B/R CFB Recruiting 200: Top 40 Wide Receivers
After thorough study using specific scoring criteria, Bleacher Report National Recruiting Analysts Damon Sayles, Sanjay Kirpalani and Tyler Donohue have graded the top 200 players in the 247Sports composite rankings and provided in-depth analysis on each young athlete. Bleacher Report will run a position-by-position breakdown series of the best college football recruits in the class of 2016. Here we present the Top Wide Receivers.
Wide receiver recruits account for approximately 20 percent of the 2016 recruiting cycle's top 200 prospects in composite rankings. It's a position packed with playmakers from across America and beyond when you factor in Notre Dame-bound Canadian pass-catcher Chase Claypool.
Years of film study, game-action assessment and in-person camp evaluation have provided us with a clear picture of the overall wide receiver landscape, which features several standouts ready to make an immediate impact on the 2016 college football season.
Here's a breakdown of those who land in the Top 200 composite rankings, including our own B/R scores based on route running, release off the ball, agility, explosiveness, willingness to block and, of course, hands.
All prospects scouted by Bleacher Report National Recruiting Analyst Tyler Donohue. Players ordered by appearance in 247Sports' composite rankings.
40. 4-Star Clyde Chriss
1 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'0"/170 pounds
High School: Warren Easton (New Orleans, Louisiana)
247Sports Ranking: No. 40 wide receiver; No. 198 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Committed to Texas A&M on Jan. 14, 2016
Clyde Chriss pledged to the Aggies during an in-home visit with members of Texas A&M's staff. His decision to head to College Station spurned multiple SEC foes, including Ole Miss, LSU and Tennessee.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Chriss is under control while executing highlight-reel lateral cuts and accelerating toward open space. He ended his junior campaign still seemingly a bit underdeveloped from a footwork standpoint but clearly invested time toward improving that aspect of the position.
His top-end speed is lethal for cornerbacks ill-equipped to handle a ferocious downfield charge. Chriss showed off that scintillating asset throughout a breakout junior season, averaging nearly 25 yards per reception with nine touchdowns.
39. 4-Star Justin Layne
2 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'3"/180 pounds
High School: Benedictine (Cleveland, Ohio)
247Sports Ranking: No. 39 wide receiver; No. 196 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 86/100
Committed to Michigan State on April 25, 2015
Justin Layne claimed a collection of offers before his junior campaign, picking up interest from Miami, Penn State and West Virginia. He delivered a pledge to the Spartans just a month after Alabama joined the chase.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Layne looks locked in to a role as a possession receiver in college, taking into account his physical toughness and comfort level on intermediate routes. He won't take the top off a prepared college defense, but that doesn't mean Layne can't clean up underneath and reel off big gains with above-average agility.
He's one of the most solid run-blockers on this list, an attribute that should enhance his chances of hitting the field early in East Lansing. Layne capped off his Benedictine career in style, according to Kyle Austin of MLive.com, setting a school record with 12 receptions in his final game. He finished 2015 with 46 catches for 790 yards and 11 touchdowns.
38. 4-Star Diondre Overton
3 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'5"/200 pounds
High School: Page (Greensboro, North Carolina)
247Sports Ranking: No. 38 wide receiver; No. 191 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 87/100
Committed to Clemson on Jan. 3, 2016
Diondre Overton pledged to the Tigers while at the Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl in Carson, California. He adds another dynamic pass-catcher to the mix at Clemson, which landed his commitment over NC State, Tennessee and Nebraska.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Even after a productive high school career, Overton is still a bit of a project at wide receiver. Athleticism is the dominant factor in his game and a reason why some universities also considered him as a basketball prospect, but polish is required in route-running tendencies and release off the line.
This is a player packed with potential, particularly when it comes to letting the combination of his height and leap wreak havoc in goal-line opportunities. Overton caught 78 passes for 1,251 yards and 15 touchdowns as a senior, according to Phil Kornblut of the State.
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37. 4-Star Dee Anderson
4 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'5"/205 pounds
High School: DeSoto (DeSoto, Texas)
247Sports Ranking: No. 37 wide receiver; No. 185 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 86/100
Enrolled at LSU
Dee Anderson is the first of three Tigers wide receiver commits you'll find on this list. He committed to LSU weeks before his junior season and remained steadfast to that pact despite offers from Alabama, Oklahoma, UCLA, Tennessee and Texas.
Bleacher Report Analysis
This is one of the few cases in which we don't have a fresh season's worth of film to jump into, as Anderson was ruled ineligible for his senior campaign. Based on previous game action and camp sessions, it's apparent he's worked to build physically without sacrificing solid speed.
Anderson is more a straight-line runner than a guy who is going to cut on a dime, doing his best work when the quarterback tosses one upstairs and allows him to reach above coverage with an impressive wingspan. He recorded 733 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns as a junior.
