As the 2023 NFL Draft approaches, many fans and experts alike are eagerly anticipating the arrival of a new crop of talented wide receivers. In what is considered by many to be a weak class, there are four that will probably be first-round NFL draft targets. Quentin Johnston, Zay Flowers, Jordan Addison, and Josh Downs, each of whom brings unique strengths and skills to the table are the standard-bearers pre-combine.
Quentin Johnston is a 6’4″ receiver out of TCU, who possesses an impressive combination of size, speed, and athleticism. He has shown an ability to make contested catches and uses his size to outmuscle defenders in jump-ball situations. Johnston has also demonstrated excellent body control and footwork, allowing him to create separation and make quick cuts on his routes. His natural physical gifts make him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams looking for a big-bodied receiver who can stretch the field.
Zay Flowers, a 5’11” receiver from Boston College, has emerged as one of the most dynamic playmakers in college football. Despite his smaller stature, Flowers possesses excellent speed and quickness and can turn short passes into long gains with his ability to break tackles and elude defenders. He also possesses reliable hands and is capable of making difficult catches in traffic. Flowers’ versatility and ability to create mismatches on the field could make him an attractive target for NFL teams looking for a slot receiver who can make plays in the open field.
Jordan Addison, a 6’0″ receiver out of Pittsburgh, is another player who has shown the ability to make an impact in a variety of ways. He has excellent route-running skills and uses his quickness and agility to create separation from defenders. Addison also possesses reliable hands and is capable of making tough catches in traffic. What sets him apart, however, is his ability to contribute on special teams as a kick returner. Addison’s versatility and ability to impact the game in multiple ways could make him an attractive option for NFL teams.
Finally, Josh Downs, a 5’10” receiver from North Carolina, has emerged as one of the most explosive playmakers in college football. He possesses excellent speed and quickness, which he uses to get open downfield and make defenders miss in the open field. Downs also possesses reliable hands and is capable of making difficult catches in traffic. While he may not have the size of some of the other top receiver prospects, his ability to make big plays and change the game with his speed could make him an intriguing option for NFL teams.
Overall, each of these prospects brings a unique set of skills and abilities to the table, and all have the potential to make an impact at the next level. It will be fascinating to see which teams ultimately select these talented receivers in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft. Which one would you want your team to target? Comment below!
