New York Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson found himself on the outside looking in on ESPN's top-10 wide receiver rankings heading into the 2026 NFL season.
ESPN NFL Insider Jeremy Fowler conducted a poll of scouts, executives, and coaches to compile his annual rankings of NFL wide receivers. While Wilson received votes, he ultimately missed the cut for the final top 10 ranking.
Garrett Wilson's Rise in New York
After an injury-shortened season, it's understandable why. Wilson finds himself off this year's list after a down year for someone of his caliber.
In 2025, the panel ranked Wilson 10th, with Fowler praising his elite route-running ability.
"On talent, he's unquestionably a top-10 player. The way he slithers in and out of routes with elite flexibility is Justin Jefferson lite," Fowler wrote last year.
However, Wilson's 2025 NFL season was derailed by a knee injury. He appeared in seven games for the Jets last season, finishing with 395 receiving yards and four TDs.
Despite the limited production, Wilson still led the Jets in receptions last season. When healthy, it's clear that Wilson is among the elite wide receivers.
Despite the Jets' inconsistent quarterback play over the years, Wilson has continued to produce at a high level since being selected by the Jets with the No. 10 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.
He opened his career with three consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons before his injury shortened his 2025 campaign.
Garrett Wilson Looks to Bounce Back
Wilson will have a chance to prove the doubters wrong and return to elite form after a down 2025 NFL season.
He'll return to a new-look offense and a new starting quarterback this season.
The Jets have made significant changes this offseason, notably at quarterback, with Geno Smith under center. They added a new offensive coordinator in Frank Reich.
Geno definitely raised the Jets' floor, while a healthy Wilson gives New York one of the most dynamic receiving threats. With those changes in place, the offense should improve, and having Wilson out on the field makes the Jets a better team heading into next season.
