafted Ryan Switzer (4/133) and Noah Brown (7/239). They combined for 10 receptions, 74 yards, and 0 TD.
The Vikings drafted Rodney Adams (5/170) and Stacy Coley (7/219). They combined for 0 receptions, 0 yards, and 0 TD.
The Packers drafted DeAngelo Yancey (5/175) and Malachi Dupre (7/247). They combined for 0 receptions, 0 yards, and 0 TD.

2018
The Falcons drafted Calvin Ridley (1/26) and Russell Gage (6/194). They combined for 70 receptions, 884 yards, and 10 TD.
The Broncos drafted Courtland Sutton (2/40) and DaeSean Hamilton (4/113). They combined for 72 receptions, 947 yards, and 6 TD.
The 49ers drafted Dante Pettis (2/44) and Richie James (7/240). They combined for 36 receptions, 597 yards, and 6 TD.
The Bears drafted Anthony Miller (2/51) and Javon Wims (7/224). They combined for 37 receptions, 455 yards, and 7 TD.
The Cowboys drafted Michael Gallup (3/81) and Cedrick Wilson (6/208). They combined for 38 receptions, 553 yards, and 2 TD.
The Browns drafted Antonio Callaway (4/105) and Damion Ratley (6/175). They combined for 56 receptions, 730 yards, and 5 TD.
The Ravens drafted Jaleel Scott (4/132) and Jordan Lasley (5/162). They combined for 1 reception, 6 yards, and 0 TD.
The Packers drafted J'Mon Moore (4/133), Marquez Valdes-Scantling (5/174), and Equanimeous St. Brown (6/207). Triple-dip! They combined for 61 receptions, 924 yards, and 2 TD.
The Colts drafted Daurice Fountain (5/159) and Deon Cain (6/185). They combined for 9 receptions, 124 yards, and 0 TD. Note that Cain played just three games with the Colts and then three with the Steelers, so his production is kind of split, for whatever that's worth.
The Bills drafted Ray-Ray McCloud (6/187) and Austin Proehl (7/255). They combined for 5 receptions, 36 yards, and 0 TD.

2019
The Ravens drafted Marquise Brown (1/25) and Miles Boykin (3/93). They combined for 59 receptions, 782 yards, and 10 TD.
The 49ers drafted Deebo Samuel (2/36) and Jalen Hurd (3/67). They combined for 57 receptions, 802 yards, and 3 TD. (Hurd 0/0/0)
The Cardinals drafted Andy Isabella (2/61), Hakeem Butler (4/103), and KeeSean Johnson (6/174). They combined for 30 receptions, 376 yards, and 2 TD.
The Seahawks drafted DK Metcalf (2/64), Gary Jennings (4/120), and John Ursua (7/236). They combined for 59 receptions, 911 yards, and 7 TD. (Jennings+Ursua 1/11/0)
Washington drafted Terry McLaurin (3/76) and Kelvin Harmon (6/206). They combined for 88 receptions, 1284 yards, and 7 TD.

2020
The Raiders drafted Henry Ruggs (1/12) and Bryan Edwards (3/81). They combined for 37 receptions, 645 yards, and 3 TD.
The Broncos drafted Jerry Jeudy (1/15), KJ Hamler (2/46) and Tyrie Cleveland (7/252). They combined for 88 receptions, 1300 yards, and 6 TD.
The Eagles drafted Jalen Reagor (1/21), John Hightower (5/168), and Quez Watkins (6/200). They combined for 48 receptions, 669 yards, and 2 TD.
The Vikings drafted Justin Jefferson (1/22) and KJ Osborn (5/176). They combined for 88 receptions, 1400 yards, and 7 TD. (Osborn 0/0/0)
The 49ers drafted Brandon Aiyuk (1/25) and Jauan Jennings (7/217). They combined for 84 receptions, 1030 yards, and 10 TD.
The Colts drafted Michael Pittman Jr. (2/34) and Dezmon Patmon (6/212). They combined for 40 receptions, 503 yards, and 1 TD.
The Jaguars drafted Laviska Shenault (2/42) and Collin Johnson. They combined for 76 receptions, 872 yards, and 7 TD.
The Ravens drafted Devin Duvernay (3/92) and James Proche (6/201). They combined for 21 receptions, 215 yards, and 0 TD.
The Bills drafted Gabriel Davis (4/128) and Isaiah Hodgins (6/207). They combined for 35 receptions, 599 yards, and 7 TD. (Hodgins 0/0/0)
The Chargers drafted Joe Reed (5/151) and KJ Hill (7/220). They combined for 7 receptions, 73 yards, and 0 TD. (Reed 0/0/0)

2021
The Ravens drafted Rashod Bateman (1/27) and Tylan Wallace (4/131). They combined for 48 receptions, 538 yards, and 1 TD.
The Rams drafted Tutu Atwell (2/57), Jacob Harris (4/141), and Ben Skowronek (7/249). They combined for 11 receptions, 133 yards, and 0 TD. (All by Skowronek)
The Panthers drafted Terrace Marshall Jr. (2/59) and Shi Smith (6/204). They combined for 11 receptions, 133 yards, and 0 TD.
Washington drafted Dyami Brown (3/82) and Dax Milne (7/258). They combined for 21 receptions, 248 yards, and 0 TD.
The Browns drafted Anthony Schwartz (3/91) and Demetric Felton (6/211). They combined for 28 receptions, 316 yards, and 3 TD. Note that Felton split time between RB and WR so some of his production was coming out of the backfield.
The Titans drafted Dez Fitzpatrick (4/109) and Racey McMath (6/205). They combined for 7 receptions, 57 yards, and 1 TD.

