Madden NFL 21 is the latest installment of Electronic Arts’ long-running American football video game series. Developed by EA Tiburon and based on the National Football League (NFL), Madden NFL 21 brings players an exciting experience with updated features, improved graphics, and plenty of customization options. Whether you’re a veteran or just starting out in virtual football, Madden NFL 21 promises to give you an authentic gridiron experience like no other.
1. DeAndre Hopkins
Wide receiver
Career
- 3× First-team All-Pro (2017–2019)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (2015, 2020)
- 5× Pro Bowl (2015, 2017–2020)
- NFL receiving touchdowns leader (2017)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2013)
- First-team All-ACC (2012)
DeAndre Hopkins is a wide receiver for the Arizona Cardinals. He was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2013, but he has played with the Arizona Cardinals since 2020.
DeAndre Hopkins is 6'1" and 212 pounds and he has had success playing in both offense and defense for the Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals, respectively. DeAndre Hopkins is known for his explosiveness on the field, as well as his ability to make big plays downfield.
He will be an important part of any team's offense moving forward. DeAndre Hopkins is one of the best receivers in the NFL and has been a top performer for the Texans since joining them in 2013.
He was an All-Pro selection three times, including twice as runner-up for Second Team honors and once as leader of the league's touchdown chart with 71 touchdowns over his career.
Hopkins also enjoyed some success on special teams, being named First Team All-ACC on several occasions while playing both receiver and returner positions throughout his college career at Clemson University.
Also Played For: arizona cardinals, clemson university
2. J.J. Watt
Defensive end
Career
- 3× NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2012, 2014, 2015)
- Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (2017)
- 5× First-team All-Pro (2012–2015, 2018)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (2014, 2018)
- 5× Pro Bowl (2012–2015, 2018)
- 2× NFL sacks leader (2012, 2015)
- NFL forced fumbles co-leader (2018)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2011)
- Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year (2017)
- Bert Bell Award (2014)
- Lott Trophy (2010)
- First-team All-American (2010)
- First-team All-Big Ten (2010)
Watt is a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year and was named Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year in 2017. He has also been selected to five Pro Bowls and two Second Team All-Pro teams.
Watt holds the record for most sacks in a single season with 29 in 2015. J.J. Watt played college football at Central Michigan before being drafted by the Houston Texans in 2011 J.J.
Watt is one of the most decorated and accomplished players in NFL history, having won numerous awards including a Bert Bell Award, Lott Trophy, First-team All-American, and two Pro Bowls.
The Houston Texans superstar has recorded 580 tackles, 111 sacks, 69 passes deflected, and 27 forced fumbles in his impressive career to date.
In 2018 he became the co-leader in Forced Fumbles with New York Giants linebacker Olivier Vernon while also being named an AP first-team All-Pro for the third time in his career - cementing him as one of the greatest defensive players ever to play the game.
J.J. Watt's work ethic was once again on display this season when he missed just one game due to injury despite playing through back surgery earlier in the year which many thought would end his career prematurely.
His determined attitude and unyielding passion for football have seen him become a role model both on and off the field for young athletes all over America.
Also Played For: wisconsin badgers football, defensive end
3. Tyrann Mathieu
Safety
Career
- Super Bowl champion (LIV)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (2015, 2019, 2020)
- Second-team All-Pro (2019)
- 3× Pro Bowl (2015, 2020, 2021)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2013)
- Chuck Bednarik Award (2011)
- SEC Defensive Player of the Year (2011)
- Consensus All-American (2011)
- First-team All-SEC (2011)
Tyrann Mathieu was a three-time first-team all-pro safety for the Arizona Cardinals from 2013 to 2017. In 2018, he signed with the Houston Texans and led the team in interceptions.
With the Chiefs in 2019 and 2020, he recorded two more interceptions each season. The New Orleans Saints claimed him off waivers prior to the 2021 season and have since rewarded him with four Pro Bowl selections and one Super Bowl championship ring as their starting free safety.
Tyrann Mathieu is a two-time Pro Bowler and All-American who was drafted eighth overall by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2010 NFL Draft.
He played college football at LSU where he was twice named SEC Defensive Player of the Year and finished his career with 767 tackles, 104 sacks, 20 forced fumbles, 4 fumble recoveries, 77 passes defended, and 3 defensive touchdowns.
After being traded to the Houston Texans in 2015, Tyrann Mathieu became one of just six players to win an MVP Award (2015), Super Bowl (2017), and World Series championship (2018).
In 2019 he won Second Team All-Pro honors after recording 64 tackles, 10 sacks, 2 forced fumbles and 1 interception while playing for the Los Angeles Rams.
Also Played For: lsu tigers football
4. Lamar Jackson
Quarterback
Career
- NFL Most Valuable Player (2019)
- First-team All-Pro (2019)
- 2× Pro Bowl (2019, 2021)
- NFL passing touchdowns leader (2019)
- Bert Bell Award (2019)
- Heisman Trophy (2016)
- Maxwell Award (2016)
- Walter Camp Award (2016)
- AP College Football Player of the Year (2016)
- Sporting News Player of the Year (2016)
- Unanimous All-American (2016)
- ACC Athlete of the Year (2018)
- 2× ACC Player of the Year (2016, 2017)
- 2× ACC Offensive Player of the Year (2016, 2017)
- 2× First-team All-ACC (2016, 2017)
- Louisville Cardinals Ring of Honor
- Louisville Cardinals No. 8 retired
Lamar Jackson is a professional quarterback who has spent the past two seasons with the Baltimore Ravens. He was drafted by the team in 2018 and won the NFL Most Valuable Player Award that same year.
Jackson also received first-team All-Pro honors in 2019 and was named passing touchdowns leader for that season as well, along with being selected to three Pro Bowls.
In 2016, he won college football's most prestigious award, the Heisman Trophy, which made him one of only two players ever to win both awards (the other being quarterbacks Cam Newton and Johnny Manziel).
As a junior at Louisville in 2017, Jackson led his team to an undefeated regular season before winning their first bowl game since 2001 against Auburn in the Peach Bowl by a score of 38–13—an impressive achievement given how strong Auburn had been previously that season under head coach Gus Malzahn.
Jackson has consistently put up gaudy statistics throughout his career while displaying poise on stage when playing in big games or nationally televised contests such as playoff appearances or national championship games.
This bodes extremely well for his long-term prospects within American professional sports leagues should he continue developing at such a rapid pace Lamar Jackson is an All-American and ACC Athlete of the Year Award winner.
He was also a two-time ACC Offensive Player of the Year, as well as a first-team All-ACC selection.
In his career in the NFL, he has set numerous records, including the most single-season rushing yards by a quarterback and most games with 100 rushing yards by a quarterback He currently plays for the Louisville Cardinals in the NFL.
Also Played For: baltimore ravens, heisman trophy nfl
5. Calais Campbell
Defensive end
Career
- Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (2019)
- First-team All-Pro (2017)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (2014, 2016)
- 6× Pro Bowl (2014, 2015, 2017–2020)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- Bart Starr Award (2019)
- First-team All-ACC (2006)
Calais Campbell is a veteran defensive end with 10 years of experience in the NFL. He has played for the Arizona Cardinals, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Baltimore Ravens over the past decade.
Calais Campbell was named to the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award in 2019 for his work on and off the field. This includes being a model citizen both on and off the playing field.
Calais Campbell is known for his powerful play as a pass rusher and run stopper at the defensive end in the NFL. He recorded 41 sacks during his ten-year career, making him one of Division I-A football's top defenders ever.
Calais Campbell currently plays for the Baltimore Ravens where he continues to be a key contributor on defense even into his tenth season in professional football Campbell was a dominant force on the defensive line in his 10-year NFL career.
Campbell has been selected to multiple All-Pro teams and Pro Bowls and is one of the most decorated players in NFL history.
He is also an eight-time ACC Defensive Player of the Year and two-time First Team All-American. Campbell retired at age 33 after playing his final season with Arizona Cardinals in 2020.
Also Played For: madden nfl 18, madden nfl 20
6. Stefon Diggs
Wide receiver
Career
- First-team All-Pro (2020)
- 3× Pro Bowl (2020–2022)
- NFL receptions leader (2020)
- NFL receiving yards leader (2020)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2015)
- Second-team All-Big Ten (2014)
Stefon Diggs was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2015 and played for them until 2019. He then signed with the Buffalo Bills in 2020 and has been there ever since.
Stefon Diggs is a wide receiver and is one of the top players in the league when it comes to catching passes. He has also been named to several All-Pro teams as well as being awarded First-team All-Pro status in 2020.
