Rookie Profile: Johnny Wilson, WR, Philadelphia Eagles
Welcome to the Rookie Profile: Johnny Wilson, a 6’7″ wide receiver from Florida State University. Wilson attended Calabasas High School and grew up in Los Angeles, California. He received 35 scholarship offers from universities after 247 Sports ranked him as the 5th best wideout recruit in the country.
A 4-star recruit, Wilson ultimately chose Arizona State after initially committing to Oregon. The Sun Devils used him sparingly over two seasons, so Wilson transferred to Florida State in 2022. As a Seminole, he posted solid numbers, making the Second- and Third-Team All-ACC in back-to-back seasons.
Although his numbers aren’t exceptional, Wilson’s stature has generated buzz and interest among NFL teams. He’ll have to grow into his frame a little, but Wilson could either remain a wide receiver or be molded into a tight end at the next level.
Measurables
Draft Capital & Landing Spot
Draft Capital- Round 6 Pick 9
- Wilson’s unique size for the position makes him an intriguing prospect. His speed makes him a potential outlier. But a conversion to tight end is possible if he proves he cannot win consistently at the next level. Either way, Wilson profiles as a situational weapon, especially around the goal line.
- A mid-Day 3 pick isn’t much more than a dart throw for NFL teams, so Wilson will have to prove he’s worthy to stick on this roster beyond training camp. If he can do that, he’ll have the chance to develop behind a professional TE in Dallas Goedert and learn within a potentially dynamic offense, orchestrated by Nick Sirriani and Kellen Moore.
Landing Spot- Philadelphia Eagles
- The Eagles are crowded at the top of the depth chart with AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith taking nearly all the reps at starting WR. However, there is a chance for a WR3 to emerge here. Even if not very fantasy viable, Wilson can see work early on and help diversify the Eagles’ play calling.
- Unless converted to TE, there’s not much use for Wilson in fantasy. Even if converted to TE, there may not be much use for Wilson in fantasy.
Team Depth Chart
Expected Role: Developmental Wide Out/Tight End
Depth Chart via Fantasy Pros
Fantasy Impact
The Eagles took a late chance on Wilson to see if he could develop into anything more than a tall, speedy outlier at the position. If he can, he’s an interesting long-term project. Unfortunately, that’s a big if.
Additionally, taking Ainias Smith ahead of him in the 5th Round, the Eagles are signaling that they are looking for a third WR to step up in their offense. While any of Wilson, Smith, or Parris Campbell can assume that role, it’s also possible that Kenneth Gainwell and Will Shipley have a chance as well.
Given the lack of clarity in this new offense, Wilson is as good a bet as any to win the role. Unfortunately, he’s got the lowest odds given his draft capital and experience. If I’m betting on him for fantasy, I’m spending the minimum: a $0 waiver wire bid and taxi stash. Even then, I might not want to spare the roster spot.
Check out our 2024 Rookie Rankings Page for a full breakdown of this rookie class.