36. 4-Star Tre Nixon
5 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'1"/170 pounds
High School: Viera (Melbourne, Florida)
247Sports Ranking: No. 36 wide receiver; No. 182 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Committed to Ole Miss on Jan. 25, 2016
Tre Nixon kept a vast collection of college programs in the mix throughout his senior season and continues to survey several options during late stages of this cycle. Penn State appeared to be the only potential landing spot beyond the SEC, but he ultimately chose Ole Miss over conference foes Florida, Texas A&M and Georgia.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Collegiate scouts covet Nixon's quickness, which helped him rack up 1,224 receiving yards and 18 touchdowns in 2015, per MaxPreps, and forces defenses to account for him as a possible vertical threat on every down. Explosive, long strides set him apart from tight coverage downfield and he does an excellent job transitioning into a speedy ball-carrier upon completion.
His footwork off the ball enables him to gain separation and Nixon releases into space with sharp cuts. He displays the reliable hands and crisp route-running technique to develop into far more than just a long-toss threat in the coming years.
35. 4-Star Darian Owens
6 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'0"/190 pounds
High School: Clovis West (Fresno, California)
247Sports Ranking: No. 35 wide receiver; No. 180 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 88/100
Committed to UCLA on April 17, 2015
Darian Owens developed into a coveted commodity among Pac-12 programs, fielding offers from Oregon, Arizona, USC and Cal before pledging to the Bruins. He also spent an official visit at Nebraska in September.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Owens appears to be further along in his progression as an all-around receiver than many but isn't quite the physical freak as others. Physical stature is solid here and so is the speed, which enables him to turn loose at times.
He could develop into a serious deep threat during his college career, while coaches should be tempted to implement Owens in occasional screen opportunities. It wouldn't be a shock to see him switch to defensive back someday, but 75 receptions as an upperclassman serve notice that he's ready to compete on offense.
34. 4-Star Dionte Mullins
7 of 40
Height/Weight: 5'10 ½"/179 pounds
High School: Gulliver Prep (Miami, Florida)
247Sports Ranking: No. 34 wide receiver; No. 179 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 85/100
Committed to Miami on July 4, 2014
Dionte Mullins was part of a major wave of 2016 pledges for Miami before the 2014 season, long before head coach Al Golden lost his job. The playmaker remained on board after the Hurricanes' leadership change despite longstanding offers from Florida, Oklahoma, Georgia, Auburn and others.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Mullins might be a few years away from truly hitting his stride, but the early returns provide indications of potential. His route running is a work in progress, but that's hardly an outlier in this group. And it's clear he possesses quality vision based on his efforts as a receiver and kick returner in high school.
He can't afford to dance or zigzag in order to evade defenders nearly as much anymore, though those high-risk, high-reward tactics could create momentum-turning plays. Mullins made an appearance atop the highlight reel during Under Armour All-America Game action, snagging a one-handed touchdown catch from fellow Hurricanes commit Jack Allison.
33. 4-Star Chase Claypool
8 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'5"/205 pounds
High School: Abbotsford (Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada)
247Sports Ranking: No. 33 wide receiver; No. 169 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 88/100
Committed to Notre Dame on July 10, 2015
Chase Claypool arrived at The Opening last summer as an intriguing athlete who was relatively unknown to American college football followers. He departed as the newest member of Notre Dame's class, committing to the Fighting Irish over Oregon, Michigan, Rutgers and others.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Claypool will be challenged to change his approach a bit in South Bend, but he's hardly alone as a high school star facing substantial transition this year. There are several instances at Abbotsford when he darted toward the sidelines and got to the edge for huge gains, which is a sign of his playmaking ability but also something he won't be able to pull off often in college.
His speed won't leave talented defensive backs gasping for air, though Claypool's height and length undoubtedly present a challenge. If things don't work out at receiver—and there's a strong chance he'll settle in just fine on offense—Claypool carries a lot of potential at safety.
He collected 1,367 receiving yards, 536 rushing yards, 70 tackles, five interceptions and 28 total touchdowns through the first 11 games of his senior season, according to Gary Kingston of the Vancouver Sun.
32. 4-Star Joshua Hammond
9 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'0 ½"/180 pounds
High School: Hallandale (Hallandale, Florida)
247Sports Ranking: No. 32 wide receiver; No. 163 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Enrolled at Florida
Joshua Hammond collected late spring offers from Stanford, Georgia and Penn State before picking the Gators in June. He is the younger brother of former Florida wide receiver Frankie Hammond.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Though Hammond isn't necessarily a dangerous downfield threat he brings enough quickness to gain release off the snap and exploit gaps in a defensive scheme. His route-running technique is advanced beyond many contemporaries, enabling him to shake off defenders in tight coverage and snag receptions in stride.
Hammond displays excellent body control along the sidelines and remains compact while facing traffic in pursuit of open space. He turned heads at Under Armour All-America Game practice sessions and set career-high totals in 2015, catching 68 passes for 1,124 yards and 12 touchdowns.
31. 4-Star Dillon Mitchell
10 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'0 ½"/191 pounds
High School: White Station (Memphis, Tennessee)
247Sports Ranking: No. 31 wide receiver; No. 161 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Enrolled at Oregon
Ducks head coach Mark Helfrich reached across the country to claim a commitment from Dillon Mitchell, who pledged to the program during his junior season. He spurned local attempts by the Tennessee Volunteers, while Ole Miss, Auburn and Alabama also missed out.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Mitchell is a smooth operator off the snap and continues that refined approach as a play progresses. He's a well-balanced pass target who can convert on deep throws in tight coverage or take a seven-yard slant the distance.
