Top Dynasty Rookie Wide Receivers (2024 Fantasy Football)

The NFL offseason is nearly upon us. While others (and myself in the coming weeks) focus on 2024 way-too-early fantasy football rankings, 2024 free agency, and NFL team needs, let’s take a look ahead to the 2024 NFL draft and what it has to offer in terms of dynasty fantasy football talent.

Throughout the draft season, I’ll be delivering prospect overviews at every fantasy position to keep tabs on the top dynasty prospects. For those looking to dig deeper, check out the highly-coveted FantasyPros Dynasty Draft Kit and the fully-fledged 2024 NFL Draft Guide.

Be sure to check out all the individual 2024 NFL Draft prospect profiles for all positions written by FantasyPros’ Matthew Jones. I cross-referenced a lot of my player notes with Jones’ great scouting breakdowns of the WRs in this class.

Let’s dig into the top incoming rookie wide receivers for dynasty fantasy football leagues in 2024 to get familiar with names we will be overly obsessing about over the next three months.

Note that I will be referring to a player’s dominator rating at length in this piece. It’s also included in the table below.

Dominator rating considers the number of touchdowns and receiving yards a particular player commands within his own offense. Breakout age is the age at which a receiver reaches a 20% dominator rating for the first time. Producing at a young age is a solid indication that a player will continue his stretch of production into the pros. After all, when a kid balls out at 19 years old against a bunch of 21- and 22-year-old defensive backs, how can you not be entertained?

• Erickson’s Fantasy Football Forecast: Recap & Takeaways for 2024
• Erickson’s Early Fantasy Football Rankings, Tiers & Notes: QB | WR
• 2024 Dynasty Fantasy Football Draft Kit
• 2024 NFL Draft Guide

Top Dynasty Rookie Wide Receivers

Marvin Harrison Jr. (WR – Ohio State)

Marvin Harrison Jr., the standout wide receiver from Ohio State, has declared his intention to enter the 2024 NFL Draft, leaving behind a remarkable collegiate career. At 6-foot-4 and 205 pounds, Harrison brings a unique blend of size, agility, and football IQ to the table, distinguishing himself from his smaller-statured father, Pro Football Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison, known more for his prowess as a possession receiver with Peyton Manning.

Despite being the progeny of NFL royalty, Harrison Jr. carved out his legacy at Ohio State under the tutelage of esteemed receivers coach Brian Hartline. His tenure at Ohio State was marked by rapid development, transitioning from a reserved role as a true freshman to a dominant force by his sophomore year. Although given the talent he was competing with for targets as a freshman in 2021 at Ohio State – Chris Olave, Garrett Wilson, Jaxon Smith-Njigba – it’s no wonder Harrison couldn’t crack the starting lineup.

But the 19-year-old finally drew his first start in the Rose Bowl with his teammates opting out to focus on the NFL Draft. Wilson went nuclear to the tune of 6 catches for 71 yards and 3 TDs. And that set the stage for his complete takeover of college football for the next two seasons.

In the 2022 season, Harrison Jr. formed a formidable partnership with future Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud, amassing 77 receptions for 1,263 yards and 14 touchdowns over 13 games, showcasing his route-running finesse and physicality.

Harrison’s junior year further solidified his status as a premier talent, earning him a Heisman Trophy finalist nod—a rare feat for a wide receiver. He concluded the season with 67 receptions for 1,211 yards and 14 touchdowns, also contributing a rushing touchdown, underscoring his versatility and playmaking ability. That awarded him not only a 44% dominator rating (second-best mark in the class) but the 2023 Fred Biletnikoff Award bestowed to the best WR in college football.

While Harrison Jr. exhibits an almost complete skill set, he has occasionally shown vulnerability to focus drops. He may not pose a significant yards-after-catch threat at the professional level. He finished 38^th in the class in YAC/reception in 2023 with just five broken tackles forced in his final year. But that’s been nit-picky when it comes to a WR that checks off nearly every single box you could ask for.