So, some notes/observations:
In many cases one player is really getting the lions' share of production while another hardly contributes at all. You'll see some where a player added 0/0/0, or for example with the Falcons and Ridley/Gage - they combined for 70/884/10, but Gage only accounted for 6/63/0 in that first season.
There are just not a ton of success stories here really, at least not for the "By committee" approach. Granted I think no one WR in this draft (or any combination of them) will likely hit Davante's production from last season (120+ rec, 1500+ yards, 10+ TD), but even with that in mind there are not a ton of cases where multiple WRs are adding up to hit the level of a really good or elite option.
I guess it kind of depends on how you define a "#1" WR. Some people use it kind of broadly, just to mean a team's top dog WR, the one who opens up the game for others and is the first option. Others seem to use it almost to describe a type/build/skillset for a WR and for them a prototypical #1 is someone in the mold of Calvin Johnson, Andre Johnson, etc. I don't know exactly which is correct.
If we were to say a "#1" WR is simply one of the top 32 WRs in the league (or the best WR on each of the 32 teams) then I think we would find that an "average" #1 is probably going to be expected to produce somewhere in the ballpark of 75 rec, 1000 yards, and maybe 7ish TD. By my count there's only ~8 instances of a team double-dipping (or more) at WR in a single draft and getting roughly that combined production and in a lot of those cases it's really just that they hit big on one of their two (three) WRs they drafted who accounts for the majority of that production.

Now granted I'm not discounting this approach entirely and of course it doesn't account at all for the potential of free agency or a trade for a WR (or even just increased production from our current WR room), but I guess I'm just saying that for those who are hoping to replace Davante's production by drafting two or three wideouts may need to temper their expectations. It's a lot to replace. When you count Davante plus our other outgoing WRs, we're up to something like ~160 rec, ~2100 yards, and ~14 TD that will be leaving.

 

[Voyageur]

I've always felt that the majority of late round WR picks are intended to be return men, and emergency WRs, not starters. When you hit one late, who becomes a solid WR, you've gotten real lucky.

 

[sschind]

I meant that our 2 (or more?) new draftees could work their way up to #1 & #2 as the season went on, and see 65-70 receptions for 7-800 yards and not feel the pressure to match Adams' production. They could be productive rookies without NEEDING to try to carry the weight of 100 receptions... work up to NFL game-speed while still be productive.

I honestly hope Lazard becomes a 60+ reception guy to lighten the rookie-load but the downside to that is he'll increase his UFA value next winter and possibly move on.

I see. Unfortunately, without a blockbuster trade, I don't see the Packers going into the season with a bona fide #1. Like you said it may be that 2 rookies take a while to establish themselves so Lazard may have to try to fulfil that role early on.

 

[tynimiller]

I've always felt that the majority of late round WR picks are intended to be return men, and emergency WRs, not starters. When you hit one late, who becomes a solid WR, you've gotten real lucky.

Also isolated schematic or role guys. Examples motion guys, pure deep threats their first year (burners without route trees), sometimes pure slot only types. Diversity is rare and often gone by the late rounds of course.

 

[sschind]

Following up my previous post...

Something I have seen a lot is the idea that we won't be able to replace Davante's production (well, and MVS and etc I guess) with just one guy and that we should more or less be approaching it as "WR by committee" and looking to add multiple WRs - whether that is by FA, trade, or multiple draft picks - to combine to try and get close to that production.

So, anyways, it got me curious in looking at rookie WR production for the last few years: How many teams have "Double-dipped" in the draft, and what was the total first-year production they got out of their rookie WRs they drafted?

Keep in mind that in some cases these later-round WRs are really drafted as return specialists (though still listed as WRs), but I'm including everyone just for posterity's sake. So, like before, this is in the last five years' drafts, only expanded now to all seven rounds - looking just at teams who took multiple WRs in a single draft class. I may be missing someone but I think it's fairly thorough.