His versatility is reflected in the role he played at White Station, where he lined up across the field and steadily took snaps as a running back. Mitchell compiled 1,578 receiving yards, 705 rushing yards and 43 total touchdowns in 2015, according to Andrew Nemec of the Oregonian.
30. 4-Star Simi Fehoko
11 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'3 ½"/182 pounds
High School: Brighton (Salt Lake City, Utah)
247Sports Ranking: No. 30 wide receiver; No. 156 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Committed to Stanford on July 19, 2015
Programs across America targeted the Salt Lake City standout, as Simi Fehoko sorted through a lengthy offer list that featured Clemson, Michigan and Washington. He ultimately chose the Cardinal over in-state options at BYU and Utah.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Fehoko shattered career receiving records in his home state, racking up 124 receptions for 3,139 yards and 40 scores as an upperclassman. He appeared practically uncoverable during stretches, exhibiting elite length that creates a massive catch radius.
His most effective role in college could come on intermediate strikes, where a quarterback can rely on this pass target's range and strong hands to come down with tough grabs. Fehoko, a U.S. Army All-American Player of the Year finalist, will miss two seasons of football while taking part in a church mission, according to Brandon Gurney of the Deseret News.
29. 4-Star Josh Imatorbhebhe
12 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'2"/205 pounds
High School: North Gwinnett (Suwanee, Georgia)
247Sports Ranking: No. 29 wide receiver; No. 150 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 94/100
Enrolled at USC
Josh Imatorbhebhe spent his junior year spring break at four college campuses, traveling to Arizona State, Stanford, USC and Florida. The Trojans extended an offer while he was in town, and he committed about a month later.
His older brother, tight end Daniel Imatorbhebhe, has since transferred from Florida to USC.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Imatorbhebhe began to truly look comfortable in 2015, just years removed from entering high school with a primary focus on basketball. Instead of relying on raw athleticism—and there is plenty of it—he began to deal with defenders by being more mentally engaged than opponents.
His workmanlike approach is most appreciated when Imatorbhebhe extends across the middle for highly contested receptions, which he made plenty of in the past year. Elite leaping ability, fearlessness in traffic and a supremely strong set of hands lead this analyst to believe he's simply rated too low in composite rankings. Imatorbhebhe caught 90 passes for 1,524 yards and 18 touchdowns as an upperclassman, according to MaxPreps.
28. 4-Star Ahmmon Richards
13 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'1 ½"/171 pounds
High School: Wellington (West Palm Beach, Florida)
247Sports Ranking: No. 28 wide receiver; No. 149 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Uncommitted: Contenders include Alabama, Auburn and Miami
Ahmmon Richards received several scholarship offers as a sophomore, accepting one from Miami weeks before his junior campaign. He remained pledged to the Hurricanes until Golden's dismissal.
A new Miami regime is now battling to bring him back into the fold, but Alabama is carrying a lot of momentum, and Auburn could be a wild-card for his services.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Richards is a monster after the catch, quickly switching into another gear and blowing by defenders. He's a tough cover out wide in single-man matchups but should be tested early and often in college by more physical cornerbacks than the ones he faced in high school.
It will be important for him to continue the development of separation moves off the snap, both finesse and physical. Richards enjoyed his most productive season as a senior, catching 73 passes for 1,278 yards and 14 touchdowns.
27. 4-Star Cornell Powell
14 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'2"/200 pounds
High School: J.H. Rose (Greenville, North Carolina)
247Sports Ranking: No. 27 wide receiver; No. 145 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Committed to Clemson on Feb. 4, 2015
Clemson continues to stockpile young, dynamic talent at wide receiver, and head coach Dabo Swinney can count Cornell Powell among the most promising members of a talent-laden depth chart. He elected to give the Tigers extra reason to celebrate last signing day, announcing his commitment the same day as 5-star running back pledge Tavien Feaster.
Powell also weighed offers from North Carolina, Ole Miss and Ohio State.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Powell adds another element of explosiveness to a dominant Clemson offense, which is probably the last thing ACC defensive coordinators want to hear. He flashes a highly effective stutter-step off the snap that expedites his release and places him a stride ahead as plays develop downfield.
His willingness to high-point the football in traffic will earn plenty of attention from Clemson quarterbacks in years ahead as Powell fights for position and plucks difficult passes with desired effort. He tallied at least 1,200 receiving yards during each of the past three seasons, per MaxPreps, capped off by a career-best 1,557 yards and 25 touchdown catches in 2015.
26. 4-Star Trevon Sidney
15 of 40
Height/Weight: 5'11"/157 pounds
High School: Bishop Amat (La Puente, California)
247Sports Ranking: No. 26 wide receiver; No. 140 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 88/100
Committed to USC on July 10, 2015
Trevon Sidney will team up with fellow Bishop Amat wide receiver Tyler Vaughns at USC. They enjoyed sensational careers together in high school and fielded an expansive offer total.
