The 2024 draft could flood the wide receiver market soon

TL;DR

The 2024 NFL draft class for wide receivers is underperforming, with many top picks already released or traded. Teams like the Los Angeles Rams may soon see a surplus of available receivers as a result.

Key points

2024 wide receiver draft class is underperforming
Many top picks already released or traded
Los Angeles Rams may benefit from an influx of available receivers
Marvin Harrison, Jr. could be traded by the Cardinals
Jordan Whittington stands out among his peers

Chicago BearsLos Angeles RamsArizonaNew England

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JANUARY 18: Rome Odunze #15 of the Chicago Bears celebrates after completing a first down during the second quarter of an NFL divisional playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams at Soldier Field on January 18, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images) | Getty Images It’s not just Keon Coleman. The 2024 wide receiver draft class is rounding into form as one of the worst in NFL history relative to the expectation teams had of them as prospects. From Marvin Harrison at fourth overall to zero actual “steals” so far out of 28 receivers drafted on days 2 and 3, the 2024 class could soon flood the trade and waiver wire market, potentially catching the attention of the receiver-needy Los Angeles Rams. In fact, it’s already started.

WRs drafted in the top-100

Out of 16 receivers drafted in the top-100 of the 2024 NFL Draft, four players (picks 37, 52, 65, and 80) have already been let go by their original teams. Ja’Lynn Polk and AD Mitchell were traded as practical giveaways, while Malachi Corley and were released; Burton has not found a new team yet, just two years after being a third round pick. When you review those first round picks, is probably the only one who is as good as advertised … and even he’s got some question marks after tearing his ACL badly in 2025. The Cardinals might be willing to trade Marvin Harrison, Jr. this year if they’re sellers at the deadline, as expected. With turning out to be ’s real number one receiver and rounding into form as an All-Pro level tight end, the Cardinals could be open to trading Harrison for a good draft pick in 2027. Harrison has caught just 54% of his targets in two seasons and has been blamed for nine drops. He hasn’t been anything close to the *“Sure thing”* he was advertised as in 2024. , despite being the clear breakout star of the class as a rookie, . Is he a victim of ’s average quarterbacking or was 2024 just a fluke? has been every bit as bad as guys like Coleman and AD Mitchell. The Panthers might just have to waive him if he doesn’t make the team at final cuts. Drafting Chris Brazzell felt like the last sign that Legette is gone. The 49ers need a receiver to step up, but can’t stay healthy and hasn’t caught a touchdown in 18 months. He played 42 snaps in ’s playoff loss this year and caught 0-of-2 targets. Rome Odunze isn’t even catching 50% of his targets from and seems to have no chemistry with Ben Johnson. is a “Chiefs receiver” in all the expected ways and that’s not a good thing. Even took a major step back with the Chargers in 2025. It’s not outlandish to say that out of 10 receivers drafted in the top-37, over half will not make it to the end of the third season with their original team. Polk is already out of , while Legette and Coleman aren’t far behind. Throw in BTJ and Pearsall, maybe there’s 50% of those picks. 2024 is aiming to be the most overrated receiver class in history.

Q&A

What are the main issues with the 2024 NFL wide receiver draft class?

The 2024 wide receiver draft class is considered one of the worst in NFL history, with many top picks being released or traded shortly after being drafted.

Which wide receivers from the 2024 draft have already been released or traded?

Four receivers drafted in the top-100 have been let go, including Ja'Lynn Polk and AD Mitchell, who were traded, while Malachi Corley and Jermaine Burton were released.

Is Marvin Harrison, Jr. likely to be traded by the Cardinals?

Yes, the Cardinals may consider trading Marvin Harrison, Jr. if they become sellers at the deadline, especially given his underwhelming performance.

How does Jordan Whittington compare to other receivers from the 2024 draft?

Jordan Whittington, drafted 30th among receivers, has 464 receiving yards, which is better than most receivers drafted ahead of him, highlighting the overall struggles of the class.