Becoming a standout receiver in the NFL is difficult. Not only do you require elite athleticism, you also need to be a reliable catcher. These are just two of the many elements needed to be successful. More factors include the standard of defence and the person throwing the ball.

A multitude of variables must come together and there are only a handful of players who can put all these together.

Judging efficiency can be achieved in a few ways, but I looked at comparing catch percentage and the number of targets. To be included, receivers had a minimum of 80 receptions.

The obvious standout is Michael Thomas. He was phenomenal last year – setting a new regular season record for receptions (144) surpassing Marvin Harrison’s benchmark set in 2002 with the Colts. Thomas caught 80% of passes thrown his way – a figure aided by the accuracy of quarterback Drew Brees.

The production of Odell Beckham Jr. was not at the level with the talent he possesses. Minus the antics and Beckham is in the elite bracket of pass-catchers. He caught just over 50% of his passes with one of higher target shares in the league. His efficiency wasn’t helped by Baker Mayfield’s throwing struggles, but the 27-year-old will be looking to raise his game in 2020.

We know the big names, so who were some of the less recognisable players that really broke out in 2019?

Darren Waller (TE – LAS VEGAS RAIDERS)

Darren Waller really stood out in an Oakland offence that was mediocre in the air. The 27-year-old carolled 90 receptions and had over 1,000 receiving yards.

This was a breakout year for the tight end who has had a turbulent time in the league. Despite what has happened in the past, it looks like Waller has found a home and role that allows him to excel. He was the number one option for Derek Carr but will this be replicated with the newly formed Las Vegas Raiders bringing in Marcus Mariota?

Deebo Samuel (WR – SAN FRANCISO)

Sometimes it can be hard for a rookie to adjust to life in the NFL, let alone trying to understand a Kyle Shanahan playbook.

Samuel was able to quickly understand his role for the 49ers and become a real threat on the offensive end. His speed was so dangerous and he had 802 receiving yards on just 57 receptions. It was the quick passes and blocking out front that created the opportunities for Deebo Samuel to succeed.

I expected him to carry on right where he left off in the new season.

Mark Andrews (TE – BALTIMORE)

Tight End Mark Andrews, much like many of the Ravens’ offence, thrived under MVP Lamar Jackson. Andrews was the figurehead of tight end trio that were one of the most productive sets in the NFL.

Nick Boyle and Hayden Hurst played their roles well, but it was Andrews who emerged. He was a legitimate scoring threat with 10 touchdowns and these were a combination of red zone receptions and several 20+ yard scores.

Not many had Andrews down as a breakout candidate but the threat of Lamar Jackson on the ground really opened up the field. If Jackson and Mark Ingram stay healthy, Mark Andrews is poised to build on his 64 reception and 852 yard season.