Identifying the top players in the NFL is a challenging task, but CBS Sports Senior Writer Pete Prisco has managed to compile a list of the Top 100 players for the 2024 season. The list features some familiar faces as well as some surprises, offering insight into the current landscape of the league.
One key takeaway from Prisco’s rankings is the dominance of the San Francisco 49ers. With eight players in the Top 100, including stars like Trent Williams, Christian McCaffrey, and Nick Bosa, the 49ers are poised to make a strong push for a Super Bowl title. The team’s solid foundation under coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch has set them up for success in the upcoming season.
Another notable trend is the renewed hype surrounding Aaron Rodgers. Despite his age and recent injury, Rodgers has climbed the rankings to become the fifth-ranked quarterback in the Top 100. With improvements to the Jets’ offensive line, Rodgers has a chance to prove that he still has plenty left in the tank.
On the other hand, several elite quarterbacks have seen a decline in their rankings, including Joe Burrow, Trevor Lawrence, Jalen Hurts, and Justin Herbert. These players will need to work on limiting turnovers and staying healthy to regain their status as top-tier quarterbacks in the league.
The scarcity of dynamic running backs in the Top 100 is also worth noting, with only two players making the cut. Christian McCaffrey’s rise in the rankings demonstrates that a workhorse back can still be a focal point of a modern offense. Derrick Henry’s inclusion over other notable backs like Josh Jacobs and Saquon Barkley highlights the importance of consistency and performance.
The Detroit Lions have emerged as a formidable team, with seven players in the Top 100. Led by Jared Goff and a young core of talent, the Lions are aiming to build on their success from the previous season and establish themselves as contenders in the NFC.
In the secondary, a trend towards younger players is evident, with rising stars like Trent McDuffie, Antoine Winfield Jr., Jaylon Johnson, and Kyle Hamilton making their mark in Prisco’s rankings. These players represent the next generation of defensive backs who are poised to make a significant impact on the field.
Finally, teams from Texas and Florida have a strong presence in the Top 100, with the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans, Philadelphia Eagles, Miami Dolphins, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers all featuring multiple players. These teams made the playoffs in 2023 and are looking to build on their success in the upcoming season, with high hopes for a deep postseason run.
Overall, Prisco’s Top 100 list offers a comprehensive look at the top talent in the NFL for the 2024 season, highlighting key players, trends, and teams to watch as the season unfolds.