NCAAF · 1 year ago

Ranking the Top 105 College Football Wide Receivers for 2024

TJ Inman

Host · Writer

105. Barion Brown - Kentucky Wildcats
Kentucky’s Barion Brown might be one of the fastest players in the country. He has yet to prove that he can be a consistent and polished wide receiver, but he can fly when given the chance. Now a junior, Brown had 43 catches (team-high for Kentucky) for 539 yards and four touchdowns, averaging 12.53 yards per catch. His year included 105 yards receiving against Vanderbilt, 58 yards against Tennessee, and a 100-yard performance against the Clemson Tigers in the narrow bowl game defeat. Dane Key is the top target for the Wildcats, but Brock Vandagriff can rely on Brown as an excellent No. 2.

Kentucky 2024 Win Total: 6.5
1. Luther Burden - Missouri Tigers
The best wide receiver in the country will be playing in the SEC but not at Alabama, Georgia, or LSU. Missouri’s Luther Burden is a returning junior who dropped only four of his 94 targets during his sophomore season and is at his best after the catch, blazing for 725 yards after the catch in 2023. Burden had 86 receptions for 1,212 yards and nine touchdowns last season, and quarterback Brady Cook is back to throw to him again. Burden had ten games with at least one catch of 25 or more yards. The former St. Louis high school star has lived up to the hype surrounding his recruitment.

Missouri 2024 Win Total: 9.5
2. Tetairoa McMillan - Arizona Wildcats
Tetairoa McMillan, better known as Tet, is a 6’5” physical mismatch and chose to stay in Arizona despite the departure of Jedd Fisch. Not only is McMillan a large target, but he has incredible hands. His drop rate of 2.1% was tops in the nation for players with at least 100 targets, and he had 90 catches for 1,402 yards and ten touchdowns as a sophomore. New head coach Brent Brennan runs a pass-happy offense, and he kept McMillan and quarterback Noah Fifita, which is a significant coup that should reap big dividends in Tucson.

Arizona 2024 Win Total: 8.5
3. Tez Johnson - Oregon Ducks
Troy Franklin was incredible at Oregon, but what if I told you Oregon’s best receiver in 2023 is returning in 2024? As good as Franklin was, Tez Johnson was statistically better in a few ways. The former Troy Trojan seamlessly transitioned to the PAC-12 and led the Ducks in receptions last season despite weighing only 160 pounds. The slot receiver is as dangerous as anyone in the country once he gets the ball in his hands, pacing all Power Five receivers in yards after the catch. Johnson had games of 172, 137, 126, and 180 receiving yards and found the end zone on ten occasions. A dynamic slot receiver in Oregon’s offense is a critical piece of their success, and new quarterback Dillon Gabriel should be able to help Johnson replicate his 2023 production.
4. Emeka Egbuka - Ohio State Buckeyes
Injuries limited Emeka Egbuka during his junior season, but returning to his 2022 form is not hard to project if he is healthy. The Ohio State Buckeye wideout had 74 catches for 1,151 yards with ten touchdowns as a sophomore before limping to a subpar junior season. He has the physical gifts to be one of the nation’s best wide receivers. There are enough weapons around him that defenses cannot focus exclusively on Egbuka, even with Marvin Harrison Jr. off to the NFL. Featured wideouts in Columbus typically end up as first-round NFL Draft picks, and Egbuka should be the next man up.

Ohio State Buckeyes 2024 Win Total: 10.5
5. Evan Stewart - Oregon Ducks
The second Oregon Duck in the top five, former Texas A&M Aggie Evan Stewart is slated at number five. A former five-star recruit with untapped potential, Stewart transferred from College Station after two disappointing seasons. Part of that can be attributed to Jimbo Fisher’s scheme and poor quarterback play, and part of it can be blamed on an injury that limited him in 2023. Stewart is an immensely gifted wide receiver who should excel in Oregon’s offense with quarterback Dillon Gabriel. Will Stein is a masterful play-caller, and Stewart will be one of the more talented wide receivers to play in Eugene in a long time.

2024 Oregon Win Total: 10.5
6. Tre Harris - Ole Miss Rebels
Ole Miss receiver Tre Harris is 6’2” and more than 200 pounds and is one of the best big-play receivers in the country. Harris transferred to Ole Miss from Louisiana Tech before the 2023 campaign and had 54 receptions for nearly 1,000 yards and eight touchdowns. Jaxson Dart is an excellent college quarterback, and Lane Kiffin’s offense gives Harris ample opportunities to showcase his skills. Harris averaged 18.2 yards per reception, including 134 yards against Penn State, 213 against Texas A&M, 102 against Auburn, and 153 in a win over LSU.

2024 Ole Miss Win Total: 9.5
7. Kevin Concepcion - North Carolina State Wolfpack
The North Carolina State Wolfpack went 9-4, including a surprising 6-2 in the ACC, and a large part of that success can be attributed to the ACC Newcomer of the Year, Kevin Concepcion. He is a versatile weapon that led the Wolfpack in non-quarterback rushing yards with 320 on the ground (7.8 yards per carry) and had 839 yards receiving with ten receiving touchdowns. Concepcion had 71 receptions; the next highest total for NC State was Keyon Lesane, which had 28. Concepcion is shifty and dynamic, and his emergence has made North Carolina State considered by many to be a dark-horse contender for the ACC title in 2024.

2024 NC State Win Total: 8.5
8. Ricky White - UNLV Rebels
The top Group of Five wideout in the country is probably UNLV Rebels star Ricky White. The former Michigan State receiver was third in the country in receiving yards with 1,487 (behind only Malik Nabors and Rome Odunze) and led the country with a 34.8% target rate (per Pro Football Focus). The Georgia native had more than 85 receiving yards in ten games in 2023, including 169 yards against Air Force, 152 against Fresno State, and 165 yards against Vanderbilt. White is 6’1” and not a true burner, but he would likely be a star at any level. UNLV has to be thrilled to have him for another season.
9. Elic Ayomanor - Stanford Cardinal
A significant injury forced Stanford Cardinal wide receiver Elic Ayomanor to miss the 2022 season, but he returned with a bang in 2023. Ayomanor is 6’2” and dealt with some dreadful quarterback play but made the most of it with a strong redshirt freshman campaign. He had 14 contested catches on his way to 1,022 yards and roasted star Travis Hunter for 13 catches and 294 yards in a thrilling overtime contest in week seven. Stanford has moved to the ACC, and they have a demanding schedule, but Ayomanor gives them a chance to compete if he stays healthy.

2024 Stanford Win Total: 3.5

College Football Links: Transfer Portal Rankings
10. Xavier Restrepo - Miami Hurricanes
Miami’s new quarterback, Cam Ward, will love throwing to slot receiver Xavier Restrepo. The returning wideout had a Pro Football Focus grade of 87.5, the seventh-best among returning Power Five receivers, and is a proven weapon at moving the chains. Restrepo is not the most explosive wide receiver, averaging only 12.8 yards per reception. However, he had 85 catches, and 53 went for first downs or touchdowns. If the Hurricanes can find more explosive weapons on the outside, Restrepo gives them a sure thing in the slot.

