14. Antonio Brown
The book isn’t yet closed on Brown, but it’s already a safe assumption that he’s going to end up being one of the all-time greats. Like many of the receivers on this list, little was expected of Brown early in his career. He’s a tad undersized at just 5’10’’ and was a 6th-round pick out of Central Michigan. But he’s become arguably the best receiver of his generation.
Early in his career, Brown got people’s attention as both a receiver and kick returner. In 2011, he became the first player in NFL history to amass 1,000 yards as both a receiver and returner. Brown’s ability in the open field as a returner continued to translate as a receiver, blossoming into the go-to guy in Pittsburgh’s offense by his fourth season in the league. Following the 2018 season, he forced a trade away from the Steelers after six consecutive seasons with over 100 catches and over 1,200 yards receiving. Since then, Brown hasn’t eclipsed 545 yards in a season.