NFL 2011 Season: Player Rankings by Jersey Number (1-99)

The 2011 NFL season was filled with passion, drama, suspense and spectacular plays made by outstanding athletes. Rookies played like veterans and quarterbacks tore up defenses like never before. What made this past season so special were the players that gave it their all every Sunday.

This slideshow ranks each player by their jersey number, not position.

For example, the No. 22 can be worn by running backs and defensive backs. This slideshow will show which player had the best overall season that donned that particular jersey number. Previous accomplishments and statistics will have no influence in this slideshow. Jersey numbers one through 99 will be ranked based on who had the most successful season in 2011.

The hard work has been done. Here are the top NFL players by jersey number.

No. 1 Cam Newton

Cam Newton proved the Carolina Panthers right when he was selected No. 1 overall in the 2011 NFL draft.

Newton set a rookie record with 4,051 passing yards and set an NFL record with 14 rushing touchdowns. He can run the ball about as well as he can pass the ball. He is only a rookie, and the sky is the limit for this freak of nature who will be the face of the Panthers for years to come.

No. 2 David Akers

Move over, Jerry Rice.

David Akers is now the 49ers record holder for points in a season. He made 44 of his 52 attempted field goals for 132 points and added 34 extra points for 166 points total. At age 37, he kicked consistently from around 55 yards and was a key to the success of the San Fransisco 49ers.

No. 3 Stephen Gostkowski

Stephen Gostowski made 28 of his attempted 33 field goals for 84 points and added 59 extra points for 143 points total.

He was consistent all season long and added 25 points in three postseason games. He continues to be one of the game's top kickers and is clutch when called upon.

No. 4 Andy Lee

Special teams are often overlooked, but Andy Lee's big boots helped revive the 49ers in 2011.

He punted the ball 78 times with an astonishing 50.9 average for 3,970 net yards. His ability to pin teams in bad field positioning has made him an elite punter in the NFL.

No. 5 Matt Prater

There is no "Tebow Time" without Prater.

While he made only 19 field goals, he was the most clutch kicker in 2011. His 59-yard field goal against the Bears sent the game into overtime where he hit another 50-plus yard field goal to end it. Prater proved that he can come through for his team with the game on the line, and can kick field goals from distance in the clutch.

No. 6 Jay Cutler

Although Jay Cutler sat out the final six games of 2011, what he did in the first 10 games showed why he is a solid quarterback.

He had his Bears in a great position to make the postseason, but they completely fell apart after his injury. He only threw for 13 touchdowns and 2,319 yards in 10 games. The Bears were a good team with him and horrible without him.

No. 7 Ben Roethlisberger

Big Ben threw for 4,077 yards with 21 touchdowns and led the Steelers to a 12-4 record in 2011. He was the starting quarterback for the AFC in the Pro Bowl and led Pittsburgh to another playoff birth.

Although his season ended earlier than anyone expected, the Steelers should always be a tough team to beat with Roethlisberger in the lineup.

No. 8 Matt Hasselback

The 36-year-old quarterback overcame injuries and a short offseason to lead the Titans to a respectable 9-7 record.

He threw for 3,571 yards and 18 touchdowns and nearly led the Titans into the playoffs but tie-breakers held them back. If he has one good season left in him, Tennessee has a shot at winning the division title in 2012.

No. 9 Drew Brees

The 2011 season pretty much locked up a spot in Canton for Drew Brees. 

He completed a jaw-dropping 72.1 percent of his passes for a record 5,476 passing yards. Throw in his 46 passing yards, a rushing score, a 110.6 QB rating and a 13-3 record and Brees may have had the best season statistically of all time.

As long as Brees runs the show in New Orleans, the Saints will continue to light up the scoreboard.

No. 10 Eli Manning

Eli Manning is an elite quarterback. He had himself quite a season in 2011.

Manning threw for 4,933 yards with 29 touchdowns, had a 92.9 QB rating and ended his season partying in the streets of New York City. He had the leadership and composure to turn a 7-7 squad into Super Bowl Champions, and his best days are ahead of him if he plays the rest of his career like he did in 2011.

No. 11 Larry Fitzgerald

Larry Fitzgerald caught 80 passes for 1,411 yards and eight touchdowns with a 17.6 yards per catch average.

