The dead period in the NFL offseason, between minicamp’s end and training camp’s start, often features ESPN polling coaches and executives. They rank the top 10 players at each position. These rankings spark debates on sports shows and give fans insights into player perceptions in the league. Like any rankings, they invite disagreement.
Who Were the Overlooked Players?
Jared Verse, DE, Cleveland Browns
Jared Verse missed out on ESPN’s top 10 edge-rusher list. In his short career, the 25-year-old has shown immense talent. He has accumulated 189 pressures, 130 hurries, 42 QB hits, 12.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, and two recoveries in two seasons. Only Houston’s Will Anderson had more pressures than Verse last season. In hurries, Verse was third, following Anderson and Jacksonville’s Josh Hines-Allen.
Jayden Daniels, QB, Washington Commanders
Recognizing the top 10 quarterbacks is getting tougher due to the league’s high QB standards. Jayden Daniels, however, deserves mention. As a rookie, he led the Commanders to a 12-5 record and the NFC Championship. Despite missing most of last year due to injury, his skills are undeniable when healthy.
Brock Purdy, QB, San Francisco 49ers
Brock Purdy also missed the top 10. His record as a starter is 30-15, with a 104 passer rating and 67.9% completion rate. Purdy made the Pro Bowl and led the league in passer rating in his first full season. He guided the 49ers to consecutive NFC Championships and a Super Bowl.
Malik Nabers, WR, New York Giants
Despite his injury last season, Malik Nabers deserves recognition. It’s hard to rank 10 receivers over him when he’s healthy. Names like Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson are understandable, but Nabers outshines others like Jaxson Smith-Njigba and CeeDee Lamb when fit.
Trey Hendrickson, DE, Baltimore Ravens
Trey Hendrickson, another injury-affected player, missed the cut. He only played seven games last year, impacting his performance metrics. Previously, he had two consecutive 17.5 sack seasons in 2023 and 2024. With a full season, Hendrickson could be among the top five edge-rushers again.
Bobby Wagner, LB, Free Agent
Without a team, Bobby Wagner remains among the top linebackers. He finished fifth in tackles last year and has impressive stats, including eight tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks. Wagner has recorded over 104 tackles each season for 14 years. His resume includes 11 All-Pro selections, 10 Pro Bowls, and his membership in the NFL’s All-Decade Team. He also led the league in tackles three times and has won a Super Bowl.
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