- Aaron Donald
Photo Cred: SI.com
Donald is the most dominant defensive player of his era. The defensive tackle has the speed of an edge rusher and the power of a nose guard. He is tasked with fighting through double and triple teams on the interior. Donald tallied 84 tackles (19 tackles for loss), 12.5 sacks (64 pressures), and four forced fumbles in 2021. He has double-digit sacks in 6 out of his 8 years.
2. Patrick Mahomes
Photo Cred: SI.com
Mahomes has mastered throwing the ball from different platforms and angles. Mahomes nearly became the third quarterback in NFL history to surpass the 5,000-yard mark a second time, producing 4,839 passing yards off a career-high 436 completions (37 touchdowns, 13 interceptions) in 2021 while posting career-high rushing totals (381 yards; two TDs). This was considered a down year.
3. Aaron Rodgers
Photo Cred: Marca.com
Rodgers led Green Bay to its third consecutive 13-win season with an efficient 4,115 yards passing for 37 touchdowns to just four interceptions, the third-highest TD-INT ratio in NFL history. He may be the best pure passer in the sports history. He is the back-to-back MVP with four overall.
4. Josh Allen
Photo Cred: Skysports.com
The 26-year-old vastly improved his accuracy in his fourth season, completing 28 of 68 deep attempts (passes of 20-plus air yards) for 954 yards with a 100.7 passer rating. Allen is now in complete control of the offense. He also can escape the pocket and make first downs. He is relying more on his progression instead of his arm strength.
5. T.J. Watt Photo Cred: Bleacherreport.com
Watt is Aaron Donald on the edge. He combines power, technique, and speed. Watt’s tenacious motor reflects his historic pace in Pittsburgh. He ranks fifth on the Steelers’ all-time sack list with 72.0 through five seasons and is 8.5 sacks away from surpassing James Harrison for the crown in Year six. Watt is also good against the run, which makes him a double threat on the edge.
6. Tom Brady Photo Cred: People.com
He is simply the GOAT! He is coming off one of his best seasons in terms of stats, throwing for 5,316 yards and 43 touchdown passes. His IQ has surpassed any limitations his body may have. Brady posted career-high numbers in completions (485) and passing yards (5,316) while tossing 43 touchdowns to just six interceptions in his 22nd season in the league.
7. Davante Adams
Photo Cred: APnews.com
The best wide receiver in the combining speed, highpoint ability, route runner, and strongest hands in the league. Adams notched career highs in receptions (123) and receiving yards (1,553) while adding 11 touchdowns to earn consecutive All-Pro and Pro Bowl seasons. He can use his body to wall off defenders and the speed to blow by them.
8. Myles GarrettPhoto Cred: USA
He had 16 sacks last season to show that he remains one of the game’s best edge players. He can change a game with his ability to get after the quarterback. He plays with the speed that tackles have a tough time handling. Garrett’s knack for wreaking havoc off the edge shows from last year’s 33 QB hits, 43 hurries, and 17 tackles for loss
9. Cooper KuppPhoto Cred: Si.com
Kupp’s 145 receptions for 1,947 yards and 16 touchdowns made him the fourth player since 1970 to achieve the rare feat of leading the league in every major receiving category. He can play from the slot and outside the numbers. One of the best blocking wide receivers in the league. Has the one of best routes
10. Trent Williams
Photo Cred: Bleacher Report
The nine-time Pro Bowler anchors the run and pass blocking of a 49ers offense that is oftentimes allowed to be complex because of their stalwart left tackle. Leading the league at his position with a 96.6 player grade from Pro Football Focus in 2021.