Who exactly was his quarterback in 2011?

Fitzgerald had a great season with below average quarterbacks throwing him the ball. He found himself in Hawaii despite the lack of overall team success. Frankly, the only thing that can make Fitzgerald a better football player in 2012 is a quarterback.

No. 12 Aaron Rodgers

The 2011 NFL MVP threw for 4,643 yards and had a record 122.5 QB rating.

What is truly unbelievable was his touchdown to interception ratio—45-to-6. His team went 15-1 and lost in the postseason to the eventual Super Bowl Champions—mainly due to an ineffective defense. With some dangerous offensive weapons, Rodgers and the Packers could be in for more success in the near future.

No. 13 Stevie Johnson

While controversial, Stevie Johnson is one of the most talented wide receivers in the NFL.

He finished 2011 with 76 catches for 1,002 yards and seven touchdowns. He was Ryan Fitzpatrick's go-to-guy and was the first receiver in Bills history to have consecutive seasons of 1,000 yards. Right now, the only things holding Johnson back are his drops and his ego, but he has potential to grow on his 2011 numbers.

No. 14 Andy Dalton

The rookie from TCU led the surprising Bengals to the postseason in 2011.

Dalton threw for 3,398 yards with 20 touchdowns and earned himself a Pro Bowl berth. With time and experience, Bengals nation may finally have the franchise quarterback they have longed for. Dalton has a great young talent in AJ Green and with a solid defense, there is no reason he can't take Cincinnati back to the playoffs.

No. 15 Tim Tebow

Tim Tebow brought the excitement back to Denver.

While Tebow threw for only 1,729 yards with 12 touchdowns and ran for 660 yards with six touchdowns, all he did was win games. He took over a 1-4 team and led them to an 8-8 record and a postseason berth.

An upset victory in the playoffs against the Steelers should keep fans hopeful that Tebow can lead their team. While he is unconventional in how he wins games, winning is all that matters and Tebow rarely loses.

No. 16 Titus Young

Titus Young had an impressive rookie season in 2011 by catching 48 passes for 607 yards and six touchdowns.

He played an important role in the offense and his numbers should improve in the future. As long as he is healthy and has a healthy Matthew Stafford, he should see an increase of numbers across the board.

No. 17 Philip Rivers

While the Chargers disappointed in 2011, Philip Rivers impressed.

He threw for 4,624 yards with 27 touchdowns and added a score on the ground. Rivers was voted into the Pro Bowl and hopes to continue his individual success. If he can get more help around him, Rivers may lead San Diego back into the postseason. 

No. 18 AJ Green

The impressive rookie caught 65 passes for 1,057 yards and seven touchdowns from his rookie quarterback Andy Dalton. 

AJ Green had several highlight reel catches and often beat the opposing team's No. 1 cornerback. The Pro Bowl receiver can only get better and has potential to be an elite receiver for a long time in the NFL.

No. 19 Brandon Marshall

Brandon Marshall lit up the Pro Bowl with four touchdown catches and was named the game's MVP.

In the regular season, he caught 81 passes for for 1,214 yards and six touchdowns. If Matt Moore improves or if a proven quarterback comes in, Marshall may see more games like his Pro Bowl performance.

No. 20 Darren McFadden

Although he only lasted seven games in 2011, Darren McFadden was one of the best backs at the time he went down.

He ran for 614 yards and scored four touchdowns while averaging 5.4 yards per carry. He was on pace for about 1,400 yards and was quick and elusive. McFadden is a leader and should bounce back nicely in 2012.

No. 21 Patrick Peterson

The rookie from LSU was solid on defense but even more impressive on special teams in 2011.

On defense, he recorded 64 tackles, one sack and two interceptions. On special teams he tied an NFL record with four punt returns for touchdowns. Peterson wound up in Hawaii for the Pro Bowl and is shaping up to be a special NFL player.

No. 22 Reggie Bush

Reggie Bush finally emerged as a featured back in 2011 with the Dolphins.

He ran for 1,086 yards and five rushing touchdowns while averaging 5.0 yards per carry. Bush also caught 43 passes for 296 yards and a touchdown. If Bush gets similar opportunities in the future—as he did in 2011—he has a chance to be an elite running back.

