Ranking the 5 best wide receivers in the 2022 NFL Draft
The 2022 NFL Draft has a fairly strong class at wide receiver, and there is a significant chance that one or two of the selections will be drafted inside the top-10.
While it’s difficult to pick the standout best wide receiver in the class, there is a lot of talent for teams to mull over prior to the 2022 NFL Draft.
Ja’Marr Chase is proof that taking a receiver early on in the draft can be a worthwhile pursuit, although generally they tend to slip into the middle picks of the first-round.
With the trade market for established receivers exploding this offseason, there has been, perhaps, a lack of interest in those about to enter the NFL in the same position.
Irrespective of the expensive pursuits of Tyreek Hill, Davante Adams and, possibly, Deebo Samuel, there are offensive gamechangers available at the receiver position.
Who are the best 5 wide receivers in the 2022 NFL Draft?
#5 - Jahan Dotson, Penn State
Jahan Dotson has slipped down 2022 NFL Draft boards since 2021, but is still considered one of the premier catchers set to be selected.
The Penn State receiver has excellent speed, aided by a long stride, and his reliable hands allow him to make plays that can change an offense.
His upside is significant because of his physical tools, and the fact that he can catch most passes thrown toward him makes him very attractive to teams.
A lack of power ensures that balance after the catch is a problem for Dotson, and he can be bullied by defenders in the secondary.
Kansas City needs to replace Tyreek Hill and may look to take Dotson with one of their late picks in the first-round, although many consider this to be a stretch for Dotson’s value.
#4 - Chris Olave, Ohio State
Chris Olave has serious first-round potential in the 2022 NFL Draft, with his 2021 season with Ohio State seeing him rack up 936 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns.
Olave’s athleticism comes from his time as a track athlete, and he really stretches defenses with his ability to get down the field at an alarming rate.
While this speed is impressive, it is the sporting intelligence that sets Olave apart from other receivers in the class. The Ohio State star is so gifted at timing his routes that it is nearly impossible for defenders to get the jump on him.
Physical strength isn’t a particularly strong point that will cause teams some problems in assessing Olave’s overall worth, but his natural speed makes him a potential home-run hitter, especially when you look at the success Hill had with Kansas City.
#Bears QB Justin Fields on Chris Olave: "He's probably one of the best deep-ball trackers I've ever played with in my life."