With just two weeks left in the regular season, the NFL’s receiving yardage crown is shaping up to be a two-man showdown between two of the league’s brightest young stars: Seattle’s Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Los Angeles’ Puka Nacua. And if recent trends continue, this race could come down to the final snap of Week 18.
Right now, Smith-Njigba holds the top spot, but not by much. Nacua is charging hard, sitting just 45 yards behind and gaining ground fast. The Rams wideout has been a model of consistency all year, and if he keeps up his current pace, he could very well leapfrog into the lead before the season wraps.
As for the 2,000-yard milestone? That dream is likely out of reach for Smith-Njigba.
He’d need a staggering 363 yards over the next two games to hit that mark - a tall order, even for someone with his route-running precision and after-the-catch explosiveness. Still, leading the league in receiving yards in just his second season would be a massive statement for the Seahawks’ rising star.
Zooming out a bit, the league’s wide receiver landscape has been nothing short of electric this season. Eleven players have already crossed the 1,000-yard threshold, with another eight knocking on the door with 900-plus yards. It’s a testament to how pass-heavy and receiver-driven today’s NFL has become - and how many young playmakers are stepping into the spotlight.
Here’s a look at the current top 10 in receiving yards, heading into the final stretch:
10. CeeDee Lamb, Dallas Cowboys - 1,027 yards
Lamb continues to be the engine of Dallas’ passing game. Whether working the slot or lining up outside, he’s been a go-to option for Dak Prescott all year.
His route-running has been sharp, and his yards-after-catch ability remains elite.
9. Zay Flowers - 1,043 yards
The rookie has been a revelation. He’s brought a jolt of speed and creativity to his offense, and he's proving he can be more than just a gadget guy.
Flowers has shown he can win at all three levels of the field.
8. Chris Olave, New Orleans Saints
Olave’s smooth game and deep-ball tracking continue to make him a dangerous weapon. He doesn’t always get the national spotlight, but his production speaks volumes.
7. Nico Collins, Houston Texans - 1,060 yards
Collins has taken a major leap this year. With a strong connection to his quarterback and a physical style that makes him tough to bring down, he’s become a reliable WR1 in Houston’s emerging offense.
6. Trey McBride, Arizona Cardinals - 1,098 yards
Yes, a tight end is in the top 10 - and deservingly so. McBride has been a mismatch nightmare all season.
Whether lined up in-line or split out wide, he’s been a consistent threat and a security blanket for his QB.
**5. Amon-Ra St.
Brown, Detroit Lions - 1,194 yards**
The “Sun God” continues to shine in Detroit.
He’s the heartbeat of the Lions’ receiving corps and one of the most dependable chain-movers in the league. His toughness over the middle and crisp route-running make him a nightmare for defenders.
4. Ja’Marr Chase, Cincinnati Bengals - 1,256 yards
Despite some ups and downs in the Bengals’ offense, Chase keeps producing. His chemistry with his quarterback is undeniable, and his ability to take over games is still among the best in the league.
3. George Pickens, Dallas Cowboys - 1,342 yards
Pickens has put together a breakout campaign, showcasing his physicality and highlight-reel catch ability. He’s become a true vertical threat and a major part of Dallas’ offensive identity.
2. Puka Nacua, Los Angeles Rams - 1,592 yards
What a season it’s been for Nacua. The rookie has not only shattered expectations - he’s rewriting records.
His feel for soft spots in coverage and strong hands have made him a staple in the Rams’ offense. He’s within striking distance of the league lead and isn’t slowing down.
1. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Seattle Seahawks
Sitting atop the leaderboard, Smith-Njigba has had a breakout season that’s lived up to the hype. His ability to separate, find space, and make tough catches in traffic has elevated Seattle’s offense.
While the 2,000-yard dream may be slipping away, leading the league in receiving yards would still be a massive achievement.
With two games left, the receiving title is still very much up for grabs. Whether Smith-Njigba holds on or Nacua makes one final push, we’re watching the emergence of two stars who could dominate this stat line for years to come.