2024 Miami Win Total: 9.5
11. Nic Anderson - Oklahoma Sooners
Nic Anderson’s redshirt freshman campaign in 2023 was wildly successful. The former blue-chip recruit averaged 21 yards per reception and scored a team-best ten touchdowns for the Oklahoma Sooners. Anderson had 120 yards against Tulsa, 105 against Central Florida, 119 in a win over West Virginia, and 73 plus a touchdown in their loss to Arizona in the Alamo Bowl. The expectation is that Anderson’s target share will increase under new starting quarterback Jackson Arnold, and with Drake Stoops exhausting his eligibility. Anderson has elite speed and is a vertical threat but must be more visible as a consistent target in the offense.
12. CJ Daniels - LSU Tigers
CJ Daniels became a star at Liberty and is now a member of the LSU Tigers, hoping to step adequately into the spots vacated by the departed Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr. Daniels averaged 19.4 yards per catch, had ten touchdowns, and led the team with 55 receptions. In Liberty’s toughest tests, Daniels had 157 yards against New Mexico State in the Conference USA Championship Game, 137 yards against Old Dominion, and 79 yards in the Fiesta Bowl against Oregon.
13. Caullin Lacy - Louisville Cardinals
The Louisville Cardinals had success utilizing the transfer portal in 2023 and they hope to replicate that in 2024 with star wideout Caullin Lacy. The former South Alabama Jaguar was a multi-year standout in the Sun Belt and he had 91 receptions for 1,316 yards with ten touchdowns last season as he earned all-league honors. Lacy had 104 yards against Oklahoma State in a surprising blowout win, 132 against James Madison, and 126 yards against Marshall. He’s only 5’10” but he ranked fifth in the country in receptions and yards and should fit in perfectly in Jeff Brohm’s passing attack.
14. Travis Hunter - Colorado Buffaloes
Travis Hunter is one of the best football players in the country. He drops out of the top ten wide receivers because it’s unclear how much he will play on offense and how much he’ll be pulled over to defense. It was clear later in the season that his double duty was running him ragged and his performance was suffering. As a receiver, he’s a big-play vertical threat that is a true number one option and he had 57 receptions and five touchdowns despite missing time with an injury. Hunter is one of the nation’s best cornerbacks but the Buffaloes need to be careful with overuse that hampers his ability on both sides of the field.
15. Brennan Presley - Oklahoma State Cowboys
Brennan Presley is only 5'8" and he's generously listed at 175 pounds. Presley has nearly 1,100 yards after the catch since 2022 and has forced 51 missed tackles. Presley is a good short-route receiver who can take a short catch and turn it into a touchdown. His speed is a difference-maker for opposing defenses and he and running back Ollie Gordon benefit each other by keeping opposing defenses off-balance.
16. Jeremiah Smith - Ohio State Buckeyes
Readers might be looking at Jeremiah Smith and wondering who he is. Or they might know who he is but wonder why a freshman is listed in the top twenty of all wide receivers in college football. It’s not a misprint, and it might even be too low. The Ohio State Buckeyes have a ridiculously talented offense, and no one on that side of the ball has more talent than No. 1 overall recruit Smith. A wide receiver ranked as the No. 1 overall recruit is nearly unheard of. Still, Smith has a combination of athleticism, speed, and size, plus elite ball skills that don’t come around very often. They had to sweat out his commitment until National Signing Day but locked up his services and now get to reap the rewards. By the season's end, everyone will know exactly who Jeremiah Smith is.

Ohio State 2024 Win Total: 10.5
17. Isaiah Bond - Texas Longhorns
The Texas Longhorns lost Xavier Worthy, the fastest player in NFL Combine history, but they raided the transfer portal to find replacements and landed Isaiah Bond from Alabama. Bond is supremely talented, but he only had four touchdowns and 668 yards for the Crimson Tide a season ago. That could have been attributed to inconsistent quarterback play or an offensive system that maybe did not cater to his vertical threat ability, but the production was still not outstanding. Bond is now in a system that knows exactly how to use his speed, and quarterback Quinn Ewers should be able to get the most out of him.

Texas 2024 Win Total: 10.5
18. Jalen Royals - Utah State Aggies
Jalen Royals surprised many when he announced his return to Utah State after the 2023 season. It was assumed he would test the transfer portal or enter the NFL Draft but Royals is back after the most receiving touchdowns in the country last season. His 15 touchdowns were not his only strength. Only Washington’s Rome Odunze had more contested catches than Royals's previous season and finished with 71 receptions for 1,080 yards. He’s not a blazer, but he is quick enough to take the top off a defense if they are not ready.
19. Tory Horton - Colorado State Rams
Staying in the “Group of Five” and the Mountain West, No. 19 is Colorado State wideout Tory Horton. He has had back-to-back seasons with more than 1,100 yards receiving. Horton is highly physical and is used by the Rams on short passes that he converts into first downs. Colorado State does not have many weapons, so defenses can key in on Horton, but they still have not been able to slow him. He made his mark against Travis Hunter and the Colorado Buffaloes, going off for 16 catches for 133 yards. Horton had six games with at least nine receptions during the 2023 season.
20. Zachariah Branch - USC Trojans
Zachariah Branch struggled to make a consistent impact as a receiver in 2023 but has the tools to have a special 2024 campaign. Branch is slight but has had a year to develop more physically, which should pay dividends as USC moves to the Big Ten. He is an electric playmaker who can be the nation’s top kick returner if teams make the mistake of kicking to him. USC mostly used him in the slot, but it will be interesting to see what changes Lincoln Riley makes to his offense without Caleb Williams running the show.
21. Antwane "Juice" Wells - Ole Miss Rebels
Which version of Antwane “Juice” Wells is Ole Miss getting? The 2023 version barely played, and there were strong rumors that Wells was more than healthy enough to get on the field later in the season for the South Carolina Gamecocks. The 2022 version was a terrific weapon, leading a surprise Gamecocks team as one of the few good offensive options. He caught 68 passes for 928 yards with six touchdowns despite having little help around him. Wells is not a big target but makes up for that with explosive ability after the catch. He transferred to Ole Miss and joined one of the country’s best wide receiver rooms.

Ole Miss 2024 Win Total: 9.5
22. Deion Burks - Oklahoma Sooners
Deion Burks had a breakout campaign last season for the Purdue Boilermakers and is now catching passes for Jackson Arnold at Oklahoma. Burks is a big-play receiver who led Purdue in receiving yards, yards per catch, and receiving touchdowns. He put up numbers despite inconsistent quarterback play and a lack of weapons around him, and the expectation is that he can take his game up a level in the Oklahoma attack. Burks needs to improve his consistency and ability to run short and intermediate routes, which OU needs without Drake Stoops picking up those tough yards.

Oklahoma 2024 Win Total: 7.5
23. Elijah Sarratt - Indiana Hoosiers
The Indiana Hoosiers hired James Madison head coach Curt Cignetti, who has assembled an impressive group of receivers in Bloomington that will be among the best WR rooms in the Big Ten. A vital part of that group is former JMU receiver Elijah Sarratt. As a sophomore in 2023, Sarratt had 1,191 yards with 82 catches and eight touchdowns for the Dukes. Sarratt started relatively slowly before breaking out against South Alabama in Week 5 with 92 yards on five catches. After that, he had at least seven receptions and 70 yards in each game and exceeded 100 yards six times with six touchdowns. Sarratt is not a burner but is quick enough to get separation, runs excellent routes, and has exceptional hands.

Indiana 2024 Win Total: 5.5
24. Cam Coleman - Auburn Tigers
The second freshman on this list, get ready to know the name Cam Coleman. The five-star prospect from Phenix City, Alabama, was a massive win on the recruiting trail for Hugh Freeze and the Auburn Tigers and will immediately impact the Auburn offense. Coleman is 6’3” and looks like a ready-made player from a physical standpoint. People who observed him at Auburn’s spring practices were blown away by his ability to make circus catches and physically compete with veteran defensive backs. Longtime observers in the state of Alabama compared him favorably to Julio Jones at the same stage. Coleman could be one of the SEC's top wideouts by the season's end.

Auburn 2024 Win Total: 7.5
25. Germie Bernard - Alabama Crimson Tide
The Alabama Crimson Tide are entering a new era. Nick Saban is gone (well, he’s still hanging around the Alabama program, but he’s not the head coach), and Kalen DeBoer is installing an offense that has been highly successful at each of his stops. That includes last year’s Washington Huskies, where he had five pass-catchers with more than 400 yards. One of those receivers was Germie Bernard. Now a junior, Bernard followed DeBoer to Alabama and is expected to lead the wide receiver room for the Crimson Tide. His familiarity with the system and proven ability to make plays down the field sets him up for a significant increase in production.

Alabama 2024 Win Total: 9.5
26. LaJohntay Wester - Colorado Buffaloes
Colorado might be in complete disarray off the field. Still, they have acquired some excellent individual pieces, and former FAU receiver LaJohntay Wester is set for a breakout campaign in Boulder. Wester is slight of frame but is twitchy, quick, and has excellent hands, making him a valuable addition to the Buffaloes. Wester had 1,168 yards with eight touchdowns on 108 catches. That’s nine catches per game with a less-than-ideal quarterback trying to get the ball to him. Colorado has a good quarterback and some good receivers, but the rest of the roster has many questions.

Colorado 2024 Win Total: 5.5
27. Dominic Lovett - Georgia Bulldogs
Dominic Lovett struggled some in his first year in Athens after transferring in from Missouri. He has a ton of ability and showcased it at the Georgia spring game, leading many UGA experts to tab him as the number one candidate to lead the Bulldog offense and be the primary target for quarterback Carson Beck. Miami transfer Colbie Young is a red zone menace, but Lovett figures to be “the guy” for one of the best teams in the country.

Georgia 2024 Win Total: 10.5
28. Squirrel White - Tennessee Volunteers
The Tennessee offense did not take off in 2023, with Joe Milton leading the attack. The Volunteers have a budding star at quarterback in Nico Iamaleava, and the passing game should return to what is expected under head coach Josh Heupel. Squirrel White did not have the breakout season many expected, but he still managed 803 yards, leading the Vols in receptions and yards. With better quarterback play and another year of experience, White should have a standout All-SEC-type season.

