Yahoo Sports NFL on Xavier Hutchinson
From the article
His frame and toughness have kept him in the lineup and made him valuable as an option in the middle of the field. As illustrated by PFF's reception depth chart, Hutch' is employed between the numbers to gain tough yardage on slant and dig routes.
STACKED’s take
Hutchinson's slot role and Watson competition will determine 2026 contract viability.
Xavier Hutchinson is employed as a backup for Nico Collins, allowing the offense to maintain physicality at the position when their WR1 is out. PFF's reception depth chart shows Hutchinson is used between the numbers to gain tough yardage on slant and dig routes. His two-touchdown day against Baltimore helped solidify him in the offense as a great option in spread offense packages with four or five receivers. He faces challenges to his role and potentially his roster spot as veteran Justin Watson could shake up the competition. Both Watson and Hutchinson contribute on special teams and are great run blockers. If Hutchinson wins the spot and produces another consistent season, he should earn a team-friendly contract to stay as a depth piece.
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