Are the Colts and the AFC South the worst division in terms of receiver talent?
By Brad Marr
The Indianapolis Colts and the AFC South have underwhelming receiver talent but how does the division compare to others across the NFL.
The NFL has become a showcase of talent at the wide receiver position. Especially over the last few years as names like Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson jump to the top of the league in individual player rankings as rookies.
Getting these playmakers the ball as often as possible has resulted in the NFL vigorously evolving into a pass-first style game. Very few running backs sit as the face of the franchise these days, more often you see the receivers earning the major paydays.
This has led to teams stacking up on receivers and creating menacing passing offenses. Recently, CBS Sports decided to rank the eight divisions solely on the talent in the receiving corps but their list could use some work, respectfully. So we’re going to rank how we see the divisions based on receivers.
8. AFC South
Houston Texans – Brandin Cooks, John Metchie III, Nico Collins
Indianapolis Colts – Michael Pittman Jr., Parris Campbell, Alec Pierce
Jacksonville Jaguars – Marvin Jones, Christian Kirk, Zay Jones
Tennessee Titans – Robert Woods, Treylon Burks, Nick Westbrook-Ikhine
Each team in the AFC South has a No. 1 receiver with experience. Although Michael Pittman Jr. of the Colts is the newest established No. 1 wideout, there is still potential with lots to prove with new quarterback Matt Ryan.
Speaking of lots to prove, Christian Kirk signed one of the most prolific contracts for a receiver this offseason after a subpar stint in Arizona. The AFC South is the lowest rated division, without a premier household name.
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7. NFC North
Chicago Bears – Darnell Mooney, Byron Pringle, Velus Jones Jr
Detroit Lions – Amon-Ra St Brown, DJ Chark, Jameson Williams
Green Bay Packers – Allen Lazard, Sammy Watkins, Christian Watson
Minnesota Vikings – Justin Jefferson, Adam Theilen, KJ Osborn
The Vikings have one of the best groups across the entire league, some could even argue their receiver room stands atop the NFL. But, the rest of the division is nowhere near close to helping elevate above the rest.
The Packers lost arguably the best wideout in the NFL and replaced him with a journeyman and an FCS rookie with a 12% college drop rate. The Lions may have the next best group behind the Vikings, but they’re young. Darnell Mooney needs some respect put on his name, outside of Chicago. His numbers speak volumes.