Tennessee 2024 Win Total: 9.5
29. Malik Benson - Florida State Seminoles
The departures of Keon Coleman and Johnny Wilson leave a significant void in the wide receiver room. This group is talented but mostly unproven. Malik Benson is a transfer from Alabama with the physical tools to be an All-ACC wide receiver. He showed a good rapport with new quarterback DJ Uiagalelei during spring practice. Benson is unlikely to reach the level of Coleman or Wilson, but he can still be a significant impact player.

Florida State 2024 Win Total: 9.5
30. Kelly Akharaiyi - Mississippi State Bulldogs
The Mississippi State Bulldogs brought in a new head coach and plan to go back to the familiar aerial attack the fans in Starkville have come to expect. To execute that vision, Mississippi State had to go to the transfer portal and bring in a big-play threat, and they did just that with UTEP’s Kelly Akharaiyi. The senior averaged a remarkable 21.52 yards per catch with the Miners and had 1,033 yards. The negative of Akharaiyi’s game is that he only had 48 catches on the season and did not elevate his team’s offense in a weak Conference USA in 2023. How his game translates to the SEC will go a way toward determining how effective Mississippi State’s offense is in 2024.

Mississippi State 2024 Win Total: 4.5
31. Kyren Lacy - LSU Tigers
LSU’s 2023 offense featured Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels and a pair of first round receivers in Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr. It would be inaccurate to say that the Tigers will lose all of those guys and not miss a beat. It would also be unfair to say that LSU is bereft of talent on offense in 2024. The Tigers have a pair of likely first round offensive tackles and a very good quarterback stepping in and return wide receiver Kyren Lacy. The senior is coming back after actually leading LSU in yards per receptions at 18.6 yards per catch. Lacy is an explosive playmaker and he will now get his chance to be the primary target.

LSU 2024 Win Totals: 9.5
32. Noah Thomas - Texas A&M Aggies
The Texas A&M Aggies have to replace both Ainias Smith and Evan Stewart and the name drawing the most praise and buzz after spring ball is junior Noah Thomas. Thomas had 359 yards receiving in 2023 and led the Aggies with five touchdown catches on the season. Thomas was a four-star recruit from Houston and is an impressive 6’6”, which should translate to being a great red zone target for the Aggies. They have to get better quarterback play under new head coach Mike Elko if Thomas is to make good on his potential.

Texas A&M 2024 Win Total: 8.5
33. Dymere Miller - Rutgers Scarlet Knights
The Rutgers Scarlet Knights are in desperate need of a difference-maker at wide receiver to complement running back Kyle Monangai. They are hoping Monmouth transfer Dymere Miller is that man. Transitioning from the FCS to the Big Ten is a big jump up in competition but Miller was dominant at Monmouth with 1,293 receiving yards, 117.5 receiving yards per game as an FCS First Team All-American. Miller is only 6’0” and 180 pounds but he’s thick in the lower body and should be able to hold up in the Big Ten. Miller is going to be counted on to elevate the Rutgers passing game with a lot of after the catch responsibilities as a dynamic slot receiver.
34. Theo Wease - Missouri Tigers
The Missouri Tigers had a breakout season in 2023 and veteran receiver Theo Wease Jr. was a big part of it as a running mate to dynamic wideout Luther Burden III. Wease was a clear secondary target but a very good one, as he hauled in 682 yards with an average of 13.92 yards per catch and six total touchdowns. Wease Jr. always had a lot of potential but had yet to fulfill it. However, the emergence of Brady Cook at quarterback plus a bonafide star next to Wease at wide receiver to take the attention of the defense really unlocked him in 2023. Wease Jr. is in line for a strong final season in college.

Missouri 2024 Win Total: 9.5
35. Jordan Watkins - Ole Miss Rebels
Ole Miss might have the best wide receiver room in the country. Tre Harris is returning as a primary target on the outside and they added Juice Wells from South Carolina to form a potent one-two combo.

The primary slot weapon is the returning Jordan Watkins. Watkins had 741 receiving yards in 2023, the fourth-best number among SEC returners. The dynamic receiver averaged 13.98 yards per catch and he was relied on as a target to move the chains in critical situations. Defenses will have an impossible time covering all of the Rebels’ weapons.

Ole Miss 2024 Win Total: 9.5
36. Eugene Wilson III - Florida Gators
Ricky Pearsall was the best wide receiver for the Florida Gators in 2023, but true freshman Eugene Wilson III showed a very bright future as he did a lot of damage after the catch. Wilson III is only 5’10” and likely weighs less than 185 pounds, but he was able to move around to the outside or the slot, producing 538 yards and six touchdowns. Pearsall is gone, and Wilson III will lead the way for the Gators in 2024. The schedule is demanding, and Florida will need him to produce like a true WR1.

Florida 2024 Win Total: 4.5
37. Chris Brazzell II - Tennessee Volunteers
Tennessee dipped into the transfer portal to find a complementary weapon for Squirrel White and landed former Tulane wide receiver Chris Brazzell II. Brazzell, a lean (and quite skinny) 6’5” gazelle, had 711 yards on only 44 catches with five touchdowns last season for the Green Wave. He is now in Josh Heupel’s offense and has a star quarterback throwing to him, so the ceiling for Brazzell II is very high. His ability to take the top off a defense should pair well with White’s speed out of the slot. Tennessee is hoping Brazzell II can help push them into a playoff spot.

Tennessee 2024 Win Total: 9.5
38. Andrew Armstrong - Arkansas Razorbacks
Andrew Armstrong was an island for the Arkansas Razorbacks in 2023. He had 764 yards receiving and five touchdowns, while the rest of the Razorbacks combined for a total of 802 yards and ten touchdowns. He desperately needed help and did not get it, so Arkansas struggled all season. KJ Jefferson is gone, and Taylen Green is now the starting quarterback. Green does not figure to be a significant upgrade in passing efficiency, but Armstrong returns and will have a large share of the targets and opportunities for the Hogs. He’s a long-strider and offers a massive target for Green, something he did not have at Boise State.

Arkansas 2024 Win Total: 4.5
39. London Humphreys - Georgia Bulldogs
There is quite a projection with ranking London Humphreys here. He only had 22 catches last season for an undermanned Vanderbilt squad but turned those receptions into 439 yards. He’s 6’3” and a burner that could open up defenses on the outside as a transfer to the Georgia Bulldogs. UGA has abundant talent, but Humphreys seems like an excellent complement to Dominic Lovett. In addition, he should be an upgrade on outside weapon Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint. If he can fulfill his promise, the Bulldogs have another problem for defenses to solve.

Georgia 2024 Win Total: 10.5
40. Jahmal Banks - Nebraska Cornhuskers
Despite playing with subpar quarterback play at Wake Forest, wide receiver Jahmal Banks produced 59 receptions for 653 yards plus four touchdowns. Banks did some damage against weaker opponents that inflated his numbers a bit. Still, he succeeded against some of the better defenses that Wake Forest played. He had the fourth-best PFF score of any receiver in the Big Ten heading into the 2024 season. Banks has transferred to Nebraska and adds a 6’4” weapon with good athleticism. He should help quarterback Dylan Raiola as the Huskers try to mount a challenge in the Big Ten.

Nebraska 2024 Win Total: 7.5
41. Colbie Young - Georgia Bulldogs
The Georgia Bulldogs have Dominic Lovett and London Humphreys returning, along with portal addition Colbie Young from Miami. The former Hurricanes wideout was a reliable target in Coral Gables for the past three seasons. He had 47 receptions for 563 yards plus five touchdowns in 2023 and should see his numbers increase with the improved quarterback play he’ll get at Georgia with Carson Beck. He’s a 6’5” target and could be an excellent possession and red-zone target for the Bulldogs. Young is a clear starter in three wide-receiver sets and will see the field a lot for one of the nation’s best teams in 2024.

Georgia 2024 Win Total: 10.5
42. Will Pauling - Wisconsin Badgers
Redshirt junior Will Pauling exploded onto the scene in 2023 as a sophomore. After having just 13 catches in his first two seasons, Pauling had 74 receptions for 837 yards, plus six touchdowns. That included 143 yards and two scores in the Reliaquest Bowl loss to LSU and nine other games with at least 50 yards receiving. Wisconsin had a rough transition to a new spread scheme under Luke Fickell, but Pauling was a bright spot things should improve in year two of that system as Tyler Van Dyke takes over at quarterback.

