The wide receiver pool is overflowing with potential heading into the 2025–2026 NFL season. Whether it’s rookies ready to turn heads or young stars about to level up, the WR position might be the most exciting spot to watch (and draft) this year.
From high-volume targets in revamped offenses to big-play threats waiting for their moment, these 15 receivers take a giant leap. Some are banking on improved quarterback play, others are counting on opportunity, but all are worth watching.
15. Arian Smith, New York Jets
Smith is a lightning bolt with cleats, and the Jets may need his speed more than anyone expected. He could surprise people early with a thin depth chart behind Garrett Wilson.
14. Elic Ayomanor, Kansas City Chiefs
Ayomanor isn’t a household name yet, but the Chiefs love a breakout storyline. His physical style and YAC potential could quickly earn him snaps in a wide-open receiving room.
13. Jameson Williams, Detroit Lions
The deep-ball upside has always been there, but Williams finally has a chance to be more than just a highlight. If the Lions let him run wild, he could become a weekly problem for defenses.
12. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Seattle Seahawks
JSN started heating up last season and should keep that momentum going. With a changing receiver room, he’s set up to be a volume monster in Seattle.
11. Jayden Higgins, Houston Texans
The rookie might enter a dream scenario with injuries clearing a path to targets. If he clicks with C.J. Stroud, fantasy managers will notice fast.
10. Xavier Worthy, Kansas City Chiefs
Worthy is built for speed, and Mahomes loves finding burners in space. With question marks around Rashee Rice, he could carve out a major role in year one.
9. Drake London, Atlanta Falcons
London’s talent is obvious—it’s just been a question of usage. If Atlanta’s offense finally opens up, London could explode.
8. Tee Higgins, Cincinnati Bengals
Higgins just signed a new contract with the Bengals and wants a big year. If he stays healthy, expect a hungry, high-volume version of No. 5.
7. Brian Thomas Jr., Jacksonville Jaguars
![Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. (7) runs the ball during the 10th organized team activity at Miller Electric Center Wednesday, June 4, 2025 in Jacksonville, Fla. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]](https://thequickreport.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-2025-06-10T212813.369-1024x658.png)
Thomas showed flashes last season and should take a bigger slice this year. He brings size, speed, and some serious touchdown upside.
6. Rashee Rice, Kansas City Chiefs
Rice could reclaim his role as Mahomes’ go-to guy if he’s back at full strength. He was on the brink of stardom before injuries hit.
5. Rome Odunze, Chicago Bears
Odunze looked like a future star whenever he touched the ball as a rookie. With more targets coming his way, the breakout feels inevitable.
4. Garrett Wilson, New York Jets
Wilson has been productive no matter who’s throwing him the ball. Now with a QB upgrade, the sky’s the limit.
3. Amon-Ra St. Brown, Detroit Lions
There’s nothing sneaky about this pick—St. Brown keeps producing. He’s locked in as one of the league’s most consistent options.
2. Marvin Harrison Jr., Arizona Cardinals
He teased his potential last year, but now it’s time for the full breakout. With no significant competition, he’s about to see all the targets.
Read More: 15 Former NFL WRs Who Would Thrive in the Modern Game
1. Malik Nabers, New York Giants
Nabers looked like a veteran from day one and still has room to grow. If the quarterback play improves, he could be an elite fantasy force.
Read More: 20 NFL Wide Receivers Who Went in Round 1 – But Shouldn’t Have