2017
The Titans drafted Corey Davis (1/5) and Taywan Taylor (3/72). They combined for 50 receptions, 606 yards, and 1 TD.
The Bengals drafted John Ross (1/9) and Josh Malone (4/128). They combined for 6 receptions, 63 yards, and 1 TD. (All by Malone)
The Rams drafted Cooper Kupp (3/69) and Josh Reynolds (1/117). They combined for 73 receptions, 973 yards, and 6 TD.
The Jets drafted ArDarius Stewart (3/79) and Chad Hansen (4/141). They combined for 15 receptions, 176 yards, and 0 TD.
The Seahawks drafted Amara Darboh (3/106) and David Moore (7/226). They combined for 8 receptions, 71 yards, and 0 TD.
The Eagles drafted Mack Hollins (4/118) and Shelton Gibson (5/166). They combined for 18 receptions, 237 yards, and 1 TD.
The Cowboys drafted Ryan Switzer (4/133) and Noah Brown (7/239). They combined for 10 receptions, 74 yards, and 0 TD.
The Vikings drafted Rodney Adams (5/170) and Stacy Coley (7/219). They combined for 0 receptions, 0 yards, and 0 TD.
The Packers drafted DeAngelo Yancey (5/175) and Malachi Dupre (7/247). They combined for 0 receptions, 0 yards, and 0 TD.

2018
The Falcons drafted Calvin Ridley (1/26) and Russell Gage (6/194). They combined for 70 receptions, 884 yards, and 10 TD.
The Broncos drafted Courtland Sutton (2/40) and DaeSean Hamilton (4/113). They combined for 72 receptions, 947 yards, and 6 TD.
The 49ers drafted Dante Pettis (2/44) and Richie James (7/240). They combined for 36 receptions, 597 yards, and 6 TD.
The Bears drafted Anthony Miller (2/51) and Javon Wims (7/224). They combined for 37 receptions, 455 yards, and 7 TD.
The Cowboys drafted Michael Gallup (3/81) and Cedrick Wilson (6/208). They combined for 38 receptions, 553 yards, and 2 TD.
The Browns drafted Antonio Callaway (4/105) and Damion Ratley (6/175). They combined for 56 receptions, 730 yards, and 5 TD.
The Ravens drafted Jaleel Scott (4/132) and Jordan Lasley (5/162). They combined for 1 reception, 6 yards, and 0 TD.
The Packers drafted J'Mon Moore (4/133), Marquez Valdes-Scantling (5/174), and Equanimeous St. Brown (6/207). Triple-dip! They combined for 61 receptions, 924 yards, and 2 TD.
The Colts drafted Daurice Fountain (5/159) and Deon Cain (6/185). They combined for 9 receptions, 124 yards, and 0 TD. Note that Cain played just three games with the Colts and then three with the Steelers, so his production is kind of split, for whatever that's worth.
The Bills drafted Ray-Ray McCloud (6/187) and Austin Proehl (7/255). They combined for 5 receptions, 36 yards, and 0 TD.

2019
The Ravens drafted Marquise Brown (1/25) and Miles Boykin (3/93). They combined for 59 receptions, 782 yards, and 10 TD.
The 49ers drafted Deebo Samuel (2/36) and Jalen Hurd (3/67). They combined for 57 receptions, 802 yards, and 3 TD. (Hurd 0/0/0)
The Cardinals drafted Andy Isabella (2/61), Hakeem Butler (4/103), and KeeSean Johnson (6/174). They combined for 30 receptions, 376 yards, and 2 TD.
The Seahawks drafted DK Metcalf (2/64), Gary Jennings (4/120), and John Ursua (7/236). They combined for 59 receptions, 911 yards, and 7 TD. (Jennings+Ursua 1/11/0)
Washington drafted Terry McLaurin (3/76) and Kelvin Harmon (6/206). They combined for 88 receptions, 1284 yards, and 7 TD.

2020
The Raiders drafted Henry Ruggs (1/12) and Bryan Edwards (3/81). They combined for 37 receptions, 645 yards, and 3 TD.
The Broncos drafted Jerry Jeudy (1/15), KJ Hamler (2/46) and Tyrie Cleveland (7/252). They combined for 88 receptions, 1300 yards, and 6 TD.
The Eagles drafted Jalen Reagor (1/21), John Hightower (5/168), and Quez Watkins (6/200). They combined for 48 receptions, 669 yards, and 2 TD.
The Vikings drafted Justin Jefferson (1/22) and KJ Osborn (5/176). They combined for 88 receptions, 1400 yards, and 7 TD. (Osborn 0/0/0)
The 49ers drafted Brandon Aiyuk (1/25) and Jauan Jennings (7/217). They combined for 84 receptions, 1030 yards, and 10 TD.
The Colts drafted Michael Pittman Jr. (2/34) and Dezmon Patmon (6/212). They combined for 40 receptions, 503 yards, and 1 TD.
The Jaguars drafted Laviska Shenault (2/42) and Collin Johnson. They combined for 76 receptions, 872 yards, and 7 TD.
The Ravens drafted Devin Duvernay (3/92) and James Proche (6/201). They combined for 21 receptions, 215 yards, and 0 TD.
The Bills drafted Gabriel Davis (4/128) and Isaiah Hodgins (6/207). They combined for 35 receptions, 599 yards, and 7 TD. (Hodgins 0/0/0)
The Chargers drafted Joe Reed (5/151) and KJ Hill (7/220). They combined for 7 receptions, 73 yards, and 0 TD. (Reed 0/0/0)