Sidney announced his Trojans pledge at The Opening, spurning a long list of other contenders that included Notre Dame, Michigan, Tennessee, UCLA and Utah.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Put Sidney anywhere on the field and he'll find a way to torment opponents. Still diminutive in stature, it remains difficult to project how his physical development during college will impact his range at receiver.
Right now, the key is to get him in space, as Sidney can be slowed in press coverage. He becomes a major weapon in the screen game and flashes reliable hands along the sideline. Sidney could emerge as a candidate at cornerback if USC's roster needs dictate it.
25. 4-Star Charlie Woerner
16 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'5"/230 pounds
High School: Rabun County (Tiger, Georgia)
247Sports Ranking: No. 25 wide receiver; No. 133 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 88/100
Committed to Georgia on July 23, 2015
Charlie Woerner followed in the footsteps of uncle Scott Woerner, who starred at defensive back with Bulldogs. His Georgia offer arrived as a sophomore, and he reciprocated the interest last summer with a commitment over Oregon, Alabama, Michigan and Tennessee.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Woerner has the makings of a jackknife offensive weapon, providing potential at both wide receiver and tight end. He did damage in just about every facet during his high school career, according to MaxPreps, totalling more than 2,200 rushing yards, 2,600 receiving yards and 400 tackles with 11 interceptions.
His physical frame is formidable, but it isn't bulky. He rumbles downfield with steam and shows off some shiftiness when fighting for extra yards, and he is seemingly set to emerge as a go-to target in third-down situations at Georgia.
24. 4-Star Quartney Davis
17 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'2 ½"/181 pounds
High School: Langham Creek (Houston, Texas)
247Sports Ranking: No. 24 wide receiver; No. 128 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Uncommitted: Contenders include Georgia, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss, Tennessee and UCLA
Quartney Davis' recruitment provided a late twist when he decommitted from Texas A&M in late December. Ole Miss and Georgia both extended offers within weeks of that decision, while Oklahoma State and UCLA are expected to host him on campus before national signing day.
Bleacher Report Analysis
There's a strong likelihood Davis earns himself a spot in the receiver rotation by the end of his sophomore season, but the jury is out on whether he can ever carry a collegiate receiving corps as the alpha dog. Enhancements through speed training and footwork drills would be a key step forward, enabling him to develop into a more dynamic threat across the field.
Davis displays a quality catch radius and seems to play larger than his measurements would suggest, contending for high throws and reaching behind to snag errant pass attempts. He caught a career-high 53 passes in 2015, resulting in 961 yards and 10 touchdowns.
23 4-Star Freddie Swain
18 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'1"/188 pounds
High School: North Marion (Citra, Florida)
247Sports Ranking: No. 23 wide receiver; No. 126 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Enrolled at Florida
Freddie Swain spent time at Tennessee, Georgia and USC along the way, but his recruiting journey ultimately ended closer to home. He pledged to the Gators in early October after multiple game-day visits to Gainesville.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Swain wasn't the tallest, fastest or most exciting wide receiver last summer at The Opening, but he may have been the most consistent. Few peers produced more big plays against standout defenders, and his footwork was significantly cleaner than many higher-rated contemporaries at the position.
Coaches can work Swain into various roles on offense, inside or outside, and there should be legitimate opportunities for early college reps given his polish as a route-runner. He caught 95 passes for 1,489 yards and 13 touchdowns as an upperclassman, according to MaxPreps.
22. 4-Star Drake Davis
19 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'4"/215 pounds
High School: IMG Academy (Bradenton, Florida)
247Sports Ranking: No. 22 wide receiver; No. 123 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Enrolled at LSU
The Tigers continued to assemble a strong 2016 wide receiver class when Drake Davis declared his collegiate intentions Jan. 2 at the Under Armour All-America Game. Many expected this Louisiana native to follow IMG Academy quarterback Shea Patterson to Ole Miss, while Alabama and Texas A&M also emerged as contenders.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Davis is the kind of athlete coaches would love to make a mold for, fitting the physical traits at multiple positions. He's athletic and stout enough to potentially progress at safety, linebacker or even tight end, but there's plenty to like about his prospects at wide receiver despite an apparent element of rawness in his approach.
His speed is more impressive than one might imagine on first glance, to the point where he actually flourished as a kick returner on an IMG roster brimming with burners. His size presents troubling matchup scenarios for opposing coaches, leading him to average nearly 40 yards per reception with seven touchdowns on just 11 catches.
21. 4-Star Stephen Sullivan
20 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'5"/230 pounds
High School: Donaldsonville (Donaldsonville, Louisiana)
247Sports Ranking: No. 21 wide receiver; No. 122 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 87/100
Enrolled at LSU
Stephen Sullivan first committed to the Tigers as a sophomore, remaining a member of the class through his junior year. He reopened his recruitment in August, exploring options at TCU and Mississippi State before re-committing to LSU within weeks of an official visit to Baton Rouge.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Sullivan brings serious size to an aerial attack, which should be a common theme for LSU considering the Tigers claim four 4-star pledges from pass-catchers who stand at least 6'4". He's difficult to size up for most defensive backs at the line of scrimmage, and increased coordination in college will help him gain more separation off the snap.
