A.J. or Julio

A.J Green and Julio Jones will forever be linked as the prize receivers of the 2011 NFL draft.  As we pass the halfway point the question arises as to who has had  the better start to their NFL careers?  A.J. the UGA standout came into the season as the number one receiver on a bad team with a rookie quarterback (Andy Dalton).  Many experts felt that his numbers would be down especially to start the season.  Julio on the hand came into the season as the deep threat that Matt Ryan needed to compliment Roddy White, Tony Gonzalez, and Michael Turner.  Lets compare:

Player	Games Played	Receptions	Yards	Touchdowns	100 YD Gmes
*A.J. Green	7	33	516	5	2
Julio Jones	6	25	358	2	3

Looking at the numbers A.J. Green has more receptions, more yards, and more touchdowns.  Julio who has had a little bit of a slow start has come on strong with three 100 yard receiving games, and has become that compliment to Roddy White.  The difference between these two players at the onset of their careers is the situation that they have been drafted into.  A.J. who will most likely compile better numbers this year is targeted more because he is their big play receiver.  Not to minimize the play of Brandon Tate or Andre Caldwell this year.  On the other hand Julio is the complimentary receiver to an all pro in Roddy White, to a first ballot hall of famer in Tony Gonzalez, and to a strong running attack led by Michael Turner.  The roles of these two young talented receivers are in every way much different.  A.J. will have better numbers this year because his team needs him to have that type of impact.  Julio is merely trying to fit in on a team that a year ago was 13-3 in the regular season. 

To answer my original question as to who has had a better start to their NFL career, the nod has to go to A.J. Green.  To be the main receiver on a team that to start the season was not picked to do much; and to have the impact he has had is quite remarkable.  But, do not count Julio out.  As the Colts saw today he can be more than just a compliment on certain days.

*Denotes A.J. Green statistics prior to November 6, 2011 game against the Tennessee Titans

Statistics provided by ESPN.com