2021
The Ravens drafted Rashod Bateman (1/27) and Tylan Wallace (4/131). They combined for 48 receptions, 538 yards, and 1 TD.
The Rams drafted Tutu Atwell (2/57), Jacob Harris (4/141), and Ben Skowronek (7/249). They combined for 11 receptions, 133 yards, and 0 TD. (All by Skowronek)
The Panthers drafted Terrace Marshall Jr. (2/59) and Shi Smith (6/204). They combined for 11 receptions, 133 yards, and 0 TD.
Washington drafted Dyami Brown (3/82) and Dax Milne (7/258). They combined for 21 receptions, 248 yards, and 0 TD.
The Browns drafted Anthony Schwartz (3/91) and Demetric Felton (6/211). They combined for 28 receptions, 316 yards, and 3 TD. Note that Felton split time between RB and WR so some of his production was coming out of the backfield.
The Titans drafted Dez Fitzpatrick (4/109) and Racey McMath (6/205). They combined for 7 receptions, 57 yards, and 1 TD.

So, some notes/observations:
In many cases one player is really getting the lions' share of production while another hardly contributes at all. You'll see some where a player added 0/0/0, or for example with the Falcons and Ridley/Gage - they combined for 70/884/10, but Gage only accounted for 6/63/0 in that first season.
There are just not a ton of success stories here really, at least not for the "By committee" approach. Granted I think no one WR in this draft (or any combination of them) will likely hit Davante's production from last season (120+ rec, 1500+ yards, 10+ TD), but even with that in mind there are not a ton of cases where multiple WRs are adding up to hit the level of a really good or elite option.
I guess it kind of depends on how you define a "#1" WR. Some people use it kind of broadly, just to mean a team's top dog WR, the one who opens up the game for others and is the first option. Others seem to use it almost to describe a type/build/skillset for a WR and for them a prototypical #1 is someone in the mold of Calvin Johnson, Andre Johnson, etc. I don't know exactly which is correct.
If we were to say a "#1" WR is simply one of the top 32 WRs in the league (or the best WR on each of the 32 teams) then I think we would find that an "average" #1 is probably going to be expected to produce somewhere in the ballpark of 75 rec, 1000 yards, and maybe 7ish TD. By my count there's only ~8 instances of a team double-dipping (or more) at WR in a single draft and getting roughly that combined production and in a lot of those cases it's really just that they hit big on one of their two (three) WRs they drafted who accounts for the majority of that production.

Now granted I'm not discounting this approach entirely and of course it doesn't account at all for the potential of free agency or a trade for a WR (or even just increased production from our current WR room), but I guess I'm just saying that for those who are hoping to replace Davante's production by drafting two or three wideouts may need to temper their expectations. It's a lot to replace. When you count Davante plus our other outgoing WRs, we're up to something like ~160 rec, ~2100 yards, and ~14 TD that will be leaving.

Lots of work and I appreciate the effort. A few factors to consider in each individual case include who was throwing them the ball? I think Aaron Rodgers maybe could have gotten more out of a few of those combos. Who else did they have at WR? who if any of those guys were really drafted to be the #1 in their rookie season. I'm not sure that any team really counts on that. Like I said above however, unless the Packer make a blockbuster trade one or both of their rookies may be counted on a lot more than some of those guys were. Like Jones said it possible that 1 or more may be counted on to develop quickly into that #1.

I think Aaron Rodgers is a huge wild card in the whole thing. I really hate to say it this way but I think if he develops trust with a player early on you could see another magical season from another rookie WR.

 

[OldSchool101]

Following up my previous post...

Something I have seen a lot is the idea that we won't be able to replace Davante's production (well, and MVS and etc I guess) with just one guy and that we should more or less be approaching it as "WR by committee" and looking to add multiple WRs - whether that is by FA, trade, or multiple draft picks - to combine to try and get close to that production.

So, anyways, it got me curious in looking at rookie WR production for the last few years: How many teams have "Double-dipped" in the draft, and what was the total first-year production they got out of their rookie WRs they drafted?

Keep in mind that in some cases these later-round WRs are really drafted as return specialists (though still listed as WRs), but I'm including everyone just for posterity's sake. So, like before, this is in the last five years' drafts, only expanded now to all seven rounds - looking just at teams who took multiple WRs in a single draft class. I may be missing someone but I think it's fairly thorough.

