NFL Stars Who Deserve More Recognition
The world of professional American football is filled with talent, but the distinction between “great” and “good” players sometimes blurs. The “NFL Rank 2025” project sought to highlight the top 100 players in the league, but as is common, some notable names were left off the list.
NFL experts evaluated players based on their performance expectations for the 2025 season, comparing them to their peers. This project was conducted shortly after the publication of the annual “Top 10”, where executives, coaches, and scouts ranked the best players in each position for 2025. Although there are similarities in both rankings, there are also significant differences. League personnel nominated the players who, in their opinion, deserved to be included but were not.
Players Who Missed the List, But Deserve Attention
Here are some players who, according to league evaluators, should have been considered among the top 100:
- Joe Alt, LT, Los Angeles Chargers: Although the competition is fierce, Alt is knocking on the door of the elite. He stood out as an offensive tackle in his first year and is expected to thrive in the left tackle position.
- Jonathan Greenard, Edge, Minnesota Vikings: Greenard is proving to be one of the best in his position, with an impressive number of sacks and a high win rate in the past.
- Vita Vea, DT, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Vea, often underestimated, is a game-impacting player. His ability to stop the run and his growing ability to pressure the quarterback make him a constant threat.
- DeVonta Smith, WR, Philadelphia Eagles: Despite a less outstanding year, Smith remains an elite receiver, averaging over 1,000 yards per season.
- Nnamdi Madubuike, DT, Baltimore Ravens: Although his sack production decreased, Madubuike is a nightmare for offensive linemen due to his combination of strength and speed.
- James Cook, RB, Buffalo Bills: Cook, a versatile and in-his-prime runner, has proven to be fundamental to the Bills’ offense.
- Brian Burns, Edge, New York Giants: Burns, with great potential, could see an increase in his production in his second year in the Giants’ system.
- Jaycee Horn, CB, Carolina Panthers: Horn, if he stays healthy, is emerging as one of the best cornerbacks in the league, capable of playing both in man coverage and with the aggressiveness of a safety.
- Jalen Ramsey, CB, Pittsburgh Steelers: Despite being excluded from the list of the top 10 cornerbacks, Ramsey still demonstrates fluidity and speed at 30 years old.
- DeForest Buckner, DT, Indianapolis Colts: Buckner, consistently underestimated, continues to perform at a high level and is fundamental to the Colts’ defense.
These players, although not included in the list of the top 100, demonstrate the deep talent that exists in the NFL and deserve to be recognized for their impact on the game.
