The buzz around the NFL heading into any season is always electric, but the 2016 campaign had a particular flavor. It was a year where established legends continued to defy age and new stars were already making their mark. The NFL's Top 100 Players list, voted on by the players themselves, offered a fascinating snapshot of who commanded the most respect on the field.
At the very pinnacle, Cam Newton stood tall at number one. It's hard to argue with the players' choice. Newton had just put together an MVP season, leading the Carolina Panthers to a dominant 15-win record and the league's top-scoring offense. His dual-threat ability was on full display, setting historical benchmarks for passing and rushing touchdowns in a single season. He wasn't just a great quarterback; he was a phenomenon, joining an elite club of athletes who had achieved a national championship, a Heisman, and an NFL MVP.
Just behind him, Tom Brady, ever the picture of consistency, secured the second spot. Even at 38, he was showing no signs of slowing down, leading the league in touchdown passes. It’s a testament to his enduring skill and competitive fire that he could still be at the top of his game while many players his age are long retired.
But the Top 100 wasn't just about the established order. The 2016 NFL Draft class was brimming with talent, and many rookies were projected to make an immediate impact. Players like quarterback Jared Goff, touted as the "golden boy" from California, were expected to step in and lead their teams. Linebacker Myles Jack was seen as an immediate playmaker for the Jaguars, while running back Ezekiel Elliott was poised to invigorate the Cowboys' offense with his all-around skills.
Defensive talent was also heavily represented among the rookies. Sheldon Rankins was tabbed to bolster the Saints' struggling run defense, and Karl Joseph, despite a knee injury, was on a fast track to a starting role with the Raiders. Leonard Floyd was set to bring much-needed pressure to the Bears' pass rush, and Jalen Ramsey was identified as a linchpin for a potential defensive turnaround in Jacksonville. Even Carson Wentz, drafted high by the Eagles, was anticipated to see significant playing time sooner rather than later, a common narrative for top quarterback prospects.
This list, voted by peers, always sparks debate and anticipation. It highlights not only the current titans of the game but also the emerging forces ready to shape the league's future. Looking back at the 2016 Top 100, it's a reminder of the incredible talent and the ever-shifting landscape of professional football.
