Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Top 10 Free Agent Wide Receivers: 5-1

5. Mike Williams - Seahawks
Age: 27
2010-2011 stats: 65 rec., 751 yards, 2 TD, 11.6 YPC














Williams found success in Seattle under a familiar face, Pete Carroll. At 6'5 235lbs., Williams possesses great athletic ability which makes him a solid big play receiver and top option in the passing game. His numbers might not wow a lot of people, but considering the QB situation in Seattle, Williams' numbers are as solid as they come. Williams played solid football in the playoffs as well: 9 rec., 83 yards and 3 TD.

Prediction: There is no way Williams leaves Seattle. It seems he is very comfortable under Carroll, and the Seahawks will be glad to have him back.

4. Sidney Rice - Vikings
Age: 24
2010-2011 stats: 17 rec., 280 yards, 2 TD, 16.5 YPC (6 games)




















Rice would be much higher on this list if it weren't for the terrible hip injury he suffered. Rice only played 6 games in 2010, and still managed to put up some decent numbers while recovering. Rice had a breakout year in 2009: 83 rec., 1312 yards, 8 TD which gave Minnesota a lot of hope going forward. He has good size, 6'4 200 lbs, great speed, and the ability to make spectacular catches. Rice is a game changer when healthy, and a bonafide receiving corps anchor.

Prediction: The Vikes are free of the Brett Favre debacle, and are now ready for some stability. I think they need to resign Rice, and they will. They need a top-notch receiver to help whoever they decide to throw in at QB.

3. Braylon Edwards - Jets
Age: 28
2010-2011 stats: 53 rec., 904 yards, 7 TD, 17.1 YPC

















Edwards is the epitome of a deep threat receiver. His 17.1 yards per catch was good for 8th in the NFL in 2010, but he doesn't have DeSean Jackson speed. So how does he do it? With solid route running. Edwards, when he wants to be, is one of the best route runners in the NFL. He sells double moves like no other (except DJax), and he has some of the best hands in the NFL.

Prediction: The Jets have two of the top 5 receivers available in free agency, the second coming next. I doubt they can keep both which is why I think Edwards is headed elsewhere. I think the Bears and Dolphins should both take a hard look at Edwards. The Bears can then slide Hester into the Slot and have Edwards and Knox on the outside. With Miami, Edwards would team up with superstar WR Brandon Marshall, which would cause fits for opponents.

2. Santonio Holmes - Jets
Age: 27
2010-2011 stats: 52 rec., 746 yards, 6 TD, 14.3 YPC
















The Jets have a big decision to make between Holmes and Edwards, this is my case to keep Holmes. Edwards may be the better athlete, but Holmes is the better receiver. You know Holmes is gonna run hard and complete routes every play, he can be a deep threat, he can come across the middle, and he is a sure-handed enough to handle screen passes. Holmes is a big game receiver and that is what the Jets need.

Prediction: Holmes stays in green and white.

1. Vincent Jackson - Chargers
Age: 28
2010-2011 stats: 14 rec., 248 yards, 3 TD, 17.7 YPC (4 games)




















Jackson may have caused himself some trouble with his hold out last season with San Diego, but you can't deny his talent. in 2009, Jackson had a great year: 68 rec., 1,167 yards, 9 TD, 17.2 YPC. Jackson's combination of size (6'5 230), speed, and athleticism overpowers nearly every DB who attempts to check him. Jackson can beat you every which way: on the outside, inside, over the middle, single move, double move, and he can flat out jump any corner in the league.

Prediction: I don't know how strained the relationship is between Jackson and the Chargers, but if I were San Diego I would try and get him back. He is too talented to let go over a a contract dispute.

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