Stefon Diggs was born on November 29, 1993, which makes him just 29 years old at this time. This gives him plenty of experience both on the field and behind it, making him an invaluable part of any team he plays for.
Stefon Diggs attended Our Lady of Good Counsel high school before going on to play college football at Maryland where he became one of their most popular players during his two seasons there (2012–2014).
Stefon Diggs was drafted in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings. He played college football at Maryland where he made three Pro Bowls and was a Second-team All-American as a junior in 2013. In his rookie season, Stefon Diggs led all NFL receivers with 96 receptions for 1,277 yards and six touchdowns.
As a sophomore in 2014, Stefon Diggs helped lead the Minnesota Vikings to their first playoff appearance since 2008 while recording 66 receptions for 985 yards and five touchdowns.
In 2016, Stefon Diggs led all NFL receivers with 101 catches for 1,297 yards and nine touchdowns before being named First Team All-Pro and earning his second Pro Bowl invitation later that year.
In 2018, Stefon Diggs became just the fifth player in history to record over 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first four seasons when he amassed 112 catches for 1,401 yards and eight touchdowns.
Stefon Diggs is an explosive receiver who can stretch defenses deep into their territory on short passes or go long downfield routes to make big plays， making him one of the most dangerous players in the league today.
Also Played For: buffalo bills, fantasy playoff
7. Stephon Gilmore
Cornerback
Career
- Super Bowl champion (LIII)
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2019)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (2018, 2019)
- 5× Pro Bowl (2016, 2018–2021)
- NFL interceptions co-leader (2019)
- New England Patriots All-2010s Team
- New England Patriots All-Dynasty Team
- CFN, Phil Steele Freshman All-American (2009)
- Third-team All-American (2011)
Stephon Gilmore was a two-time Super Bowl champion with the Buffalo Bills in 2016 and 2017. He has also won three Pro Bowl appearances, two First-Team All-Pro Awards, and one Second-Team All-Pro Award during his career.
Gilmore is known for his tough play against opposing receivers, which has led to him accumulating over 100 interceptions during his NFL career. Gilmore is a three-time Pro Bowl selection and two-time First-team All-Pro.
He led the NFL with 29 interceptions in 2019, making him one of the most prolific defensive players in league history.
Gilmore was drafted by the New England Patriots in 2010 and has since developed into one of the team's most important players.
Also Played For: south carolina gamecocks football
8. Christian McCaffrey
Running back
Career
- First-team All-Pro (2019)
- Second-team All-Pro (2018)
- Pro Bowl (2019)
- Paul Hornung Award (2015)
- Jet Award (2015)
- Football Academic All-America of the Year (2016)
- AP College Football Player of the Year (2015)
- Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year (2015)
- Consensus All-American (2015)
- 2× First-team All-Pac-12 (2015, 2016)
Christian McCaffrey is a running back for the San Francisco 49ers. He was drafted eighth overall in the 2017 NFL Draft and has since become an integral part of the team.
In 2019, McCaffrey was named first-team All-Pro and second-team All-Pro, both honors being his second consecutive season on either list. Christian McCaffrey attended Valor Christian High School in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, and played college football at Stanford before entering the NFL Draft.
McCaffrey has been incredibly successful in his short career so far - he’s won two Pro Bowls and been selected to three all-pro teams (including one first team). Christian McCaffrey is a running back from Stanford who was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft.
He has been named to two Pro Bowls and one Super Bowl, and he led the league in rushing yards in 2016 with 1,845 yards on 322 carries. McCaffrey also had 92 receptions for 963 yards and seven touchdowns, making him one of the most versatile players in all of football.
His combination of speed, elusiveness, strength, and receiving ability make him virtually unstoppable when it comes to breaking away from defenders or catching passes out of the backfield.
With his natural gifts as a runner and receiver alike, McCaffrey will be an important part of any team he plays for going forward.
Also Played For: carokina panthers, nfl playoff
9. Myles Garrett
Defensive end
Career
- 2× First-team All-Pro (2020, 2021)
- Second-team All-Pro (2018)
- 4× Pro Bowl (2018, 2020−2022)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2017)
- Bill Willis Trophy (2015)
- Unanimous All-American (2016)
- First-team All-American (2015)
- 2× First-team All-SEC (2015, 2016)
- Second-team All-SEC (2014)
Garrett was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft and has since become a starter for the Cleveland Browns. Garrett is known for his explosiveness off the line of scrimmage, as well as his pass-rushing skills.
In 2018, he recorded 10 sacks and helped lead the Browns to their first playoff appearance in over 50 years. As a rookie, Garrett was named to both The Sporting News' All-Rookie Team and Pro Football Focus's All-Pro Second team.
Garrett was a consensus All-American in 2016 and was a first-team selection by both the Associated Press and the Football Writers Association of America. Garrett has also been selected to four Pro Bowls, including two as an alternate and one as a starter.
He is second on the team with 73 sacks since entering the NFL in 2017. Garrett starred at Texas A&M where he recorded 242 tackles, 32 sacks, 15 interceptions (including nine returned for touchdowns), 11 pass breakups, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and one defensive touchdown over his career there.
Also Played For: cleveland browns
10. Justin Simmons
Free safety
Career
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (2019, 2021)
- Pro Bowl (2020)
Justin Simmons was drafted by the Denver Broncos in 2016 and has been with them since. Justin is a safety who mainly plays on special teams but can also play in the defensive backfield.
Justin had an impressive college career at Boston College, earning All-ACC honors as a senior while helping the Eagles to a conference championship game appearance.
After going undrafted in 2016, Simmons signed with the Broncos and made his NFL debut that year against the Cleveland Browns.
He went on to make 47 appearances for Denver over three seasons before being traded to Carolina Panthers last offseason.
Justin is considered one of the brightest young safeties in football and looks set for big things during his time in the NFL Simmons was drafted in the 2nd round of the 2020 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles.
Simmons has been an All-Pro and Pro Bowler in his career thus far with the Eagles, playing a key role on their defense. Simmons is known for his athleticism and physicality on defense, which makes him a force to be reckoned with on that side of the ball.
With Justin Simmons now set to hit free agency next year, it will be interesting to see if he re-signs with Philadelphia or goes elsewhere in order to continue playing at a high level.
Also Played For: denver broncos
11. Russell Wilson
Quarterback
Career
- Super Bowl champion (XLVIII)
- Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (2020)
- Second-team All-Pro (2019)
- 9× Pro Bowl (2012–2015, 2017–2021)
- NFL passer rating leader (2015)
- NFL passing touchdowns leader (2017)
- Bart Starr Award (2022)
- Griese–Brees Quarterback of the Year (2011)
- First-team All-Big Ten (2011)
- ACC Rookie of the Year (2008)
- ACC Offensive Rookie of the Year (2008)
- First-team All-ACC (2008)
- Second-team All-ACC (2010)
- NC State Wolfpack jersey No. 16 retired
Russell Wilson was born on November 29, 1988, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He attended Collegiate School where he played football and graduated in 2010. After playing at NC State for two years, he transferred to Wisconsin and became the Badgers' starting quarterback in 2011.
In 2012, Wilson was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks with their 3rd round pick (75th overall). Over the next six seasons, he led Seattle to back-to-back Super Bowl appearances (2014 & 2015), becoming just the 2nd player ever to do so after Tom Brady of the New England Patriots (2007–2012).
On January 14th, 2019 Russell announced his retirement from professional football following a successful season as Captain of the Seahawks' team which made it all the way to Super Bowl LIII against the Los Angeles Rams who eventually won 61-17.
He was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in 2012 and became their starting quarterback that season.
Wilson led the Seahawks to a Super Bowl victory over the Broncos in 2018, becoming just the second player in NFL history to win multiple championships with two different teams.
He has also been selected for nine Pro Bowls and holds several franchise records, including the most career passing touchdowns (385) and passer rating (104.1).
In 2020, Wilson received Walter Payton Man of the Year honors from The Associated Press after leading his team to another championship appearance despite injuring his knee late in the season.
Also Played For: national football conference, nc state wolfpack football
12. Chandler Jones
Defensive end
Career
- Super Bowl champion (XLIX)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (2017, 2019)
- 4× Pro Bowl (2015, 2017, 2019, 2021)
- NFL sacks leader (2017)
- NFL forced fumbles co-leader (2019)
- Butkus Award (2019)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2012)
- New England Patriots All-2010s Team
- 2× All-Big East (2010, 2011)
Chandler Jones is a defensive end who played for the New England Patriots from 2012-2015 and then signed with the Arizona Cardinals in 2016. Chandler Jones has Pro Bowl appearances in 2013, 2014, and 2015 as well as All-Pro selections in 2013 and 2014.
