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It is difficult to imagine a more challenging slate of wide receivers than the group the Ravens are scheduled to meet next season. Julio Jones and DeAndre Hopkins are arguably the only true #1 receivers in the league that the Ravens will not face in 2016.
The revamped Ravens secondary will be tested week-in and week-out, some very good receivers did not even sniff this top-five opponents list. With a healthy Jimmy Smith, in addition to the acquisitions of Eric Weddle, Jerraud Powers and coach Leslie Frazier, along with a the expectation of a more potent pass rush, the Ravens are well-equipped to improve their pass defense. How well they limit the receivers listed below could very well determine the trajectory of the 2016 season.
Who are the best wide receivers the Ravens will face next season?
1. Antonio Brown, Steelers
The shifty receiver corralled 136 catches for more than 1,800 yards and ten touchdowns last year. The Ravens defense has fared well against Brown in the regular season, limiting him to below 60 yards per game on average and a single touchdown through eleven contests.
2. Odell Beckham Jr. , Giants
Beckham has taken the NFL by storm in his first two professional seasons, tallying 25 touchdowns and an average of over 100 yards per game. He will meet the Ravens defense for the first time in Week 6, and may see more single coverage with rookie receiver Sterling Shepard posing another receiving threat for Eli Manning.
3. A.J. Green, Bengals
Green has played a large role for the Bengals during their winning streak against the Ravens. In his last five games against the Ravens, Green has produced six touchdowns and more than 120 yards per game.
4. Dez Bryant, Cowboys
After missing eleven games last season with a broken foot, Dez is looking to reclaim his place in the top echelon of wideouts. In 2014, he posted 16 touchdowns and more than 1,300 yards. His lone meeting with the Ravens occurred in 2012, with Dez going off for 13 receptions, 95 yards and two scores.
5. Allen Robinson, Jaguars
Robinson earns the final selection above Brandon Marshall, Sammy Watkins, Jarvis Landry and Amari Cooper, based on the strength of his 1,400 yard, 14 TD 2015 campaign. Against the Ravens last season, he had 51-yards and found the end zone once.