Being a wide receiver in the NFL isn’t just about catching passes anymore—it’s about building a persona. Some receivers made headlines before they ever made a Pro Bowl, crafting a brand that got people talking even when their stats didn’t.
These guys knew how to market themselves early, from flashy celebrations to fashion statements to big social media energy. Their legacies may still be up for debate, but their brands were front and center from day one. Let’s count down 10 wideouts who made sure you knew their name—long before they earned it on the field.
10. JuJu Smith-Schuster
JuJu Smith-Schuster became one of the NFL’s first true TikTok stars, gaining fame for his viral dances and gamer persona. Even after a breakout 1,400-yard season in 2018, his off-field brand often generated more buzz than his stat lines.
9. Michael Crabtree
Crabtree entered the league with sky-high confidence and a first-round résumé. He talked the talk early, even while it took time to walk the walk at the next level.
8. Odell Beckham Jr.
One-handed catches, custom cleats, and high-end fashion deals instantly made OBJ a household name. His brand exploded even before he had a full season as a top-tier receiver.
7. Corey Coleman
Coleman came in with big expectations and bigger bravado. His career never quite lived up to the hype, but the marketing machine started early.
6. Antonio Brown
Before AB was putting up historic numbers, he was perfecting his persona—complete with signature celebrations and next-level self-promotion. He went full superstar mode long before his résumé was complete.
5. Chase Claypool
Claypool dubbed himself “Mapletron” and called for more social media targets after a handful of solid games. His self-belief often led the way ahead of consistent production.
4. DeSean Jackson
Jackson had deep-threat speed and a highlight reel ready from the jump. He knew how to make a splash, whether it was a backflip into the end zone or a mic-drop quote after the game.
3. Percy Harvin
Harvin had the swagger and versatility to back up some of the early hype—but injuries got in the way. His star power was real, but his long-term legacy never quite matched it.
Read More: 15 Forgotten Wide Receivers Who Deserved More Love
2. T.J. Houshmandzadeh
With that unforgettable name and signature ponytail, Houshmandzadeh had brand appeal before he became a consistent target. He was marketable from the start, even when he wasn’t the WR1.
Read More: 15 Wide Receivers Who Were Never as Good as Advertised
1. Keyshawn Johnson
Keyshawn literally wrote a book titled Just Give Me the Damn Ball as a rookie. That pretty much sums up the order in which he prioritized brand over legacy.
Read More: The 10 Most Overrated NFL Wide Receivers Ever