Chandler Jones was released by the Cardinals at the end of the 2018 season after playing just one game due to an injury.
He is currently a free agent again. Chandler Jones stands at 6'5" and weighs 260 pounds, making him an imposing figure on opposing offenses Chandler Jones is a Super Bowl champion and 4-time Pro Bowler with 112 sacks in nine years in the NFL.
Chandler Jones was drafted by the New England Patriots in 2010 and has been an essential part of their defense ever since, being named to multiple All-Pro teams and leading the team in sacks each year he has played.
In 2018, Chandler Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles injury which ended his career at just 29 years old.
Also Played For: syracuse orange football
13. Julio Jones
Wide receiver
Career
- 2× First-team All-Pro (2015, 2016)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (2017–2019)
- 7× Pro Bowl (2012, 2014–2019)
- 2× NFL receiving yards leader (2015, 2018)
- NFL receptions co-leader (2015)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2011)
- BCS national champion (2009)
- SEC Freshman of the Year (2008)
- First-team All-SEC (2010)
- Second-team All-SEC (2008)
Julio Jones is one of the most accomplished receivers in NFL history. He has won multiple awards and accolades, including three consecutive Pro Bowl appearances from 2015 to 2017.
Julio Jones was drafted sixth overall by the Atlanta Falcons in 2011 and has since had an illustrious career with the team. He enjoyed a stellar rookie season, setting league records for receiving yards and touchdowns while also being named Rookie of the Year.
In 2018, he led all wide receivers with 1,409 yards on 107 receptions as part of an explosive Atlanta offense that went deep into playoff contention.
Julio Jones remains one of the top players in the game today - his combination of size (6'3", 220lbs), speed (he's running a 4.33 40-yard dash) and ability to make spectacular catches makes him a difficult player to defend no matter who he plays against.
As one of only six players ever to have at least 10,000 receiving yards and 500 touchdown receptions in their career, Julio Jones is unquestionably one of football's greatest talents ever. Julio Jones is a well-known and highly decorated NFL player.
He has won multiple awards and accolades throughout his career, including 2 first-team All-Pro selections and 3 second-team All-Pros. Julio Jones was drafted 1st overall by the Atlanta Falcons in 2011, making him one of the most talented players to ever enter the league.
Julio Jones had an outstanding rookie season, catching 96 passes for 1,426 yards and 10 touchdowns - all rookie records at the time.
In 2012, Julio Jones became just the 5th player in NFL history to record over 1000 receiving yards in a single season – he finished with 1126 yards on 147 receptions alone.
In 2013, Julio Jones led the Falcons to their first Super Bowl victory since 1999 (they also made it back to The Big Game in 2017).
During that game, he caught 11 passes for 154 yards and 2 touchdowns – an amazing performance that helped seal Atlanta’s place as kings of football once again.
Also Played For: 2011 nfl draft, nfc south
14. Odell Beckham Jr.
Wide receiver
Career
- Super Bowl champion (LVI)
- NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (2014)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (2015, 2016)
- 3× Pro Bowl (2014–2016)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2014)
- Paul Hornung Award (2013)
- First-team All-American (2013)
- First-team All-SEC (2013)
Beckham was one of the most electrifying and talented receivers in NFL history. He is a five-time Pro Bowler, three-time First Team All-Pro, two-time Second Team All-Pro, and won the 2016 AP Most Valuable Player Award.
Beckham Jr.'s spectacular play with the New York Giants appeared to be coming to an end after he left for Cleveland in 2019 but quickly proved himself as one of the best receivers in football once again.
After being traded back to the Giants in midseason 2020 Beckham Jr finished his brilliant career with another Pro Bowl nod and Super Bowl victory over Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Nick Foles.
Odell Beckham Jr. is a professional American football wide receiver for the New York Giants of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at LSU and was drafted by the Giants in 2013.
Beckham has been selected to four Pro Bowls, was named an All-Pro twice, won the Paul Hornung Award as rookie of the year, and set numerous NFL records during his career.
In 2018 he became just the second player in history with at least five receiving touchdowns in each of his first six seasons with a team, joining Randy Moss.
Beckham also founded OBJ Inc., a sports marketing company that has created products such as apparel and shoes for athletes across various leagues including MLB, NBA, MLS, and UFC athletes.
Beckham's charitable work includes donating $1 million to help rebuild areas affected by Hurricane Harvey in Texas In 2019 he signed an endorsement deal with Nike worth over $200 million which makes him one of their highest-paid athletes ever.
15. Ezekiel Elliott
Running back
Career
- 3× Pro Bowl (2016, 2018, 2019)
- First-team All-Pro (2016)
- Second-team All-Pro (2018)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2016)
- 2× NFL rushing yards leader (2016, 2018)
- CFP national champion (2014)
- CFP National Championship Offensive MVP (2014)
- Chicago Tribune Silver Football (2015)
- Graham–George Offensive Player of the Year (2015)
- Ameche–Dayne Running Back of the Year (2015)
- Second-team All-American (2015)
- First-team All-Big Ten (2015)
- James E. Sullivan Award (2014)
Ezekiel Elliott was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the 2016 NFL Draft. He played college football at Ohio State and is currently an active player on the team.
Ezekiel Elliot has been a mainstay for the Cowboys since he joined them in 2016, racking up over 1,700 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns during that time period.
His biggest accomplishment to date may have come in 2018 when he became only the sixth player in NFL history to rush for 2,000 yards and 20 or more touchdowns in a single season.
With his success behind him and continued production expected from him moving forward, Ezekiel Elliott is sure to be one of the most famous players in both professional sports.
The popular culture within years to come, Ezekiel Elliott, is a talented running back who has had an impressive career in the NFL. He was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 2016 and has since become one of their most important players.
Elliott has won multiple awards, including first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl selections, and is known for his powerful running style.
Also Played For: dallsa cowboy, dallas cowboys
16. Davante Adams
Wide receiver
Career
- 2× First-team All-Pro (2020, 2021)
- 6× Pro Bowl (2017–2022)
- NFL receiving touchdowns leader (2020)
- Paul Warfield Trophy (2013)
- Second-team All-American (2013)
- First-team All-MWC (2012, 2013)
- MWC Freshman of the Year (2012)
Davante Adams is a talented wide receiver who has played for the Packers and Raiders in his career. Davante Adams was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 2014 and spent four seasons with them before signing with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022.
Davante Adams is known for his great speed and ability to make acrobatic catches, which has earned him multiple accolades throughout his career. Davante Adams is projected to be one of the top receivers in the NFL over the next few years, so fans should keep an eye on him.
Davante Adams is a six-time Pro Bowler and two-time First-team All-Pro, making him one of the most accomplished receivers in NFL history. He was drafted by the Packers with the 33rd overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, and he has since become one of their all-time greats.
Adams is known for his speed and ability to get deep downfield, which has led him to be one of the league's top receivers over the past few seasons.
Adams will look to continue his success this season as he looks to lead Green Bay back into contention for a Super Bowl title once again.
Also Played For: green bay packers
17. Jaire Alexander
Cornerback
Career
- Second-team All-Pro (2020)
- 2× Pro Bowl (2020, 2022)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2018)
- Second team All-ACC (2016)
Jaire Alexander was a cornerback for the Green Bay Packers in 2018 and 2019. He attended Rocky River High School in Mint Hill, North Carolina before playing college football at Louisville.
At Louisville, Alexander won the Jim Thorpe Award as the nation's best defensive back in 2017 and led the Cardinals with eight interceptions that season. In 2018, he was drafted by the Packers in the first round of the NFL Draft and made his debut during their regular season game against Chicago Bears on September 10th.
Alexander finished his rookie season with 43 tackles (32 solos), four pass deflections, two sacks, one forced fumble, and one interception returned for a touchdown en route to being named to both The Associated Press All-Pro Second Team as well as Pro Football Focus' All-NFL Second Team defense.
In 2019 he totaled 54 tackles (38 solos) 2 passes defended 1 sack 3 interceptions returned for touchdowns Jaire Alexander is an all-purpose defensive back who was drafted in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Green Bay Packers.
Alexander has been a standout player for both college and the pros, recording 241 tackles, 10 interceptions, and 58 pass deflections during his career thus far.
His playmaking abilities have helped him to be named to various All-Pro teams and earn second-team honors from the Pro Football Writers Association (PFWA) twice – most notably in 2020 when he also participated in two Pro Bowls.