2017
The Titans drafted Corey Davis (1/5) and Taywan Taylor (3/72). They combined for 50 receptions, 606 yards, and 1 TD.
The Bengals drafted John Ross (1/9) and Josh Malone (4/128). They combined for 6 receptions, 63 yards, and 1 TD. (All by Malone)
The Rams drafted Cooper Kupp (3/69) and Josh Reynolds (1/117). They combined for 73 receptions, 973 yards, and 6 TD.
The Jets drafted ArDarius Stewart (3/79) and Chad Hansen (4/141). They combined for 15 receptions, 176 yards, and 0 TD.
The Seahawks drafted Amara Darboh (3/106) and David Moore (7/226). They combined for 8 receptions, 71 yards, and 0 TD.
The Eagles drafted Mack Hollins (4/118) and Shelton Gibson (5/166). They combined for 18 receptions, 237 yards, and 1 TD.
The Cowboys drafted Ryan Switzer (4/133) and Noah Brown (7/239). They combined for 10 receptions, 74 yards, and 0 TD.
The Vikings drafted Rodney Adams (5/170) and Stacy Coley (7/219). They combined for 0 receptions, 0 yards, and 0 TD.
The Packers drafted DeAngelo Yancey (5/175) and Malachi Dupre (7/247). They combined for 0 receptions, 0 yards, and 0 TD.

2018
The Falcons drafted Calvin Ridley (1/26) and Russell Gage (6/194). They combined for 70 receptions, 884 yards, and 10 TD.
The Broncos drafted Courtland Sutton (2/40) and DaeSean Hamilton (4/113). They combined for 72 receptions, 947 yards, and 6 TD.
The 49ers drafted Dante Pettis (2/44) and Richie James (7/240). They combined for 36 receptions, 597 yards, and 6 TD.
The Bears drafted Anthony Miller (2/51) and Javon Wims (7/224). They combined for 37 receptions, 455 yards, and 7 TD.
The Cowboys drafted Michael Gallup (3/81) and Cedrick Wilson (6/208). They combined for 38 receptions, 553 yards, and 2 TD.
The Browns drafted Antonio Callaway (4/105) and Damion Ratley (6/175). They combined for 56 receptions, 730 yards, and 5 TD.
The Ravens drafted Jaleel Scott (4/132) and Jordan Lasley (5/162). They combined for 1 reception, 6 yards, and 0 TD.
The Packers drafted J'Mon Moore (4/133), Marquez Valdes-Scantling (5/174), and Equanimeous St. Brown (6/207). Triple-dip! They combined for 61 receptions, 924 yards, and 2 TD.
The Colts drafted Daurice Fountain (5/159) and Deon Cain (6/185). They combined for 9 receptions, 124 yards, and 0 TD. Note that Cain played just three games with the Colts and then three with the Steelers, so his production is kind of split, for whatever that's worth.
The Bills drafted Ray-Ray McCloud (6/187) and Austin Proehl (7/255). They combined for 5 receptions, 36 yards, and 0 TD.

2019
The Ravens drafted Marquise Brown (1/25) and Miles Boykin (3/93). They combined for 59 receptions, 782 yards, and 10 TD.
The 49ers drafted Deebo Samuel (2/36) and Jalen Hurd (3/67). They combined for 57 receptions, 802 yards, and 3 TD. (Hurd 0/0/0)
The Cardinals drafted Andy Isabella (2/61), Hakeem Butler (4/103), and KeeSean Johnson (6/174). They combined for 30 receptions, 376 yards, and 2 TD.
The Seahawks drafted DK Metcalf (2/64), Gary Jennings (4/120), and John Ursua (7/236). They combined for 59 receptions, 911 yards, and 7 TD. (Jennings+Ursua 1/11/0)
Washington drafted Terry McLaurin (3/76) and Kelvin Harmon (6/206). They combined for 88 receptions, 1284 yards, and 7 TD.

2020
The Raiders drafted Henry Ruggs (1/12) and Bryan Edwards (3/81). They combined for 37 receptions, 645 yards, and 3 TD.
The Broncos drafted Jerry Jeudy (1/15), KJ Hamler (2/46) and Tyrie Cleveland (7/252). They combined for 88 receptions, 1300 yards, and 6 TD.
The Eagles drafted Jalen Reagor (1/21), John Hightower (5/168), and Quez Watkins (6/200). They combined for 48 receptions, 669 yards, and 2 TD.
The Vikings drafted Justin Jefferson (1/22) and KJ Osborn (5/176). They combined for 88 receptions, 1400 yards, and 7 TD. (Osborn 0/0/0)
The 49ers drafted Brandon Aiyuk (1/25) and Jauan Jennings (7/217). They combined for 84 receptions, 1030 yards, and 10 TD.
The Colts drafted Michael Pittman Jr. (2/34) and Dezmon Patmon (6/212). They combined for 40 receptions, 503 yards, and 1 TD.
The Jaguars drafted Laviska Shenault (2/42) and Collin Johnson. They combined for 76 receptions, 872 yards, and 7 TD.
The Ravens drafted Devin Duvernay (3/92) and James Proche (6/201). They combined for 21 receptions, 215 yards, and 0 TD.
The Bills drafted Gabriel Davis (4/128) and Isaiah Hodgins (6/207). They combined for 35 receptions, 599 yards, and 7 TD. (Hodgins 0/0/0)
The Chargers drafted Joe Reed (5/151) and KJ Hill (7/220). They combined for 7 receptions, 73 yards, and 0 TD. (Reed 0/0/0)

