Sometimes having one very good receiver can change the total outcome of the game. But when teams have two good receivers who can prevent the defense to going to double coverage, the passing game could be great. All of the teams mentioned on this list have that. So without further explanation, here is my list of the top ten receiver tandems in the NFL.
1.Larry Fitzgerald, Anquan Boldin Cardinals: Both Fitzgerald and Boldin are among the elite receivers in the NFL. Fitzgerald is more of the redzone threat and gets more media attention but Boldin is the better possession receiver and is great at yards after the catch. If Matt Leinart develops, the Cardinals have the makings of a great offense for years.
2.Chad Johnson, T.J. Houshmandzadeh Bengals: While Johnson is the one that gets all of the media attention, Houshmandzadeh has been the more productive receiver the last few years. But when Johnson focuses on the game and isn't worrying about his contract, he is one of the five best receivers in the league.
3.Randy Moss, Wes Welker Patriots: Many would think this tandem would be on top of the list but a lot of it had to do with who was at quarterback. If they didn't have Tom Brady throwing them the ball, their stats wouldn't be as good. Moss is one of the top five receivers in the league but everyone around the league expects him to have seasons like that when he is motivated. Welker is a very good slot receiver but he is Mike Furrey on a better team. Both are great possession receivers but due to the team around them, only one gets their due.
4.Terrell Owens, Patrick Crayton Cowboys: Owens even at 34, is still producing like an all pro receiver as he is a touchdown machine and improved on his drops. Crayton had a career year last season and became a solid number two option. But Crayton doesn't get much attention from opposing defenses due to Owens and Jason Witten. Crayton is a solid player but the Cowboys could get an upgrade to line opposite Owens.
5.Marvin Harrison, Reggie Wayne Colts: Wayne had an excellent year and is turning into one of the best receivers in the league. If Harrison was healthy all of last season this tandem would be higher. But Harrison at 35 is nearing the end of his career. In the next year or two it will be Anthony Gonzalez occupying the spot opposite Wayne.
6.Donald Driver, Greg Jennings Packers: This tandem may not be as productive this year as they are both adjusting to Aaron Rodgers at quarterback. But either way they are both among the best receivers in the league. Jennings showed glimpses in his rookie season but fully broke out last year with 12 touchdowns last year. Driver remains one of the best possession receivers in the league. Plus with James Jones entering his second year, Rodgers won't have a lack of options in Green Bay.
7.Braylon Edwards, Donte Stallworth Browns: Edwards last year broke out in his third year and showed why he is becoming one of the leagues best receivers. Stallworth is a great compliment as he is a great deep threat for Derek Anderson. Throw in Kellen Winslow and they have one of the most explosive offenses in the league.
8.Roy Williams, Calvin Johnson Lions: Both Williams and Johnson were productive last season but they have the potential to be much higher on the list. Williams is a pro bowl caliber receiver but the only problem is if he has the dedication to get to that level. Johnson had a nagging back injury last season though and has the potential to be an elite receiver in the league.
9.Torry Holt, Drew Bennett Rams: Even though it was a rough year for the Rams, Holt was always consistent. As always he put up another campaign with 90 plus catches, 1100 yards and 7 touchdowns. Bennett is a great redzone target but had limited time last year. But with Isaac Bruce gone, that will change. Bennett only showed glimpses of his potential during his incredible stretch in 2004 and when healthy he could become a ten touchdown calibar player. Plus with speedster Donnie Avery drafted in the second round, things are starting to shape up for the Rams.
10. Steve Smith, D.J. Hackett Panthers: Smith has been one of the most productive receivers in the NFL and it is even more incredible considering his size. While most players on the list are six feet or taller, Smith is 5'9 and is winning jump balls against elite corners in the league. Hackett isn't bad either as he has been productive player when he isn't hurt. If Jake Delhomme can recover from Tommy John Surgery, Smith and Hackett will show what they are fully capable of.
No comments:
Post a Comment