Wisconsin 2024 Win Total: 6.5
43. Daniel Jackson - Minnesota Golden Gophers
Minnesota’s passing game was a significant issue for the Golden Gophers in 2023, but wide receiver Daniel Jackson still managed to have a solid season. Jackson had 59 receptions for 831 yards with eight touchdowns. Jackson is not a physically imposing receiver, but he’s quick, has excellent hands, and can make plays against coverage focused solely on him. He had 121 receiving yards against Wisconsin, 119 yards against Purdue, 120 against Michigan State, and an impressive 101-yard performance against Iowa’s stingy defense. Jackson was a consistent and reliable weapon for a Minnesota team that desperately needed playmakers.

Minnesota 2024 Win Total: 5.5
44. Donaven McCulley - Indiana Hoosiers
Despite having inconsistent and often poor quarterback play at Indiana, Donaven McCulley had a breakout redshirt sophomore season in Bloomington. McCulley had 48 catches for 644 yards with an impressive six touchdowns. He’s a physical receiver who can make contested receptions and beats corners one-on-one. He had 79 yards against the Maryland Terrapins, 96 yards against Penn State, 67 against the Wisconsin Badgers, and exploded against Illinois for 137 yards plus two touchdowns. A lot has changed for the Hoosiers with a new starting quarterback who should be an upgrade, a new favorable offensive system for wide receivers, a new head coach that has a proven track record of fielding solid offenses, and an influx of talent at receiver that should help shift the focus of the defense off of McCulley. He’s in line for a strong 2024.

Indiana 2024 Win Total: 5.5
45. Antonio Williams - Clemson Tigers
The Clemson Tigers offense was crippled by injuries to the wide receiver room in 2023, spoiling much of offensive coordinator Garrett Riley’s first season in the Upstate. Top wide receiver Antonio Williams was limited to only 21 receptions in his sophomore season after a standout freshman campaign that saw him haul in 56 passes for 604 yards. Williams only appeared in four games plus the bowl game, so he kept that season of eligibility, and the Tigers will be hoping his return to health and a second season in Riley’s system will mark a return to form for Clemson.

Clemson 2024 Win Total: 9.5
46. Eric Singleton Jr. - Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Two words immediately come to mind when considering Georgia Tech’s sophomore wide receiver Eric Singleton Jr.: speed demon. Singleton was outstanding as a true freshman, catching 48 passes and turning them into 714 yards with six touchdowns. Fellow ACC freshman KC Concepcion slightly overshadowed him but was nearly as impactful as the lauded All-American for the Wolfpack. Singleton Jr. is a significant difference-maker for Tech’s offense, as his speed forces defenses to focus on him. That opens things up for Haynes King to run the ball or for the Yellow Jackets to do some damage with short passes.

Georgia Tech 2024 Win Total: 5.5
47. Jeremiah Hunter - Washington Huskies
Despite sub-optimal quarterback play, Jeremiah Hunter led the Cal Golden Bears with 64 receptions for 757 yards and seven touchdowns. Hunter entered the transfer portal and landed in an appealing offense at Washington under new head coach Brent Brennan. Brennan came to Seattle from San Jose State, and quarterback Will Rogers will need to be able to develop a quick rapport with what should be his primary target. Hunter is unlikely to reach the stratosphere achieved by the Huskies’ wideouts in 2023, but he is a skillful player who should see an increase in his production in a more receiver-friendly attack.

Washington 2024 Win Total: 7.5
48. Johntay Cook - Texas Longhorns
Do not adjust your electronic device. Those sirens you hear are the breakout warning sounds for Texas wide receiver Johntay Cook. As an undersized freshman in 2023, Cook looked like a difference-maker during spring ball ahead of the 2024 season, and he is expected to compete with transfer Isaiah Bond for the role of primary receiver in Texas’ explosive offense. Cook is unlikely to replicate the production of Adonai Mitchell or Xavier Worthy immediately. Still, the duo of Bond and Cook, combined with increased depth with the additions of Matthew Golden and Silas Bolden, should provide Texas with one of the nation's better and deeper wide receiver rooms. Cook is a speedster, and with his added muscle, he is ready for a breakthrough performance in 2024.

Texas 2024 Win Total: 10.5
49. Logan Loya - UCLA Bruins
The UCLA Bruins do not have a great list of offensive weapons ahead of the 2024 season. However, they did receive a significant boost when Logan Loya announced that he would return for his final collegiate campaign. Loya had 59 receptions for 655 yards with five touchdowns, an accomplishment given the questionable quarterback play. Loya is a reliable target man, but he’s not a particularly dangerous deep threat. On a team with a ton of questions, Loya is a welcome known quantity for the Bruins.

UCLA 2024 Win Total: 5.5
50. Jayden Gibson - Oklahoma Sooners
The Oklahoma Sooners are loaded at wide receiver. Deion Burks and Nic Anderson will be the primary pass-catchers, but there is a real chance that the best receiver on this team in 12 months will be Jayden Gibson. There is certainly a healthy dose of projection involved, but look at what Gibson did with his limited opportunities last season: he had 14 catches for a remarkable 375 yards and five touchdowns. That is an average of 26.79 yards per catch and a touchdown in nearly every 2.5 catches. He’s explosive and oozes potential. His opportunities will be somewhat limited because of so many other promising targets. Still, OU will be playing a lot of four and five-wide sets with quarterback Jackson Arnold slinging it around, and Gibson can break open the game anytime he touches the ball.

Oklahoma 2024 Win Total: 7.5
51. Jacolby George - Miami Hurricanes
The Miami Hurricanes lost Colbie Young to Georgia, but they still have Xavier Restrepo and the under-utilized Jacolby George as primary weapons for new quarterback Cam Ward. George is not polished and does not have great hands but offers something that no other Hurricanes receiver does: explosive ability to score with each touch. His speed takes the top off of the defense. He had 57 receptions for 864 yards in 2023. George led Miami with 15.16 yards per catch, and they must find a way to get him more touches.

Miami 2024 Win Total: 9.5
52. Oronde Gadsden - Syracuse Orange
Oronde Gadsden is a hybrid wide receiver/tight end, and the Syracuse Orange are hoping he can quickly return to his 2022 form after an injury severely hampered his 2023 season. Gadsden is 6’5” and weighs nearly 230 pounds, so he has a physical edge over almost every defensive back that attempts to cover him. He is a major red zone threat with six touchdowns and 975 yards in 2022. With new quarterback Kyle McCord throwing him the ball, Gadsden could break 1,000 yards and make an ACC squad.

Syracuse 2024 Win Total: 7.5
53. Kobe Hudson - UCF Knights
Central Florida is one of the more interesting teams in the hyper-competitive Big 12, thanks to what could be a terrific rushing attack. They will need a couple of reliable wide receivers to keep defenses from selling out against the run, making Kobe Hudson an essential part of the Knights’ offense. Hudson was under the radar last season as Javon Baker led the Big 12 in receiving yards before heading to the NFL. However, he shined when given the chance. Hudson had 900 yards on only 44 catches. That is an outstanding 20.3 yards per catch with eight touchdowns. He is one of the best weapons in the Big 12, and his presence helps to balance UCF's offense.

UCF 2024 Win Total: 7.5
54. Jaylin Noel - Iowa State Cyclones
Iowa State’s Jaylin Noel was a co-captain for the Cyclones in 2023, and he earned All-Big 12 Second Team honors after catching 66 passes for 820 yards with seven touchdowns. Noel returns to lead the Iowa State receiving corps as Rocco Becht looks to take the next step as a quarterback. Noel is a very reliable veteran pass-catcher. His ascendancy and wide receiver Jayden Higgins give Iowa State a threat in the air in addition to their traditionally strong running game.

Iowa State 2024 Win Total: 7.5
55. Lawrence Arnold - Kansas Jayhawks
Lawrence Arnold is the best wide receiver for what could be the most explosive offense in the Big 12. Arnold has started 35 games for the Jayhawks and has been a cog in their offense as they have climbed from cellar-dweller to contender. He returns to Lawrence for his final season after a season that saw him grab 44 passes for 782 yards with six touchdowns. Kansas needs him to increase those numbers, and a healthy quarterback would go a long way toward helping him reach 1,000 yards and an All-Big 12 campaign.

Kansas 2024 Win Total: 8.5
56. Rashod Owens - Oklahoma State Cowboys
The Oklahoma State Cowboys bring back several critical pieces on offense for the 2024 season. If the rebuilt offensive line can come close to matching the effectiveness of the 2023 line (a tall task), the Cowboys are being underestimated in the Big 12. Brennan Presley is their top wide receiver, but Rashod Owens started ten games a season ago and had 63 receptions for 895 yards with 14.21 yards per catch. Owens is an explosive wideout who already has established chemistry with veteran quarterback Alan Bowman, and he was second on the team in touchdown catches.

