Ranking the 3 best NFL wide receivers of the 21st century

The NFL has seen a number of talented and dominant wide receivers over the years, but some players stand out as the best of the 21st century. Looking at the best from nearly a quarter of a century and picking just three was tough. A few players like Randy Moss, Larry Fitzgerald, Dez Bryant and Davante Adams certainly deserved to be in the conversation, but three others seemed ahead of them.

The upcoming three wide receivers established themselves as some of the best wide receivers in NFL history. they set records and earned numerous accolades over the course of their careers. Here are the three best receivers of the 21st century:

#3. Antonio Brown

Tampa Bay Buccaneers v New York Jets

Antonio Brown played for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Oakland Raiders, New England Patriots, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers during his career. He was one of the most dominant wide receivers of the 21st century, albeit one of the most controversial. It wasn't always this way, and Brown was an iconic weapon in the Ben Roethlisberger-led Steelers offense.

Antonio Brown is a seven-time Pro Bowler who led the league in receptions and receiving yards twice. He was known for his quickness, agility, and ability to make difficult catches look easy. As such, he consistently put up big numbers for his teams. Despite his off-the-field baggage, Brown was a highly talented NFL player. Brown recorded 12,291 receiving yards and 83 touchdowns in his career, and although he isn't retired as such, it seems his NFL career is over.

#2. Julio Jones

Miami Dolphins v Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Julio Jones played the first part of his career with the Atlanta Falcons, establishing himself as one of the best wide receivers of the 21st century. He recently joined the Buccaneers, where he has yet to really shine with the franchise.

Jones has over 13,000 receiving yards in his career so far, going along with 63 touchdowns. Jones is known for his size, speed, and ability to make plays down the field. He has consistently been one of the top receiving threats in the league since he was drafted in 2011.

#1. Calvin Johnson

Baltimore Ravens v Detroit Lions

Calvin Johnson, also known as "Megatron," played for the Detroit Lions during his career. He was one of the most physically dominant wide receivers in NFL history. He was a six-time Pro Bowler and three-time First-Team All-Pro, setting the record for most receiving yards in a single season with 1,964 in 2012.

Johnson was known for ability to outjump and outmuscle defenders for the ball, and he was a threat to score a touchdown on every play. Johnson retired at the age of 30 due to injuries, but his impact on the league will not be forgotten. During his career, he recorded 11,619 receiving yards and 83 touchdowns.

NFL wide receivers today

The players listed above are just a small percentage of the extremely talented wide receivers to have played in the NFL this century. Other honorary mentions playing today could be Cooper Kupp, Tyreek Hill, and Stefon Diggs.