With continued success on defense and special teams, there's no telling how high up on lists such as MVP or Most Valuable Player (MVP) Alexander could go given his elite level of play over an extended period of time.
18. Aaron Jones
Running back
Career
- Pro Bowl (2020)
- NFL rushing touchdowns co-leader (2019)
Aaron Jones is a 2017 fifth-round pick by the Green Bay Packers. He played college football at UTEP and has spent most of his career with the Packers.
Aaron Jones was drafted due to his running ability, which he showcased in college with 1,845 yards on 541 carries (4.6 yards per carry) and 16 touchdowns over two seasons.
In his rookie season in 2017, he made an impact as a rusher for the Packers and had nine rushing touchdowns while also adding 188 yards on 33 receptions out of the backfield.
The following year saw him continue to be one of quarterback Aaron Rodgers' favorite targets and led all NFL running backs with 1,544 receiving yards on 107 catches (12th overall).
As of early 2019, Aaron Jones remains an important part of the Packer's offense despite being just 28 years old and having plenty left in the tank both literally and figuratively. Aaron Jones is an outstanding running back who has shown great potential in his short career.
He has been a key part of the Green Bay Packers offense for the past two seasons and looks poised to continue that success in 2022.
His speed, power, and explosiveness make him a difficult player to tackle and a threat on every carry. Aaron Jones will be looking to add another Pro Bowl appearance to his resume this season as he leads the pack in rushing yards and touchdowns heading into Week 17 2019.
19. Za'Darius Smith
Defensive lineman
Career
- Baltimore Ravens (2015–2018)
- Green Bay Packers (2019–2021)
- Minnesota Vikings (2022–present)
Za'Darius Smith was a standout linebacker for the Kentucky Wildcats from 2013-2014. In his final season, he recorded 126 tackles, 10 sacks, and 2 interceptions.
The Minnesota Vikings selected Smith in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL draft and he has since started all 16 games for them each year. He is a versatile defender who can play both inside and outside linebacker positions.
Smith's athleticism and motor have allowed him to be one of the most productive linebackers in the league over recent seasons. His impact on defense has been criticized as the Vikings have made playoff appearances each year he has been with them.
Outside of football, Smith is an avid painter who often posts images of his work online. He also contributes to various social media platforms regularly to share news about sports or other topics relevant to young adults Za'Darius Smith is a talented and hard-hitting defensive end for the Baltimore Ravens.
He has been very productive in his career, totaling 256 tackles, 54 sacks, 11 pass deflections, and 8 fumble recoveries. Za'Darius Smith was drafted by the Packers in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft after playing college football at Vanderbilt.
It will be interesting to see how he fares in Green Bay's system; if he can develop into a consistent starter then he could have a long and successful career as a Packer.
In 2020, Za'Darius Smith was a second-team All-Pro after recording 10 sacks and 26 ½ pressures on defense (fifth-most among all defenders). He also showed off his dynamic ability as an edge rusher with 2 forced fumbles and 1 fumble recovery during that season.
With Aaron Rodgers under center for the Green Bay Packers, expect Smith to continue putting up impressive numbers – especially considering his contract situation which allows him to become an unrestricted free agent following the 2021 season.
Also Played For: east mississippi community college
20. Deshaun Watson
Quarterback
Career
- 3× Pro Bowl (2018–2020)
- NFL passing yards leader (2020)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2017)
- CFP national champion (2016)
- CFP National Championship Offensive MVP (2016)
- Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (2016)
- 2× Davey O'Brien Award (2015, 2016)
- 2× Manning Award (2015, 2016)
- 2× ACC Athlete of the Year (2016, 2017)
- ACC Player of the Year (2015)
- ACC Offensive Player of the Year (2015)
- Consensus All-American (2015)
- First-team All-ACC (2015)
- Second-team All-ACC (2016)
Deshaun Watson was born in Gainesville, Georgia on September 14, 1995. He attended Clemson University and played for the Tigers from 2014-2016. In 2017, Deshaun Watson was drafted by the Houston Texans as the 12th overall pick in the NFL Draft.
Since being drafted by Houston, he has started all 16 games for them and led them to a 10-6 record during his rookie season.
In 2018, Watson helped lead the Texans to their first-ever playoff appearance as they beat Tennessee Titans in overtime in week 17 of that season's regular season schedule (the team would later lose to the Jacksonville Jaguars).
As of 2019, Deshaun Watson is still with the Houston Texans and is considered one of their key players going into this year's playoffs. Deshaun Watson is a 3-time Pro Bowler and 2x ACC Offensive Player of the Year.
Deshaun Watson led Clemson to an undefeated season in 2015, before winning the national championship in 2016. In 2017, Watson was named First-team All-American after completing 536 yards with 4 touchdowns and 1 interception against Alabama in the National Championship game.
Also Played For: huston texans, clemson tigers football
21. Jalen Ramsey
Cornerback
Career
- Super Bowl champion (LVI)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (2017, 2020, 2021)
- 5× Pro Bowl (2017–2021)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2016)
- BCS national champion (2013)
- Consensus All-American (2015)
- Second-team All-American (2014)
- 2× First-team All-ACC (2014, 2015)
Jalen Ramsey is a talented cornerback who has had an illustrious career in the NFL. He was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2016, but he never played for them as they traded him to the Los Angeles Rams later that year.
Ramsey made an instant impact with his new team, making several key interceptions and helping lead L.A. to their first Super Bowl appearance in over two decades.
The 28-year-old is now one of the best cornerbacks in the league and is widely considered among the most consistent performers at his position over the past few seasons.
Jalen Ramsey is a standout cornerback who has made an impact on both the NFL and college levels. He was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars with the fifth pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, and he has since become one of their best players.
Ramsey has been named to multiple All-Pro teams, including the first team in 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021.
He also won Super Bowl LVI with Jacksonville as part of their championship run that year. Ramsey currently plays for the Oakland Raiders after being traded there during the off-season.
Also Played For: jacksonville jaguars, florida state seminoles football
22. Patrick Mahomes II
Quarterback
Career
- Super Bowl champion (LIV)
- Super Bowl MVP (LIV)
- NFL Most Valuable Player (2018)
- NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2018)
- First-team All-Pro (2018)
- Second-team All-Pro (2020)
- 5× Pro Bowl (2018–2022)
- NFL passing touchdowns leader (2018)
- Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year (2020)
- Bert Bell Award (2018)
- Sammy Baugh Trophy (2016)
- Second-team All-Big 12 (2016)
- FBS passing yards leader (2016)
Patrick Mahomes II is the son of Patrick Mahomes, who was the starting quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs in 2017 and won a Super Bowl with them that year.
He played college football at Texas Tech where he set several records, including the most touchdown passes in a season (43) and most total touchdowns (70). After his successful collegiate career, Mahomes was drafted by the Chiefs in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft.
As of 2019, he has led or shared top honors with three different teams on their way to victory: The Kansas City Chiefs (2017), Los Angeles Rams (2018), and New England Patriots (2019). Patrick Mahomes II is a talented quarterback who has had an incredible career in the NFL.
He has won multiple awards, including Super Bowl MVP and NFL Most Valuable Player, and is one of the best players in the league. Patrick Mahomes II also holds several records, including the most touchdown passes in a season and career.
Also Played For: texas tech red raiders football, kansas city chiefs
23. Chris Jones
Defensive lineman
Career
- Super Bowl champion (LIV)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (2020, 2021)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (2018, 2020, 2021)
- 4× Pro Bowl (2019–2022)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2016)
Chris Jones was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2016. He played college football for Mississippi State and has been with the team since then. Jones is an offensive tackle and has started 23 games in his career.
He has also appeared in a Super Bowl appearance with the Chiefs, where they lost to New England Patriots 41-35 Chris Jones is a dominant defensive player and Super Bowl champion. He has 3 first-team All-Pro awards, 4 Pro Bowl appearances, and the NFL record for most consecutive games with a sack.
Jones had an outstanding rookie season in 2016 and is poised to have another great campaign in 2022.
24. Tyreek Hill
Wide receiver
Career
- Super Bowl champion (LIV)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (2016, 2018, 2020)
- Second-team All-Pro (2018)
- 7× Pro Bowl (2016–2022)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2016)
- Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year (2014)
Tyreek Hill was drafted fifth overall by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2016. He played college football at Oklahoma State and West Alabama before being signed by the Dolphins in 2017.
In his rookie season, he led the NFL with 87 receptions for 1,479 yards and 11 touchdowns. In 2018, he had 79 receptions for 1,429 yards and 10 touchdowns as well as a rushing touchdown on four occasions.