Nevertheless, his exceptional attributes, football lineage, and attack at the catch point make him one of the most anticipated wide receiver prospects in the upcoming NFL Draft as he turns 22 years old in August of 2024. He has the chance to be the highest-drafted WR. I liken Harrison to guys like A.J. Green or Larry Fitzgerald.

Malik Nabers (WR – LSU)

Malik Nabers, a junior wide receiver from LSU, made significant waves in the college football scene with his impressive 3-year career.

Standing at 6 feet and weighing 200 pounds, Nabers led all college-wide receivers during the regular season with 86 receptions for 1,546 yards and 14 touchdowns (34% dominator rating). Over his collegiate career, he accumulated 186 receptions for 2,983 yards and 21 touchdowns, showcasing his consistent development and explosive playmaking ability.

His 28% career college dominator rating ranks 3rd among all WRs in the 2024 draft class.

But what’s more impressive is Nabers’ age-adjusted production. Broke out at 18 years old in 2021 as a freshman. A great sign of things to come for him at the next level.

Nabers is recognized for his explosive route-running, great speed, elite athleticism, and exceptional ball skills. He’s known for his ability to make mid-stride adjustments and is a reliable deep threat. Nabers also excels in contested situations, often turning 50/50 balls into receptions with his potent run-after-catch capabilities.

Projected to be a top pick in the upcoming NFL draft, Nabers is considered a prime candidate for teams in the top ten. His skill set, marked by his speed, playmaking after the catch, and sharp route running, positions him for an immediate impact in the NFL. As he continues to refine his technique and releases, Nabers has the potential to become a dynamic and versatile receiver at the professional level who is yet to turn 21 years old.

After watching some of Nabers’ highlights from this past season, I immediately drew an NFL comparison that I felt great about: Buffalo Bills WR Stefon Diggs.

Rome Odunze (WR – Washington)

Washington’s Rome Odunze’s four-year career with the Huskies has been marked by consistent improvement, with his junior year in 2022 marking his status as one of college football’s best WRs: accumulating 75 catches for 1,145 yards, averaging 15.3 yards per reception, with 7 TDs.

The 2023 season saw further improvement, with the 6-foot-3 and 215-pound WR amassing 81 catches for 1,428 yards and 13 TDs, leading to a spot on the AP first-team among other awards en route to a career-high 33% dominator rating. And that was accomplished with him battling through a reported broken rib and punctured lung in late September.

Overall, he finished with the fourth-highest dominator rating in the class at 26%. He also broke out at the early age of 19 during his sophomore campaign.

Consensus scouting reports highlight Odunze’s exceptional confidence/leadership, body control, route-running skills, and imposing physical presence, which grants him a wide catch radius.

His athleticism is further evidenced by his inclusion in Bruce Feldman’s Freaks List, showcasing his speed and agility based on his former track and field background.

The guy screams next-level alpha and target earner at the next level with shades of DeAndre Hopkins and Davante Adams in his game.

Keon Coleman (WR – Florida State)

Keon Coleman, a wide receiver from Florida State, stands out not just for his impressive stats but for his remarkable journey in college football as a human highlight reel. Coleman’s physicality is undeniable at 6’3″ and 213 lbs, making him a prototypical outside X-receiver. His junior year performance in his first year at Florida State was noteworthy, with 50 receptions, 658 receiving yards, and 11 touchdowns, averaging 13.2 yards per reception. Good for a 31% dominator rating.

Coleman’s football career took off in his freshman year at Michigan State in 2021, where he played in seven games, securing seven receptions for 50 yards and one touchdown. But he broke out officially in his sophomore season, which saw him take a significant leap in performance with 58 catches, 798 yards, and seven touchdowns over 12 games. Hung a 29% dominator rating at just 19 years old.

And this is while he was competing for targets with an older future NFL star in the making, Jayden Reed. Coleman had more catches, targets, yards, and TDs than the future second-round pick despite being three years YOUNGER than Reed.