He projects as a steady possession receiver who won't win many foot races against SEC defenders but has the tools to blossom into a primary red-zone threat given his catch radius. Sullivan racked up a career-best 1,159 receiving yards in 2015, according to MaxPreps.
20. 4-Star Eli Stove
21 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'1"/178 pounds
High School: Niceville (Niceville, Florida)
247Sports Ranking: No. 20 wide receiver; No. 121 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Committed to Auburn on May 30, 2015
Eli Stove is one of two Tigers commits to crack the top dozen in composite wide receiver rankings. He chose Auburn over several in-state options and SEC opponents such as Mississippi State and Alabama.
Florida continues to give chase during the late stages of this cycle, along with a new regime at Miami.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Speed is the key for Stove, who is a threat to take it the distance when a quarterback locates him with one step of separation. Any offensive coordinator tailoring plays toward him should look to occasionally exploit defenses with a well-timed scheme, allowing Stove to weave behind blockers and burst into the open field with a head full of steam.
His initial path to playing time may come as a field-stretching deep threat, as Stove still needs to work on sharpness and timing while developing a more expansive route tree. He caught at least 50 passes for a second straight season in 2015, collecting 728 receiving yards and nine touchdowns.
19. 4-Star Dylan Crawford
22 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'1"/186 pounds
High School: Santa Margarita Catholic (Rancho Santa Margarita, California)
247Sports Ranking: No. 19 wide receiver; No. 119 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Committed to Michigan on Jan. 9, 2016
Dylan Crawford is headed to Ann Arbor following an announcement at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl. Days prior to his decision, the Southern California standout told Bleacher Report as many as seven programs were under consideration for a commitment.
His alternatives to the Wolverines included UCLA, Oregon, Georgia and Washington.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Crawford served as the No. 1 target for incoming Stanford quarterback KJ Costello at Santa Margarita Catholic, transferring to the school for his senior season. Though he didn't quite achieve the explosive season some predicted (51 catches for 822 yards and seven touchdowns, per MaxPreps), his progression took place in key areas.
Crawford can shake defenders out of their shoes with a lateral shimmy in the open field, creating an expanded window for his quarterback to target. He does his best damage on long balls but could become a valuable asset in the slot as his feel for shorter, sharper routes develops.
18. 4-Star DeKaylin Metcalf
23 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'3 ¾", 205 pounds
High School: Oxford (Oxford, Mississippi)
247Sports Ranking: No. 18 wide receiver; No. 112 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 94/100
Committed to Ole Miss on June 8, 2013
The Rebels didn't wait long to wrap up this commitment, picking up a pledge from DeKaylin Metcalf shortly after his freshman year. His father, Terrence Metcalf, was an All-American offensive lineman at Ole Miss.
Metcalf continued to add opportunities during the course of his high school career, building an offer sheet that features Miami, Mississippi State, Auburn, Oregon and UCLA.
Bleacher Report Analysis
A couple of things immediately stand out when examining Metcalf. The first are his hands, which envelop the ball and don't allow much room for defenders to swipe away possession. The second is a natural feel for the game, as he seems savvy enough to understand how to attack a myriad of defensive looks.
His off-ball acceleration is impressive for an athlete of his stature, and that burst becomes even more dangerous when he snags a throw in stride. Metcalf caught 172 passes for 2,684 yards and 41 touchdowns as an upperclassman, according to MaxPreps.
17. 4-Star Keith Gavin
24 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'3"/211 pounds
High School: Wakulla (Crawfordville, Florida)
247Sports Ranking: No. 17 wide receiver; No. 111 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 87/100
Committed to Florida State on Jan. 29, 2016
Keith Gavin mulled two perennial title contenders down the stretch, with interest in both the Seminoles and Alabama. Florida, Georgia and Miami were among other programs who entered this pursuit earlier in the process.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Freshly enrolled Florida Gators quarterback Feleipe Franks often looked in Gavin's direction at Wakulla when big plays were needed. Gavin lacks elite speed but competes with physicality and challenges opponents to match it.
He does an outstanding job shielding defenders in the end zone, while a blend of height and leaping ability put him in position to pluck highly placed passes. Gavin caught 96 passes as an upperclassman, according to MaxPreps, resulting in 2,103 receiving yards and 32 scores.
16. 4-Star Javon McKinley
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Height/Weight: 6'2"/194 pounds
High School: Centennial (Corona, California)
247Sports Ranking: No. 16 wide receiver; No. 110 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 95/100
Committed to Notre Dame on Jan. 9, 2016
The Fighting Irish were considered a significant favorite during the final months of Javon McKinley's recruitment, and that sentiment came to fruition when he made things official during U.S. Army All-American Bowl action. He issued a commitment to Notre Dame, spurning a pair of Pac-12 finalists in Washington and Oregon.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Centennial High School has produced plenty of high-profile offensive prospects during the past decade, and McKinley warrants consideration among the best. He's one of the most aggressive route-runners we've scouted in this cycle and caps off those downfield attacks with a strong showing of body control as he brings down the ball.
He's not necessarily a burner, but McKinley provides more than enough speed to stretch the field when lined up outside in a one-on-one setting. His finest work came as a junior, when he caught 97 passes for 2,062 yards and 25 touchdowns.
