As we approach the start of the college football season, we will be releasing our 2022 Preseason All-American team this month and next. Today we’re adding two wide receivers and some honorable mentions.
Check out our other selections in these links.
The wide receivers selected are…
WR Jordan Addison – USC
WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba – Ohio State
As the recipient of the 2021 Biletnikoff award winner, given to the most outstanding FBS receiver, Jordan Addison has little to prove entering his third year in college football. After a phenomenal season in which Pitt won the ACC Championship and QB Kenny Pickett jumped draft boards all the way to the first round, Addison will take his talents to Venice Beach and team with offensive mastermind Lincoln Riley and highly-touted QB Caleb Williams, Addison has the ideal package to translate to the next level after the season.
With requisite size, Addison plays even bigger than he is. He creates separation with ease and makes acrobatic catches that could place him in Cirque du Soleil, if not for NFL teams lining up to draft him early in the first round.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba thrived in 2021 on an Ohio State offense that featured two receivers taken No. 10 and No. 11 overall in this past draft, as well as a 3rd-round tight end. Though some question Smith-Njigba’s ability to work outside of the slot, his value is undeniable. He led the nation in Yards per Target (14.2) and Yards per Route Run (4.4). He also led the nation in SIS metrics for receivers such as: Total Points (47.8), Points Above Average (38.9), Expected Points Added (97.4), and Positive Play Percentage (73.5%).
With the potential No. 1 pick in the draft, QB C.J. Stroud, and a bevy of highly recruited and talented receivers, Smith-Njigba is in a position to repeat his breakout season and show that he can do it all.
Honorable Mentions
WR Josh Downs – UNC
WR Cedric Tillman – Tennessee
WR Xavier Worthy – Texas
WR Jalen Cropper – Fresno State
There are many receivers that could find themselves on the first team. Though Josh Downs and Cedric Tillman find themselves deservedly high on draft boards, second year receiver Xavier Worthy, of the Texas Longhorns, proved as a true freshman that he was able to shine immediately at the collegiate level. The dynamic playmaker could follow a Ja’Marr Chase-like path and solidify himself as the top receiver in the nation in just his second season.
When taking a look at players from outside of the Power 5 conferences, it is impossible to overlook Jalen Cropper of Fresno State. Cropper was one of the hottest names in the transfer portal until deciding to stay at Fresno State. Cropper and QB Jake Haener will maintain one of the most dynamic duos in college football. Cropper is a wiry, electric athlete that plays bigger than his size and challenges the defense on every snap.