The transfer to Florida State for the 2023 season marked a new chapter for Coleman, where he continued to excel. Coleman’s proactive alpha mentality and his skill at contested catches are particularly distinguished. But as we know, when it comes to contested catch savants – they don’t always translate to the next level.

Ergo, Coleman’s game is not without areas for improvement. His route sharpness and run-blocking intensity could see enhancements, and acceleration concerns might affect his long-speed capabilities. Separation from defensive backs at the next level will be a challenge for him to overcome.

Case in point, Coleman ran a 4.61 40-yard dash (17th percentile) at the NFL Combine, further raising question marks about his ability to separate at the next level. His vertical jump was 38″ (80th percentile) and his broad jump was 127 inches (86th percentile). He’s explosive when he can get the ball in his hands, but it’s a matter of him getting the rock first…

If rookie drafts penalize Coleman too drastically for his slow 40 – note it’s the same time as Amon-Ra St. Brown – the other aspects of his profile are worth buying at a discount. Essentially, I think that if the only narrative surrounding Coleman is the bad 40-time and not the fact that he out-produced Reed at Michigan State…I’ll take the ladder all the way to the bank.

Projected to be taken in the 1st or Mid rounds of the 2024 NFL Draft, Coleman’s blend of raw talent and demonstrated skills make him a compelling prospect. His journey from a standout sophomore season at Michigan State to a key player at Florida State showcases his adaptability and growth, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting professional career.

My NFL comparison for Coleman? Dez Bryant.

Troy Franklin (WR – Oregon)

Troy Franklin quickly made an impact at the University of Oregon, showcasing his talent right from his freshman year.

His breakout sophomore year solidified his position as a key player in Oregon’s offense, with a significant leap en route to a 27% dominator rating with 9 TDs and 891 receiving yards at 19 years of age.

By his junior season in 2023, Troy Franklin had established himself as a premier college football receiver, amassing nearly 1,400 yards and 14 touchdowns, demonstrating not just his ability to find the end zone but also his consistency as a receiver with a final season dominator rating of 29% – 17^th-highest mark in the 2024 class.

Franklin’s strengths lie in his elite speed, with a 40-yard dash time of 4.35 seconds, making him a formidable deep threat with 14 catches of 20-plus air yards and the third-highest yards per route run (3.32) in the 2024 draft class.

However, 4.35 appeared to be an overly aggressive time, as the former Duck ran a more modest 4.41 at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine. Not slow by any means, but slightly disappointing for the 6-foot-2 and 176 pounds. Specifically, Franklin’s 10-yard split out of the gates wasn’t particularly fast at 1.61 seconds, good for dead last in the class (20th percentile).

Franklin’s jumping drills were still solid: 39″ vertical (86th percentile) and 124-inch broad jump (70th percentile).

3-cone was listed at 6.9 seconds (63rd percentile) and his 20-yard shuttle was at 4.31 (30th percentile).

His precise route-running and versatility allow him to excel both outside and in the slot, consistently delivering explosive plays. His height and speed create a desirable size-speed combination that is highly valued in the NFL. However, his relatively light, tall, and lanky frame at 6-foot-2 and 176 lbs could pose challenges against physical cornerbacks and in contested catch situations.

Overall, Franklin is seen as a downfield burner with elite speed and nuanced route-running, making him a legitimate deep threat in the NFL. His ability to create separation and make plays sets him apart, although his slender frame presents some challenges. After a standout 2023 season, his draft stock has risen significantly, with expectations of him solidifying a spot in the 1-2 round range if his 2024 NFL Scouting Combine numbers match his on-field speed.

Former speed receivers that remind me of Franklin include Jalin Hyatt, Tyquan Thornton, and DJ Chark Jr. on the lower end. Admittedly, I was more impressed with his game AFTER watching him. I went in thinking I’d get a one-trick pony, but I felt he offered more than that. And maybe it was the green 11 he was wearing, but I felt like I was watching just a lighter, faster version of A.J. Brown. I’ve also seen comparisons to a faster, more explosive Calvin Ridley.

