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The New York Jets’ wide receiver core will look to bounce back after a so-so 2020 season. The Jets still have veteran wide receiver Jamison Crowder and second-year wide receiver Denzel Mims. Crowder was the team’s best wideout with 59 receptions (89 targets) for 699 yards and 6 touchdowns. Mims missed a good amount of his rookie season, but ended up with 23 receptions (44 targets) for 357 yards in nine games.
To add to their wideout unit, the Jets drafted Elijah Moore out of Ole Miss in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Moore was projected to be a borderline first round pick and brings an explosive element to New York’s offense.
Latest camp news
Week 2 preseason recap: None of these receivers saw a target in Week 2. Moore is dealing with an injury, so his absence is excusable. Crowder and Mims are likely the favorites here, so the Jets have probably settled on them as starters and don’t want to risk an injury.
Week 1 preseason recap: Mims saw the most action with four catches for 51 yards. Moore did not play due to his quad injury. Crowder, due to his experience and production from last season, played minimal snaps. He caught one pass for four yards. The Jets have to be happy with Mims’ development, but will hope Moore can eventually take the field.
Jets head coach Robert Saleh told reporters on Thursday that Moore will be getting an MRI on his quad and there’s a chance he might not play in the preseason opener on Saturday against the New York Giants.
8/12/21: Even if Moore’s quad injury is not too serious, New York needs to proceed with caution because those type of injuries could linger throughout the year. The rookie was having a tremendous training camp and building chemistry with fellow rookie QB Zach Wilson.
Week 3 preseason game: vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Moore’s health will determine if he plays. It appears the Jets have determined their starting receivers for the time being. Expect Crowder and Mims to get some reps with Wilson in the third preseason game, but the Jets probably will not extend them too much here.
Fantasy football verdict
Week 2 preseason: Wilson looks good throwing the ball, and that means Crowder and Mims do have some value in fantasy leagues. The Jets are likely to be throwing the ball a lot and playing from behind, so these receivers are going to see volume. Wilson’s efficiency suggests the targets will lead to decent production. Both players are worth retaining in leagues. Moore might have value in keeper and dynasty formats, but appears to be on the outside looking in for this position group at the moment.