NFL free agency 2018: Best wide receivers available

1. Sammy Watkins

2017 Stats – 70 targets, 39 receptions, 593 yards, 8 touchdowns

It’s incredible to realize that Sammy Watkins was the number four overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft and that he will still only be 25 years old when the 2018 season starts. For context, teammate Cooper Kupp was born a day later than Watkins and is just entering his second season. The talent level Watkins possesses has never been in question.

Even on draft day, the buffalo Bills gave up a boatload to come up and get their man. One of the biggest stumbling blocks Watkins has had is simply health. He’s suffered numerous injuries but when he’s on the field, he’s produced.

Next: Best NFL player from each state

Now, his numbers for the past season are down a bit from his career averages. His numbers from 2016 are worse but he also played in seven fewer games. The Rams also traded for him roughly two weeks before the season began, limiting the time he had to get a rhythm with quarterback Jared Goff. Los Angeles may decide to franchise tag Watkins, but they also need to get an extension done with defensive tackle Aaron Donald and safety LaMarcus Joyner. They will need to spend some money this year and it’s possible Watkins doesn’t fit.

The Rams still represent one of the best fits for Watkins. Give him a full off-season program with coach Sean McVay and the sky could be the limit. Watkins has the ability to be a true number one receiver in one of the better offenses in football.

Potential Fits – Los Angeles Rams, Green Bay Packers, Baltimore Ravens, San Francisco 49ers, Chicago Bears