The NFL is a quarterback league now more than ever.
The rules favor the offense, and it seems that scoring goes up more by the year.
Of course, that’s not possible without some elite pass catchers.
With that in mind, Stephen A. Smith shared his ranking of the five best wide receivers in the game.
“What’s No. 5 on the list? Puka Nacua. This brother is something special. We know he’s a game-changer. He just ain’t top 4 right now. This cat in Seattle, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, but CeeDee Lamb, when that brother’s on the field, we all know what time it is. We know who top 2 is right? Ever heard of Justin Jefferson? The No. 1 receiver in the National Football League is Ja’Marr Chase for the Cincinnati Bengals,” Smith said.
.@stephenasmith's top five WRs in the NFL right now ✍️
1. Ja'Marr Chase
2. Justin Jefferson
3. CeeDee Lamb
4. Jaxon Smith-Njigba
5. Puka Nacua pic.twitter.com/A6xYVinN4T
— First Take (@FirstTake) October 29, 2025
No. 5 may feel a little low for Nacua, who was on pace to break the receiving yards record before getting injured.
Smith-Njigba has made the most of the chance to be the Seattle Seahawks’ primary weapon, excelling both in the slot and outside.
Lamb is the Dallas Cowboys’ best offensive player and has posted All-Pro numbers for years, but he also missed a month with an injury.
Placing Jefferson at No. 2 might be a little controversial.
The Minnesota Vikings star has often ranked at the top of the position, but being second-best in the league should also be considered an honor.
Finally, even without Joe Burrow at quarterback, Chase continues to put up big numbers, and he’s the reigning owner of the receiver’s triple crown.
NEXT: Craig Carton Names His Top 5 NFL Teams