2021
The Ravens drafted Rashod Bateman (1/27) and Tylan Wallace (4/131). They combined for 48 receptions, 538 yards, and 1 TD.
The Rams drafted Tutu Atwell (2/57), Jacob Harris (4/141), and Ben Skowronek (7/249). They combined for 11 receptions, 133 yards, and 0 TD. (All by Skowronek)
The Panthers drafted Terrace Marshall Jr. (2/59) and Shi Smith (6/204). They combined for 11 receptions, 133 yards, and 0 TD.
Washington drafted Dyami Brown (3/82) and Dax Milne (7/258). They combined for 21 receptions, 248 yards, and 0 TD.
The Browns drafted Anthony Schwartz (3/91) and Demetric Felton (6/211). They combined for 28 receptions, 316 yards, and 3 TD. Note that Felton split time between RB and WR so some of his production was coming out of the backfield.
The Titans drafted Dez Fitzpatrick (4/109) and Racey McMath (6/205). They combined for 7 receptions, 57 yards, and 1 TD.

So, some notes/observations:
In many cases one player is really getting the lions' share of production while another hardly contributes at all. You'll see some where a player added 0/0/0, or for example with the Falcons and Ridley/Gage - they combined for 70/884/10, but Gage only accounted for 6/63/0 in that first season.
There are just not a ton of success stories here really, at least not for the "By committee" approach. Granted I think no one WR in this draft (or any combination of them) will likely hit Davante's production from last season (120+ rec, 1500+ yards, 10+ TD), but even with that in mind there are not a ton of cases where multiple WRs are adding up to hit the level of a really good or elite option.
I guess it kind of depends on how you define a "#1" WR. Some people use it kind of broadly, just to mean a team's top dog WR, the one who opens up the game for others and is the first option. Others seem to use it almost to describe a type/build/skillset for a WR and for them a prototypical #1 is someone in the mold of Calvin Johnson, Andre Johnson, etc. I don't know exactly which is correct.
If we were to say a "#1" WR is simply one of the top 32 WRs in the league (or the best WR on each of the 32 teams) then I think we would find that an "average" #1 is probably going to be expected to produce somewhere in the ballpark of 75 rec, 1000 yards, and maybe 7ish TD. By my count there's only ~8 instances of a team double-dipping (or more) at WR in a single draft and getting roughly that combined production and in a lot of those cases it's really just that they hit big on one of their two (three) WRs they drafted who accounts for the majority of that production.

Now granted I'm not discounting this approach entirely and of course it doesn't account at all for the potential of free agency or a trade for a WR (or even just increased production from our current WR room), but I guess I'm just saying that for those who are hoping to replace Davante's production by drafting two or three wideouts may need to temper their expectations. It's a lot to replace. When you count Davante plus our other outgoing WRs, we're up to something like ~160 rec, ~2100 yards, and ~14 TD that will be leaving.

I think there’s a misinterpretation of the idea of having a Balanced approach that we somehow expect a 2 rookie results to match 1500+ yards ? Are we implying that the Packers are done in FA?
That’s laughable.

Well I don’t. I do expect another veteran WR to be brought in that has a realistic chance at ~800 I then expect a Rookie to be given ample opportunity to achieve ~700 yards. Bingo. There’s your Davante production.

Now our 3rd WR needs what, 500 yards? Is that unheard of? Are we saying the group of a #2nd rounder/Cobb/Lazard no one can achieve that? I think that’s a low standard for that group.

We have not even talked about what a top 50 type OL could do to spark this RB group. Especially if we have Bak and Jenkins both healthy by mid season

It’s total O picture, not 1 guy.

 

[Magooch]

I think there’s a misinterpretation of the idea of having a Balanced approach that we somehow expect a 2 rookie results to match 1500+ yards ? Are we implying that the Packers are done in FA?
That’s laughable.

Well I don’t. I do expect another veteran WR to be brought in that has a realistic chance at ~800 I then expect a Rookie to be given ample opportunity to achieve ~700 yards. Bingo. There’s your Davante production.

Now our 3rd WR needs what, 500 yards? Is that unheard of? Are we saying the group of a #2nd rounder/Cobb/Lazard no one can achieve that? I think that’s a low standard for that group.

We have not even talked about what a top 50 type OL could do to spark this RB group.

It’s total O picture, not 1 guy

I directly addressed that, check the last paragraph, lol.

 

[Magooch]

I've always felt that the majority of late round WR picks are intended to be return men, and emergency WRs, not starters. When you hit one late, who becomes a solid WR, you've gotten real lucky.

Also isolated schematic or role guys. Examples motion guys, pure deep threats their first year (burners without route trees), sometimes pure slot only types. Diversity is rare and often gone by the late rounds of course.