No. 23 Arian Foster

Although Arian Foster missed three games due to injury, he still earned a Pro Bowl berth with a strong 2011 season.

He rushed for 1,224 yards, scored 10 touchdowns on the ground, and had a 4.4 yards per carry average. He caught 53 passes for 617 yards and two touchdowns. Foster proved that he is an elite runner and is one of the best players in the NFL with the ball in his hands.

No. 24 Darrelle Revis

Darrelle Revis proved that he is one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL.

In 2011, he recorded 52 tackles and had four interceptions, including a 100-yard return for a touchdown. Revis Island was rarely visited by quarterbacks and very few receivers caught balls on Revis. The Pro Bowl defender should have continued success in the future and quarterbacks will continue to hesitate to throw his way.

No. 25 LeSean McCoy

LeSean Mccoy had a breakout season for the Philadelphia Eagles in 2011.

He earned a spot in the Pro Bowl by rushing for 1,309 yards and 17 touchdowns while having a 4.8 yards per carry average. McCoy also caught 48 passes for 315 yards and three scores. He is a good blocker and is one of the most versatile players in the NFL. He is only 23 years old, and it is scary to think about how good he can become.

No. 26 Antrel Rolle

The free safety had his best NFL season in 2011.

Antrel Rolle recorded 96 tackles, forced one fumble and intercepted two passes. He was solid is pass coverage and helped lead the Giants to a Super Bowl championship. Rolle is in the prime of his career and has a few good seasons left in him.

No. 27 Ray Rice

Ray Rice is the most well-rounded running back in the NFL.

In 2011, Rice rushed for 1,364 yards and 12 touchdowns while averaging 4.7 yards per carry. He also caught 76 passes for 704 yards and three scores. Rice led the Ravens to the AFC title game and there are no signs of him slowing down.

No. 28 Adrian Peterson

Another running back who got his 2011 season cut short by injuries, Adrian Peterson only played in 12 games.

However, he still managed to rush for 970 yards, score 12 touchdowns and average 4.7 yards per carry. He also added 18 catches for 139 yards and a score. If Peterson can come back from his devastating injuries, he can improve on his impressive 2011 season.

No. 29 Earl Thomas

The second-year safety had a Pro Bowl season for the Seahawks in 2011.

Earl Thomas recorded 98 tackles, forced one fumble and snatched two interceptions. He is young and has time to grow and mature in the NFL. If Thomas can improve on his 2011 season, he may become an elite safety in the league.

No. 30 John Kuhn

The Packers fullback and fan favorite made his first Pro Bowl following the 2011 NFL season.

He rushed for 78 yards and four touchdowns on 30 carries, and added 15 catches for 77 yards and two touchdowns. Kuhn gets the short yard carries and has a nose for the end zone. He should put up similar numbers to 2011 in the future and earn himself more touches.

No. 31 Cortland Finnegan

Cortland Finnegan played well enough in 2011 that he is considered a prime free agent heading into 2012.

He recorded 75 tackles, one sack and picked off one pass. He is a physical cornerback who isn't intimidated by anyone. He is in the prime of his career and probably has three solid seasons left in him.

No. 32 Maurice Jones-Drew

The 5'7" back won the 2011 NFL rushing title.

Maurice Jones-Drew rushed for 1,606 yards and eight touchdowns while averaging 4.7 yards per carry. He also caught 43 passes for 374 yards and three scores. He was the best running back in 2011, and his quick cuts and agility gives him potential to have another fantastic season in 2012.

No. 33 Michael Turner

Michael Turner was a Top 10 NFL running back in 2011 with 1,350 yards rushing, 11 touchdowns and a 4.5 yards per carry average.

He is a physical runner that is elusive enough to avoid tackles at the line of scrimmage. He was one of the few backs to rush for double digit touchdowns and it looks as if he is entering the prime of his career. 

No. 34 Rashard Mendenhall

Before having to sit out the last game of the regular season, Rashard Mendenhall was able to rush for 928 yards and score nine touchdowns with a 4.1 yards per carry average.

He is a physical running back that can tire defenses and help the offense control the clock throughout the course of a game. If he can return healthy in 2012, he can put up better numbers than what he did in 2011.