Oklahoma State 2024 Win Total: 7.5
57. J. Michael Sturdivant - UCLA Bruins
The UCLA Bruins need explosive wide receiver J. Michael Sturdivant to take the next step. He averaged 16.58 yards per catch in 2023 but only managed 36 receptions as the Bruins leaned into a dominant running game. Sturdivant was well behind Logan Loya in targets and receptions, and quarterback Ethan Garbers is not a tremendous deep-ball thrower. Sturdivant is a long-striding vertical threat that needs to be better utilized by new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. UCLA has a demanding schedule in 2024, so a breakout won’t come easy, but if the Bruins are going to have a successful season, he’ll need to average more than 2.8 catches per game.

UCLA 2024 Win Total: 6.5
58. Jordan Moore - Duke Blue Devils
Despite uneven quarterback play once Riley Leonard left with an injury, wide receiver Jordan Moore managed to haul in 62 passes for 835 yards with eight touchdowns. Those numbers were tops for the Duke Blue Devils. He returns to Durham as the top target for new head coach Manny Diaz. Moore averaged 13.47 yards per reception and nearly five receptions per game. He’s not a big target but runs excellent routes and showcases good hands plus above-average speed. Duke hopes that new quarterback, and Texas transfer, Maalik Murphy, can provide more consistency at the position. If he can, Moore could threaten a 1,000-yard season.

Duke 2024 Win Total: 5.5
59. Lewis Bond - Boston College Eagles
The Boston College Eagles found a very exciting quarterback in young Thomas Castellanos. He provides a lot in the running game and gives hope that Boston College can be competitive despite a lack of strong NIL resources. The issue with Castellanos is that he is not yet an accurate and consistent passer. Despite dealing with the up-and-down nature of a very young QB, speedy Lewis Bond had 646 receiving yards on 52 catches with seven touchdowns. He was the only BC player with more than one receiving touchdown and the only player with more than 25 receptions. Bill O’Brien is now BC’s head coach, and it would be wise to take advantage of Bond’s skill set as much as possible. Things like quick screens and short slants to get the ball into Bond’s hands make a lot of sense.

Boston College 2024 Win Total: 4.5
60. Jimmy Horn Jr. - Colorado Buffaloes
Colorado wide receiver Jimmy Horn Jr. should see an increased role in 2024 as he steps up to fill the void left by the departure of Xavier Weaver. Travis Hunter gets a lot of attention, and Shedeur Sanders understandably gets talked about quite a bit, but Jimmy Horn Jr. started every game last season, and he had 58 catches for 567 yards plus six touchdowns. Colorado’s 2023 season flopped after a strong start, but if you strip away the national conversation and the much-discussed “Deion Tax,” the Buffaloes were just about what should have been expected of them. With Sanders back and what Colorado hopes is a much-improved offensive line, Jimmy Horn Jr. could be in line for an All-Big 12-type season.

Colorado 2024 Win Total: 5.5
61. Roc Taylor - Memphis Tigers
The Memphis Tigers had one of the top passing attacks in the country in 2023. They are expected to replicate that in 2024 as Seth Henigan returns at quarterback, and top wide receivers Roc Taylor and Demeer Blankumsee are joining him. Taylor was outstanding a season ago, hauling in 69 passes for 1083 yards (leading Memphis in both categories) and averaging an impressive 15.7 yards per catch for the explosive Tigers offense. The only real hole in Taylor’s game would be the lack of touchdowns, as he had only four receiving scores. That’s a minor nitpick. If Memphis can win the AAC, Taylor could put up numbers that lead to an All-American candidacy.

Memphis 2024 Win Total: 9.5
62. Johntay Cook II - Texas Longhorns
The Texas Longhorns lost Xavier Worthy and Adonai Mitchell. Still, they are optimistic that the capability of the 2024 wide receiver room is just as high as what they lost. Texas brought in Isaiah Bond, Silas Bolden, and Matthew Golden from the transfer portal, and they are counting on significant development from returning sophomore Johntay Cook II. Cook is a speedster who is expected to be a star on the outside, and the future might be now if he can hold off freshman Ryan Wingo. Cook starred in spring football in Austin, and UT insiders project him to be the second-starting outside wideout opposite of Bond. Steve Sarkisian tends to ride four to five receivers once the rotation gets set, which means a lot of upcoming targets for Cook.

Texas 2024 Win Total: 10.5
63. Demeer Blankumsee - Memphis Tigers
The other half of the previously mentioned dynamic wide receiver duo for the Memphis Tigers is senior Demeer Blankumsee. He led the Tigers in yards per catch and was an explosive big-play threat, averaging 17 yards per reception on 53 catches in 2023. Blankumsee had 76 yards on two catches against Iowa State, nine catches for 114 yards against SMU, six receptions for 142 yards as they beat South Florida in a shootout, and 108 yards against Tulane. So, against Memphis’ most formidable opponents, Blankumsee was a difference-maker. He’ll be one of the best wide receivers in the AAC again.

Memphis 2024 Win Total: 9.5
64. Dane Key - Kentucky Wildcats
Kentucky’s 2023 offense was ultimately a disappointment. Despite a solid offensive line and an excellent running game, the passing game never really took off, and Kentucky had another solid but unspectacular season under Mark Stoops. The Wildcats turn to a Georgia transfer at quarterback as they continue trying to find a solution to the position in the transfer portal. They bring back a pair of talented wide receivers, including the team’s 2023 receiving leader, Dane Key. Now a junior, Key had 42 catches for 636 yards with six touchdowns last season. He will pair with the speedy Barion Brown to try and propel UK to something that resembles offensive balance. Key is a big receiver who can move pretty well, but he has to improve his consistency on short and medium targets.

Kentucky 2024 Win Total: 6.5
65. Silas Bolden - Texas Longhorns
Texas has a lot of potential in their wide receiver room, but they need a veteran slot guy whom Steve Sarkisian can trust. They may have found the perfect option in Oregon State’s leading receiver from 2023: Silas Bolden. Bolden has reportedly hit the ground running in Austin and has adjusted quickly to the new offense he’ll be deployed in. Despite playing in a run-heavy offense with the Beavers, Bolden had 746 yards on 54 catches (both led the team) in 2023. He’s an adept route-runner and should operate as a security blanket underneath Quinn Ewers, allowing the explosive outside receivers to take the top off the defense. Bolden should slide right into Texas’ starting 11 on three-wide sets.

Texas 2024 Win Total: 10.5
66. Da'Quan Felton - Virginia Tech Hokies
The Virginia Tech Hokies have gained momentum throughout the offseason as a sleeper team capable of challenging for the ACC title. One of the reasons for that optimism is the high number of quality contributors returning to Blacksburg for another season. The Hokies get back quarterback Kyron Drones and his top target, wide receiver Da’Quan Felton. Felton had only 38 catches in 2023, but he turned those into 667 yards with eight touchdowns. The big-play target averaged 17.55 yards per reception. He will continue to be the number one option in the passing game, and the hope is that Drones can get more consistent as a passer and connect with Felton for 50+ receptions in 2024.

Virginia Tech 2024 Win Total: 8.5
67. Malachi Fields - Virginia Cavaliers
We stay in Virginia but look to Charlottesville for number 67: Malachi Fields of the Virginia Cavaliers. It was another disappointing season for Virginia, but the passing game served as a point of optimism and hope that things could turn around for head coach Tony Elliott. Freshman quarterback Anthony Colandrea was a source of excitement as he took over for Tony Muskett and threw for 1,958 yards on 246 attempts. Colandrea completed 62.6 percent of his throws, not a bad number for a freshman. His top target was Malik Washington, but Washington is now in the NFL, and Fields is expected to fill his shoes. Fields had more yards per catch than Washington did a season ago on roughly half the volume of receptions and targets. The Cavaliers need him to increase his production with the increased opportunities.

Virginia Cavaliers 2024 Win Total: 4.5
68. J.J. Jones - North Carolina Tar Heels
A lot of attention was paid to Devontez Walker and his battle for eligibility, but the top receiver for the North Carolina Tar Heels in 2023 was J.J. Jones. Jones had 46 receptions for 711 yards and three touchdowns during the campaign, as he was the top target for Drake Maye. Jones was a model of consistency, catching between three and six passes in nine games. He averaged an impressive 15.46 yards per catch, and he is a big target capable of providing more in the red zone than we saw last season. The Tar Heels are in a rebuilding year, but Jones should be a key cog on offense.