15. 4-Star Donnie Corley
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Height/Weight: 6'2 ½"/185 pounds
High School: Detroit Martin Luther King (Detroit, Michigan)
247Sports Ranking: No. 15 wide receiver; No. 107 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Enrolled at Michigan State
Donnie Corley delayed a December commitment announcement, but his recruitment reached its conclusion Jan. 9 with a nationally televised pledge at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl. He picked the Spartans, a program Corley expressed trust toward throughout the process, over Ohio State, Michigan and Tennessee.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Corley seemed to make serious strides in several aspects of his game in 2015, looking more crisp on routes and practically uncoverable against man-to-man coverage. He's built bigger than his measurements would suggest and forged a hardened style of play while lined up at defensive back, where he intercepted 10 passes as a senior.
Corley's ability to maintain focus on an incoming toss while dealing with tight coverage is impressive, and that helped him command headlines with a game-winning Hail Mary touchdown reception in the state championship game. He posted career-best production across the board this past fall, tallying 59 catches for 1,408 yards and 16 scores.
14. 4-Star Tren'Davian Dickson
27 of 40
Height/Weight: 5'11"/163 pounds
High School: Navasota (Navasota, Texas)
247Sports Ranking: No. 14 wide receiver; No. 104 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 96/100
Enrolled at Baylor
Tren'Davian Dickson actually committed to the Bears twice during his recruitment process. His first Baylor pledge occurred more than a month before his junior season, though he backed off that stance last February.
Texas scooped up Dickson's commitment days later, but that pact wasn't built to last either. He flipped back to the Bears in November, sticking with the decision this time around.
Bleacher Report Analysis
What Dickson accomplished during his Lone Star State prep career is largely beyond comparison. He set the national single-season touchdown reception record as a junior, hauling in 39 scores, and he tallied 172 catches for 3,682 yards as an upperclassman.
Despite the explosive statistics, Dickson isn't exactly a fireworks guy. He beats opponents with elite effort at key essentials—route running and hands—to provide an indication that his collegiate coaching staff can count on him to come up clutch in key situations as a first-year contributor.
13. 4-Star Theo Howard
28 of 40
Height/Weight: 6'1"/175 pounds
High School: Westlake (Thousand Oaks, California)
247Sports Ranking: No. 13 wide receiver; No. 102 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Enrolled at UCLA
Theo Howard was supposed to face the Bruins as an opponent in college, as he was committed to Oregon for seven months. He reopened his recruitment in August, traveling to Texas A&M and UCLA before pulling the trigger on a pledge to the Bruins.
Bleacher Report Analysis
He commanded a closer look on junior game film that some coaches may have only been watching to get a look at his former Westlake teammate, 4-star quarterback Malik Henry. Howard uses tight fundamental footwork and high-end shiftiness to weave within a defensive scheme and find pockets to exploit.
A notable element of his approach that has improved is Howard's ability to shake away any defensive backs at the line with a nifty array of get-off moves. He caught a career-high 60 passes in 2015, according to MaxPreps, tallying 959 yards and nine touchdowns.
12. 4-Star Binjimen Victor
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Height/Weight: 6'3 ¾"/177 pounds
High School: Coconut Creek (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)
247Sports Ranking: No. 12 wide receiver; No. 99 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 95/100
Committed to Ohio State on Jan. 18, 2016
Binjimen Victor collected offers from dozens of schools in every corner of the country, with Florida emerging as his most likely destination within state borders. He elected to explore opportunities beyond the region, pledging to the Buckeyes over West Virginia and Tennessee.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Search for a more promising raw physical specimen in this group and you may come up empty. Victor, a long and lean playmaker, will add pounds in college and looks almost elastic when he goes airborne for the football.
Victor's height is augmented by impressive leaping ability, an element of his skill set that especially shines when he's targeted in the end zone. His senior season included career highs in receiving yards (846) and touchdown catches (15).
11. 4-Star Sam Bruce
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Height/Weight: 5'8"/180 pounds
High School: St. Thomas Aquinas (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)
247Sports Ranking: No. 11 wide receiver; No. 82 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Committed to Miami on July 8, 2014
Sam Bruce has served as a catalyst for this Hurricanes class since pledging shortly after his sophomore year. He remained on board with Miami in the wake of sweeping leadership changes that culminated in the hiring of head coach Mark Richt.
His willingness to explore alternatives raises questions about whether Miami can seal the deal here. Ohio State, Florida and South Carolina would love to flip his commitment.
Bleacher Report Analysis
The ideal measurements will never be there for Bruce, but he's among the most relentless and explosive offensive playmakers you'll find in this cycle. The nephew of former star Super Bowl Rams receiver Isaac Bruce is incredibly sure-handed and uses elite shiftiness to avoid contact after the catch.
While it may surprise some who focus on Bruce's size, he's also an above-average blocker who genuinely puts in the effort to seal off a rushing lane for teammates. His senior season featured 46 receptions for 427 yards and four scores.