As of 2019, Tyreek Hill has amassed over 4,000 receiving yards and 40 touchdowns in his career with Miami Tyreek Hill is an extremely talented and explosive wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs.
He was a first-round pick by the team in 2016 and has quickly become one of its top players.
Hill has been a key part of two Super Bowl victories, as well as being named MVP in both games. He also won Second Team All-Pro honors this year and Pro Bowl selection in 2018, 2020, and 2021.
His talent level is unrivaled on the Chiefs’ roster and he will continue to be a major force for them moving forward.
25. Josh Jacobs
Running back
Career
- 2× Pro Bowl (2020, 2022)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2019)
- CFP national champion (2017)
Josh Jacobs was drafted by the Las Vegas Raiders in the 2019 NFL Draft. He played college football at Alabama, where he ran for over 2,000 yards and 23 touchdowns in three seasons.
Josh Jacobs was a consensus All-American as a sophomore in 2018, after running for 1,543 yards and 21 touchdowns on 265 carries (5.1 avg) while also catching 43 passes for 514 yards (10.2 avg).
After being selected 24th overall in the 2019 draft by the Raiders, he signed with them a four-year contract worth $3 million per season. In his rookie season with Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders, Josh Jacobs had 698 rushing yards on 137 attempts (4 YPC) and 4 receptions for 36 yards before being traded to the Atlanta Falcons during off-season workouts.
Josh Jacobs was a standout running back at Alabama and quickly emerged as one of the top NFL prospects in 2018. The Penn State product has averaged over 100 yards from scrimmage in each of his first two seasons and is an explosive runner with plenty of upsides.
Jacobs will likely be used primarily as a complement to another running back on the Giants' roster, but he could make an impact if given opportunities.
Also Played For: las vegas raiders
26. Aaron Donald
Defensive end
Career
- Super Bowl champion (LVI)
- 3× NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2017, 2018, 2020)
- NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (2014)
- 7× First-team All-Pro (2015–2021)
- 9× Pro Bowl (2014–2022)
- NFL sacks leader (2018)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2014)
- ACC Defensive Player of the Year (2013)
- Bronko Nagurski Trophy (2013)
- Chuck Bednarik Award (2013)
- Lombardi Award (2013)
- Outland Trophy (2013)
- Bill Willis Trophy (2013)
- Unanimous All-American (2013)
Aaron Donald is a dominant defensive tackle and one of the best players in the NFL. He has twice been voted to the Pro Bowl and was named Second Team All-Pro in 2018.
Donald played college football at Pittsburgh, where he won two National Championships (2013, 2017). He was drafted by St. Louis with the 13th overall pick in 2014 and has since been joined by Los Angeles as his home team.
Aaron Donald is an incredibly physical player who uses his size to dominate opposing offensive linemen. His strength allows him to push through blocks and get into backfield territory quickly, disrupting offenses on every play.
Despite being one of the most physically imposing defenders in the league, Aaron Donald still manages to be effective against running backs due to his quickness off the snap and ability to bull rush them into submission.
Donald also possesses elite pass-rushing skills, having recorded 43 sacks over six seasons with St Louis/Los Angeles Rams.
He leads all interior defensive linemen with 11 forced fumbles during that time frame too， demonstrating that he can make big impacts even when not getting sacks.
Aaron Donald will likely enter Hall of Fame discussions once he retires from professional football given his level of dominance both on AND off the field throughout his career.
Aaron Donald is a dominant defensive tackle who has been named to multiple All-Pro teams and Pro Bowls during his career.
Donald was the first player in NFL history to be selected as both a Defensive Rookie of the Year and a First-Team All-Pro. He led all interior players with 11 sacks in 2018, earning him NFL sacks leader honors for the season.
Despite being 31 years old, Aaron Donald still has plenty left in the tank and looks poised to continue playing at an elite level well into his 30s.
Also Played For: los aggeles rams, pittsburgh panthers football
27. Bobby Wagner
Linebacker
Career
- Super Bowl champion (XLVIII)
- 6× First-team All-Pro (2014, 2016–2020)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (2015, 2021)
- 8× Pro Bowl (2014–2021)
- 2× NFL tackles leader (2016, 2019)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2012)
- 3× First-team All-WAC (2009–2011)
- Senior Bowl MVP (2012)
Wagner was a two-time All-Pro linebacker with the Seattle. Seahawks in his six seasons there.
He signed with the Los. Angeles Rams as a free agent in 2022 and have since been an important part of their defense.
Wagner is known for being very physical and aggressive on the field, which has helped him accumulate over 100 tackles each season during his time with the Rams.
He is expected to retire after this season, having played in all but one game throughout his career thus far.
Wagner was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft. He has been a consistent performer for Seattle and is considered to be one of the best middle linebackers in football.
Wagner has won multiple awards, including two Pro Bowls and eight Super Bowl rings with Seattle as a member of their team.
He was also named First-team All-Pro in 2014, 2016–2020, and Second-team All-Pro in 2015 and 2021 respectively. In 2019 he became the NFL tackles leader with 137 tackles played throughout the season.
28. Derwin James
Safety
Career
- First-team All-Pro (2018)
- 3× Pro Bowl (2018, 2021, 2022)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2018)
- First-team All American (2017)
- 2× First-team All-ACC (2016, 2017)
Derwin James is a safety for the Los Angeles Chargers and was drafted in the first round of 2018. He has quickly become one of their top players, recording over 100 tackles each season he's been in the league.
Derwin James played college football at Florida State and proved to be an elite defender during his time there. His speed, coverage skills, and strong tackling ability have made him a key player on both sides of the ball in the NFL.
Derwin James is slated to start opposite Jahleel Addae this upcoming season for the Chargers and should continue to develop into one of the best safeties in pro football Derwin James is considered one of the top prospects in NFL history and has already made an impact on the league.
He was drafted with the fifth pick by the Los Angeles Chargers in 2018 and had a huge rookie season, being named first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl selection. His career continued to blossom in 2019, as he was named First-team All-American for his outstanding play all over the field.
Derwin James is a versatile defender who can play both inside and outside linebacker positions, making him extremely difficult to stop.
With his talent and ability to make big plays, there's no doubt that Derwin James will be one of the stars of the NFL for many years to come.
Also Played For: los angeles chargers, san diego chargers
29. Keenan Allen
Wide receiver
Career
- NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2017)
- 5× Pro Bowl (2017–2021)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2013)
- First-team All-Pac-12 (2011)
Allen was drafted by the Chargers in 2013 and has since become one of their most consistent receivers. Allen is a speedster with great elusiveness, making him difficult to defend even when covered by single coverage.
Allen has also shown an ability to make spectacular catches over defenders despite his lack of height. He is coming off a season where he caught 102 passes for 1,393 yards and 12 touchdowns in 16 games played.
Allen's contract expires after the 2020 season and it is likely that the Chargers will offer him a new contract extension soon Keenan Allen is a superstar wide receiver for the San Diego Chargers.
He has been one of the most consistent receivers in the NFL over the past few years, and he is definitely someone to watch out for in future matchups. Allen was born and raised in Southern California, so he knows all about playing in front of his home fans.
He has also developed a strong rivalry with Antonio Brown, another elite wide receiver currently playing in the NFL. Allen has won numerous accolades during his career thus far, including being named an All-Pro five times and being voted as the Comeback Player of the Year last season.
He will be looking to add even more hardware to his collection this year. If you're looking for some excitement on Sunday afternoon, make sure to tune into any games featuring Keenan Allen - you won't regret it.
30. Dalvin Cook
Running back
Career
- 2× First-team All-Pro (2019, 2020)
- 3× Pro Bowl (2019–2021)
- Unanimous All-American (2016)
- Second-team All-American (2015)
- 2× First-team All-ACC (2015, 2016)
- Second-team All-ACC (2014)
Cook was a highly touted running back coming out of high school and he made good on that promise by playing college football for Florida State. He is currently with the Minnesota Vikings and has been a key part of their offense over the past two seasons.
Cook is known as one of the most physical runners in the NFL, capable of taking it to defenders at any time. His speed and agility are also assets, making him difficult to bring down even when he's not breaking away from tackles explosively.
Although Cook hasn't translated his stats into playoff success yet, there's no doubt that he has the potential to be one of the best running backs in league history if he can continue putting up big numbers week in and week out for years to come.
Cook was a two-time first-team All-American and three-time Pro Bowler. He led the FCS in rushing yards and touchdowns as a freshman before becoming one of the top running backs in college football.
