Rookie Wide Recievers

Rookie Wide Receivers

By Cameron Messenger and Parham Bigdeli

Class of 2026

The 2023 NFL regular season is nearing its end, and three rookie wide receivers have emerged as standout players among the rest.

Zay Flowers, a talented rookie from Boston College, has had a solid season with the Baltimore Ravens thus far. Throughout the season, he has showcased his impressive speed and route running skills, consistently creating separation from defenders. With star tight end Mark Andrews out of the mix due to an ankle injury, Flowers should be able to produce. While he hasn't had a mind blowing game with 100+ yards, Flowers has remained a reliable target for Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson.

The wide receiver from USC, who was chosen as the 24th selection in the 2023 draft, has been outstanding  with the Minnesota Vikings. He has demonstrated remarkable talent since the beginning of the season and has capitalized on the opportunities that presented themselves following an unfortunate injury to Justin Jefferson, one of the league's top receivers, in week 5 against the Kansas City Chiefs. It is evident that Addison has a bright future ahead of him with the Minnesota Vikings.

Perhaps the most surprising rookie wide receiver this season is Puca Nacua. With Rams superstar Cooper Kupp's injury at the beginning of the season, Nacua immediately stepped up and proved himself capable of fulfilling his role. He had an impressive start for a rookie, surpassing expectations. Although his success has diminished since Cooper Kupp returned, he still remains with some of the elite receivers in the league in terms of statistical production . The Los Angeles Rams truly found a hidden gem in the late round of the 2023 NFL draft with the 177th pick.

 Zay Flowers, Jordan Addison, and Puka Nucua have demonstrated exceptional performance in their rookie year with their teams and should continue to shine.