Dontayvion Wicks Is the Packers' Next Franchise Receiver

Dontayvion Wicks had a promising rookie season in 2023. Among rookie receivers with at least 30 targets, Wicks showcased his talent by ranking among the top ten in yards gained, yards per catch, receiving touchdowns, receiving grade by PFF, and overall offensive grade.

Among rookie receivers, Dontayvion Wicks ranked inside the top ten in yards, yards per reception, touchdowns, receiving grade, PFF overall offensive grade, and passer rating when targeted.

(33 receivers were drafted in 2023.)

I can't wait to see what he does in year 2.
— Felipe Reis Aceti (@Aceti_Felipe) March 22, 2024

He possesses a standout trait in his consistent ability to find open space on the field, a quality that sets him apart as a receiver. During his rookie season, Wicks distinguished himself by ranking among the top receivers in two important areas:

1-First Downs per Route Run

First downs per route run vs. good 'ol receiving yards per game.

Looking above the line, spot the Year 2 WRs who could be more productive next year:

– Dontayvion Wicks

– Rashee Rice

– Tank Dell

I break down this predictive stat from @FantasyPtsData in the article below! pic.twitter.com/wq9u4lJw9S
— Ryan Heath (@RyanJ_Heath) March 19, 2024

2-Getting Open Against Single Coverage

The best and worst WRs at being charted as open vs single man coverage.

Dontayvion Wicks 📈

(via @arjunmenon100) pic.twitter.com/NlGk1u8HT5
— SleeperNFL (@SleeperNFL) January 30, 2024

Wicks’ playing style has drawn comparisons to former Packers receiver Davante Adams. Like Adams, Wicks exhibits exceptional route-running precision, allowing him to create separation from defenders and make himself available as a reliable target for his quarterback. Both Wicks and Adams demonstrate crisp route breaks, enabling them to quickly change direction and leave defenders trailing in coverage.

It’s March 24th.

Somewhere right now, Dontayvion Wicks is open.
pic.twitter.com/Ay56fGfHhv
— Felipe Reis Aceti (@Aceti_Felipe) March 24, 2024

Upon entering the NFL, Dontayvion Wicks demonstrated a higher level of polish compared to Davante Adams’ rookie season in 2014. Wicks’ campaing saw him surpass Adams in multiple categories, including receptions, where he secured three more catches, and receiving yards, amassing an additional 159 yards. Additionally, Wicks outshone Adams in touchdown receptions, catching two more touchdowns during their respective rookie years.

Despite a slow start, Wicks found his stride mid-season, with a pivotal moment marked by an exchange with Aaron Jones. Following this, Wicks demonstrated significant improvement, reflected in four PFF receiving grades above 76.0.

Wicks’ skill set positions him perfectly to assume the role of the “separation guy” in the Packers’ receiver room. Christian Watson excels as the deep threat, Doubs thrives as the contested catch specialist, and Jayden Reed serves as the versatile “do-it-all” option.

If Wicks can build upon the solid foundation laid during his rookie year, he possesses the necessary tools to evolve into Green Bay’s next franchise receiver.