4 promising first-round receivers to watch in NFL preseason Week 3

As we approach the third week of the preseason, the National Football League (NFL) is buzzing with anticipation.

With teams starting to form their final rosters, four rookie wide receivers, drafted in the first round, are particularly catching the eye of NFL fans and pundits alike.

These promising players are Zay Flowers, Quentin Johnston, Jordan Addison, and Jonathan Mingo. Each player’s performance will be under the microscope as they face other last preseason games before the regular season.

Yes, Jonathan Mingo is a second-rounder, but Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s wrist injury has him out of the season, so he’s been replaced.

Zay Flowers: A blossoming talent in the NFL

Preseason performance:  Flowers, a highly skilled wide receiver, showcased his potential during the Baltimore Ravens‘ preseason Week 2 loss against the Washington Commanders.

Despite the team’s defeat, Flowers was a standout performer, forcing two missed tackles and scoring a touchdown.

His exceptional performance was not limited to this game, as he has continued to impress throughout the preseason. Flowers has two catches on two targets for 37 yards, 28 YAC and one TD in his first two preseason games.

Flowers’ quick feet and skillful maneuvering on the field have earned him the nickname “The Zay Show.” Standing at 5’11” and weighing 178 pounds, Flowers possesses a unique blend of speed, agility, and elusiveness, making him a formidable field opponent. He has a natural knack for finding and exploiting gaps in the defense to his advantage.

In the upcoming game against the Buccaneers, Flowers will have his toughest test against one of the league’s strongest defense lines.

Quentin Johnston: The Los Angeles Chargers new hope

Johnston’s Journey So Far: Quentin Johnston, the 21st overall pick by the Los Angeles Chargers, is another rookie wide receiver who has garnered attention in the preseason. Despite having a couple of issues with his play in college, Johnston’s potential as a game-breaker has earned him a spot in the Chargers’ team.

In his two preseason games, Johnston has six catches on nine targets for 47 yards, one TD and seven YAC.

The Chargers had high hopes for Johnston, envisioning him as a potent offensive weapon. However, as per recent reports, Johnston is currently fourth on the depth chart behind Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, and Joshua Palmer.

This news may dampen the expectations for Johnston’s immediate impact but doesn’t overshadow his potential to shine in the long run.

In his upcoming game against the San Francisco 49ers, Johnston has a favorable match-up to prove his worth and climb the pecking order. His ability to convert short catches into significant gains will be crucial in this contest.

Jordan Addison: The Minnesota Vikings Prodigy

Addison’s Impressive Debut: Jordan Addison, the rookie wide receiver for the Minnesota Vikings, made a notable debut in his preseason game.

Although his stat sheet may not reflect it, Addison’s performance was commendable. His display earned him an impressive 84.5 rating from Pro Football Focus, making him the second-highest-rated first-round rookie in the preseason’s first week.

In his two preseason games, he has one reception on three targets for 22 yards and two YAC.

Addison’s next challenge comes from the Arizona Cardinals, a team known for its robust defensive line. Addison will get a lot of press off the line and a good physicality test; however, given his impressive learning curve and natural talent, Addison is expected to put up a good fight and increase his roster depth.

Jonathan Mingo: The  Carolina Panthers new Prodigy

Mingo, the Carolina Panthers wide receiver, is another rookie with tremendous potential. Despite not having top-tier college stats, Mingo’s ability to make plays from anywhere on the field has caught the attention of many NFL pundits.

Mingo’s athletic profile, large frame, and massive hands make him an exciting prospect for the Panthers.

In his two preseason games, Mingo has one reception on two targets for 15 yards, and six YAC.

Mingo’s next game against the Detroit Lions will be a significant test for the rookie. Although his upside might be hampered due to the variable factors of having a rookie quarterback and a new head coach, Mingo’s potential cannot be overlooked.

His ability to maximize his touches and athletic profile makes him an intriguing prospect for the upcoming game.