As the NFL annually unveils its top 100 players heading into the upcoming season, the methodology behind the compilation of this list often garners more intrigue than the list itself. A recent article by Jayna Bardahl of Moneyline explores how the NFL generates this esteemed list, which is determined through a voting process primarily involving players. Each player constructs a personal top 20 ranking, with point values assigned according to their selections—20 points awarded for a No. 1 vote, reducing down to 1 point for a No. 20 rank. There are no limitations on the players eligible for voting; thus, individuals can nominate themselves if they believe they warrant inclusion as one of the league's top players.

Adam Ryan, a supervising producer for NFL Films, shared insights with Bardahl regarding the increase in player participation, noting that the league has fostered greater involvement since it began visiting all 32 team facilities in 2015. This outreach significantly escalated attendance, with player participation rising from approximately 300 to as many as 1,100 in recent years. Typically, the voting process kicks off around Thanksgiving, with most ballots submitted prior to the Super Bowl. Notable trends have emerged since the inception of the NFL Top 100 in 2010, showcasing a pronounced preference for skill position players. As Bardahl highlights, there have been 141 running backs featured on the list, in contrast to just 125 offensive linemen from 2011 to 2024. However, participation among running backs has tapered off recently, as evidenced by only five making the 2024 list compared to 15 back in 2012.

A quarterback has consistently dominated the rankings, achieving the top position 10 times in the past 14 years, with Tom Brady holding the record for the most No. 1 finishes, having garnered this position on four occasions. Patrick Mahomes is the sole player to have ranked first multiple times, securing the top spot twice. Additionally, Lamar Jackson is recognized as the only player ever to ascend to the No. 1 rank after not being included on the list the previous year, accomplishing this feat following his MVP season in 2019. Notably, Aaron Rodgers has been a fixture on the list every year, although he has yet to be featured in the 2025 iteration, which is being revealed gradually via X, with two players announced beforehand and the complete top 10 set to be disclosed on NFL Network on September 1. Tensions can occasionally arise during the voting process; Erin O’Toole, a senior talent producer at NFL Films, disclosed to Bardahl that the Minnesota Vikings have experienced intense discussions within their locker room over the years. Furthermore, O’Toole recounted witnessing genuine altercations among teammates, including a memorable incident in 2015 involving former Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell. In terms of credibility among voters, O'Toole pointed to Maxx Crosby of the Las Vegas Raiders and Pat Surtain II as two individuals who approach the voting process with great seriousness. Although the voting method is not strictly scientific, due to the varying levels of engagement from players, it serves a purpose akin to that of fans debating who belongs among the elite players in the NFL. This system has proven effective, especially when unexpected players rise to the top of the list, as seen last year when Tyreek Hill was elected No. 1, surpassing notable names like Lamar Jackson, Christian McCaffrey, and Patrick Mahomes. As the 2025 season approaches, there remains anticipation surrounding the identity of this year's leading player, with Ryan indicating to Bardahl that he was 'slightly surprised' by the player expected to take the top spot, leaving fans in suspense for the reveal.