Xavier Worthy (WR – Texas)

Xavier Worthy, the dynamic wide receiver from the University of Texas, has swiftly become a notable figure in college football due to his remarkable speed and playmaking ability. Standing at an underwhelming 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 172 pounds, Worthy has utilized his athleticism to establish himself as a versatile threat on the field. However it needs to be noted that Worthy weighed in at a much smaller 5-foot-11 and 165 pounds at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine.

He made an immediate impact as a freshman at just 18 years old, showcasing his speed and receiving skills. His notable achievements include a freshman year with 62 receptions for 981 yards and 12 touchdowns, emphasizing his ability to be a game-changer from the get-go. He was a top-5 single-season dominator, rating at 39% in his first college season.

However, Worthy faced challenges in his sophomore year, experiencing a dip in his stats with 59 catches for 757 yards and eight touchdowns. He dealt with a broken hand injury that limited him in his second season. Despite this, he remained a critical asset to the Longhorns, using his speed to stretch defenses and create opportunities for his team. He tied a bow on his Longhorns career with over 1,000 yards and 5 TDs to capture the second-highest career dominator rating (30%) in the class with the youngest breakout age at 18 years old back in 2021.

Worthy’s draft profile highlights his multi-role capability as a receiver, combining his swift 4.29-second 40-yard dash speed with a keen ability to navigate through defenses. Despite his slender frame, Worthy’s hands are reliable, and he has shown a willingness to make contested catches. His versatility extends to special teams, where he has also contributed as a punt returner. However, his slight build does raise questions about durability and physicality at the next level.

Scouts note that while Worthy’s speed and agility are undeniable strengths, he will need to adapt to the physical demands of the NFL, particularly against larger and more physical defenders. His ability to add muscle without compromising speed will be crucial for his transition to professional football.

In summary, Xavier Worthy’s collegiate career at Texas has been marked by electric performances and a clear demonstration of NFL-level speed and agility. And he has special teams return ability to boot as PFF’s No.1-graded punt returner in 2023.

The next Tank Dell at 6-foot-1 and 172 pounds? Stay tuned…Keep in mind that Dell was PFF’s No.1-graded punt returner in 2022. When I turned on his tape, I immediately thought I was looking at the next version of Marquise Brown.

Except faster. Case in point, at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine, Worthy broke the 40-yard dash time record with a 4.21 time; breaking the record previously held by John Ross.

Brian Thomas Jr. (WR – LSU)

Brian Thomas Jr. posted modest numbers in his first two seasons until he really exploded onto the scene this past year with a 33% dominator rating at 21 years old.

Standing tall at 6’3″ and weighing 209 lbs, Thomas Jr. combines size and speed to be a formidable outside X-receiver, evident in his 4.47-second 40-yard dash. Over 38 games in college, he showcased his ability to be a game-changer, culminating in a junior year where he exploded onto the scene with 68 receptions for 1,177 yards and FBS leading 17 touchdowns, averaging an impressive 17.3 yards per catch.

The obvious concern is that he’s never been the focal point of his team’s passing game, which won’t get easier at the next level. That’s despite a high production wherever he has played, as he boasts the sixth-highest college dominator rating in the class at 24% – the same as Marvin Harrison Jr. And he’s competed for targets with another elite WR, Malik Nabers, at LSU.

Thomas Jr.’s natural explosiveness and fluid movements enhance his route-running capabilities, making him a challenging matchup for defenders.

However, Thomas Jr.’s route breaks on short and intermediate routes could see improvement, and his overall route tree is considered underdeveloped. His long limbs and sometimes unsteady footwork can lead to inconsistent route breaks, highlighting areas for refinement in his game. Despite these areas for growth, Thomas Jr.’s strengths significantly overshadow his weaknesses. His combination of size, speed, and ability to create separation makes him a high-upside prospect for the NFL.

Teams looking for a vertical threat who can stretch the field and contribute significantly after the catch will find Thomas Jr. an enticing option. His draft projection places him in the first to late rounds, with an overall rank of No. 28 and a position rank of No. 7 among wide receivers.