North Carolina 2024 Win Total: 7.5
69. Konata Mumpfield - Pitt Panthers
Since Kenny Pickett's departure and Mark Whipple's exit as offensive coordinator, the Pittsburgh Panthers have been a disaster on offense. That particularly applies to the passing game. Christian Veilleux and Phil Jurkovec hovered around 50 percent completion rates, and the Panthers never settled on a quarterback in 2023. Bub Means and the returning Konata Mumpfield were the only two bright spots as they excelled with poor quarterback play. The Panthers hope that Nate Yarnell can provide some steady play at the position and that Mumpfield can reap the benefits of being the top target. On an offense devoid of playmakers, Mumpfield will be the focus of every opposing defense.

Pitt Panthers 2024 Win Total: 5.5
70. Xzavier Henderson - Cincinnati Bearcats
Emory Jones failed to deliver for the Cincinnati Bearcats consistently, and the offense suffered as the Bearcats floundered in their first year in the Big 12. It was the worst season in a while for the storied program, and they are hoping Indiana transfer Brendan Sorsby can be an adequate answer in 2024. His top target will be receiver Xzavier Henderson. Despite the subpar passing of Jones, Henderson caught 58 passes for 782 yards (both team highs). He averaged 13.48 yards per catch, going against a demanding schedule, and added three touchdowns. Henderson had 149 yards against Eastern Kentucky, 140 against a good Miami (OH) defense, 74 yards against BYU, and more than 80 yards against Baylor, Oklahoma State, and West Virginia.

Cincinnati 2024 Win Total: 5.5
71. Samuel Brown - Miami Hurricanes
Samuel Brown is at his third school after spending two seasons at West Virginia and a pair at Houston. Brown earned 2023 All-Big 12 Honorable Mention after reeling in 62 catches for 815 yards with three scores. Those are impressive numbers, given the poor quarterback play last season at Houston. He was expected to anchor the receiving corps for the Cougars but transferred to Miami and is now part of a potentially excellent offense led by quarterback Cam Ward. Brown should function perfectly as a complementary piece in the attack.

Miami 2024 Win Total: 9.5
72. Elijhah Badger - Florida Gators
One of the best and potentially most significant late spring portal additions was wide receiver Elijhah Badger leaving Arizona State for the Florida Gators. Badger is a speedy vertical threat who should factor in immediately for a Florida offense looking for deep options on the outside. Badger caught 65 of his 101 targets while playing for Arizona State in 2023. He had 713 receiving yards and three touchdowns. Originally from Sacramento, the 6’2” Badger has now traversed across the country to play for Florida and help them replace the production of Ricky Pearsall. The Gators have the nation’s most demanding schedule, so Badger and the UF offense will be tested constantly.

Florida 2024 Win Total: 4.5
73. Ja'Corey Brooks - Louisville Cardinals
Can a change of system and scenery unlock the potential of former five-star recruit Ja’Corey Brooks? Louisville is hoping the answer is a resounding “yes!” As a high school prospect, Brooks was considered a future first-round talent comparable to Courtland Sutton of the Denver Broncos as a big-bodied powerhouse with outstanding ball skills. While not a burner, Brooks was the top target for IMG Academy and went to Alabama. He had 15 catches in 2021 before flashing his potential with 39 catches for 674 yards and a team-high eight touchdowns in 2022. Last season was a massive step-back, and Brooks hit the transfer portal to look for a new opportunity. He will pair with Caullin Lacy to try to propel the Louisville offense back to the ACC Championship Game.

Louisville 2024 Win Total: 8.5
74. Trond Grizzell - Cal Golden Bears
A late-season surge got the Cal Golden Bears into a bowl game in 2023, and they are hoping to carry that momentum in 2024 as members of the ACC. Leading receiver Jeremiah Hunter transferred to Washington to play for Jedd Fisch. That leaves Trond Grizzell as the top returning wide receiver for head coach Justin Wilcox. Grizzell had 39 catches for 590 yards. That is an impressive 15.13 yards per reception, easily the top number on the team. Grizzell had 86 yards receiving against Washington, 91 against USC, 136 in a critical win at Stanford, and then 80 in the bowl game loss to Texas Tech.

Cal 2024 Win Total: 5.5
75. Jake Bailey - SMU Mustangs
The SMU Mustangs had a very balanced offense in 2023. They ran the ball well, with three runners exceeding 400 yards, each above 4.9 yards per carry. The pass-catching was spread amongst a deep wide receiver room with eight players totaling more than 300 yards. The returning Jake Bailey was the leading receiver in terms of catches and yards. His numbers will not wow anyone: 42 catches for 528 yards. Bailey was a reliable and sure-handed option for quarterback Preston Stone, and he is the leader of the wide receiver group. The senior did not have any touchdowns in 2023, something he will look to rectify, and SMU will count on as they move to the ACC in 2024.

SMU 2024 Win Total: 8.5
76. Chase Roberts - BYU Cougars
Chase Roberts is a potential star for the BYU Cougars after a strong sophomore season that saw him lead the Cougars in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns. Roberts is a big wideout who was able to find success despite BYU’s struggles at quarterback and difficulty adjusting to life in the Big 12. As a sophomore in 2023, Roberts had four games with more than 60 yards, and his two best games came against Kansas and Cincinnati. He was terrific against the Bearcats, hauling in 131 yards with six receptions and one touchdown as the Cougars won 35-27. BYU needs him to up his production as they look to make a bowl game in 2024.

BYU 2024 Win Total: 4.5
77. Tyler Brown - Clemson Tigers
The woes of the Clemson Tigers offense have been well-covered. Clemson turned the ball over too much, had a lot of injuries at wide receiver and on the offensive line and quarterback Cade Klubnik struggled at times to find consistency. To say the Tigers had nothing to be happy about on offense, though, would be inaccurate. Antonio Williams is very good when healthy. They bring in two five-star wide receivers to significantly raise the ceiling for the offense and they return Tyler Brown. Brown, an unheralded three-star freshman from nearby Greenville, was a major pleasant surprise for the Tigers in 2023. He led the team with 531 yards and 52 receptions and his four receiving touchdowns only trailed tight end Jake Briningstool’s five. It would not be a good sign for Clemson if Brown led the team again in receptions, but he is a very good second or third option as a shifty, sure-handed wideout.

Clemson 2024 Win Total: 8.5
78. Joey Hobert - Texas State Bobcats
The Texas State Bobcats were one of the more entertaining teams in the country in 2023. They surrendered 32.8 points per game but had a terrific offense with 36.7 points per game. Part of that aerial attack was leading wide receiver Joey Hobert. As a junior, Hobert had 895 receiving yards and 76 catches. Both of those numbers led the Bobcats. Hobert got the job done against Sun Belt foes and major conference foes alike. He opened the season with 105 yards against Baylor as they knocked off the Bears, and he exceeded 100 yards five times, including a 13-catch and 141-yard performance against Georgia Southern. Hobert returns in 2024 as the leading target for new quarterback Jordan McCloud and the expectation will be surpassing 900 yards.

Texas State 2024 Win Total: 8.5
79. Jamaal Pritchett - South Alabama Jaguars
South Alabama’s head coach left for Alabama. Their top wide receiver left for Louisville. Things will certainly look different for the Jaguars in 2024 but they do return Jamaal Pritchett with the hopes that he can anchor the passing attack. Now a junior, Pritchett actually averaged more yards per catch than Caullin Lacy did (15.49 to 14.46) and he led the team in receiving touchdowns. That came as a sophomore and he will now be asked to be the main cog in offense. If his production can take even a small jump, he’ll surpass 1,000 yards and earn a spot on the All-Sun Belt team.

South Alabama 2024 Win Total: 6.5
80. Courtney Jackson - Arkansas State Red Wolves
The Arkansas State Red Wolves have some pieces in place to have a really good offense. They have returning dual-threat quarterback, Jaylen Raynor. They have a good young running back in Ja’Quez Cross. They also have a very good receiver in Courtney Jackson. Jackson was the team’s leading receiver in 2023 with 39 receptions and 689 yards plus 17.67 yards per reception and seven touchdowns. Arkansas State does not throw the ball a lot but he was very consistent with eight games with at least 47 yards receiving and three games of more than 90. Arkansas State needs a big season for Butch Jones to keep his job and the trio of Raynor, Cross and Jackson will play a big part.

Arkansas State 2024 Win Total: 6.5
81. Jaden Greathouse - Notre Dame Fighting Irish
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish knew they needed to address the wide receiver position this offseason. They brought in a few transfers (Kris Mitchell and Beaux Collins to name a couple) to help new quarterback Riley Leonard but the biggest boost may come from the development of returning players like Jordan Faison and sophomore Jaden Greathouse. There were rumors after spring practice that Greathouse had made big strides and the Fighting Irish coaches were anticipating a breakout campaign for the big target in 2024. He only had 18 receptions for 265 yards in 2023 but those numbers are expected to at least double in 2024.

