New York Jets’ wide receiver unit earns an interesting ranking at analytics outlet Pro Football Focus
This time of year is ranking season in the NFL. Nearly everything is put into neat little boxes before a snap has been taken. Most of the rankings are based on last year’s data, leaving a lot of room for surprises.
Today, Pro Football Focus released its ranking of all 32 receiving corps in the NFL (wide receivers and tight ends). PFF ranked the New York Jets‘ receiving corps the 18th-best in the NFL heading into 2022. They were placed into a category called “Tier 3: Could be strength or weakness”.
This is what Ben Linsey of PFF had to say about the ranking:
“There’s some projection in this ranking, given the Jets’ two young wide receivers have yet to fully establish themselves in the NFL. Elijah Moore earned a 73.8 PFF receiving grade as a rookie, but he could very well make a Year 2 leap alongside quarterback Zach Wilson. Like Moore, Garrett Wilson isn’t the biggest target. However, his ability to create separation before the catch and additional yardage after the catch with his shiftiness in the open field should have an immediate impact on this offense.
“It’s a well-rounded unit, as well. Wide receiver Corey Davis and offseason acquisitions C.J. Uzomah and Tyler Conklin at tight end add some veteran presence. This could end up being too low a ranking if everything clicks.”
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This ranking and explanation seem fair. The ceiling of this unit is very high. However, much of it is based on potential rather than past performance. As I wrote last week, the receiving corps can be special. PFF recognizes this.
One can argue that the Jets belong in the next tier up, “Tier 2: Strong overall with a weakness or two.” On paper, the receiving unit is well-rounded without any glaring weaknesses. As Linsey says, though, having a second-year player who flashed and a rookie leaves the Jets’ corps at the top of the third tier. There is a level of uncertainty despite the hype.
For once, a projection is actually fair to the Jets. Let’s hope the unit can live up to its potential and prove this ranking too low.
