The Arrival: 2028 WRs That Will Be Debuting in the Rankings

The 2028 class continues to gain momentum and the wide receiver position is quickly becoming one of its most intriguing groups. After productive seasons and flashes of high ceilings, these pass catchers have begun to separate themselves as emerging talents. Each prospect listed has shown the tools, production and upside needed to draw early attention from college scouts as they debut in the rankings.    Katsoff brings true big play ability to the perimeter, consistently stretching defenses with his speed and vertical presence. Finishing the season with 39 receptions for 680 yards and five touchdowns, he proved capable of flipping field position in a hurry. His acceleration allows him to stack defenders quickly and he creates separation naturally without needing excessive movement at the line. Katsoff's explosiveness shows up on film, especially when attacking leverage downfield. As he continues to refine his route tree and add strength, he projects as a top receiver in the 4A ranks and a name that will continue to gain traction.     Smith operates primarily from the slot, where his speed and feel for space make him a constant matchup problem. He totaled 43 receptions for 567 yards and four touchdowns, showing the ability to threaten defenses vertically with his speed. His alignment allows him to get leverage quickly and he does a strong job pressing safeties before breaking routes underneath. Smith's burst off the line and comfort working through traffic stand out on film. With a productive offseason and continued development, he has the tools to elevate his game and emerge as one of the more dynamic slot options in this class.     Zanotelli's production did not fully reflect his ability this past season, but the flashes on film suggest a receiver with intriguing upside. He finished with 20 receptions for 203 yards and one touchdown, showing strong hands and the ability to win in contested situations. Zanotelli does a good job high pointing the football and staying composed through contact. His route work at the top of stems allows him to create late separation, particularly on intermediate routes. With a full offseason focused on development and exposure through camps, he has a chance to take a noticeable step forward moving into next season.     Known primarily for his impact as a lockdown corner, Allen has also proven he can contribute offensively. He recorded 28 receptions for 455 yards and a touchdown, showcasing speed and polish out of the slot. Allen's route running creates natural mismatches and his acceleration makes him dangerous once the ball is in his hands. His two-way value only enhances his profile, as his athleticism consistently translates on both sides of the ball. As he continues to expand his offensive role and hits the camp circuit, Allen is a prospect scouts will want to evaluate closely in multiple settings.     Lewis emerged as a reliable offensive weapon while maintaining his reputation as a physical, shutdown defender. He finished the season with 25 receptions for 380 yards and four touchdowns, making the most of his opportunities in the passing game. Lewis plays with toughness being able to attack the ball and shows strong hands in traffic. His physicality allows him to separate late in routes and his competitive edge is evident on film. Heading into the offseason, Lewis has a chance to elevate his stock by showcasing his two-way versatility and continuing to refine his offensive skill set.     Roberts brings a physical presence to the receiver position, combining size with toughness after the catch. He totaled 39 receptions for 378 yards and a touchdown, consistently picking up extra yardage by breaking tackles and fighting through contact. His film shows a receiver willing to do the dirty work, from setting the edge in the run game to attacking defenders with confidence. Roberts also displays enough speed to create separation on intermediate routes. As his offensive role expands, he projects as a dependable target with upside and a player who could see his production climb significantly.

The 2028 class continues to gain momentum and the wide receiver position is quickly becoming one of its most intriguing groups. After productive seasons and flashes of high ceilings, these pass catchers have begun to separate themselves as emerging talents. Each prospect listed has shown the tools, production and upside needed to draw early attention from college scouts as they debut in the rankings.