At the heart of the all-American National Football League (NFL), where the spotlight shines brightly on the feats of quarterbacks and running backs, Netflix pulls sports fans, especially those passionate about ‘their’ football, into a lesser-explored yet equally vital side of the game with the documentary Receiver.

Directed by the same team behind the award-winning Quarterback, this behind-the-scenes look is an immersive journey into the world of NFL wide receivers, highlighted through the experiences and stories of Deebo Samuel, George Kittle, Davante Adams, Justin Jefferson and Amon-Ra St Brown.

The series, spanning eight episodes, opens with the authoritative voice of Randy Moss, a legend of the position who defined an era in football with his grace and extraordinary skill. Drawing on his personal experience, Moss guides viewers on an emotional journey through the various aspects of life as a professional receiver.

“It’s always funny when people say a receiver’s job is just to catch the ball,” Moss reflects, “when catching the ball is mostly out of our control.”

These words perfectly set the tone and theme of the series, namely the delicate balance between preparation, luck and determination that defines success or failure in the game and a deep, analytical profile of what it truly means to be in this pivotal position.

Receiver doesn’t just focus on the moments of glory on the field. Instead, it goes beyond the sidelines to explore the psychology and personal challenges tied to the role of a receiver. Through in-depth interviews and moving footage, it provides an intimate look into the lives of these athletes, revealing the pressures, expectations and personal struggles they face while striving to excel in an intensely competitive environment.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the series is its ability to balance personal introspection with on-field action. Viewers are swept along on a non-stop rollercoaster, alternating between the adrenaline-fuelled moments of spectacular catches and the quiet, reflective moments in the locker room.

The narrative balance not only keeps the audience engaged but also leads to a deeper understanding of what it truly means to be a receiver in the NFL.