The wideout market in the NFL exploded this summer after several high-profile wide receivers, including Davante Adams and Tyreek Hill, inked the record-breaking deals. But that might not be the end of it, as a number of young star WRs are also reportedly looking to get paid.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, WRs Deebo Samuel (San Francisco 49ers), A.J. Brown (Tennessee Titans), and Terry McLaurin (Washington Commanders) all want new contracts and they are willing to miss off-season programs in order to make ir happen. All three players were selected in the second or third round of the 2019 NFL Draft and have one year left on their respective deals.
DK Metcalf, another star receiver from the 2019 class, is also looking for an extension from the Seattle Seahawks, but it is believed he won’t hold out.
Samuel had a breakthrough season in 2021, emerging as one of the unique offensive weapons in the league. He had 77 catches for 1,405 yards and six receiving touchdowns. On top of that, the 26-year-old player also rushed for 364 yards and eight TDs, with the latter being an NFL record for a wideout. The South Carolina product earned All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors last season.
On the other hand, Brown made an immediate impact for the Titans and has been their No. 1 wideout since his rookie year. Upon entering the league, he had consecutive 1,000+ yards seasons before injuries limited him to 13 games and 869 receiving yards in 2021. The 24-year-old player was a Pro Bowler in 2020.
Terry McLaurin, selected in the third round out of Ohio, has been one of the rare bright spots for the struggling Commanders’ team in recent years. He had 1,053 receiving yards and five TDs in 2021.
