The Miami Dolphins were scrutinized early in the season for the selection of wide receiver Jaylen Waddle in the first round of this year’s draft. Waddle was the second of five receivers selected in the first round, and he wasn’t producing at the levels of some of the others.
Now, 14 weeks into the season, Pro Football Focus has ranked Waddle as the top rookie receiver this season. PFF has Waddle graded as a 78.7, Ja’Marr Chase as a 77, and DeVonta Smith as a 75.7. That 78.7 for the Dolphins rookie is also good enough to be the 18th overall wide receiver based on their metrics.
Statistically, Waddle is leading in receptions with 86, but Chase is leading in yards and touchdowns with 1,035 yards and 10 touchdowns. Waddle’s numbers would likely be higher if Tua Tagovailoa hadn’t been out for five starts, leaving Jacoby Brissett to fill in.
It’s too early to tell which of the rookies will have the best career, but all three are off to great starts.
