Is Jaylen Waddle already one of the best WRs in the NFL?
The speedy, dynamic receiver Jaylen Waddle has made quite the impression in his first two years as a proin the NFL. Coming from a solid class in 2021, where the likes Ja’Marr Chase of DeVonta Smith entered the league alongside Waddle.
The Miami Dolphins star has become a big part of the franchise developing into a championship contender and he is one of the weapons that has helped quarterback Tua Tagovailoa show his potential as a starter.
Waddle has been a critical part of Miami’s offense and will be there for the foreseeable future. The question is whether he can be an elite number-one receiver once Tyreek Hill hangs up his cleats.
Top 10 receiver?
As previously stated, Waddle has significantly impacted the Dolphins’ franchise; a big part of his game is that he is lightning fast. It is the primary quality for any wide receiver, which allows him to outrun defenders and means that Waddle can get down the field with relative ease and create massive chunk plays.
However, his incredible speed isn’t the only ability that makes him great. His awareness whilst a down is in motion is very impressive, and he can adjust when making a catch; an essential skill. A team could gain yardage even if the quarterback’s throw isn’t great.
It is a big plus for the Dolphins as sometimes Tagovailoa underthrows the ball, which means receivers may have to go back on themselves. Waddle also strongly connects with his quarterback as they were college teammates at Alabama. The relationship between a receiver and quarterback is crucial because they need to be on the same page to get the best out of each other.
How can he take his game to the next level?
Waddle has a lot of chemistry with Tua, which is a positive. Yet, when looking at the games last season that the left-handed QB missed due to injury, Waddle’s production could have been better.
It begs the question whether Tua’s understanding of his receiver is a big part of the 24-year-old’s game. Route running is vital in today’s league because it allows a team to complete throws that will move the chains, yet it is something that Waddle finds hard.
Finally, we have yet to see Waddle play in a proper number-one receiver role, which means that defences usually don’t focus on him. It results in him getting favourable matchups with the opposing secondary.
Waddle is excellent right now, and with him only being 24, there is still loads for him to develop and become a top guy for Miami.