10. 4-Star Austin Mack
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Height/Weight: 6'2"/205 pounds
High School: Bishop Luers (Fort Wayne, Indiana)
247Sports Ranking: No. 10 wide receiver; No. 76 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 96/100
Enrolled at Ohio State
The Buckeyes bagged Austin Mack in June, months after he attended Ohio State's national title celebration in Columbus. A crowded list of finalists also featured Alabama, Michigan, North Carolina, Notre Dame, Vanderbilt and Wisconsin.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Mack is a fearless competitor who can be counted on to secure several acrobatic receptions during the course of a season. He attacks the football with ferocity and puts himself in prime position downfield with excellent acceleration at the top of routes.
His ability to make midair adjustments allows a quarterback to feel more confident about being able to the put the ball in his vicinity rather than precisely on the money. Mack takes on the role of a power rusher after the catch, illustrated by the 718 rushing yards and 13 scores he accrued this season in addition to 805 receiving yards and six touchdown grabs, according to MaxPreps.
9. 4-Star Kyle Davis
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Height/Weight: 6'1 ½"/218 pounds
High School: Archer (Lawrenceville, Georgia)
247Sports Ranking: No. 9 wide receiver; No. 72 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 97/100
Enrolled at Auburn
Kyle Davis initially committed to South Carolina, but he'll play college ball elsewhere in the SEC. He backed off that Gamecocks verbal pledge in May, immediately entertaining interest from across the conference's landscape.
Auburn beat out fellow finalists Tennessee and Georgia in the race for Davis.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Defenses must account for him in so many aspects of the offensive attack, as he's strong and speedy enough to line up anywhere. Davis is among the true physical freaks in this entire recruiting class and delivers special plays at a position where true freshmen are often given early chances.
A well-developed frame enables Davis to shoulder the load and break tackles, while his length comes up big on deep downfield pass attempts. He secured 47 receptions for 773 yards and six touchdowns in 2015, according to MaxPreps.
8. 4-Star Michael Pittman
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Height/Weight: 6'4"/209 pounds
High School: Oaks Christian (Thousand Oaks, California)
247Sports Ranking: No. 8 wide receiver; No. 69 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 96/100
Enrolled at USC
Michael Pittman, son of the former NFL running back who shares his name, focused on Pac-12 opportunities throughout his recruitment. He initially pledged to UCLA midway through the 2014 season but eventually backed off that verbal pact in June.
USC rubbed salt in the Bruins' wound less than a month later, landing Pittman over Oregon.
Bleacher Report Analysis
When you examine Pittman's measurements, it's tempting to assume he is primarily a possession receiver in intermediate range. However, as his average of 25 yards per reception suggests, this playmaker presents plenty of possibilities in the passing attack.
Pittman uses a massive wingspan and strong hands to pluck contested passes, commanding constant attention in the red zone as opponents struggle to identify effective matchups. He attacks the middle of the field with authority, routinely turning short slant routes into long-distance pickups and scores. His senior season included 81 catches for 1,990 yards and 24 touchdowns, according to MaxPreps.
7. 4-Star N'keal Harry
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Height/Weight: 6'4"/210 pounds
High School: Chandler (Chandler, Arizona)
247Sports Ranking: No. 7 wide receiver; No. 52 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Committed to Arizona State on Nov. 2, 2015
The Sun Devils secured a significant in-state pickup by bringing N'keal Harry on board. He chose Arizona State from a collection of contenders that included Washington and Texas A&M, and Chandler teammate Chase Lucas joined the class just a week later.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Harry has the length and strength to give defenders fits in any coverage scheme. While his get-off and catch extension could benefit from better technique, he picks up excellent speed for a 6'4" athlete and shows off some serious agility while working through routes.
A powerful frame enables him to plow through halfhearted tackling attempts, sending him into the second level with momentum. Harry hauled in 48 passes as a senior, according to ArizonaSports.com, resulting in 802 yards and seven touchdowns.
6. 4-Star Nate Craig-Myers
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Height/Weight: 6'2"/205 pounds
High School: Tampa Catholic (Tampa, Florida)
247Sports Ranking: No. 6 wide receiver; No. 43 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 96/100
Uncommitted: Contenders include Auburn and UNC
Nate Craig-Myers committed to Auburn before his junior season, but that verbal pact only lasted until May. The Tigers remain in the picture here, while rivals Florida and Florida State failed to gain late ground Sunshine State standout.
His brother, 4-star cornerback Jayvaughn Myers, also remains undecided after a December decommitment from Florida.
Bleacher Report Analysis
This past year featured a major rebound for Craig-Myers, who missed nearly his entire junior season with a leg injury. He gave us a glimpse of the elite speed and shiftiness at The Opening and then delivered the goods throughout his senior campaign.
Craig-Myers continually beat multiple defenders in pass coverage and was just as difficult to corral after the catch, turning several short patterns and lateral tosses into major gains. He recorded 63 receptions for 1,018 yards and 16 scores as a senior, according to MaxPreps.
5. 4-Star A.J. Brown
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Height/Weight: 6'1"/220 pounds
High School: Starkville (Starkville, Mississippi)
247Sports Ranking: No. 5 wide receiver; No. 38 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 95/100
Uncommitted: Contenders include Alabama, Cal, Mississippi State and Ole Miss
This looks like a three-way SEC showdown for A.J. Brown's signature. The in-state Rebels and Bulldogs both extended offers early in his junior season, when Alabama also entered the equation.