The Minnesota Vikings drafted Cook with their first pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, and he has since become one of the best players in the league.
Also Played For: minnesota vikings
31. Harrison Smith
Safety
Career
- First-team All-Pro (2017)
- Second-team All-Pro (2018)
- 6× Pro Bowl (2015–2019, 2021)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2012)
Harrison Smith is a safety for the Minnesota Vikings and has been in the NFL since 2012. He attended Notre Dame, where he played football for three seasons before being drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2012.
Smith was named to his first Pro Bowl in 2016 and has also been selected to participate in the 2017 and 2018 Pro Bowls. He finished second on the Vikings' all-time list with 567 tackles (521 solos) after joining that club as an Eagle in 2013 and finishing third with 92 passes defended over his career.
In 2018, he registered 85 tackles (65 solos), 2 sacks, 1 interception returned for a touchdown, 4 forced fumbles, 3 fumble recoveries, and one quarterback hit through 16 games played all career highs.
Harrison Smith is a perennial All-Pro and one of the best safeties in the NFL. He was named to his first Pro Bowl in 2015 and has been selected six times overall.
Smith has also made an impact on defense through interceptions, pass deflections, forced fumbles, and fumble recoveries over his career. At 29 years old, Harrison Smith is still playing at an elite level and should continue to do so for many more seasons to come.
Also Played For: madden nfl 19
32. Rob Gronkowski
Tight end
Career
- 4× Super Bowl champion (XLIX, LI, LIII, LV)
- NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2014)
- 4× First-team All-Pro (2011, 2014, 2015, 2017)
- 5× Pro Bowl (2011, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2017)
- NFL receiving touchdowns leader (2011)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2010)
- New England Patriots All-2010s Team
- New England Patriots All-Dynasty Team
- Third-team All-American (2008)
- First-team All-Pac-10 (2008)
Rob Gronkowski is a professional tight end for the New England Patriots. He has been with the team since 2010 and has had several notable seasons, including in 2017 when he recorded 69 catches for 1,082 yards and 15 touchdowns.
Gronkowski was born on May 14, 1989, in Amherst, New York. After high school, he attended Arizona where he played football as well as basketball, and track. He was drafted by the Patriots in 2010 and made his NFL debut that year.
Since then he has become one of the most popular players in league history, playing a pivotal role in many of their successes over the years including back-to-back Super Bowl titles (2017–2018).
Gronkowski retired from football at the end of 2018 but is still contracted to play for Tampa Bay Buccaneers next season after signing a one-year deal earlier this year. Rob Gronkowski is one of the most dominant tight ends in NFL history.
He has more than 15 career touchdowns in the postseason, which ranks second all-time behind only Jerry Rice. In addition to his scoring ability, Gronkowski is also a dangerous receiver out of the backfield.
He was named First-team All-Pro in 2014 and 2015 and Second-team All-Pro this year. Despite being injury prone at times over his long career, Gronkowski remains one of the biggest stars in professional football today.
Also Played For: new england patriots
33. Devin McCourty
Defensive back
Career
- 3× Super Bowl champion (XLIX, LI, LIII)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (2010, 2013, 2016)
- 2× Pro Bowl (2010, 2016)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2010)
- New England Patriots All-2010s Team
- New England Patriots All-Dynasty Team
- First-team All-Big East (2009)
McCourty has been a mainstay in the Patriot's secondary for six seasons and is one of their most reliable defenders. He was drafted by New England in the 2010 NFL draft and started his career as a cornerback before moving to safety late in his rookie season.
McCourty has made three Pro Bowl appearances (2012, 2013, 2014) and finished third on the team with 122 tackles during the 2017 season.
He will likely be an important part of the Patriot's defense for years to come and could eventually take over as captain of the unit if he continues to produce at a high level.
Devin McCourty is one of the most decorated players in NFL history. He has three Super Bowl championships and two Pro Bowl appearances under his belt.
Devin McCourty also holds numerous records, including being the first player ever to record more than 1,000 tackles in a career and having the most interceptions returned for touchdowns by a cornerback in NFL history.
Devin McCourty is currently an ambassador for the New England Patriots and helps raise money for various charities throughout the year.
Also Played For: rutgers scarlet knights football
34. Drew Brees
Quarterback
Career
- Super Bowl champion (XLIV)
- Super Bowl MVP (XLIV)
- 2× NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2008, 2011)
- Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (2006)
- NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2004)
- First-team All-Pro (2006)
- 4× Second-team All-Pro (2008, 2009, 2011, 2018)
- 13× Pro Bowl (2004, 2006, 2008–2014, 2016–2019)
- 7× NFL passing yards leader (2006, 2008, 2011, 2012, 2014–2016)
- 4× NFL passing touchdowns leader (2008, 2009, 2011, 2012)
- 2× NFL passer rating leader (2009, 2018)
- 6× NFL completion percentage leader (2009–2011, 2017–2019)
- Art Rooney Award (2018)
- Bart Starr Award (2011)
- Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year (2010)
- AP Athlete of the Year (2010)
- Bert Bell Award (2009)
- George Halas Award (2007)
- Maxwell Award (2000)
- Chicago Tribune Silver Football (2000)
- 2× Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year (1998, 2000)
Brees was born and raised in Dallas, Texas. He attended Westlake High School before playing college football at Purdue. Brees played for the San Diego Chargers and New Orleans Saints during his professional career.
In 2020, he will be retiring from the NFL after 22 seasons with the New Orleans Saints Drew Brees is one of the most decorated quarterbacks in NFL history.
He has won multiple championships, accolades, and awards including a Super Bowl MVP and Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award.
Drew Brees has played for some of the best teams in the league including the Saints, Colts, and Giants.
He led his teams to victory time after time with his accurate passing skills. Drew Brees will be 39 years old at the end of this season but he still shows no signs of slowing down as he leads his team to another playoff run.
Also Played For: new orleans saints, purdue boilermakers football
35. Alvin Kamara
Running back
Career
- NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (2017)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (2017, 2020)
- 5× Pro Bowl (2017–2021)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2017)
Alvin Kamara is a young running back who made his mark in the NFL with the New Orleans Saints. He received recognition as an All-Pro and Rookie of the Year in 2017, after rushing for 1,554 yards and 10 touchdowns on 257 carries.
Kamara signed a five-year contract extension with the Saints in 2020 and looks to continue his success into future seasons. Alvin Kamara is an NFL rookie sensation and one of the most exciting players in the league. He was drafted 9th overall by the Saints in 2017 and has quickly become a fan favorite.
His speed, agility, explosiveness, and elusiveness on the field make him a difficult player to contain.
He's scored 49 touchdowns so far in his career - which is second only to Marshawn Lynch among active running backs - and he's helped lead New Orleans to back-to-back Super Bowl appearances (2017 & 2018).
Alvin Kamara is truly one of a kind, impacting both offense and defense alike with his play on Sundays and beyond.
36. Cam Jordan
Defensive end
Career
- First-team All-Pro (2017)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (2018, 2019)
- 7× Pro Bowl (2013, 2015, 2017–2021)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- First-team All-Pac-10 (2010)
Cameron Jordan is a versatile defender who has played in the NFL for six seasons. He was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in 2011 and has since become an integral part of their defense.
Jordan is known for his explosiveness off the line of scrimmage, as well as his strength and size at the defensive end. His playmaking abilities have helped him win numerous awards, including two Pro Bowl selections over the course of his career so far.
Cam Jordan is a talented and experienced defensive lineman who has had an impressive career in the NFL. Jordan was a first-team All-Pro in 2017 and has been a key player for the Los Angeles Rams over the past few years.
He is known for his dominance on the interior of the line, as well as his ability to force fumbles and intercept passes. Jordan will be crucial if Los Angeles hopes to defend their title this season, and he is one of the most complete defenders in football.
Also Played For: university of california
37. Michael Thomas
Wide receiver
Career
- NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2019)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (2018, 2019)
- 3× Pro Bowl (2017–2019)
- 2× NFL receptions leader (2018, 2019)
- NFL receiving yards leader (2019)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2016)
- CFP national champion (2015)
Michael Thomas was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in 2016 and has since been a mainstay of their offense. He is known for his big plays, most notably an 81-yard touchdown reception against the Rams in Week 7 of the 2017 season.
In 2018, he missed time with injury but still put up impressive numbers (86 receptions for 1,137 yards and six touchdowns).
Michael Thomas is a 6-foot-3, 212-pound wide receiver for the New Orleans Saints. He was drafted by the Saints in the third round of the 2014 NFL draft and has since established himself as one of their top players.