Notre Dame 2024 Win Total: 10.5
82. Damon Ward - North Texas Mean Green
North Texas had a very strong offense in 2023. They averaged 34.5 points per game and stood out as a well-balanced unit. That was all undone by a very poor defense (37.1 points per game surrendered) but the Mean Green are hoping for more of the same on offense in 2024. That will be tough to achieve as star running back Ayo Adeyi is gone and star receiver Ja’Mori Maclin is now at Kentucky. Top of the depth chart chaos equals opportunity and second-leading receiver Damon Ward is expected to fill the void in 2024. Ward had 39 catches for 487 yards with five touchdowns and he is listed as a preseason first-team All-AAC pick for this season.

North Texas 2024 Win Total: 5.5
83. Kamdyn Benjamin - Tulsa Golden Hurricane
Another preseason All-AAC pick at wide receiver was Tulsa’s 2023 leading receiver and returning senior Kamdyn Benjamin. He had only 47 catches but averaged 15.47 yards per catch and led Tulsa with six receiving touchdowns. He was far and away the most effective receiver for Tulsa and put up good numbers despite terribly inconsistent quarterback play from everyone that took snaps for head coach Kevin Wilson. Benjamin finished the 2023 season on a tear: 143 yards against East Carolina, 93 against North Texas and 157 against Tulane in the final three games for Tulsa. Quarterback play could be bad again but Benjamin is a heck of a starting point for the Golden Hurricane.

Tulsa 2024 Win Total: 4.5
84. Dalvin Smith - Western Kentucky Hilltoppers
Western Kentucky has a history of producing prolific wide receivers: Malachi Corley in 2023 and 2022, Jerreth Sterns and Mitchell Tinsley in 2021, Lucky Jackson in 2019, Taywan Taylor in 2016. The Hilltoppers know how put up big numbers on offense and the next man up at wide receiver is last season’s second-leading receiver: Dalvin Smith. Smith played in 11 games and put up 50 catches for 513 yards and six touchdowns. Smith had 97 yards against South Florida, 125 against Sam Houston State and 77 yards against Old Dominion. He put up those numbers while playing second-fiddle to Corley and he’ll be at the top of the hill (pun intended) in 2024.

Western Kentucky 2024 Win Total: 7.5
85. Sean Atkins - South Florida Bulls
Sean Atkins is undersized but he puts up outsized numbers as South Florida’s top target. The number one receiver in a pass-happy offense, Atkins had 92 receptions (more than 50 more than the second person on this list) for 1,054 yards and a team-leading seven touchdowns. The Bulls’ leading receiver had 93 yards in the bowl game evisceration of Syracuse, 61 yards in a win over Charlotte, 92 yards against UTSA and 89 yards at Memphis. USF would be well-served to spread the ball around a bit more but Atkins is a really good and reliable slot possession target for USF to start with.

South Florida 2024 Win Total: 7.5
86. Noah Smith - Sam Houston Bearkats
Sam Houston did not have a thriving passing attack in 2023 but Noah Smith was far and away the best option for the Bearkats. The senior stood out with more than double the number of receptions anyone else on the team had. In the end, he totaled 79 receptions for 782 yards and six touchdowns. No other Bearkat had more than 35 catches or two receiving touchdowns. Smith was a monster against Jacksonville State with ten catches and 13 catches against Liberty. He then finished the season strong with back-to-back 115-yard games against Louisiana Tech and Western Kentucky. He enters the 2024 season on the Preseason All-Conference USA team and should again pace the Sam Houston passing attack.

Sam Houston 2024 Win Total: 4.5
87. Devin McCuin - UTSA Roadrunners
UTSA leaned on a strong defense and the superlative leadership and play of quarterback Frank Harris to navigate their way to the American Athletic Conference title game. Joshua Cephus had 1,151 receiving yards plus Tykee Ogle-Kellogg had 575 yards. But it was freshman Devin McCuin that really turned heads as one to watch moving forward and McCuin is back as the projected leader of the UTSA receivers in 2024. He is on the Preseason All-AAC team and he will have his chance to soak up the targets that previously went to Joshua Cephus (89 receptions). Harris is gone and Owen McCown steps in as the quarterback charged with keeping the Roadrunners humming along.

UTSA 2024 Win Total: 8.5
88. Ketron Jackson Jr. - Baylor Bears
Baylor needs more from their offense and head coach Dave Aranda desperately needs transfer quarterback Dequan Finn (Toledo) to be a major hit in the Big 12. The Bears did not have a single receiver reach 40 catches in 2023 and they desperately need a jump to occur from Ketron Jackson Jr. As a junior,Jackson Jr. had 28 receptions and he led the team with 17.46 yards per catch. With Finn in Waco, Jackson Jr. needs to increase his volume of catches and become more of a threat in the red zone. The opportunities will be there, it is now time for the talented senior to deliver.

Baylor 2024 Win Total: 5.5
89. Treon Sibley - Liberty Flames
The Liberty Flames had one of the top offenses amongst Group of 5 teams. There was great balance but the passing attack led by quarterback Kaidon Salter really stood out amongst the Conference USA teams for being so efficient. CJ Daniels was the leading receiver with 1,067 receiving yards and ten touchdowns but he did not lead the team in yards per catch. That honor went to Treon Sibley and his 20.30 yards per reception. Daniels transferred out and that should increase the volume for Sibley. There is a very real chance he is the leading receiver and top target for Kaidon Salter on the Group of 5’s expanded college football playoff representative.

Liberty 2024 Win Total: 10.5
90. Amare Thomas - UAB Blazers
Former NFL head coach Trent Dilfer was a splashy hire by the UAB Blazers. Dilfer had been a prep school coach in Tennessee prior to getting the nod to lead the Blazers and his debut season went just about as expected as UAB stumbled to a 4-8 campaign but showed some real promise on offense. They averaged 29.9 points per game and quarterback Jacob Zeno completed 73.6 percent of his passes for more than 3,100 yards. Zeno’s top returning target is sophomore Amare Thomas. Thomas had 53 catches (first on the team) for 437 yards with three touchdowns as a freshman. He stood out against Georgia and Tulane, catching nine passes for 60 yards against the Bulldogs and 99 yards on eight catches against Tulane. Zeno returns and Thomas should be in line for a nice jump forward on his production in year two.

UAB 2024 Win Total: 6.5
91. Ryan Wingo - Texas Longhorns
Making a significant impact in college football as a true freshman is challenging but far more common today than decades ago. More and more players are entering college with the ability to play immediately. Wide receiver is an easier position than most to contribute early, and true freshman Ryan Wingo is making a splash at Texas. Wingo, a former five-star recruit, stood out during the Texas Spring Game and he’s now drawing rave reviews for his performances during fall camp. The Longhorns have to replace a lot of production at the wide receiver position and Wingo is in line to be one the players to step up and see the field. It would not be surprising to see him land way higher on this list before next season.

Texas 2024 Win Total: 10.5
92. Ryan Williams - Alabama Crimson Tide
Ryan Williams is yet another freshman wide receiver poised to make an impact this coming season. The former five-star recruit at Alabama is being billed as “showing maturity” and “looking like the team’s best wideout in camp” by Crimson Tide beat reporters. Williams was Alabama’s top-ranked 2024 recruit, and despite being 6’0” and only 175 pounds, he showed the ball skills and explosiveness to make plays. Williams has done enough to likely start for the Crimson Tide and in an offense under the direction of Kalen DeBoer, that means he could put up huge numbers and set himself up for a solid career.

Alabama 2024 Win Total: 9.5
93. Zakhari Franklin - Illinois Fighting Illini
The NCAA’s active leader in receptions is now a member of the Illinois Fighting Illini. The veteran from UTSA and Ole Miss has 266 receptions, 3,386 receiving yards and 38 receiving touchdowns. He could be a massive addition for an Illinois offense that needs playmakers but which version of Franklin are the Illini getting for the 2024 season? Franklin was a four-year starter at UTSA and transferred to Ole Miss for the 2023 campaign with high expectations. Things did not go as planned in Oxford as Franklin played only four games and had just four receptions for 38 yards. Franklin is healthy and certainly has talent, plus he is familiar with Illinois offensive coordinator Barry Lunney. Lunney was the OC at UTSA during Franklin’s best season and he’s hoping to recapture that magic.

