It’s hard to believe, but the 2021 NFL season is just around the corner. And that means it’s time to start thinking about who will be the league’s top players. While no one knows exactly who will shine brightest in 2021, we can take a look at some of the contenders and make some educated guesses. So without further ado, here are our picks for the 15 best NFL players of 2021.
15. Dak Prescott, QB, Dallas Cowboys
Prescott had a monster season in 2020, setting career highs in passing yards (4,902) and touchdowns (30) while leading the Cowboys to an NFC East title. He’s one of the most gifted quarterbacks in the league, and with another year under his belt in head coach Mike McCarthy’s offense, Prescott could be even better in 2021.
14. Antonio Brown, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Brown was a revelation for the Buccaneers during their run to the Super Bowl title, catching 45 passes for 483 yards and four touchdowns in just eight games. He’s still one of the best route-runners in the league, and at 32 years old, he should have plenty of gas left in the tank.
13. Davante Adams, WR, Green Bay Packers
Adams is coming off a monster season in which he caught 115 passes for 1,374 yards and 18 touchdowns, earning first-team All-Pro honors for the second time in his career. He’s one of the most dangerous weapons in the league, and with Aaron Rodgers throwing him the ball, he should continue to be a top-flight receiver in 2021.
12. J.J. Watt, DE, Houston Texans
Watt missed eight games due to injury last season, but when he’s healthy, he’s still one of the best defensive players in the league. He had five sacks in eight games last season, and at just 31 years old, he should have plenty of gas left in the tank.
11. Derrick Henry, RB, Tennessee Titans
Henry had another monster season in 2020, rushing for 2,027 yards and 17 touchdowns while leading the Titans to the AFC Championship Game. He’s a physical freak, and at just 27 years old, he should have plenty of good years left in him.
10. Lamar Jackson, QB, Baltimore Ravens
Jackson took a step back last season, but he’s still one of the most dynamic players in the league. He threw for 2,757 yards and 26 touchdowns while rushing for 1,005 yards and seven scores, and at just 24 years old, he should only get better.
9. DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Arizona Cardinals
Hopkins had a monster first season with the Cardinals, catching 115 passes for 1,407 yards and six touchdowns. He’s one of the best receivers in the league, and at 28 years old, he should be in the prime of his career.
8. Stephon Gilmore, CB, New England Patriots
Gilmore was named the Defensive Player of the Year last season after leading the league with six interceptions. He’s still one of the best cover corners in the league, and at 29 years old, he should still be in his prime.
7. Russell Wilson, QB, Seattle Seahawks
Wilson had another stellar season in 2020, throwing for 4,212 yards and 42 touchdowns while leading the Seahawks to the playoffs. He’s one of the best quarterbacks in the league, and at 32 years old, he should still have plenty of good years left.
6. Aaron Donald, DT, Los Angeles Rams
Donald is coming off another monster season in which he had 13.5 sacks and was named the Defensive Player of the Year for the second time in his career. He’s still the best interior defensive lineman in the league, and at 30 years old, he should still be in his prime.
5. Derrick Brooks, LB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Brooks was a key part of the Buccaneers’ run to the Super Bowl title, racking up 45 tackles, two sacks, and an interception in 16 games. He’s still one of the best linebackers in the league, and at 41 years old, he’s showing no signs of slowing down.
4. Tom Brady, QB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Brady had a stellar first season with the Buccaneers, throwing for 4,633 yards and 40 touchdowns while leading the team to the Super Bowl title. He’s still one of the best quarterbacks in the league, and at 43 years old, he’s showing no signs of slowing down.
3. Khalil Mack, LB, Chicago Bears
Mack had a monster season in 2020, racking up 11.5 sacks and four forced fumbles while being named a first-team All-Pro for the fourth time in his career. He’s still one of the best edge rushers in the league, and at 30 years old, he should still be in his prime.
2. Patrick Mahomes, QB, Kansas City Chiefs
Mahomes took a step back last season, but he’s still one of the best quarterbacks in the league. He threw for 4,740 yards and 38 touchdowns while leading the Chiefs to the Super Bowl title, and at just 25 years old, he should only get better.
1. Rodgers, QB, Green Bay Packers
Rodgers had another stellar season in 2020, throwing for 4,299 yards and 48 touchdowns while leading the Packers to the NFC Championship Game. He’s still one of the best quarterbacks in the league, and at 37 years old, he’s showing no signs of slowing down.
Conclusion
The top 15 NFL players of 2021 are sure to make a big impact on the game. These athletes have worked hard and demonstrated their skills and talent, making them some of the best in the league. With such an impressive lineup, fans can look forward to an exciting season. Who do you think will be at the top of this list next year?