Third-Year Receivers to Watch in 2012

Added on Jun 05, 2012 by Scott in

NFL

Not every rookie wide receiver can be A.J. Green. In fact, most struggle with the complexities of professional playcalling and advanced route trees. Often times it takes pass catchers a couple of years to adjust and feel comfortable within an offensive scheme. The third season is usually telling. That’s when the light clicks on for a lot of wideouts who failed to meet expectations in their first two years. Here are a few names to watch in 2012.

Dez Bryant (Cowboys) – The talented but inconsistent Bryant notched 15 touchdowns in his first two campaigns, but he’s yet to eclipse 1000 yards or more than 63 receptions. Injuries and a case of the drops have plagued him at times. If he reaches his full potential in 2012, a monster season is possible.

Demaryius Thomas & Eric Decker (Broncos) – During stretches of 2011, both Thomas and Decker displayed big play ability. With a healthy Peyton Manning under center in Denver, each receiver should post career numbers as long as they stay off the injury report.

Golden Tate (Seahawks) – IF Matt Flynn is the real deal then Seattle’s flat pass attack could see a vast improvement. And Tate might benefit the most. After only 56 catches and three scores in two seasons, the ex-Golden Domer is poised for a breakout.

Brandon LaFell (Panthers) – Someone other than Steve Smith needs to make an impact in the Cats attack. The leading candidate is LaFell, who showed flashes in a Week 16 game last year with 103 yards and a touchdown. The tall, rangy receiver has the skills to become a reliable target for Cam Newton.

Jacoby Ford (Raiders) – Injuries derailed what could’ve been a solid 2011 for the speedy Ford. Carson Palmer has a full offseason to prepare, so there won’t be any excuses for him being rusty from his brief retirement. Ford is a legit vertical threat with a DeSean Jackson type burst. He’ll never be a 90-catch player, but he’s more than capable of making defenses fear him.