A year ago, wide receiver Marvin Jones missed the entire 2014 season with a foot injury. Mohamed Sanu was the person to fill Jones’ shoes as the No. 2 receiver opposite of AJ Green early in the pre-season. Sanu proved to be an effective passing target for quarterback Andy Dalton throughout the season as he ranked 45th among wide receivers in targets.

Sanu grew into the most reliable passing target as the offense became plagued with injury throughout the season. By the end of the season Sanu filled in as the No. 1 receiver for the final three games while Green was sidelined with injuries, including the Bengals wild card playoff loss to the Indianapolis Colts.

The fourth-year receiver had a breakout year in 2014, setting season bests in receptions (56), receiving yards (790) and touchdowns (five). Sanu is a versatile playmaker who had 51 yards on seven rushing attempts and completed three-of-three passes for 79 yards and a touchdown.

Despite developing into a consistent receiver for Dalton, Sanu struggled as much as he succeeded in 2014. Sanu led the NFL in dropped passes last season. Defenses were able to lock down Sanu because he was unable to separate form man coverage, making the receiver one-dimensional in the passing game.

The Bengals will likely welcome back Jones as their No. 2 wideout entering the 2015 season. Jones is a pass catching threat in the red zone as well as a playmaking deep threat. Sanu will be competing for the No. 3 receiver position alongside former Oakland Raiders receiver Denarius Moore who is currently placed at No. 4 on the depth chart.

Sanu is in the mix of a talented group of wide receivers who give Dalton the most complete assembly of passing targets he’s ever had. This year’s Bengals offense should reach new heights under second-year offensive coordinator Hue Jackson and Sanu will be an essential piece of the team’s success.

Dan Miller is an NFL writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @RealDANimal45, or add him to your network on Google.