Thomas Jr.’s journey from a highly touted recruit to a standout player at LSU reflects his growth and potential. His athleticism, showcased not only on the football field but also in basketball with three consecutive 1,000-point seasons in high school, underlines his versatility and competitive nature.

I had a hard time comparing Johnson to another NFL player, but I put him in the A.J. Green territory. When targeted, Thomas generated a 148.8 passer rating (fourth in the FBS).

He tested extremely well at the NFL Scouting Combine, running a 4.33 40-yard dash time (94th percentile) with a 1.5 10-yard split (87th percentile). He also jumped 38.5″ in the vertical (83rd percentile) and 126″ in the broad jump (80th percentile).

Adonai Mitchell (WR – Texas)

After transferring from Georgia to Texas, Adonai Mitchell made a significant impact in his junior year, showcasing his talents as a more featured piece in his team’s offense. As a Longhorn, Mitchell posted a breakout season en route to a 32 percent dominator rating with 11 TD scores on 55 receptions. His ability to consistently create separation and his prowess in high-pressure situations were notable.

His final year playing at Georgia in 2022 was capped off by a second national championship, but his production was limited due to a high ankle sprain. The ankle injury likely prevented him from achieving a “true” sophomore season breakout.

Standing at 6’2″ with a lanky frame at 204 pounds, Mitchell offers an ideal build for an outside receiver. Mitchell reminded me a lot of a lighter Michael Pittman Jr. while watching him on film.

Although he is much faster with 4.34 wheels to boot to go along with top-tier explosiveness indicated by his jumps at 39.5″ in the vertical and 136″ in the broad jump (the No.1 listed in the class).

Ja’Lynn Polk (WR – Washington)

Ja’Lynn Polk, the talented No. 2 wide receiver from Washington, made a notable mark in college football with his performances, particularly shining in his junior year. With a height of 6’1″ and weighing in at 203 lbs, Polk has the ideal build for a versatile receiver capable of playing both on the outside and in the slot.

In his time at Washington, Polk demonstrated significant growth, culminating in a senior year after suffering an injury as a sophomore. He recorded impressive stats with 69 receptions for 1,159 yards and nine touchdowns, boasting an average of 16.8 yards per catch. He also started the 2023 season on absolute fire, scoring eight TDs in the first 10 weeks of the season alongside a teammate and fellow 2024 draft-eligible WR, Rome Odunze.

Polk’s blend of speed, agility, and size makes him a compelling prospect. His quickness off the line and ability to gain separation through precise route running is complemented by his strong hands and body control, enabling him to make challenging catches in traffic. He’s extremely well-rounded.

Reminded me of Mohamed Sanu and Tyler Boyd.

Devontez Walker (WR – North Carolina)

Devontez Walker, the North Carolina standout wide receiver, made significant waves in the college football landscape with his explosive play and consistent performances, particularly in his junior year after transferring from Kent State.

Note that he posted bonkers numbers at Kent State with a 50% dominator rating in 2022 with 11 TD and nearly 1,000 receiving yards. That single-season dominator rating was the BEST among any WR in the class.

At 6’2″ and weighing 193 lbs, Walker possesses the agility, speed, and long-stride ideal for a receiver who can excel both on the outside and in the slot, offering versatility to any offensive scheme as a big-play merchant.

Walker showcased his dynamic playmaking ability, culminating in a junior year that saw him amass impressive statistics with 41 receptions for 699 yards and seven touchdowns, averaging 17 yards per catch in just eight games.

He earned a 22% dominator rating for his efforts, but over the games he was eligible to play, Tez Walker hung at a prorated 33% dominator rating with future NFL QB Drake Maye under center. He has a top-5 overall prorated dominator rating among his draft-eligible teammates.

His ability to consistently produce big plays downfield made him a focal point of the Tar Heels’ offense and a nightmare for opposing defenses.

