Biggest Snubs from ESPN’s Top-10 NFL Positional Rankings

The offseason dead period in the NFL, stretching from mid-June to mid-July, often becomes notable for ESPN’s polls. Coaches, general managers, and executives rank the top 10 players at each position. These rankings frequently spark lively debates on sports talk shows and offer fans insight into how their favorite players are viewed within the league. Naturally, ranking players leads to some controversial omissions. Here are some significant players not included in ESPN’s recent rankings.

Jared Verse, DE, Cleveland Browns

Jared Verse, now a member of the Cleveland Browns, finds himself surprisingly absent from the top 10 rankings. Despite the NFL’s talented pool of edge-rushers, leaving Verse out proves contentious. Over his initial two seasons, Verse recorded 189 pressures, 130 hurries, 42 quarterback hits, 12.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. Last season, Vers amassed 100 pressures, outdone only by Will Anderson from Houston with 102. His third-place finish in hurries, trailing only Anderson and Jacksonville’s Josh Hines-Allen, underscores his impact.

Jayden Daniels, QB, Washington Commanders

Selecting the top 10 quarterbacks grows more challenging given the league’s high-level QB play. Jayden Daniels, however, seems an unusual omission. His impressive rookie season included leading the Commanders to a 12-5 record and an NFC Championship Game appearance. Though injury limited his last year’s contributions, when healthy, few dispute his status as one of the top 10 quarterbacks.

Brock Purdy, QB, San Francisco 49ers

Brock Purdy’s exclusion also raises eyebrows. As a starter, Purdy boasts a 30-15 record with a 104 passer rating and a 67.9% completion rate. His first full season saw him earn a Pro Bowl selection and lead the NFL in passer rating. Purdy guided the 49ers to consecutive NFC Championship Games and a Super Bowl appearance, confirming his on-field success.

Malik Nabers, WR, New York Giants

Injury concerns might explain Malik Nabers’ omission. Despite missing last season and uncertainty about his 2026 return, Nabers’ skill remains undeniable. When healthy, few can name 10 wide receivers superior to Nabers. While Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson are household names, Nabers rivals others in the ESPN top 10 such as Jaxson Smith-Njigba, CeeDee Lamb, and George Pickens.

Trey Hendrickson, DE, Baltimore Ravens

Trey Hendrickson’s ranking may have suffered due to injuries. Playing only seven games last season, his decreased pass-rush impact was noticeable. Despite setbacks, Hendrickson remains a formidable edge-rusher when fit. With back-to-back 17.5-sack seasons in 2023 and 2024, his track record speaks to his abilities. Returning with the Ravens next season, Hendrickson aims to regain his 15-sack form.

Bobby Wagner, LB, Free Agent

Although without a current team, Bobby Wagner’s exclusion stirred discussion. Wagner’s impressive statistics include fifth place in tackles (162), eight tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, two interceptions, and four defended passes. Recent NFL Top 100 Player rankings listed him at No. 81. Wagner’s distinguished career features 11 All-Pro selections, 10 Pro Bowls, and a Super Bowl win, making his absence noteworthy.