Illinois 2024 Win Total: 5.5
94. Jimmy Horn - Colorado Buffaloes
Colorado’s 2023 season did not go as they hoped or planned but the success they did have was thanks mainly to a solid passing attack powered by a trio of good receivers. Xavier Weaver is gone but Travis Hunter is back and joined by senior Jimmy Horn Jr. and incoming transfer LaJohntay Wester. Wester is a bonafide playmaker with the ball in his hands, Hunter is one of the nation’s best athletes and Jimmy Horn Jr. is a very solid possession receiver after 58 catches for 567 yards with a team-best six receiving touchdowns. Horn is not particularly explosive, but the Buffaloes value his ability to move the chains, making him a reliable target that can get open on short to intermediate routes. He’s a valuable piece of what should be one of the better passing offenses in the country.

Colorado 2024 Win Total: 5.5
95. Julian Fleming - Penn State Nittany Lions
The Penn State Nittany Lions desperately need to find more explosive plays in their offense. The 2023 attack was a top 20 unit but it certainly never felt that way when watching them against the better defenses on their schedule. James Franklin knew a change needed to be made to try to break through the ceiling on his program, and he hired former Kansas offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki to manufacture more on that side of the ball. Drew Allar is back at quarterback but the Nittany Lions had to find some help at receiver. They hope Ohio State transfer Julian Fleming can be part of the solution. Fleming had only 26 catches for 270 yards in 2023 but was behind Emeka Egbuka and Marvin Harrison Jr. With more opportunities, can Fleming turn into an All-Big Ten option for Penn State?

Penn State 2024 Win Total: 9.5
96. Semaj Morgan - Michigan Wolverines
The Michigan Wolverines are a difficult team to evaluate, and no position on the roster is more difficult to assess than that of a wide receiver. There is no disputing that the room has a lot of talent. Still, there is basically no front-line experience, and the offensive system the Wolverines deploy makes it incredibly hard to know what to expect from the passing game. Alex Orji will likely start at quarterback, and it’s unclear how he will transition to being the full-time starter and throwing the ball consistently. There appear to be two wide receivers ready to emerge as leaders for the Wolverines: Semaj Morgan and Tyler Morris. The first is Morgan, a talented sophomore who had 22 catches for 204 yards and two touchdowns. Morgan drew praise from head coach Sherrone Moore for how he was handling his increased role.
97. Tyler Morris - Michigan Wolverines
Tyler Morris is the second player that has reportedly stood out for the Wolverines and their revamped wide receiver room. Sherrone Moore compared him to former UM star Ronnie Bell and praised his movement skills, in and out of the breaks. Moore called him a complete receiver with no limitations on his potential. It’s probably a bit ambitious to expect a Bell-type impact immediately, but the UM coaches have confidence that Morgan and Morris can solve their WR position this season.

Michigan 2024 Win Total: 8.5
98. Harrison (Trey) Wallace - Penn State Nittany Lions
Penn State desperately needs to find more playmakers on offense, particularly at the wide receiver position. The running backs are great, and there is hope that new offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki can unlock the potential of Drew Allar. Still, if they don’t get more big-play ability from their wide receivers, PSU’s ceiling remains fixed just below the elite teams in the country. One player they hope to make a leap forward is Harrison (better known as Trey) Wallace. Wallace was expected to break out last season, but injuries hampered his campaign, and 2023 was primarily a lost year. The talented junior is back and healthy, and the Nittany Lions need him to play like the celebrated recruit he was coming into Happy Valley.

Penn State 2024 Win Total: 9.5
99. Mario Sanders - Illinois Fighting Illini
The Illinois passing attack was quite robust, but the top two receivers, Isaiah Williams and Casey Washington, are gone, and new targets are needed. The Illini are turning to Ole Miss transfer Zakhari Franklin and JUCO All-American Mario Sanders to combine with the returning Pat Bryant to fill the void. Sanders had 72 catches and 12 touchdowns and was just shy of 1,000 receiving yards in 2023. Bret Bielema has spoken positively about Sanders’ performances at fall camp. The transition from junior college to the Big Ten is difficult, and the gap in quality is massive, but Sanders will be one to watch.

Illinois 2024 Win Totals: 5.5
100. Quentin Skinner - Kansas Jayhawks
The Kansas Jayhawks have returned a lot of firepower from an explosive 2023 offense, and they have high hopes of contending in the new Big 12. One of the big pieces of the returning offense is senior wide receiver Quentin Skinner. Skinner only had 29 receptions a season ago, but he averaged a prolific 20.24 yards per reception. That included 91 yards against Oklahoma State, 84 against Iowa State, 72 at Cincinnati, and 80 yards against UNLV in the team’s bowl win. The team’s top target is not Skinner, but he is KU’s most efficient pass-catcher.

Kansas 2024 Win Total: 8.5
101. Elijhah Badger - Florida Gators
The Florida Gators needed help for quarterback Graham Mertz and top target Eugene Wilson, and they got a significant boost with the addition of Arizona State transfer Elijhah Badger. Badger is a physical wideout who brings size and experience to the Gators' wide receiver room. He led the Sun Devils in 2023 with 65 receptions plus 713 yards and three receiving touchdowns. That included a mammoth 12-catch game for 134 yards against Colorado and eight catches for 50 yards against Washington. He wrapped up the regular season with 19 catches for nearly 200 yards combined against UCLA and Oregon. Badger should be an excellent secondary target for Florida as they navigate the nation’s most demanding schedule.

Florida 2024 Win Total: 4.5
102. Jordan Faison - Notre Dame Fighting Irish
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish need more from their wide receiver room, and they are counting on a pair of transfers plus progression and development from Jaden Greathouse and Jordan Faison. Faison, a Notre Dame lacrosse player and terrific athlete, had 19 catches for 322 yards in his debut season, along with four touchdowns. The Irish now have Riley Leonard as the quarterback, and they need to see a jump from Faison as a reliable target who can bring in five or six catches per game. Kris Mitchell is a big-play threat from FIU, and Beaux Collins is an addition from Clemson, but Notre Dame receivers coach Mike Brown loves the versatility of Faison. “Faison is a guy who can play a bunch of different positions,” Brown said. “So, we’ll move him around.”

Notre Dame 2024 Win Total: 10.5
103. Bryant Wesco - Clemson Tigers
Not too long ago, Clemson was known as “Wide Receiver U.” Monikers like that are always exaggerated to some extent, but Clemson was churning out big-time receivers on a near-yearly basis; it was true. That has certainly not been the case during the past two seasons, and the Tigers are hopeful 2024 will be a turnback towards their success at the position. Antonio Williams and Tyler Brown figure to lead the attack, and several talented options (Adam Randall, Troy Stellato) hope to stay healthy and prove themselves. Still, a pair of five-star freshmen could raise the ceiling of this team. T.J. Moore is one of them, but the young man who has drawn the most attention is Bryant Wesco. Wesco was relatively slight when he arrived for the spring but has added a lot of muscle and weight to his frame and has reportedly stood out during fall camp as a very early impact player for Clemson.

Clemson 2024 Win Total: 8.5
104. Myles Price - Indiana Hoosiers
Myles Price is not a star, but he is a significant role player and slot receiver for what could be a prolific offense in Bloomington. Price joined the Hoosiers after a pair of All-Big 12 campaigns as a slot receiver and punt returner in Lubbock for the Texas Tech Red Raiders. Price had a team-high 43 receptions with five touchdowns. Price is a quick and shifty pass-catcher with sure hands, and he should fit perfectly in Mike Shanahan’s system as a slot receiver as Elijah Sarratt and Donaven McCulley man the outside receiver positions.

Indiana 2024 Win Total: 5.5
105. Barion Brown - Kentucky Wildcats
Kentucky’s Barion Brown might be one of the fastest players in the country. He has yet to prove that he can be a consistent and polished wide receiver, but he can fly when given the chance. Now a junior, Brown had 43 catches (team-high for Kentucky) for 539 yards and four touchdowns, averaging 12.53 yards per catch. His year included 105 yards receiving against Vanderbilt, 58 yards against Tennessee, and a 100-yard performance against the Clemson Tigers in the narrow bowl game defeat. Dane Key is the top target for the Wildcats, but Brock Vandagriff can rely on Brown as an excellent No. 2.

Kentucky 2024 Win Total: 6.5
1. Luther Burden - Missouri Tigers
The best wide receiver in the country will be playing in the SEC but not at Alabama, Georgia, or LSU. Missouri’s Luther Burden is a returning junior who dropped only four of his 94 targets during his sophomore season and is at his best after the catch, blazing for 725 yards after the catch in 2023. Burden had 86 receptions for 1,212 yards and nine touchdowns last season, and quarterback Brady Cook is back to throw to him again. Burden had ten games with at least one catch of 25 or more yards. The former St. Louis high school star has lived up to the hype surrounding his recruitment.

Missouri 2024 Win Total: 9.5

Ranking the Top 105 College Football Wide Receivers for 2024

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