Saquon Barkley Takes Top Honors in NFL's 2025 Top 100 Players

In an exciting reveal by NFL Network, Saquon Barkley has been named the top player heading into the 2025 NFL season, according to the annual NFL Top 100 list voted on by players. This season marks a significant achievement for Barkley, following an outstanding year where he posted remarkable rushing statistics.

Barkley dethroned Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill, who held the No. 1 position the previous year but slipped to No. 47 this season after a less remarkable performance. Coming in closely behind Barkley is Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, ranked second after a stellar season of his own.

The Full List of NFL's Top 100 Players

Here's a breakdown of the top ten players as voted:

1. Saquon Barkley, RB, New York Giants
2. Lamar Jackson, QB, Baltimore Ravens
3. Josh Allen, QB, Buffalo Bills
4. Ja'Marr Chase, WR, Cincinnati Bengals
5. Patrick Mahomes, QB, Kansas City Chiefs
6. Joe Burrow, QB, Cincinnati Bengals
7. Derrick Henry, RB, Baltimore Ravens
8. Myles Garrett, DE, Cleveland Browns
9. Justin Jefferson, WR, Minnesota Vikings
10. Patrick Surtain II, CB, Denver Broncos

Highlighting Last Season's Performances

Barkley's exceptional season included 2,005 rushing yards, coming within striking distance of the single-season rushing record, and he scored 13 touchdowns. His impressive performance contributed significantly to his team's success, leading them to a Super Bowl win and winning the Offensive Player of the Year award.

Lamar Jackson also staked a claim to the top spot with impressive numbers, including 4,172 passing yards and 41 touchdowns along with a strong rushing performance. Josh Allen, last season’s MVP, showcased his dual-threat ability, throwing for 3,731 yards and rushing for 531 yards along with 12 rushing touchdowns.

Ja'Marr Chase established himself as a premier wide receiver, winning the triple crown with 127 receptions, 1,708 receiving yards, and 17 touchdowns. Meanwhile, Patrick Mahomes, despite a less dominant year by his standards with 3,928 yards and 26 touchdowns, continues to be a consistent presence among the top players in the league.

The Pressure of Being Number One

Receiving the title of the NFL's top player comes with both honor and pressure for Barkley. As he heads into the 2025 season, he'll need to navigate the expectations that come with such recognition and aim to maintain his outstanding performance from last year.