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The John Ross vs. Tee Higgins debate isn’t a new one before Cincinnati Bengals training camp.
In fact, we already examined how Higgins’ arrival via the second round could impact John Ross’ role with the offense.
But now another expert has weighed in on the matter, with Pro Football Focus’ Ben Linsey predicting Ross will end up earning more targets than the rookie Higgins:
“His competitor, the second-round selection out of Clemson, has the makings of a prototypical WR1 with his size, downfield production and ball skills. As the PFF Draft Guide pointed out, one of the more impressive aspects of his game was his ability to beat press at the line of scrimmage with his quickness ─ a rarity for a big wide receiver. He doesn’t have Ross’ speed, but he was a downfield threat in his own right thanks to a massive catch radius and impressive ball skills. His 15 receptions from passes thrown 20 or more yards downfield was a top-10 mark in the FBS last season.”
Technically speaking, Ross and Higgins shouldn’t intersect too much in terms of usage. Ross’ speed will be used to space the offense, perhaps mostly for others, while Higgins’ skill set could see him deployed situationally as a rookie.
It helps that Ross isn’t so much of a “bust” as some might like to suggest. He was a strong redzone weapon two seasons ago and while inconsistent last season, had some major flashes. He’s in a contract year too and knows the offense better than a rookie who continues to miss reps during an odd offseason.
While Ross projects at a higher usage rate than Higgins in 2020, it’s the second-round pick who looks like an A.J. Green clone and has a chance to feature more prominently in years well beyond his rookie season.
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