2022 Pacific Northwest Sports Top 10: Number 9 – D.K. Metcalf
In our ongoing Pacific Northwest Sports Top 10 series, we move on to Number 9, D.K. Metcalf.
Two PNWS writers have different viewpoints in regards to D.K. Metcalf. Andrew Elderbaum (AE) and Chris Phillips (CP) talk about the PNWS number 9 member in their Top-10 series.
Welcome to the main event
CP: So as a starting point for this conversation style debate you asked “Is D.K. Metcalf a Top 10 receiver in the NFL? Top 20?” The complex answer is Yes because of everything he brings to the table. He is a player that every time he steps onto the field defenses have to account for and know where he is at all times. As he can quite easily take one catch to the house (see his game against New Orleans last season).
So, since he commands so much attention yes he’s easily a top 20 wide receiver. And as for Top 10, that’s probably a good over/under spot and I’ll take the over. Or is it the under? Yes, he’s a top 10 receiver in the NFL. Here are the receivers I’d rank ahead of him. Cooper Kupp, Justin Jefferson, Davante Adams, Stefon Diggs, Tyreek Hill, Keenan Allen, Ja’Marr Chase, Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and Metcalf. This is just based on talent alone, not factoring in QBs, injuries, or offensive philosophies. So who are the receivers that you list higher than Mr. Metcalf?
AE: Your list and add Deebo Samuel, A.J. Brown, Mike Williams, Tyler Lockett, and CeeDee Lamb. Did you know Metcalf didn’t crack the top 25 in receiving yards last year? And you cant blame it on QB play because Lockett was #9. Metcalf isn’t even the best receiver on his own team. Even Jaylen Waddle broke 1,000-yards, and I’m not sure Tua can throw a pass 10-yards in the air. Metcalf has broken 100 yards once in his last 22 games.
CP: There were only nine wide receivers last who registered double-digit TDs. Of those nine only five of them scored more than 11 touchdowns. And of those five only four receivers scored more than Metcalf’s 12. It’s only three if you removed Deebo’s 8 rushing touchdowns. And whether Lockett is better than Metcalf is debatable. Lockett averaged 16.1 yards per reception compared to Metcalf’s 12.9. Not to mention that Metcalf holds the edge in availability (even if it is minimal).
.@GenoSmith3 ➡️ @dkm14 and that's a touchdown for EIGHTY FOUR YARDS! 🙌
📺: #NOvsSEA on ESPN pic.twitter.com/nFsCwP1mx6
— Seattle Seahawks (@Seahawks) October 26, 2021
Next: Page 2 – Starter or Bench Warmer