Shows signs of Marvin Jones in his game. There’s an upside in his profile. He’s got wheels with 4.36 speed. Also can jump out of the building: 40.5″ vertical and 134″ broad jump. Both were top-5 testing numbers in the 2024 WR class.

Xavier Legette (WR – South Carolina)

Xavier Legette, the impactful wide receiver from South Carolina, emerged as a notable talent in college football with his commendable performances, particularly highlighted in his SUPER senior year. Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 227 lbs, Legette’s physical stature is complemented by his athletic prowess, offering the ideal blend of size and speed required for an outside receiver, making him a formidable presence on the field.

One of Legette’s most notable qualities is his strong hands – he doesn’t use his body to catch the ball – and ability to secure catches in traffic, showcasing his reliability as a target.

He broke out in his final and fifth year with the Gamecocks, hanging a 35% dominator rating. He posted 1,255 yards and seven touchdowns on 71 receptions.

Entering the league at 23 years old as a one-year wonder raises red flags about Legette’s appeal at the next level. The size-speed specimen is enticing, but the lack of consistent production cannot be overlooked.

Easy comps for someone with this size and speed are receivers like D.K. Metcalf, who can often be more situationally dependent as a more “raw” prospect with traits that cannot be taught. Legette’s combination of size, catching ability, and consistent playmaking make him an intriguing prospect for the 2024 NFL Draft.

Jacob Cowing (WR – Arizona)

At 5’11” and weighing 175 lbs, Jacob Cowing may not possess the towering frame of some of his contemporaries, but what he lacks in height, he more than compensates for with his speed, agility, and precise route-running, making him a constant threat to opposing defenses.

Because he dominated production at Arizona and his previous stop at UTEP. 32% career dominator rating ranks No. 1 in the class.

42% dominator rating in 2020 and 41% dominator rating in 2021 were elite numbers he posted while was a member of the UTEP Miners. He represented a top-5 best single-season mark. And Cowing also delivered early on in his college career, breaking out at age 18 in 2019.

His senior year was particularly notable, with Cowing amassing 89 receptions for 868 yards and 13 touchdowns, averaging a remarkable 9.8 yards per catch. His ability to stretch the field and create after the catch has been a hallmark of his college career.

Unfortunately, Cowing could not boost his stock at the Senior Bowl. He suffered an injury. Hopefully, this is not a sign of things to come for the undersized WR, who might be pigeonholed into the slot at the next level.

K.J. Hamler-esque. Especially given his size at 168 pounds is his official weight from the combine, slightly less than his previously listed weight at 175 pounds. He’s also only 5-foot-8. But Cowing has decent long speed with sub 4.4 wheels, but that’s too be expected. Nothing else about his drills pop off the page.

36-inch vertical (57th percentile). The 119-inch broad jump was below average.  The 3-cone drill was at 7.02 (38th percentile). The 20-yard shuttle was listed at 4.32 (30th percentile).

Brenden Rice (WR – USC)

Brenden Rice, the dynamic wide receiver from USC and son of GOAT WR Jerry Rice, has made a notable impact in the college football arena with his compelling performances. Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 210 lbs, Rice brings an imposing, well-built physical presence to the wide receiver position, coupled with an impressive blend of speed and athleticism that makes him a formidable threat on the field.

He immediately produced from the get-go at age 18, breaking out with a 22% dominator rating in a truncated 2020 season for Colorado, albeit on a very small sample size.

Transferred to USC before the 2022 season. His stats in his senior year were particularly impressive, with 45 receptions for 791 yards and 12 touchdowns, boasting an average of 17.6 yards per catch. Although a 25% final season dominator rating is underwhelming compared to the remainder of the class.

Josh Palmer is my comparable NFL WR for him, as I think he will only go as far as his QB, offense, situation, etc. will get him. Although I’ll admit, some of his size, hand work off the line of scrimmage looked like a young, spry Michael Thomas.

Malachi Corley (WR – Western Kentucky)

Malachi Corley enjoyed multiple seasons of productivity at Western Kentucky, capped off with dominator ratings of 26% and 27% the last two seasons, with 11 receiving TDs in both years.

