New York Jets receiver Garrett Wilson drew high praise from two NFL WRs
New York Jets receiver Garrett Wilson receives praise from most corners of the NFL. Quarterback-independent metrics favor him, and the eye test indicates he’s a lot better than his numbers.
Two star NFL receivers recognize that. In a clip from this year’s NFL Top 100 (in which Wilson was ranked No. 72), fellow 1,000-yard receivers George Pickens and Chris Olave raved about Wilson. One is a former teammate of his, making that no surprise. Pickens seems to have less of a connection to Wilson, though.
Pickens said, “Garrett Wilson is one of the best receivers in the NFL. … His quick twitch is out of this world, and his hands are out of this world as well.”
Former Ohio State teammate Chris Olave echoed the sentiment. “He’s probably the most athletic person I’ve ever seen in my life. … You can’t guard him one-on-one, man.”
🎥 Garrett Wilson’s Top 100 feature
#72 on the list pic.twitter.com/KHypxkkVTz
— Dylan (@nyjetsfansonly) July 26, 2024
Most NFL teams didn’t even attempt to cover Wilson one-on-one in 2023. Due to the Jets’ lack of other options in the passing game, Wilson faced double-teams at the highest rate of any receiver in the NFL. That should decrease with the addition of Mike Williams, who is more than capable of winning one-on-one matchups at the catchpoint and is also an excellent vertical target.
Wilson drew similar praise from Aaron Rodgers, who said he has a chance to become the best receiver in the NFL. In Rodgers’ view, that will come down to intentionality in practice and constant film study. Wilson has already shown the passion and dynamic ability to be an elite receiver.
The Jets’ third-year wideout posted 83 catches for 1,103 yards and 4 touchdowns as a rookie, winning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. He followed that up with a 95-catch, 1,042-yard effort, scoring 3 times. Many of his advanced metrics were down due to poor quarterback play, but with Rodgers back in tow, Wilson’s statistics should more accurately reflect his performance on the field.
Becoming the best receiver in the league is a tough prospect. Justin Jefferson, Tyreek Hill, Ja’Marr Chase, and others are elite in their craft. But Wilson has a chance to join that tier of receivers in 2024.