No. 35 Mike Tolbert

Mike Tolbert only started one game in 2011, but he still contributed to the Chargers' ground game.

He rushed for 490 yards, eight touchdowns and averaged 4.0 yards per carry. He caught 54 passes for 433 yards and two more scores. The Chargers know that if Ryan Matthews if ever shaken up, they have a capable running back in Mike Tolbert.

No. 36 Jim Leonhard

Jim Leonhard was lost for the last three games of the season, and the Jets collapsed without him.

The starting safety recorded 48 tackles, forced one fumble and intercepted one pass. He was also valuable for the Jets on special teams. The Jets missed the playoffs and lacked leadership in the secondary with him gone. This highlights his importance to the Jets, and he should continue to be successful next season.

No. 37 Sam Shields

The young cornerback saw more action as the 2011 season progressed and ended up starting seven games. 

Sam Shields recorded 45 tackles, forced one fumble and intercepted four passes. He improved with experience and should play the majority of the game in 2012. He needs to adjust to covering bigger receivers, but he can hold his own on the field.

No. 38 Tramon Williams

The veteran cornerback started in every game that he played in during the 2011 NFL season.

He recorded 64 tackles and picked off four passes, including one for a 43-yard touchdown. Tramon Williams can be successful in 2012 if he has the type of season that he had in 2011. He can create momentum for the offense by continuing to intercept passes.

No. 39 Steven Jackson

Steven Jackson was the only offensive bright spot for the lowly Rams.

He rushed for 1,145 yards, scored five touchdowns and averaged 4.4 yards per carry. He also caught 42 passes for 333 yards and a score. Jackson is a powerful running back who often times cannot be tackled by one defender.

It would be impressive, but not shocking, if Jackson's 2012 season is similar to that of 2011.

No. 40 Peyton Hillis

While the Madden Curse took its toll on Peyton Hillis, he wasn't useless in 2011.

In 10 games, Hillis rushed for 587 yards, three touchdowns and a 3.6 yards per carry average. The bruising style of running and contract dispute limited the amount of success that Hillis had in 2011, but he had some good games when healthy. He is an above average running back and he can be way more effective in 2012 if he can stay healthy.

No. 41 Roman Harper

Roman Harper played about as well as a safety could in 2011.

He recorded 95 tackles, forced two fumbles and had 7.5 sacks. He had more sacks than some quality defensive ends and linebackers, and he was still responsible in the secondary. He played at a Pro Bowl level and should continue his success in 2012.

No. 42 BenJarvus Green-Ellis

BenJarvus Green-Ellis was the main running back in the Patriot's running back by committee. In 2011, he rushed for 667 yards and 11 touchdowns while only starting six games. He is a short-yardage specialist and is tough to tackle.

As long as he gets carries, he will be successful.

No. 43 Darren Sproles

The 5'6" running back played like a giant in 2011 by setting an NFL record with 2,696 all purpose yards.

Darren Sproles rushed for 603 yards and two touchdowns while maintaining an unbelievable 6.9 yards per carry average. He caught 86 passes for 710 yards and seven touchdowns. The remaining 1,383 yards came from kickoff and punt returns. It will be hard to duplicate his 2011 season, but Sproles is as versatile as any in the NFL.

No. 44 Ahmad Bradshaw

Although the Giants struggled rushing the ball for the majority of the regular season, Ahmad Bradshaw was always a factor and got hot at the right time for his team.

He rushed for 659 yards and scored nine touchdowns on the ground. He contributed in the passing game with 34 receptions for 267 yards and two scores. The Giants would not have won the Super Bowl without him, and he should be a big part of the offense for years to come.

No. 45 Jed Collins

The unsung hero of the 2011 Saints running game, the fullback played a vital role in the ground game's success.

He scored two touchdowns on four carries and caught eleven passes for 50 yards and two more scores. He opened up big holes for the running backs and was dependable when called upon. There is no reason for Collins to not see more action in the future, but his main role is to open up the running game and he is doing a great job.

No. 46 Delanie Walker

Even though Vernon Davis stole the spotlight, Delanie Walker was a dependable target for quarterback Alex Smith all season long.

He caught 19 passes for 198 yards and two scores. He was a key blocker for running back Frank Gore and helped lead the 49ers into the postseason. Walker is mainly used as a blocker but can make plays downfield when called upon.