Cal is a potential outlier contender to watch here. The Golden Bears are expected to host him for a visit in January, according to Chad Simmons of Scout.com.
Bleacher Report Analysis
There's a meanness to his game that's both refreshing and effective. Brown batters defensive backs off the snap, creating breathing room for himself by quickly dispatching opponents who attempt to press him.
Brown matches a formidable frame with above-average acceleration, becoming a ferocious runner in the open field following receptions. He caught 135 passes for 2,390 yards and 29 scores as an upperclassman.
4. 4-Star Devin Duvernay
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Height/Weight: 5'11"/195 pounds
High School: Sachse (Sachse, Texas)
247Sports Ranking: No. 4 wide receiver; No. 36 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 95/100
Committed to Baylor on Nov. 20, 2015
Devin Duvernay will team up with twin brother Donovan Duvernay at Baylor. Donovan joined the Bears class two months before Devin announced his decision.
Other in-state squads such as Texas and Texas A&M attempted to land Duvernay, while Alabama and Ohio State each welcomed him to campus for an official visit during the season.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Duvernay projects as a player who can contribute immediately during his first collegiate campaign, particularly in the slot. World-class quickness has been on display during an illustrious high school track career and last summer at The Opening, where he clocked a 4.32 40-yard dash.
His ability to exploit seams within a defense is another knot to Duvernay's speed, but it's also a testament of how strong he is while bursting off pivots and fighting to create space. He averaged 17 yards per catch during the past three seasons, tallying 2,906 receiving yards and 36 touchdowns.
3. 4-Star Tyler Vaughns
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Height/Weight: 6'1 ½"/177 pounds
High School: Bishop Amat (La Puente, California)
247Sports Ranking: No. 3 wide receiver; No. 34 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 96/100
Committed to USC on Aug. 19, 2015
Tyler Vaughns pledged to the Trojans following several unofficial visits to campus. His commitment came slightly more than a month after fellow Bishop Amat wide receiver Trevon Sidney announced intentions to play at USC.
Alabama, Georgia and Washington were among a long list of programs that also pursued him. Vaughns is the most highly regarded receiver among four USC commits on this list.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Vaughns extends for the football at all points, exhibiting great body control in tight coverage. Extremely reliable hands pulled down a vast majority of "50-50" balls during his high school career, making him a go-to target in crunch time.
He doesn't necessarily need to gain significant separation from a defender in order to find the football, utilizing an expansive wingspan that creates coveted catch radius. Vaughns is adept at gaining yards after a reception with smooth strides downfield, helping him rack up 2,502 yards and 25 touchdowns on 167 receptions as an upperclassman, per MaxPreps.
Recruit rankings and info courtesy of 247Sports unless otherwise noted.
2. 4-Star Tyrie Cleveland
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Height/Weight: 6'2 ½"/189 pounds
High School: Westfield (Houston, Texas)
247Sports Ranking: No. 2 wide receiver; No. 33 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 96/100
Committed to Houston on Dec. 10, 2015
Tyrie Cleveland committed to Texas A&M midway through his junior campaign but ultimately opted to reopen the recruiting process last spring. The Aggies, Oklahoma and Ole Miss were among programs in contention before he opted to remain in his hometown.
His commitment to Houston helped to further enhance an immensely successful cycle for Cougars head coach Tom Herman.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Cleveland confirmed he belongs among the country's premier pass-catchers with an impressive yearlong performance in 2015. His effort at The Opening turned plenty of heads, as he helped spearhead his seven-on-seven squad to the tournament title in a highly competitive environment.
He's one of the fastest receivers you'll find at his size, clocking a 4.32 in the 40-yard dash at nearly 6'3". Cleveland can take the top off a defense or wreak havoc in the intermediate range, evidenced by 94 receptions for 2,023 yards and 27 touchdowns as an upperclassman.
1. 5-Star Demetris Robertson
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Height/Weight: 5'11.75"/175 pounds
High School: Savannah Christian Prep (Savannah, Georgia)
247Sports Ranking: No. 1 wide receiver; No. 14 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 95/100
Uncommitted: Contenders include Alabama, Georgia, Notre Dame and Stanford
Demetris Robertson committed to Alabama weeks before his junior season and stuck with that decision until April, allowing contenders near and far to make a push. Georgia is attempting to keep him close to home, while Notre Dame looks strong in this race and Alabama remains a major factor.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Robertson was labeled an elite "athlete" regardless of position in composite rankings throughout much of the cycle and his senior season supports that notion. He rushed for 1,043 yards and nine touchdowns, recorded 12 receptions for 126 yards and another score, intercepted two passes and returned three kicks for touchdowns, according to MaxPreps.
There isn't a deep high school track record for Robertson at receiver but that's not necessarily uncommon when it comes to top-tier recruits at the position on an annual basis. He's sturdily built, blending an aggressive downhill rushing style with slipperiness in the open field, and looks like a player prepared to give collegiate defensive backs fits next fall.
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