#7 – Michael Thomas
I talked about Marvin Harrison’s reception record standing for nearly 20 years and it was Michael Thomas who broke it by 6 catches. If you’re one that discounts the greatness of this season due to him “only running slants” then you need to fix up. If it was that easy then everyone would do it, and Michael Thomas is a very special talent.
When you combine the most accurate Quarterback in NFL history with one of the best possession WRs in the game, this is what you get. Both broke records and Michael Thomas has a highlight reel proving that it was more than just slants.
Honorable Mention – Josh Gordon
Josh Gordon embodies the what if story. We saw him in his prime, and he was outstanding. He was an athletic freak and it showed. Even with Josh McCown as his Quarterback, he was going off against some of the best defenses in the NFL. In only 14 games he recorded over 1600 yards in only 14 games with 19 yards per reception showing off his speed.
This season would turn out to be his only season with over 1000 receiving yards because of his own demons keeping him off the field. Josh Gordon has not so happily commented on my posts before for leaving him off a list. While I doubt @flash got this far, if you’re reading this I really hope you figure it out and we see you on the field again.
#6 – Don Hutson
My young follower base HATES when I go way back in history for these lists. I often hear “they would be trash in today’s NFL” and while I get what you’re saying, hear me out. You have to consider they would have today’s nutrition, training and coaching. When we are talking about players lightyears ahead of their time, you have to think about it in context.
Don Hutson played in a run first era and was the best Wide Receiver ever for many decades. He also played in an era when the best players played both ways and recorded 7 interceptions on top of his elite receiving numbers .
1200 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns in only 11 games in the 1940s is absolutely unheard of. If I were to compare it to anyone, it would be Wilt Chamberlain where his record breaking per game numbers seem like a myth… but they aren’t.
Again, this man was lightyears ahead of his time. He may not have faced top competition, but I have to acknowledge him for what he was. Don Hutson is an NFL legend and this was one of the best WR seasons ever.