The 2024 NFL free-agent wide receiver class has the typical mix of borderline No. 1s and several more solid, complementary options.
For cap-rich teams without the most ideal draft capital to invest in another strong group of rookie WRs, there is veteran value to be had on the open market.
Sporting News breaks down the top nine unsigned wide receivers for 2024:
MORE: Ranking the 75 best overall NFL free agents for 2024
NFL free agent WR rankings 2024
1. Marquise Brown, WR, Cardinals (age: 26)
Brown should have worked out better with college QB Kyler Murray, but he couldn’t stay on the field to reconnect as much as desired as a speedy vertical threat. He is a little more complete than that, but Arizona should move on to a true No. 1 to complement Michael Wilson. Brown might return to the Ravens’ new-look offense, or he also has appeal as Patrick Mahomes’ new top deep threat with the Chiefs.
2. Calvin Ridley, WR, Jaguars (age: 29)
Considering Ridley didn’t play at all in 2022 while suspended in Atlanta, prompting a trade to Jacksonville, he returned to action well with 76 catches, 1,016 receiving yards, and eight TDs last year. He was, however, inconsistent in his chemistry with Trevor Lawrence and couldn’t always step up like a No. 1. The Jaguars have a tough call to make, knowing he also has higher upside and is nearing 30. Outside of the Jaguars, he would mesh best with the Jets.
3. Darnell Mooney, WR, Bears (age: 26)
Mooney is one of the best sleeper free agents, as he was a misfit for the Bears with some misusage. He can build on his rookie promise on another team as a play-making, outside No. 2 with some field-stretching skills. He would fit well with the Raiders to help Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers for former Bears offensive coordinator Luke Getsy.
4. Tyler Boyd, WR, Bengals (age: 29)
Boyd is a technically sound, good-hands route runner, doing everything needed in the slot with his big frame, from posting up smaller nickel backs to blocking well. Watch out for a potential reunion with Brian Callahan in Tennessee.
5. Curtis Samuel, WR, Commanders (age: 27)
Speaking of short-area receivers who are reliable extensions of the running game, Samuel has been just that in Washington. He can be a good slot guy with some zip in the red zone for another team, too. The Dolphins should have some interest in that role.
6. Gabe Davis, WR, Bills (age: 24)
Davis should be better than he is based on his massive, No. 1-like frame and flat-out field-stretching ability. However, his inconsistent route-running and hands have hampered his production. He could thrive outside of Buffalo with the right complement. He also should be on the radar for the Chiefs, Jets, and Dolphins.
7. DJ Chark, Panthers (age: 27)
Chark also might be a good complement to the Dolphins’ dynamic duo. He has a nice frame and has flashed as an outside playmaker, He also would work well on the cheap for the Chiefs or Bears.
8. Kendrick Bourne, Patriots (age: 27)
Bourne has been an underrated performer for the 49ers and Patriots with his route-running savvy. He’s someone to watch most for the Texans, Dolphins, and Saints.
9. Odell Beckham Jr., Ravens (age: 31)
OBJ’s biggest asset remains his name, as he faded with his big-play game down the stretch, showing his age. He edges out Michael Thomas as the aging veteran of choice. Watch out for him as a third option for the Falcons, Dolphins, or Bengals.