Last year, receivers such as Antonio Bryant, Lance Moore and Steve Breaston all had breakout seasons. Bryant stepped onto the national scene after he didn't even play football in the 2007 season while Moore and Breaston both came out of the shadows for high passing attacks. Here are some receivers who I think will breakout this year.
Donnie Avery Rams: Last year was a very rough one for the Rams but Avery was one of the bright spots. Avery showed during the later part of the season that he could emerge into one of the league's premiere deep threats. Now that Torry Holt is gone, Avery should be the number one receiver and considering the Rams will be playing from behind most of the time, he should put up numbers.
Earl Bennett Bears: Bennett didn't play much in his rookie season, but being reunited with his old college quarterback Jay Cutler has reason for optimism. Bennett and Cutler only played together for one season at Vanderbilt, but they hooked up for 876 yards and nine touchdowns. Considering the lack of depth the Bears have at receiver, it wouldn't be surprising if Bennett emerges as a reliable receiver opposite Devin Hester.
DeSean Jackson Eagles: Jackson had a very solid rookie campaign recording over 900 yards but he sould be an even bigger threat this year. Jackson now has a year under his belt with the offense and with the Eagles looking to throw the ball more, look for Jackson to emerge as a number one receiver. Don't be surprised if he has more then 1200 yards this year.
Mike Walker Jaguars: I am very high on Walker as he was on this list last year as well. If it weren't for injuries and other setbacks there is a very good chance that Walker could have had his breakout season last year. Now Walker should be the starting receiver opposite Torry Holt and doesn't have anyone in his way. Look for Walker's string of bad luck to end and start to emerge in his third season.
Mark Clayton Ravens: Up until last year, the Ravens had really struggled with the passing attack and Clayton showed signs he could be a vertical threat. One play that really stands out is his one handed catch against the Bengals where he went 70 yards for a touchdown. Now that Derrick Mason has retired, look for Clayton to become Joe Flacco's number one target and surpass 1000 yards for the first time in his career.
Chris Henry Bengals: Henry is best known for his trouble making antics, but he has turned the corner and is now ready to become a big time playmaker. He is currently getting rave reviews from everyone in the Bengals organization and is even being called "Randy Moss Jr" by Carson Palmer. With the loss of TJ Houshmandzadeh, look for Henry to possibly develop into the number two receiver and have a career year.
Nate Washington Titans: Washington never got to show his big play potential as a starter with the Steelers and now with the Titans, should get more balls thrown his way then ever. Even though the Titans will focus on running the ball, they will open up for play action and let Washington lose. Don't be surprised if he has over 800 yards and 6 touchdowns this season.
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