Jeremy Maclin Proving To Be Top Receiver For Philadelphia Eagles

By Max Zelenko on October 29, 2014

When DeSean Jackson was released from the Philadelphia Eagles, only to sign with the division rival Washington Redskins, no player was facing more pressure than arguably Philadelphia receiver Jeremy Maclin. Now, through eight weeks of the 2014 NFL season, Maclin has established himself as one of the best pass catchers in the league.

Maclin and the Eagles have played seven games thus far, and he has simply become quarterback Nick Foles‘ favorite target. He is tied for seventh in targets with Denver Broncos playmaker Demaryius Thomas (76), and has produced 632 yards (10th among WRs) and six touchdowns (sixth).

The biggest downside to his production is the percentage of passes that Maclin has caught from Foles. While 39 receptions through the seven games is solid, the fact that he is only catching 51 percent of the passes thrown his way is a bit alarming. Now, this falls on the shoulders of both Foles and Maclin, but if the two are able to get their timing down even just a little better, the numbers should continue to improve.

Maclin has diversified his game, allowing himself to become a complete receiver. He is a threat on both intermediate and deep passes, can run after the catch, and is also able to make toe-dragging receptions along the sidelines. He has simply developed into the full package, and after coming off what was possibly the best game of his career against the Arizona Cardinals (12 catches, 187 yards, two touchdowns), Maclin is staring at his first Pro Bowl selection.

Not only that, at only 26 years old, he is playing in a contract-year and has already earned a significant raise. Maclin may be the most important part of the Eagles’ offense in 2014, and if this team wants to make a deep playoff run, he will need to continue his career-year.

Max Zelenko is a Philadelphia Eagles/NFL writer for www.Rantsports.com. Follow him on twitter @maxzelenko, “Like” him on Facebook, or add him to your network on Google.