No. 47 Travis Beckum

With the departure of Kevin Boss, Travis Beckum stepped up and helped the Giants win football games in 2011. His main role was served as a blocker and he helped the Giants run all over teams in the playoffs.

He only caught five balls for 93 yards and a score, but his role on the team wasn't as a pass catcher. After an impressive postseason, his opportunities in the passing game should increase in 2012.

No. 48 Don Muhlbach

Don Mulbach is the primary long-snapper for the Detroit Lions and is one of their best special teams players.

No. 49 Rashad Johnson

The free safety started nine games for the Arizona Cardinals and recorded 50 tackles in 2011. He should move into a starting role in 2012.

No. 50 AJ Hawk

The linebacker and defensive captain started 14 games for the Packers in 2011. He recorded 84 tackles, 1.5 sacks and three pass deflections for the Packers. He is intimidating and a hard tackler who should see better numbers in 2012.

No. 51 Pat Angerer

Pat Angerer had a breakout season in 2011, finishing in the Top Five for most tackles.

He recorded 148 tackles, had one sack, forced two fumbles and recorded one interception. He is a tackling machine and should take a leadership role in 2012. Angerer is the linebacker of the future for the Colts and had one heck of a season in 2011.

No. 52 Patrick Willis

Patrick Willis is the defensive captain of the 49ers and he led his team to the NFC Championship with his physical play.

He finished 2011 with 97 tackles, two sacks, one interception and four forced fumbles. He is very quick and very strong and punished running backs all season long. Willis is very consistent and should have another great year in 2012.

No. 53 Maurkice Pouncey

The Pro Bowl center started all of the 14 games that he played in during the 2011 season. Maurkice Pouncey opened holes for the running backs to run through and did an excellent job at protecting the quarterback.

He is considered one of the best centers in the game and should have another stellar year in 2012.

No. 54 Brian Urlacher

As the defensive captain of the Chicago Bears, Brian Urlacher led the team by example.

He recorded 102 tackles and intercepted three passes in 2011. He is considered to be one of the best middle linebackers in the game and earned himself a trip to the Pro Bowl in 2011. He will be 34 years old in 2012, but has enough left in the tank for a solid season.

No. 55 Terrell Suggs

The 2011 NFL defensive player of the year had the best season of his career in 2011.

Terrell Suggs recorded 70 tackles, had 14 sacks, intercepted two passes and forced seven fumbles. He is a feared, mean linebacker and always pressures the quarterback. He is in the prime of his career and is the BEST linebacker in Baltimore right now.

No. 56 Brian Cushing

The young defensive captain of the Houston Texans led the team to its first playoff berth in 2011.

Brian Cushing started every game at inside linebacker and recorded 114 tackles, had four sacks, intercepted two passes and forced two fumbles. He is only 25 years old and his best days appear to be ahead of him.

No. 57 Bart Scott

Bart Scott was one of the few bright spots for the disappointing 2011 New York Jets.

He started 15 games at inside linebacker and recorded 66 tackles, had 4.5 sacks and intercepted one pass. He most likely has two good seasons left in him and must have another good year in 2012 if the Jets plan on making the playoffs.

No. 58 Von Miller

The rookie had no problem transitioning into the NFL; he was voted the defensive rookie of the year and earned himself a Pro Bowl berth. In 2011, Miller recorded 64 tackles, had 11.5 sacks and forced two fumbles.

He is a great young talent who should have even greater NFL success in the future.

No. 59 London Fletcher

The 36-year-old inside linebacker led the NFL in tackles and had another fantastic season in 2011.

London Fletcher recorded 166 tackles, had 1.5 sacks, intercepted two passes and forced three fumbles in 2011. He serves as defensive captain of the Washington Redskins and earned a Pro Bowl in 2011. He doesn't appear to be aging, and is one of the best linebackers in all of the NFL.

No. 60 D'Brickashaw Ferguson

The offensive tackle for the New York Jets capped of a stellar season with a Pro Bowl berth.

D'Brickashaw Ferguson is in the prime of his career and as long as he is healthy, he opens up lanes for his running backs and consistently protects his quarterback.

