Although the 2023 NFL Draft class for wide receivers isn't as strong as the stellar '22 group that had six go in the first round. Still, there are several worthy talents who can translate college stats into big pro production.
There's a potential of four first-rounders this year with some good sleepers with upside available in later rounds.
Sporting News ranks the 10 best wide receivers in the draft, from a reliable well-rounded star to a versatile big playmaker:
MORE NFL DRAFT: SN's 7-round mock | Top 140 big board
NFL Draft 2023 wide receiver rankings
1. Jordan Addison, USC (5-11, 173 pounds)
Addison is the type of receiver who plays and moves faster on the field than he runs when not on the field. He profiles as a high-end dynamic slot, much like former Trojans Amon-Ra St. Brown (Lions) and JuJu Smith-Schuster (Patriots). Like St. Brown and Michael Pittman Jr. (Colts), Addison can operate as a clear go-to guy.
Mock draft projection: Texans in Round 1
2. Quentin Johnston, TCU (6-3, 208 pounds)
With his dazzling size-speed profile, Johnston is the pure perimeter vertical threat with classic No. 1 qualities. Not only does he have a knack for making big plays, but he also backs it up with consistent hands before burning with his legs.
Mock draft projection: Titans in Round 1
3. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Ohio State (6-1, 195 pounds)
Smith-Njiba can make big plays like a No. 1, much like former Buckeyes teammates Chris Olave (Saints) and Garrett Wilson (Jets). Some think he might be more of a slot option in the NFL, but he also has a takeover mentality all over the field with confidence in his speed, quickness and routes.
Mock draft projection: Seahawks in Round 1
4. Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College (5-9, 182 pounds)
Flowers compares favorably to Tyler Lockett (Seahawks). He is a smaller receiver capable of playing outside with the speed and quickness to take any catch the distance. He also has the toughness to add to his burst after catches in the slot.
Mock draft projection: Chargers in Round 1
5. Josh Downs, North Carolina (5-9, 171 pounds)
Downs is the classic diminutive dasher for the open field. He uses his impressive athleticism and quickness well to burst downfield when making catches off short-to-intermediate routes.
Mock draft projection: Jets in Round 2
6. Kayshon Boutte, LSU (5-11, 195 pounds)
Boutte is a well-rounded receiver built to ace the slot in the NFL. He has the right combination of speed, quickness and route-running for such a role. Beyond his toughness inside, he also can sometimes win deep outside.
Mock draft projection: Patriots in Round 2
7. Jalin Hyatt, Tennessee (6-0, 176 pounds)
Hyatt's calling card is his top-flight speed, which he used to make plenty of home-run plays in college working with Hendon Hooker. He must get better with his routes and consistency to become a better all-around NFL target.
Mock draft projection: Falcons in Round 2
8. Rashee Rice, SMU (6-1, 204 pounds)
Rice has a strong compact frame with reliable hands to match. He is a savvy and experienced route-runner. His toughness gives him intriguing outside-inside versatility. He also comes into the NFL with a high level of college production.
Mock draft projection: Packers in Round 2
9. Cedric Tillman, Tennessee (6-3, 213 pounds)
Tillman has a bit of Mike Williams (Chargers) in him for his size. He has the speed to be a perimeter vertical threat when needed. Tillman also uses his big frame well to win and finish in the red zone.
Mock draft projection: Colts in Round 3
10. Marvin Mims, Oklahoma (6-0, 183 pounds)
Mims has Day 2 appeal because of his uncanny big-play ability, either stretching the field for deep routes or using his quickness and toughness well after the catch to find extra room in open field.
Mock draft projection: Cowboys in Round 3
