To me, "1,000 yards" doesn't make the case either way.
To me, what every team needs is a WR who can regularly make key plays that move the chains and cash in on Red Zone trips. He has to be able beat a variety of defensive schemes and pressures. He has to give his QB an option when the pass rush is getting there and make tough catches. He has to be able to distort defenses by pulling attention, leaving gaps for others.
These things make a difference in games. They sustain possession and capitalize on points opportunities. They open up a variety of other pass and run options.
But all of this can be done relatively quietly. One does not have to be a physical stud overpowering secondaries, breaking the sound barrier, or logging highlight reel flash plays. One doesn't require staggering YAC ability stats or frequent long bomb TDs. One doesn't have to put up huge numbers, especially on a balanced offense with other options.
What one does have to do is to be productive in the medium passing game: 8-20 yards over the LOS. Those are the plays that move chains and really make the difference. They are also the hard plays, as they are generally contested by intact secondaries and require QBs to take on the pass rush. Under pressure a #1 WR has got to be able to get open downfield quickly enough to allow his QB to get rid of the ball.
Then, of course, the guy needs to catch the damn ball. A #1 has to have above average hands. Not necessarily the ability to take the ball away from defenders' hands, but the ability to make catch after catch. To keep DCs up at night trying to work out ways to neutralize the team's play maker.
The WR is generally the one who converts opportunity into actual achievement. He's the one who moves chains, opens up the Red Zone ... and makes a difference.
How do the guys in your list fare on all this? I dunno. I'll leave that question for others.