No. 61 Joe Hawley

Joe Hawley finished 2011 strong and started the final nine games for the Falcons and 12 in all. He helped the ground game be successful and protected his quarterback well.

No. 62 Terrence Cody

The second-year nose tackle out of Alabama started every game in 2011 for the Baltimore Ravens. Terrence Cody recorded 34 tackles and is a key reason for the success that the Ravens have against the run.

No. 63 Scott Wells

Scott Wells started all 16 games for the 15-1 Packers in 2011 and earned a Pro Bowl berth due to his strong play. He was in sync with Aaron Rodgers all season long and helped Green Bay be as successful as they were.

No. 64 Doug Legursky

The guard, born in Germany, started the 10 games during the 2011 season. He does a good job of giving his quarterback time to throw the ball and is solid in the run game.

No. 65 Brandon Moore

The veteran out of Illinois started every game for the New York Jets in 2011, and his solid play rewarded him with a trip to the Pro Bowl. He is in the prime of his career and gives his quarterback enough time in the pocket to make a play downfield.

No. 66 Ben Grubbs

Ben Grubbs started the 10 games that he played in during the 2011 season, and it was enough to earn him a spot in the Pro Bowl. He is consistent and should earn another trip to Hawaii in 2012.

No. 67 Ryan Kalil

Ryan Kalil started all 16 games in 2011 for the Carolina Panthers. He allowed Cam Newton to stand around in the pocket to make plays and gave him time to improvise and scramble out of trouble. The Pro Bowl center is only 26, and he should be just as successful in the future.

No. 68 Doug Free

At 6'6" and 323 pounds, Doug Free is hard to get past.

He started all 16 games in 2011 for the Dallas Cowboys and opened up big holes for all of the different running backs used by the Dallas Cowboys. His solid play should continue in 2012 and he should be considered in Pro Bowl conversations.

No. 69 Jared Allen

Jared Allen had about as good of a season as a defensive end could have in 2011.

He recorded 66 tackles, intercepted a pass, forced a fumble and had an astonishing 22 sacks. He was half a sack away for the NFL single-season record for sacks. He was one of the few bright spots for the Vikings, and should continue to punish quarterbacks in 2012.

No. 70 Logan Mankins

Logan Mankins started the 15 games he played in during the 2011 NFL season and earned a Pro Bowl berth. He protects Tom Brady very well and at age 29; he is in the prime of his career.

He should be as good in 2012 as he was in 2011, and should help keep the Patriots dominant in the AFC.

No. 71 Jason Peters

Jason Peters started the 14 games that he played in during the 2011 NFL season and earned himself another spot on the NFC Pro Bowl roster.

At age 30, he is in the prime of his career and was very influential in the rapid success of running back LeSean McCoy. He gives Michael Vick enough time to make plays and has a few more solid seasons left in him.

No. 72 Matt Light

The tackle played his 11th NFL season in 2011, but is still as athletic as ever. He played in and started 15 games and protected Tom Brady tremendously well.

He is 33 years old, but is very consistent and should be equally successful in 2012.

No. 73 Joe Thomas

Joe Thomas was the only bright spot for the Cleveland Browns in 2011.

While he wasn't protecting much of anything, he did a great job at it. He started all 16 games and earned a trip to the Pro Bowl based on his stellar play. He is 27 years old and the best days of his career are in front of him.

No. 74 Nick Mangold

Nick Mangold started 14 games in 2011 and his play was well enough to earn him a spot in the Pro Bowl.

He gave Mark Sanchez the opportunity to be successful by protecting him for a lengthy time period. He is 28 years old and should have a few more Pro Bowl seasons left in him.

No. 75 Vince Wilfork

The 325-pound defensive tackle started all 16 games in 2011 and led the Patriots to a Super Bowl run. He earned a trip to the Pro Bowl by recording 52 tackles, having 3.5 sacks, forcing a fumble and intercepting two passes.

He is extremely athletic for his size, and at age 30, he is playing his best football.

No. 76 Chris Snee

The son-in-law of his Giants coach Tom Coughlin, Chris Snee started the 15 games that he played in during the 2011 season.

He gave Eli Manning enough time in the pocket for him to have a record-breaking season. He was phenomenal in the postseason and instrumental to the team's Super Bowl run. He is 30 years old and has a few solid seasons left for the G-Men.