Yeah, in general there's not a ton of late-round "non-specialist" type of WRs who have had a ton of success in recent years. That's definitely true. I guess ironically a big exception (as I believe Tyni posted about a day or two ago) would be MVS. I guess maybe like Callaway, Kelvin Harmon pre-injury, Gabriel Davis could count (if 4th round counts as "later") if we stretch it a bit. Other than that...not a lot going.

 

[OldSchool101]

I directly addressed that, check the last paragraph, lol.

I know. But there’s absolutely. Positively. Unequivocally. %ZERO% chance the we go into this draft without help. That draft ALONE scenario will never happen.

I’ll go on record that I’m 100% sure that we are already very close to putting a deal together. We’ll spend up to $20M or a Day 1-2 selection if necessary for the right veteran.. before going in to the draft empty shelves.

I appreciated the stat post though it was informative. Nicely done

 

[Magooch]

Lots of work and I appreciate the effort. A few factors to consider in each individual case include who was throwing them the ball? I think Aaron Rodgers maybe could have gotten more out of a few of those combos. Who else did they have at WR? who if any of those guys were really drafted to be the #1 in their rookie season. I'm not sure that any team really counts on that. Like I said above however, unless the Packer make a blockbuster trade one or both of their rookies may be counted on a lot more than some of those guys were. Like Jones said it possible that 1 or more may be counted on to develop quickly into that #1.

I think Aaron Rodgers is a huge wild card in the whole thing. I really hate to say it this way but I think if he develops trust with a player early on you could see another magical season from another rookie WR.

Yeah of course QB is going to be a big consideration, and "role" and/or expectation certainly raises a fair point. It's been said before but in many cases rookie WRs are entering a crowded WR room and so naturally will have a harder time getting established and producing big early on. Of course that won't really be the case for us: we have a couple of established guys, but realistically there's more or less open competition for arguably a #1 *and* #2 WR spot, so it will probably be different. If I get the time I may go back and look at some of the big successes or whatnot and see what kind of WR room competition they had, but we'll see.
That trust thing, you never really know. Sometimes I think it's overstated, sometimes feels a little understated, but I think at this point Rodgers is pretty much going to have to learn to trust some new guys quickly because we're not gonna be able to rely on just force-feeding Lazard, Cobb, and Big Dog all season, lol.

 

[Magooch]

I know. But there’s absolutely. Positively. Unequivocally. %ZERO% chance the we go into this draft without help. That draft ALONE scenario will never happen.

I’ll go on record that I’m 100% sure that we are already very close to putting a deal together. We’ll spend up to $20M or a Day 1-2 selection if necessary for the right veteran.

I suspect that is probably the case too. And I'm personally hoping we do put together that sort of big move...

What does worry me though is that if we don't go out and get an established veteran (read: trade), I'm not sure there are many FAs left who move the needle that much - or at least in the sense that even if we add a FA WR at this point in addition to drafting one or two...that's probably going to come up short of where we'd like to be IMO

 

[tynimiller]

Yeah, in general there's not a ton of late-round "non-specialist" type of WRs who have had a ton of success in recent years. That's definitely true. I guess ironically a big exception (as I believe Tyni posted about a day or two ago) would be MVS. I guess maybe like Callaway, Kelvin Harmon pre-injury, Gabriel Davis could count (if 4th round counts as "later") if we stretch it a bit. Other than that...not a lot going.

Here's the list of 5th round or later guys in the last ten drafts to out produce MVS that fit what we are discussing, now a few of these guys haven't been studs, just have had way more years to do the yardage vs MVS:

Hunter Renfrow - 5th Round 149th
Tyreek Hill - 5th Round 165th
Rashard Higgins - 5th Round 172nd
Stefon Diggs - 5th Round 146th
Kenny Stills - 5th Round 144th
Marvin Jones - 5th Round 166th
Rishard Matthews - 7th Round 227th

 

[tynimiller]

I think there’s a misinterpretation of the idea of having a Balanced approach that we somehow expect a 2 rookie results to match 1500+ yards ? Are we implying that the Packers are done in FA?
That’s laughable.

Well I don’t. I do expect another veteran WR to be brought in that has a realistic chance at ~800 I then expect a Rookie to be given ample opportunity to achieve ~700 yards. Bingo. There’s your Davante production.

Now our 3rd WR needs what, 500 yards? Is that unheard of? Are we saying the group of a #2nd rounder/Cobb/Lazard no one can achieve that? I think that’s a low standard for that group.

We have not even talked about what a top 50 type OL could do to spark this RB group. Especially if we have Bak and Jenkins both healthy by mid season

It’s total O picture, not 1 guy.

Lazard has achieved and produced like a #3 since he came here and can and will do it again - I think he will do more and flirt with #2 numbers this year.

I also am in the 100% camp there will be a signing/move before the draft or day of.

 

[OldSchool101]

Lazard has achieved and produced like a #3 since he came here and can and will do it again - I think he will do more and flirt with #2 numbers this year.

I also am in the 100% camp there will be a signing/move before the draft or day of.