The former Hilltopper measures in at 5-foot-11 and 210 pounds but saw a lot of his production come through manufactured touches. Corley’s calling card is using his thick frame to create yards-after-catch (YAC), using his agility and vision to navigate through defenses and extend plays. He finished second in the FBS in yards after the catch in 2023.

Ladd McConkey (WR – Georgia)

Concerns are his late breakout age at 21 years old. But it was in his third season as a redshirt sophomore when he totaled 762 receiving yards and seven scores en route to a 20% dominator rating. Standing at 6’0″ and weighing 185 lbs, Ladd McConkey’s agility and football IQ have made him a crucial asset for the Bulldogs’ offense.

He missed time in his final year at Georgia with injuries, which hurt his final counting stats. But he was still efficient, finishing 8^th in the nation in yards per route run (3.26).

Even so, McConkey’s game is characterized by his quickness, route polish, and speed rather than physical dominance. His agility in creating separation and his nuanced route-running skills allow him to find space in tight coverage. He will likely be more underrated than most other WRs based on his final-year stats and average physical profile.

McConkey’s collegiate success at a top program like Georgia suggests he has the tools to transition effectively to the professional level.

Roman Wilson (WR – Michigan)

At 6’0″ and 192 pounds, Roman Wilson combines athletic prowess with technical skill to make an impact on the field. He truly saved his best for last in Michigan’s run for the national championship. His standout senior year saw him amassing 48 receptions for 789 yards and 12 touchdowns, resulting in a 37% dominator rating in 2023. It was the 6th-highest single-season dominator rating in the class.

The obvious concerns are his late breakout age at 22 years old and the fact that he could only muster one legitimate year of production.

Even so, he was turning heads at the most recent Senior Bowl, and he’s projected to be a strong tester at the 2024 Scouting Combine with his speed. Watch his stock continue to rise throughout the draft process. He’s drawn comparisons to Tyler Lockett from the Senior Bowl’s own Jim Nagy.

Jamari Thrash (WR – Louisville)

Jamari Thrash posted a top-10 career dominator rating in his draft class at 24%. A lot of that can be attributed to his marquee 2022 season at Georgia State, where Thrash posted a 43% dominator rating with over 1,100 yards and 7 TDs on 62 catches. That single-season rating was the third-highest in the class.

The 6-foot-1 and 185-pound WR transferred to Louisville this past season and caught 62 passes for the second straight season with a 26% dominator rating to boot. The jump in competition did not slow down Thrasher, who has been producing since he turned 20 years old as a sophomore at Georgia State.

He tied a bow on his college career with a top-10 dominator rating in the class (24%). He’s an older prospect at 23 years old, but that might help him hit the ground running as he makes another competitive leap to the NFL.

Slippery after the catch and a savvy route runner are two of his most evident traits when you watch him on film.

He is particularly adept at gaining yards after the catch, using his quickness to evade defenders. His acceleration off the line of scrimmage and ability to change direction swiftly make him a challenging assignment for opposing defensive backs.

Jalen McMillan (WR – Washington)

Jalen McMillan broke out in his second season at Washington at 20 years old. 19% dominator rating set the stage for what was coming for him in 2022 when he had his best college season with 1,098 receiving yards and 9 TDs – good for a 25% dominator rating despite competing for targets with Rome Odunze and Ja’Lynn Polk.

Alas, he could not sustain that success into this past season as the No. 3 option in Washington’s pass attack. It won’t get easier to command targets at the next level. But the fact that McMillan showed he’s capable of rising to the occasion of elite target competition bodes well for him should he end up on a weak WR depth chart.

He played over 89% of the snaps from the slot over the last two seasons.

Odds are that one of McMillan or Polk will perform WELL above expectation at the next level, given how they likely hurt each other’s statistics the past two seasons with Washington.

Johnny Wilson (WR – Florida State)

At an imposing 6’7″ and weighing around 235 lbs, Johnny Wilson is a physical specimen who brings a unique set of attributes to the wide receiver position.

