LSU Is Well Represented In Latest NFL Top-10 Wide Receivers List

NFL Insider Jeremy Fowler of ESPN recently surveyed league executives, coaches, and scouts to rank the Top 10 wide receivers in the league.

Sitting atop ESPN's list were two former LSU wide receivers: Ja'Marr Chase at No. 1, followed by Justin Jefferson at No. 2. Both players held the same rankings heading into last season.

Former LSU wide receiver Malik Nabers was named an honorable mention just outside the Top-10:

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1. Ja'Marr Chase, Cincinnati Bengals
Highest ranking: 1 | Lowest ranking: 3
Age: 26 | Last year's ranking: 1

Chase dominated the voting like it was an unprepared rookie cornerback on an island, earning around 70% of the first-place votes despite finishing third in catches (125) and fourth in receiving yards (1,412) last season. The reason: He looks different than everybody else with the ball in his hands.

"He's the best I've gone against," an NFL head coach said. "He can break it for 80 [yards] at any time."

Chase's 6,837 receiving yards are the second most by any player within his first five seasons in NFL history, trailing only former LSU teammate Justin Jefferson (more on him in a moment). Since debuting in 2021, Chase's 19 touchdowns of 40-plus yards are the most in the NFL -- six more than the next-closest player (Tyreek Hill). And his 29 receptions against press coverage topped the NFL in 2025, highlighting his response when challenged at the line.

"He showed over the past two years or so that he can play inside and outside," a veteran NFL coach said. "[The Bengals] moved him around more, and he's gotten better as the ultimate chess piece."


2. Justin Jefferson, Minnesota Vikings
Highest ranking: 1 | Lowest ranking: 5
Age: 27 | Last year's ranking: 2

Jefferson, a past No. 1 on this list with a historic six-year start to his career, did not vie for the top spot as strongly as he has in years past. But he registered No. 1 or No. 2 votes on around 70% of the ballots, with several voters considering him a cut above the rest.

"I go by who I'd want on my team in a game or a season, and I still think he's super talented," an AFC executive said. "He's a proven commodity that can do everything you need and can adapt to any defensive look."

Jefferson's 8,480 receiving yards are the most for any player in his first six seasons in NFL history. His six straight 1,000-yard campaigns tie Randy Moss for second in franchise history (Cris Carter is first with eight).

Jefferson's career-low 1,048 yards in 2025 hurt his vote share slightly, but most voters gave him a pass due to poor quarterback play. And several voters noted how professionally Jefferson handled the offense stalling. His 53.4% double-team percentage ranked first among receivers, and he eclipsed 1,500 yards the previous season with Sam Darnold.

"Chase vs. Jefferson is still kind of like Bijan [Robinson] and [Jahmyr] Gibbs at running back -- almost like 1 and 1A," an NFC executive said. "Maybe a little more big-play ability with Jefferson. Would be fun to see him with a QB like Burrow."

Forget the 50-50 catch. Jefferson can make 20-80 catches, an NFL coordinator said. "That catch he made in Buffalo [in 2022], I don't think Chase makes that," an NFL coordinator said about Jefferson's incredible one-handed grab while surrounded by several Buffalo defenders.

Honorable mention
Malik Nabers, New York Giants: "He's easily a top-10 receiver. The knee situation is worrisome, but hopefully he bounces back soon. But he can do everything you need." -- AFC executive

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