No. 77 Jake Long

The offensive tackle for the Miami Dolphins had another Pro Bowl season in 2011. Jake Long started the 14 games that he played in, and provided stability on the offensive line. He is 6'7" and 317 pounds, and at age 26, he should be lined up for the Dolphins for a long time.

No. 78 Ryan Clady

The offensive tackle for the Denver Broncos earned a spot in the Pro Bowl with his stellar play in 2011.

Ryan Clady is 6'6" and 315 pounds and gave Tim Tebow enough time to win games in the clutch. He is only 25 years old, but is considered to be one of the best offensive tackles in the NFL. It would be surprising if Clady's 2012 season isn't compatible to that of 2011.

No. 79 Erik Pears

At 6'8" and 314 pounds, Erik Pears is tough to get past.

Pears started all 16 games for the Buffalo Bills in 2011 and played a crucial role on the offensive line. He protected Ryan Fitzpatrick well enough for him to throw for over 3,000 yards and was helpful for Fred Jackson's hot start to the season.

He should start for the Bills for years, and is as consistent as they come.

No. 80 Victor Cruz

The undrafted wide receiver sure came on strong in 2011—he set several records on the Giants.

His stunning season concluded with 82 receptions for 1,536 yards and nine touchdowns with a 18.7 yards per catch average. While scouts completely whiffed on him and Pro Bowl voters snubbed him out of a roster spot, Cruz found himself salsa dancing in the end zone of the Super Bowl.

The upside for this young talent is enormous, and he still has his whole career ahead of him. Although he only started seven games in 2011, his potential for 2012 is through the roof.

No. 81 Calvin Johnson

Megatron absolutely exploded in 2011 and led the Lions to their first postseason berth in a decade. Calvin Johnson owned the highlight reels and lit up the stat sheet with 96 receptions for 1,681 yards and 16 touchdowns with a 17.5 yards per catch average.

Not even triple coverage slowed down Johnson in 2011 and he is widely considered to be the best receiver in the NFL. He is tall at 6'5" and impressively fast. As long as Matthew Stafford is healthy, Johnson will continue to tear up the league.

No. 82 Dwayne Bowe

Despite under-whelming quarterback play by the Chiefs in 2011, Dwyane Bowe had a great season.

He was able to snag 81 passes for 1,159 yards and five touchdowns. He is an unrestricted free agent heading into 2012, and can opt to play for a team with an established quarterback. At age 27, Bowe is entering the prime of his career and the only thing slowing him down is the lack of a true NFL quarterback.

No. 83 Wes Welker

Forget about his uncharacteristic blunder that probably cost the Patriots the Super Bowl. Wes Welker led the NFL in receptions and had a terrific 2011 season. He recorded 122 catches for 1,569 yards and nine touchdowns.

He will be 31 years old in the 2012 NFL season but is the league's best possession receiver.

No. 84 Roddy White

Roddy White was Matt Ryan's No. 1 target in the 2011 season and White delivered when called upon. He caught 100 passes for 1,296 yards and eight touchdowns while helping the Falcons earn a spot in the postseason. White is consistent and his numbers should increase as Ryan grows and matures in the NFL.

No. 85 Greg Jennings

Greg Jennings had a Pro Bowl season for the Packers in 2011. He caught 67 balls for 949 yards and nine touchdowns.

He was the No. 1 receiver for Aaron Rodgers and made several big plays downfield. He is an experienced wide receiver and at age 28, and he has a chance for bigger things in his future.

No. 86 David Nelson

David Nelson had a surprisingly good season for the Buffalo Bills in 2011. He started 13 of his 16 games and recorded 61 catches for 658 yards and five touchdowns.

At 6'5", he is a tall target for quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick and he delivered in the clutch for the Bills. He cooled off after a very hot start to the season but thrives in the slot. If the Bills utilize him, David Nelson can have a breakout season in 2012.

No. 87 Rob Gronkowski

Rob Gronkowski had the greatest season that any NFL tight end has ever had.

In the 201, Gronkowski caught 90 passes for 1,327 yards and a record 17 touchdowns. He earned himself first team All Pro and helped the Patriots reach the Super Bowl.