If we think about it and fast forward (assuming we add a solid veteran WR) Adding another veteran piece takes pressure off similar to our DL (Adding Reed). Yes it’s still a priority, but it’s not so imperative Day 1.

We are fortune this WR class is deep outside “elite” (top 10) areas.
There are some great round 2 WR’s and even if we just waited and doubled down at #53 and #59 I think 1 of the 2 would pick things up very quickly. I’m not saying this is the scenario I want, however if a top rated Defender or OT slips 5-10 spots from a consensus Day 1 area and he’s deemed an absolute steal? Nab him.

ID rather do that and make a trade up into a top #45 overall area in Rd 2 to nail a WR that had late RD 1 grades,. but had been overlooked.

 

[McKnowledge]

This 100% and why I stated in another thread that if wr get 2 good WRs, AR may actually have a BETTER year

I agree. I think back to that 2011 season, where AR12 won MVP and was playing out his mind. His receiving corp was insane...

Wide receivers 18 Randall Cobb 80 Donald Driver 85 Greg Jennings 89 James Jones 87 Jordy Nelson Tight ends 83 Tom Crabtree 88 Jermichael Finley 82 Ryan Taylor 84 D. J. Williams

Not to mention the RBs were great pass catchers:
Running backs

• 25 Ryan Grant
• 30 John Kuhn FB
• 33 Brandon Saine
• 44 James Starks

Each receiver added a different dimension, each had strengths that accounted for the other's weaknesses, so when you did go 4-5 WR sets, there was always an option that was open.

AR12 used all his skills and just effortlessly played the game, never overextending himself...never focusing on only 1 WR.

This is how you build a WR corp, everyone complementing each other, knowing their strengths and accepting their roles.

This season is the perfect opportunity to really build an elite ensemble instead of looking for superstars.

If the WR picks in the draft elevate to leading man status then all the better.

But going after players essentially living off rep and past production (Julio Jones, AJ Green, etc.) isn't the way to go.

I advocate for FA receivers that have potential but just need the opportunity, which I think is prime for production in GB.

 

[ARPackFan]

Lazard has achieved and produced like a #3 since he came here and can and will do it again - I think he will do more and flirt with #2 numbers this year.

I don't believe Lazard has signed his tender and doubt he will until closer to camp at the earliest. He gives up any leverage to get a long term deal once he does. I know he's an RFA but assuming he will be on the active roster this fall is a bit premature.

 

[tynimiller]

I don't believe Lazard has signed his tender and doubt he will until closer to camp at the earliest. He gives up any leverage to get a long term deal once he does. I know he's an RFA but assuming he will be on the active roster this fall is a bit premature.

I feel they’re discussing a two or three year deal I bet. It is a hard decision because he runs the risk if he doesn’t sign it of injury or underperforming ….if he does do an extension no doubt team isn’t throwing big money at him and he runs risk of over performing his deal quickly

 

[Pkrjones]

I don't believe Lazard has signed his tender and doubt he will until closer to camp at the earliest. He gives up any leverage to get a long term deal once he does. I know he's an RFA but assuming he will be on the active roster this fall is a bit premature.

What choice does Lazard have? Another team has until April 22, 2022 to try to sign Lazard away. GB then has the option to match that offer OR gets that team's 2nd round draft pick. After 4/22 Lazard either plays or sits out, which makes him a RFA in '23.

 

[McKnowledge]

I feel they’re discussing a two or three year deal I bet. It is a hard decision because he runs the risk if he doesn’t sign it of injury or underperforming ….if he does do an extension no doubt team isn’t throwing big money at him and he runs risk of over performing his deal quickly

Not to mention, it creates a wrinkle with the GB organization over how much they want Lazard featured in the offense.

If GB misses in the draft, and also strikes out in FA, there could be a scenario where Lazard would be heavily leaned upon.

I don't think GB wants this as it would raise the price of Lazard for the following season.

Faced with the possible dilemma of protecting the cost/benefit of the player vs the production from said player towards winning; I think GB should get a deal done quickly with Lazard around 4 years from 16M-20M.

Its a good deal, and if structured correctly, it maintains the current year cap hit of around 4M, that he would receive for signing the tender, but also its a long term deal too.

Both sides get out after 2-3 seasons and go from there.

The deal would coincide (hopefully) with the ascension of a better receiver or two.

Lazard works hard, plays hard, and should be rewarded, but even at his best, he's fairly limited.

Entering his age-27th year, I can't see Lazard becoming Mike Evans.

Best to lock him up now, and keep the best blocking WR and reliable red zone target in GB.

 

[ARPackFan]

What choice does Lazard have? Another team has until April 22, 2022 to try to sign Lazard away. GB then has the option to match that offer OR gets that team's 2nd round draft pick. After 4/22 Lazard either plays or sits out, which makes him a RFA in '23.

Under the CBA a player has until 4:00 pm Tuesday following the tenth week of the regular season to sign his tender and still get credit for the season. He would then be a UFA in 2023. I think this is unlikely to happen but is something to consider.