Hakeem Nicks: ‘I still view myself as the best WR in the NFL’

Sep 15, 2014; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Philadelphia Eagles cornerback

(26) defends a pass intended for Indianapolis Colts wide receiver

(14) during the first quarter at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Pat Lovell-USA TODAY Sports

The Indianapolis Colts signed former New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks this past offseason, and they have enjoyed the production that he has provided them so far. He hasn’t been a huge part of the offense yet, but he has been a very nice insurance policy behind Reggie Wayne and T.Y. Hilton. Andrew Luck is very confident in Nicks’ ability, and he is a very nice fit all-around for the team.

Nicks made some very strong comments to the media recently, and mentioned that he still views himself as the best wide receiver in the entire NFL.

From the Indianapolis Star:

"“I still view myself as the best receiver in the league,” he said.“That expectation ain’t never going to change,” he said. “I’ll get a chance to prove it eventually.”"

It’s always important for players to have confidence in their ability and believe that they are capable of making big plays and being the best player on the field at any time. That being said, the way that Nicks went to the media to discuss his belief isn’t exactly the best way to handle things. Indianapolis hopes that he is able to prove that he is the best receiver in the league at some point this year, but it certainly hasn’t looked that way so far.

Through the first four games this season with the Colts, Nicks has caught 12 passes for 94 yards and two touchdowns. He didn’t score a single touchdown all last season which was a major concern, but has shown flashes with the Colts so far. Consistency has been an issue this year, but that is partially due to the fact that Luck hasn’t looked Nicks’ way too terribly much.

There is quite a bit of pressure on Nicks to pick up his production following these comments, and he will get his first chance on Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens. Indianapolis could use him stepping up for Luck and the offense, and we’ll see how he responds this week. Expect to see Nicks continue getting more comfortable with the Colts, and to see his stats begin rising in the near future.