Seven-time 1,000+ receiving-yard wideout Michael Irvin is fed up with how new-age receivers act. The former Miami Hurricanes star and NFL Hall of Famer sees receivers going after quarterbacks nowadays and disagrees with it entirely.
Michael Irvin’s Take on New-Age Receiver Behavior
When joining Kay Adams on “Up & Adams,” Irvin identified some things that agitated him regarding this generation of receivers. The three-time Super Bowl champion used a comical analogy to express his distaste.
Michael Irvin doesn't like WRs going after their QBs on the sideline. "It's like a fish telling the water, I'm tired of you."@heykayadams | @michaelirvin88 pic.twitter.com/a3SayQhhBK
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) March 24, 2025
Irvin reflected on his playing days, recalling how he used to fire up teammates on the sideline. But now, he believes the culture has shifted in the wrong direction.
“I think that has gone way too far,” Irvin said. “Now, because receivers, it’s not even about going up and down the sideline to get their guys up. I’m seeing guys go after their quarterbacks and all of that stuff, and we never did that.”
Irvin questioned why a receiver would criticize his quarterback, calling it outright disrespectful.
“Why would I go after my quarterback,” Irvin said. “That’s like a fish telling the water, ‘I’m tired of you.'”
The five-time Pro-Bowler finished his explanation saying times have changed, and in his playing days, he would have never gone after a quarterback or head coach.
Irvin’s Illustrious and Admirable Career
Irvin, now a prominent media personality, cemented himself as one of the all-time greats during his 11-year NFL career.
Irvin’s 11-year NFL career lands him among some of the best to ever do it. The lifelong Cowboys star ranks 32nd all-time in receiving yards with 11,904. Irvin also brought in 750 receptions to plot him joint 48th. Most impressive ly, Irvin ranks just outside the top 10 in career 100+ receiving-yard games in 10th place with 47 games.
A member of the NFL 1990s All-Decade Team, Irvin’s Hall of Fame résumé was officially recognized when he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2007.
He still holds the Cowboys’ all-time records for receptions and receiving yards — though rising star CeeDee Lamb could challenge those marks. Regardless, Irvin’s place in franchise history is secure.
As the Cowboys prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, Irvin will undoubtedly keep a close eye on their selections. Perhaps his words will influence Dallas to target a talented yet poised prospect.