As we continue our run through ranking each position, we now move on to wide receivers, where the AFC North has had plenty of talent at the position over the years. But we’ll start this list with the new kid in town.
6. Marquise Brown, Baltimore Ravens
We had to at least give the Ravens some love on this list, but as of now, their wide receiver group falls behind the top stars across the division. But Brown showcased a ton of talent at Oklahoma, despite his small stature. He has a chance to create a very electric pairing with Lamar Jackson.
5. Tyler Boyd, Cincinnati Bengals
Boyd enjoyed a breakout season in 2018 and is poised to continue to grow in 2019 under new head coach Zac Taylor. Boyd’s athleticism and having A.J. Green to play with gives him plenty of opportunities to continue to put up big numbers.
4. Jarvis Landry, Cleveland Browns
It feels like Landry is one of the most talented, yet quietest receivers in the league. He consistently puts up respectable numbers. It will be very interesting to watch him now that he has his old college buddy, Odell Beckham, alongside him in Cleveland with Baker Mayfield throwing the ball.
3. JuJu Smith-Schuster, Pittsburgh Steelers
For as dominant as Smith-Schuster was in 2018, there are still questions surrounding him heading into 2019. Was his production a result of having Antonio Brown as his running mate and can he continue that production now that Brown is in Oakland? That uncertainty has Juju a shade below Green, but the upside is immensely evident.
2. A.J. Green, Cincinnati Bengals
Even though he is going to be on the wrong side of 30, A.J. Green still continues to put up strong numbers, despite having missed 17 games in the past three seasons. He is still a star in this league, though the reputation of his team may hurt his overall status and the arrival of Beckham and his star power will dominate the headlines. But the moment you begin to question the value and competitiveness of Green is the moment he will burn you down the field for a touchdown. Green still has plenty left in the tank and Zac Taylor is ready to rev up the engine.
1. Odell Beckham, Cleveland Browns
The Cleveland Browns underwent a full makeover during the 2018 offseason, and that included acquiring one of the most talented receivers in the entire league in Odell Beckham. No matter how you feel about his attitude and so-called “diva” persona, there’s no denying the impact he makes on the field when the bullets are flying. And this was all done with Eli Manning throwing him the ball. Now he’ll catch passes from Baker Mayfield, which should only make for more exciting plays on the field.
