Ranking Top NFL Pass-Catching Groups: Bengals Lead the Class; Cowboys Stand Out After George Pickens Trade
As NFL offenses continue to evolve into high-powered, pass-heavy machines, the importance of elite pass-catching groups has never been more evident. With dynamic duos and deep receiving corps reshaping the league’s offensive identity, teams with a wealth of receiving talent are better positioned for playoff runs — and even Super Bowl glory.
Following a flurry of offseason activity, including key trades and draft picks, the 2025 landscape has shifted dramatically. Here’s a look at the top pass-catching units across the league, with the Cincinnati Bengals leading the charge and the Dallas Cowboys making a surprising leap after acquiring George Pickens.
1. Cincinnati Bengals
Despite losing Tyler Boyd in free agency, the Bengals still hold the crown when it comes to pass-catching firepower. Ja’Marr Chase remains a top-five receiver, and Tee Higgins is a strong WR1 on most teams — giving Cincinnati a devastating one-two punch. Throw in rookie speedster Kalen King from the draft and tight end Mike Gesicki’s reliability over the middle, and Joe Burrow’s arsenal is complete.
Chase’s ability to stretch the field and dominate one-on-one matchups forces defenses into uncomfortable schemes, while Higgins is the go-to possession guy with elite ball skills. With Burrow healthy again, expect this group to put up serious numbers in 2025.
2. Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins aren’t far behind. Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle continue to terrorize defenses with their speed and after-the-catch explosiveness. While Hill is the deep threat every defensive coordinator fears, Waddle is a precise route-runner who can turn short throws into big gains. Miami also added tight end Jonnu Smith for red zone work, giving Tua Tagovailoa even more options.
This unit thrives on timing and speed, and if Tua can stay upright, the Dolphins will again feature one of the NFL’s most explosive offenses.
3. Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys have made the most noise this offseason, especially after acquiring wide receiver George Pickens from the Steelers. Pairing Pickens with CeeDee Lamb, one of the NFL’s best route technicians, gives Dallas a rare combination of physicality and finesse. Pickens, known for his contested catches and sideline body control, adds a layer of toughness and vertical threat that Dallas sorely lacked in 2024.
Michael Gallup returns healthy and motivated, while tight end Jake Ferguson is emerging as a dependable target in the short-to-intermediate game. Dak Prescott now has a formidable receiving unit capable of matching up with anyone, and it’s expected to help him replicate his strong 2023 season.
4. San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers boast one of the most versatile and unique pass-catching groups in football. Deebo Samuel is a dual-threat weapon who can line up anywhere, while Brandon Aiyuk has blossomed into a top-tier outside receiver. Add tight end George Kittle — arguably the league’s most complete at his position — and this group becomes a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Kyle Shanahan’s scheming maximizes every ounce of this group’s talent, turning routine plays into explosive gains. While they may not post gaudy numbers individually, their impact as a unit is undeniable.
5. Philadelphia Eagles
A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith remain one of the league’s most complementary receiver duos. Brown’s physical dominance and Smith’s surgical precision make them a handful on every snap. Tight end Dallas Goedert adds toughness and consistency, especially on third downs and in the red zone.
Jalen Hurts has shown great chemistry with this group, and with the Eagles refining their offensive line again, expect a bounce-back season through the air.
6. Detroit Lions
Amon-Ra St. Brown has emerged as one of the league’s best slot receivers. His toughness and route-running are elite, and he’s become Jared Goff’s favorite target. The Lions also benefit from the return of Jameson Williams, who brings the deep threat they need to balance the attack. Rookie tight end Brock Bowers, drafted in the first round, is already turning heads in OTA workouts with his blend of speed and strength.
Detroit may not have the flashiest names outside of St. Brown, but the depth and upside are significant.
7. Seattle Seahawks
With D.K. Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Seattle quietly boasts one of the deepest receiver groups. Metcalf’s size and athleticism make him a red zone monster, while Lockett remains one of the best deep threats in football. Smith-Njigba, who’s expected to take a big sophomore leap, adds a much-needed element in the slot.
The Seahawks also get solid contributions from tight end Noah Fant, making Geno Smith’s job easier with plenty of weapons.
Conclusion
Pass-catching depth can separate playoff contenders from pretenders, and this year’s top groups reflect a blend of superstar talent and strategic team building. While the Bengals continue to set the standard with Chase and Higgins, the Cowboys’ addition of George Pickens has vaulted them into elite company. As the 2025 season approaches, these units will be at the heart of the NFL’s most thrilling aerial displays.