Wilson began his collegiate career at Arizona State before transferring to Florida State, where he truly flourished. His towering frame and catch radius made him a favorite target on contested catches. In his first season with the Seminoles, he racked up 43 receptions for 897 yards and five touchdowns for a 22% dominator rating, showcasing his ability as a constant threat to opposing defenses.

The big concern is his late breakout age of 21, which came in 2022. He posted a 22% dominator rating but took a step back this past season with just two TDs after Keon Coleman took over as the No. 1. Still, somebody will take a shot at his rare size, hoping they can recapture his 2022 form.

Ricky Pearsall (WR – Florida)

Ricky Pearsall broke out at Arizona State in his third season with a 28% dominator rating in 2021, tallying 580 yards and 4 TDs.

After transferring to the SEC, the 6-foot-1 and 189-pound WR continued to succeed over the next two years at Florida, with dominator ratings of 25% from 2022-2023, finishing with 963 receiving yards and 4 TDs in his final season as a Gator.

On the FantasyPros Football Podcast, our very own Thor Nystrom sat down with Pearsall to talk further about his route-running prowess and “ludicrous” hands.

He’s an older prospect, considering he will be 24 years old this season.

But he turned heads at the NFL Scouting Combine with string metrics across the board. 4.41 40-yard dash, 42″ vertical jump, 129″ broad jump, 4.05 20-yard shuttle (89th percentile) and 6.64 3-cone drill (93rd percentile).

Javon Baker (WR – UCF)

He couldn’t sniff the field at Alabama, so Javon Baker transferred to UCF. He enjoyed two strong seasons with the Knights, posting dominator ratings of 23% and 31% in the last two seasons.

The 6-foot-1 and 201-pound WR was a big-play savant, owning the second-highest yards per reception (21.9) nationally in 2023.

Ainias Smith (WR – Texas A&M)

Smith first burst onto the scene in 2020, posting a 27% dominator rating at just 19 years old. He sustained his success in his third season but got hurt in 2022.

The 5-foot-10 and 200-pound WR bounced back in his final year in 2023, amassing a career-high 795 receiving yards on 53 catches with two TDs (15% dominator rating).

He will turn 23 years old this year. He also has experience playing RB and as a return specialist.

Jermaine Burton (WR – Alabama)

Took forever to break out until his senior year at 22 years old with a 30% dominator rating. Went from the University of Georgia over his first two seasons to Alabama his final two collegiate seasons.

Although he did post a very serviceable 19% dominator rating his first year at Bama, with 677 yards and 7 TDs, he was also used exclusively downfield, with a 20.2 aDOT (3^rd-highest in the FBS) in 2023.

Other notable names in the 2024 WR Class:

• Malik Washington (WR – Virginia): Thrived at the East-West Shrine practices. Finished the 2023 season as PFF’s second-highest graded WR (92.4). Posted crazy numbers in his final and lone year at Virginia, after transferring from Northwestern. 47% dominator rating with 9 TDs and nearly 1,400 receiving yards for the 5-foot-8-1/2 and 191-pound svelt WR. His 2023 season was one of the best in the class. And his ascension continued into the testing with him posting impressive jumping numbers in both the broad and vertical leaps. No. 1 in vertical jump in the class at 42.5″ (98th percentile).
• Tahj Washington (WR – USC):  Broke out an early age in 2020 at Memphis, before transferring to USC the last three seasons. 5-foot-10 and 175 pounds, he is definitely on the smaller side of this WR class. Posted his most productive season this past year, with over 1,000 yards and 8 TDs (23% dominator rating). Counting stats were not elite, but he was absurdly efficient. Exceptional route runner and slot player.
• Luke McCaffrey (WR – Rice)
  
• Jordan Whittington (WR – Texas)
• Dominic Lovett (WR – Georgia)  2022 was by far the best season for Lovett, as he posted a 26% dominator rating. Editor’s note: He will be returning to Georgia in 2024 so disregard his place.