Biggest Snubs from ESPN’s Top-10 NFL Positional Rankings
The NFL offseason often becomes more interesting when ESPN polls coaches, general managers, and executives for their top 10 player rankings at each position. This annual ranking provides sports talk shows with engaging topics and offers fans insight into the perception of their favorite players within the league. Despite its allure, these rankings inevitably spark disagreement.
Jared Verse, DE, Cleveland Browns
Jared Verse’s exclusion from the top-10 list is surprising. Verse, in his two initial seasons, amassed 189 pressures, 130 hurries, 42 QB hits, 12.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. His pressure count of 100 last season was surpassed only by Houston’s Will Anderson. Verse also placed third in hurries, trailing only Anderson and Jacksonville’s Josh Hines-Allen.
Jayden Daniels, QB, Washington Commanders
The list of top quarterbacks is increasingly challenging to narrow down. Jayden Daniels led the Commanders to a 12-5 record and an NFC Championship Game appearance as a rookie. Though injuries kept him out for much of last year, when healthy, Daniels’ place among the elite is undeniable.
Brock Purdy, QB, San Francisco 49ers
Brock Purdy has consistently demonstrated his skill. With a 30-15 starter record, a 104 passer rating, and a 67.9% completion rate, Purdy led the NFL in passer rating during his first season as a starter. His role in taking the 49ers to consecutive NFC Championship Games and a Super Bowl highlights his value.
Malik Nabers, WR, New York Giants
Malik Nabers missed last season due to injury, leaving his return in 2026 uncertain. Yet, when healthy, Nabers is among the elite wide receivers. Stars like Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson are undeniable, but Nabers stacks up impressively against ESPN’s top receivers including Jaxson Smith-Njigba and others.
Trey Hendrickson, DE, Baltimore Ravens
Trey Hendrickson’s injuries diminished his performance last year. However, Hendrickson is still a formidable force when active. He achieved consecutive 17.5-sack seasons in 2023 and 2024, reaching double-digit sacks in four of five seasons between 2020 and 2024. Fans should watch for his comeback with the Ravens.
Bobby Wagner, LB, Free Agent
Though he lacks a current team, Bobby Wagner remains a top linebacker. Ranking fifth in tackles last season, Wagner recorded 162 tackles, 8 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, 2 interceptions, and 4 passes defended. His recent No. 81 spot on the NFL Top 100 Players and long list of accolades support his status.