He is a solid target at 6'6" and 265 pounds, and he is only 22 years old. If it is possible for Gronkowski to improve each year, he could potentially walk away as the game's all-time greatest pass-catching tight end.

No. 88 Dez Bryant

The second-year receiver out of Oklahoma State had a solid season in 2011.

He started in 13 of the 15 games he played in and recorded 63 catches for 928 yards and nine touchdowns. Off-the-field problems continue to hinder Bryant's performance, but when he is on his game, he is one of the NFL's best.

If he can stay focused on football in 2012, he has potential for an outstanding season.

No. 89 Steve Smith

Steve Smith returned to glory with a strong 2011 season. He helped Cam Newton quickly adjust to the NFL and benefited form it. He caught 79 passes for 1,394 yards and seven touchdowns while averaging 17.6 yards per catch.

He will be 33 years old in the 2012 season, so while it will be hard for him to keep up his production, he will continue to be Newton's No. 1 target.

No. 90 Jason Pierre-Paul

The second year defensive end out of South Florida exploded in 2011 and had a breakout season. He only started 12 of his 16 games played, yet still recorded 86 tackles, two forced fumbles and 16.5 sacks.

He blocked a field goal to give the Giants a stunning victory over the Cowboys and capped an incredible season with a Pro Bowl berth and Super Bowl championship. He is a freak athlete, and at age 23 he can only get better.

No. 91 Tamba Hali

Although born in Liberia, Tamba Hali is incredible at America's game. In the 2011 season, he had 66 tackles, four forced fumbles and 12 quarterback sacks.

He earned a trip to the Pro Bowl and he is in the prime of his career. He should be able to match his 2011 production during the 2012 NFL season.

No. 92 Haloti Ngata

Haloti Ngata recorded 64 tackles, five sacks and forced two fumbles for the Ravens during the 2011 NFL season.

The numbers from the defensive end were good enough to secure him a spot in the Pro Bowl. He is athletic for his 6'4" and 330-pound frame but is hard to control. He should have another strong season in 2012 and continue to put pressure on the quarterback.

No. 93 Jason Babin

Jason Babin had an outstanding 2011 season for the Philadelphia Eagles. The free agent signing had 40 tackles, forced three fumbles, and had 18 quarterback sacks. He will be 32 next NFL season and his production is likely to drop.

Having said that, Babin had one heck of a 2011 season and anything close to that next year will be an accomplishment.

No. 94 Justin Smith

The 49ers defensive end had a great season in 2011 and helped the 49ers to be within a game of the Super Bowl.

Justin Smith was named to the Pro Bowl after recording 58 tackles, three forced fumbles and 7.5 sacks in 2011. At age 32 age may be a concern, but Smith is showing no signs of slowing down and should have another solid performance in 2012.

No. 95 Rocky Bernard

Rocky Bernard was a key contributor off the bench for the Giants in 2011. The defensive tackle had 30 tackles and forced one fumble, but he played his role well.

At age 32, the Giants appear to be headed with a younger defensive tackle, but Bernard is a solid contributor off the bench.

No. 96 Paul Soliai

The 28-year-old nose tackle recorded 27 tackles for the Dolphins in 2011. However, he was effective in run stopping and earned a spot on the AFC Pro Bowl roster. He should continue to be successful in 2012 and beyond.

No. 97 Geno Atkins

The 23-year-old defensive tackle out of Georgia made the Pro Bowl in his second season of NFL action. He helped revive the Bengals defense in 2011 by recording 47 tackles, 7.5 sacks and by forcing two fumbles.

He is young and should be the leader of the defensive line for years to come.

No. 98 Robert Mathis

Robert Mathis had a fine season in what was perhaps his last as a Colt. He made the Pro Bowl and had 43 tackles, 9.5 sacks and three forced fumbles in 2011. He is set to hit the open market for the first time and based on his 2011 production, he is due for a big payday.

No. 99 JJ Watt

The rookie first-round pick did not disappoint and started all 16 games for the Texans in 2011.

JJ Watt recorded 56 tackles and 5.5 sacks, but is best remembered for what he did in the postseason. As the first half was winding down, Watt scored a defensive touchdown and inspired the Texans to win their first ever playoff game.

He is a great pass-rusher and will have much success in the future.