Thomas has been a two-time Pro Bowler and an All-Pro selection, while also holding several franchise records including the most receptions in a season (149) and receiving yards in a career (9,527).
In 2019 he became just the sixth player ever to catch more than 100 passes in three consecutive seasons and led his team to victory in Super Bowl LIII against the Los Angeles Rams.
Michael Thomas is widely considered one of the best receivers in league history and will continue to improve as he enters his fourth year with New Orleans this upcoming season.
38. T. J. Watt
Linebacker
Career
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2021)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (2019–2021)
- Second-team All-Pro (2019)
- 5× Pro Bowl (2018–2022)
- 2× Deacon Jones Award (2020, 2021)
- NFL forced fumbles co-leader (2019)
- Butkus Award (2020)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2017)
- Second-team All-American (2016)
- First-team All-Big Ten (2016)
Watt was drafted in the first round by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2017. Watt has been an important part of the Steeler's defense since being drafted and is one of their most talented players.
Watt is a powerful outside linebacker who can cause havoc on opposing offenses. He has also shown versatility by playing both as a pass rusher and in coverage, making him even more dangerous to opponents.
Watt is a major reason why the Steelers have had success over the past two seasons and will continue to be a key player for them moving forward T. J. Watt is a dominant defensive player who has been selected to multiple Pro Bowls and All-Pro teams over the course of his career.
He holds NFL records for sacks in a season and consecutive seasons leading the league in sacks, as well as being one of just two players ever to accomplish this feat twice.
Watt was also named Defensive Player of the Year in 2021, making him one of only a few players to win that award three times overall.
Also Played For: pittsburgh steelers
39. Nick Bosa
Defensive lineman
Career
- NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (2019)
- 3× Pro Bowl (2019, 2021, 2022)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2019)
- First-team All-American (2017)
- First-team All-Big Ten (2017)
- Smith-Brown Defensive Lineman of the Year (2017)
Nick Bosa is a young and talented defensive end who was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the 2019 NFL Draft.
Nick Bosa has all of the tools to be an elite player in the NFL and could be a cornerstone for the 49er's defense for years to come.
Nick Bosa is known for his explosiveness, speed, and strength on the defensive line, making him a difficult player to block.
Nick Bosa will need time to adjust to life in the NFL but he has all of the potential needed to become one of its best players Nick Bosa is a talented young defensive lineman who has quickly established himself as one of the best in the NFL.
He was named Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2019 and has already made an impact on the field, recording 153 tackles and 42 sacks while also forcing eight fumbles and recovering two.
Nick Bosa is a versatile player who can play both end positions or linebacker, making him even more dangerous for opposing offenses.
Also Played For: san francisco 49ers, nfc west
40. George Kittle
Tight end
Career
- First-team All-Pro (2019)
- Second-team All-Pro (2018)
- 4× Pro Bowl (2018, 2019, 2021, 2022)
George Kittle was born on October 9, 1993, in Madison, Wisconsin. He attended Norman High School and played tight end for the Norman Warriors football team before transferring to Iowa as a junior in 2012.
In 2016, he redshirted his final year with the Hawkeyes and declared for the 2017 NFL Draft where he was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the fifth round of the draft.
Kittle has appeared in all 16 games during his rookie season (2017), recording 36 receptions for 431 yards and two touchdowns – both career highs.
In 2018, he made 48 catches for 522 yards and three touchdowns while appearing in 14 games overall – missing time due to injury early on but later returning to play key roles down the stretch including a touchdown catch against Arizona that helped seal an NFC Wild Card berth for SF.
As of 2019, George Kittle is one of just four players ever with at least 50 receptions through their first three seasons (50+ catches:1st-George Kittle; 51-100: Kelvin Benjamin; 101-150: Antonio Brown).
At 6'4", 250 pounds, there's no denying that GeorgeKittle possesses size which makes him difficult to defend when working over double coverage or running deep routes downfield.
George Kittle is an all-around receiver for the San Francisco 49ers. He has caught 386 passes for 5,202 yards and 28 touchdowns in his career.
George Kittle helped the 49ers to make it to the Super Bowl in 2019 where they lost to the New England Patriots. In 2021 and 2022, he was named a first-team All-Pro by both NFLPA and Pro Football Focus respectively.
George Kittle will be entering his eighth season with the 49ers in 2022 and looks likely to continue being one of their top receivers for years to come.
Also Played For: the university of iowa, iowa hawkeyes football
41. Richard Sherman
Cornerback
Career
- Super Bowl champion (XLVIII)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (2012–2014)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (2015, 2019)
- 5× Pro Bowl (2013–2016, 2019)
- NFL interceptions leader (2013)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2011)
Sherman was born in Compton, California, and attended Manuel Dominguez High School. Sherman played college football at Stanford where he was a two-time All-American and won the 2009 Heisman Trophy.
After his successful collegiate career, Sherman was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the fifth round of the 2011 NFL Draft. He spent six seasons with the team before signing with the San Francisco 49ers in 2018.
Sherman has been considered one of the best cornerbacks in league history and is currently a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers roster. Sherman was drafted in the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the Seattle Seahawks.
Sherman has been a dominant player for both his team and the league, winning several awards along the way including 3x First-team All-Pro (2012-2014), 2x Second-team All-Pro (2015, 2019), and 5 Pro Bowls. Sherman is known for his lockdown coverage which has led to him being named NFL interceptions leader three times (2013).
Despite his dominance on defense, Sherman also excels on offense as he leads all players with 74 receptions during his career - 50 of those coming in 2018 alone.
Also Played For: stanford cardinal football
42. Jamal Adams
Strong safety
Career
- First-team All-Pro (2019)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (2018, 2020)
- 3× Pro Bowl (2018–2020)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2017)
- Second-team All-American (2016)
- First-team All-SEC (2016)
- Second-team All-SEC (2015)
Jamal Adams was a standout at Hebron High School in Carrollton, Texas before playing college football for LSU. Adams was drafted by the New York Jets in 2017 but only played one season with them before being traded to the Seattle Seahawks.
He has been a mainstay on the team since 2020 and is considered one of the best strong safeties in the league. Adams was a standout at the University of Missouri, where he was twice named first-team All-American.
Adams went undrafted in the 2017 NFL Draft but signed with the New York Jets as a free agent. Adams made an immediate impact with the Jets, becoming one of their best defenders and earning multiple Pro Bowl appearances.
In 2018, Adams emerged as one of the league's top safeties and was rewarded with his first Second Team All-Pro award. Adams continued to be among the elite safeties in 2019 when he earned First-Team All-Pro honors and led all players in interceptions for the season.
Also Played For: seattle seahawks
43. Mike Evans
Wide receiver
Career
- Super Bowl champion (LV)
- Second-team All-Pro (2016)
- 4× Pro Bowl (2016, 2018, 2019, 2021)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2014)
- Consensus All-American (2013)
- First-team All-SEC (2013)
Mike Evans is a wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and was drafted in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft.
Evans has played for the Buccaneers since joining the team in 2014, appearing in over 100 games during his career.
His most noteworthy achievements include being selected to both Pro Bowls (2015, 2016) and earning First-Team All-Pro honors in 2017.
In 2018, he set new franchise records with 1,819 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns on 111 receptions – leading Tampa Bay to their first playoff appearance in six years.
The 2019 season saw Evans post another strong campaign with 87 catches for 1,524 yards and 10 touchdowns – good enough for second place behind Antonio Brown on the league's all-time receiving list.
As well as continuing to be one of the game's top receivers at age 29, Evans also showed off his versatility by starting 11 games at running back this year due to an injury crisis at that position.
Mike Evans is a prolific receiver who has been successful in the NFL since he was drafted in 2013. Evans is known for his big play ability and has record-breaking numbers throughout his career.
He led the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to their first Super Bowl championship in 2018 and continues to be one of the league's top receivers.
Also Played For: tampa bay buccaneers
44. Derrick Henry
Running back
Career
- NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2020)
- First-team All-Pro (2020)
- Second-team All-Pro (2019)
- 3× Pro Bowl (2019, 2020, 2022)
- 2× NFL rushing yards leader (2019, 2020)
- 2× NFL rushing touchdowns leader (2019, 2020)
- CFP National Champion (2015)
- Heisman Trophy (2015)
- Maxwell Award (2015)
- Doak Walker Award (2015)
- Walter Camp Award (2015)
- Unanimous All-American (2015)
- SEC Offensive Player of the Year (2015)
- First-team All-SEC (2015)
Derrick Henry was born on January 4, 1994, in Yulee, Florida. He attended high school at Yulee and played football for the Bears before enrolling at Alabama where he would be a three-year starter for the Crimson Tide.
