Drafting a wide receiver in the first round has been a popular demand among Los Angeles Chargers fans, even before the team traded Mike Williams and Keenan Allen. However, according to Jason Fitzgerald of Over The Cap, selecting a wide receiver in the first round is far from a guarantee of offensive success.
Fitzgerald’s analysis examined wide receivers drafted between 2011 and 2019, comparing their value and production after their first contract. The findings suggest that while some receivers have become stars, many others have failed to meet expectations. Notably, their second contracts often outpaced their production.
In contrast to wide receivers, Fitzgerald highlighted interior defensive linemen as a safer first-round pick. He lauded their positional value and consistent production, emphasizing that interior D-line has provided incredible value, particularly in recent contracts.
The analysis underscores the risk associated with drafting wide receivers in the first round. While there are instances of success, the majority of players selected in this position have not lived up to expectations. Teams should carefully consider these findings when making their draft decisions, balancing the potential upside with the significant risk involved.
