NFL Free Agency 2023: Top Wide Receivers and Their Best Fits
Tee Higgins: A Coveted Commodity
Tee Higgins is widely considered the top free-agent wide receiver available this offseason. His exceptional skills have earned him the No. 1 ranking on USA TODAY Sports’ list of the top 25 free agents. Higgins has formed a formidable trio with Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase in Cincinnati, but the Bengals may face financial constraints in retaining him.
Best Fit: Los Angeles Chargers
The Los Angeles Chargers possess ample salary cap space and a pressing need for a No. 1 wide receiver. Higgins would seamlessly fit into the Chargers’ offense, aligning as the X receiver alongside Ladd McConkey in the slot and Quentin Johnston as the Z receiver. His presence would bolster Justin Herbert’s passing attack and make the Chargers a legitimate contender in the AFC West.
Chris Godwin: A Reliable Possession Receiver
Chris Godwin suffered a season-ending ankle injury in Week 7, but his impact on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ offense was undeniable. He was on pace for 121 catches, 1,399 yards, and 12 touchdowns over a 17-game season. Godwin excels as a possession receiver who consistently moves the chains.
Best Fit: Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers are seeking a wideout to complement their emerging star, George Pickens. Godwin’s experience playing alongside another standout receiver in Mike Evans would prove invaluable to Pickens’ development. Godwin would provide the Steelers with a reliable target and a seasoned mentor for their young wide receiver corps.
Stefon Diggs: A Proven No. 2 Option
Despite a knee injury that limited him to just eight games in Houston last season, Stefon Diggs has consistently proven his worth as a No. 2 wide receiver. His ability to create separation and make big plays makes him a valuable asset to any offense.
Best Fit: Houston Texans
The Texans, who lost Tank Dell to a gruesome knee injury, have a gaping hole in their wide receiver room. Diggs would fill that void and provide Nico Collins with a reliable running mate. The presence of rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud would give Diggs ample opportunities to showcase his skills and help the Texans rebuild their offense.
Amari Cooper: A Veteran Leader
Amari Cooper’s production dipped after the Buffalo Bills traded for him in October, but he remains a capable wide receiver with a knack for finding the end zone. Cooper’s veteran leadership and route-running ability would be beneficial to a young team like the Arizona Cardinals.
Best Fit: Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals desperately need more weapons around Kyler Murray. Cooper would provide a reliable target for Murray and mentor promising young receivers like Marvin Harrison Jr. His experience and savvy would be a valuable asset to a pass offense that has struggled to find consistency.
DeAndre Hopkins: A Contender’s Dream
Despite not being as productive as expected during Kansas City’s Super Bowl run, DeAndre Hopkins remains a respected wide receiver. He brings leadership and experience to the table and can still make plays at a high level.
Best Fit: Kansas City Chiefs
Hopkins expressed a desire to play for a contender, and the Chiefs certainly fit the bill. He would serve as a reliable underneath threat and complement the emerging talents of Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy. Hopkins’ presence would give Patrick Mahomes another dependable target and help the Chiefs maintain their status as a Super Bowl contender.
