NFL free agency 2021: Best wide receivers available

LANDOVER, MARYLAND - JANUARY 09: Wide receiver Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers evades outside linebacker Cole Holcomb #55 of the Washington Football Team after making a catch during the 1st quarter of the game at FedExField on January 09, 2021 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) /

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DETROIT, MICHIGAN – DECEMBER 26: Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers makes a seven-yard reception for a touchdown during the second quarter of a game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on December 26, 2020, in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images) /

2. Best free-agent wide receivers – Chris Godwin

The hottest name on the market right now has to be Godwin, who helped the Tampa Bay Buccaneers reach the Super Bowl this year. After spending his first three seasons as the second banana to Mike Evans, Godwin quickly became one of Tom Brady’s favorite targets this season.

Godwin did miss some time due to injury but was productive when he played, catching 65 passes for 840 yards and seven touchdowns in 12 games. Like Smith-Schuster, Godwin is hitting free agency as a 24-year old, which means his best should still be yet to come.

The good news for prospective suitors is that there is a decent chance that Godwin could escape the franchise tag and actually hit the open market. Tampa Bay will have to choose between tagging Shaq Barrett for a second time or Godwin and if they opt for Barrett he will be able to truly cash in on a bidding war.

The Indianapolis Colts are looking for a no. 1 receiver and should be in hot pursuit of Godwin. Brady will also push hard for the Buccaneers to retain Godwin, which should result in him landing a huge contract this spring.

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