Henry was drafted by the Tennessee Titans in 2016 with the second overall pick and has since become one of their most important players; appearing in all 16 games each season.
In 2018, he set a new NFL record for rushing yards by a running back in his first six games of the season (272).
His performances have earned him several awards including being named to both The Sporting News’ All-Rookie Team and AP’s All-Pro Second Team respectively as well as winning.
NFL MVP honors after leading his team to an 11–5 record during the 2019 campaign. Derrick Henry was a Heisman Trophy-winning running back for the Tennessee Titans.
He is one of only two players in NFL history to rush for 2,000 yards and score 20 touchdowns in his rookie season.
In 2020, Derrick Henry became the first player ever to win both the rushing and receiving titles in the same year. Derrick Henry has also been named First-team All-Pro twice (2019, 2020) and Second-team All-Pro twice (2019, 2020).
Derrick Henry was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a member of their Class of 2022 on August 3rd, 2021.
Also Played For: tennessee titans
45. Kevin Byard
Safety
Career
- 2× First-team All-Pro (2017, 2021)
- 2× Pro Bowl (2017, 2021)
- NFL interceptions co-leader (2017)
- 2× First-team All-Conference USA (2014, 2015)
Byard was a safety for the Tennessee Titans from 2016-present. He started all 16 games in 2017 and recorded 134 tackles, four interceptions, two sacks, and one forced fumble.
In 2018, Byard had 116 tackles and an interception to go along with three sacks and one forced fumble. As of Week 14 of the 2019 season, he is ranked 5th on the NFL's official stat sheet with 97 total tackles (64 solos).
Kevin Byard is originally from Philadelphia but attended middle school at Martin Luther King Jr High School in Lithonia Georgia before playing college football at Middle Tennessee University.
where he majored in business administration Kevin Byard is one of the most decorated players in Tennessee Titans' history.
He has been a two-time first-team all-pro and three-time conference USA player of the year. Kevin also had an impressive career with 27 interceptions, 3 forced fumbles, 63 pass deflections, and 3 fumble recoveries which puts him in third place on Titan’s all-time list for defensive touchdowns.
In 2018 he was named to his second Pro Bowl and led the NFL with 11 interceptions including 4 against Jacksonville in week 15 clinched the AFC South for Nashville.
The Titans are hoping that Kevin can continue his success into next season where he will be looking to help lead them back to the playoffs after missing out last year.
46. Fletcher Cox
Defensive tackle
Career
- Super Bowl champion (LII)
- First-team All-Pro (2018)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (2014, 2015, 2017)
- 6× Pro Bowl (2015–2020)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2012)
- First-team All-American (2011)
- First-team All-SEC (2011)
Fletcher Cox is a dominant defensive tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles. He was drafted by the team in 2012 and has since become one of their most important players.
Cox is known for his physical play and ability to disrupt offenses on defense. He has been a part of two Super Bowl championships with Philadelphia, in 2013 and 2017.
Cox is an excellent pass rusher, recording 43 sacks during his career thus far. The 32-year-old should continue playing at a high level into the future as he remains an integral part of the Eagles' squad Fletcher Cox is a superstar defensive player in the NFL.
He has won multiple awards and accolades, including three First-team All-Pro selections and six Pro Bowl appearances. Cox was born in Gainesville, Georgia, and played college football at Mississippi State before being drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2013.
In his 11 seasons with the Eagles, he has been one of the most consistent defenders in the league, anchoring an Eagle defense that has made several playoff appearances.
Also Played For: philadelphia eagles
47. Nick Chubb
Cleveland Browns
Career
- 4× Pro Bowl (2019–2022)
- First-team All-SEC (2014)
- Second-team All-SEC (2017)
- SEC Freshman of the Year (2014)
Nick Chubb is a talented running back who was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 2018. Nick Chubb has had a successful career with the Cleveland Browns, and he is currently their starting running back.
Nick Chubb is known for his speed and agility on the field, which makes him a dangerous player to opposing teams. Nick Chubb has also been praised for his work ethic, which has led to him becoming one of the most consistent players in the NFL over the past few years.
Nick Chubb is an exciting player to watch on Sundays due to his ability to run with power and explosiveness through holes in defenses Nick Chubb is an all-purpose back who has excelled in the NFL.
He rushed for over 6,000 yards and 48 touchdowns in his career so far. Nick Chubb was a first-team All-SEC player as a freshman at Georgia, and he has continued to be one of the best running backs in the league.
Nick Chubb will likely continue to play in the NFL for many years to come, as he is a very efficient rusher and receiver.
Also Played For: georgia bulldogs football, nfl
48. Amari Cooper
Cleveland Browns
Career
- High school: Miami Northwestern, (Miami, Florida)
- College: Alabama (2012–2014)
- NFL Draft: 2015 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4
- Oakland Raiders (2015–2018), Dallas Cowboys (2018–2021), Cleveland Browns (2022–present)
- Roster status: Active
- 4× Pro Bowl (2015, 2016, 2018, 2019), PFWA All-Rookie Team (2015), BCS national champion (2012), Biletnikoff Award (2014), Unanimous All-American (2014), First-team All-SEC (2014), SEC Offensive Player of the Year (2014)
- Receptions: 593, Receiving yards: 8,185, Receiving touchdowns: 55
- Receptions: 593
- Receiving yards: 8,185
- Receiving touchdowns: 55
Amari Cooper was a star receiver at Miami Northwestern High School and then went on to play for Alabama, where he won the BCS National Championship in 2014.
He signed with the Oakland Raiders as a first-round pick in 2015 but injured his knee early in his rookie season, causing him to miss most of the year. In 2018, Cooper joined the Dallas Cowboys after spending two seasons with the Oakland Raiders.
During his time there, he became one of quarterback Dak Prescott's favorite targets and helped lead Dallas to their first-ever Super Bowl victory.
After being traded to Cleveland during the offseason, Cooper is looking forward to playing alongside fellow stars like Jarvis Landry and Nick Chubb – both of whom were drafted by Cleveland – and helping them win another championship.
Amari Cooper was one of the most highly touted players in college football when he entered the NFL Draft. His pro career has not disappointed, as he has been a consistent performer for the Oakland Raiders.
Cooper is known for his skills as a receiver and explosive playmaker on offense. He finished fourth in receiving yards during the 2018 season and led all receivers with 11 touchdowns that year.
In addition to being an excellent receiver, Cooper also contributes positively on special teams' units by returning kicks and punts effectively.
Although his performance may dip from time to time, Amari Cooper is still considered one of the top performers at his position in the league today.
Also Played For: fantasy football
49. Mitchell Schwartz
Kansas City Chiefs
Career
- High school: Palisades Charter, (Pacific Palisades, CA)
- College: California (2008–2011)
- NFL Draft: 2012 / Round: 2 / Pick: 37
- Cleveland Browns (2012–2015), Kansas City Chiefs (2016–2020)
- Super Bowl champion (LIV), First-team All-Pro (2018), 3× Second-team All-Pro (2016, 2017, 2019), PFWA All-Rookie Team (2012)
- Games played: 134, Games started: 134
- Games played: 134
- Games started: 134
Mitchell Schwartz was born in 1989 at Palisades Charter High School in Pacific Palisades, CA. He attended California for three years, playing for the Golden Bears.
He was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2012 NFL Draft and has since played for the Philadelphia Eagles, Cleveland Browns, and New York Giants. Schwartz is known for his strength as an offensive tackle and has been a mainstay on the Chiefs' line for the past few seasons.
He is married and has two daughters. Mitchell Schwartz was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the 2nd round of the 2012 NFL draft. Schwartz became Brown's starting left tackle in 2013 and started all 16 games.
Schwartz played for the Kansas City Chiefs from 2016-2020. In 2018, Schwartz was named First-team All-Pro and was a key part of the Browns' victory in the Super Bowl.
Schwartz was a three-time Second-team All-Pro and was a key part of the Browns' success over the past three seasons. Schwartz is considered one of the best-left tackles in the NFL and is a key part of any offensive line.
Schwartz is a two-time Pro Bowler and is a key part of any successful team. Schwartz is a strong leader on and off the field and is a key part of any team. Schwartz is a great ambassador for the NFL and is a key part of the game.
Final Words
Madden NFL 21 is the latest installment of Electronic Arts’ long-running American football video game series. The game was announced at E3 2018 and is set to release on August 10th for Xbox One, PlayStation 4 and Microsoft Windows.
