B/R NFL 1,000: Top 100 Players Overall

After 10 weeks of rolling out our assessment of NFL players at each position, we can now present the top 100 players overall. 

The B/R NFL 1,000 project rated players based on the 2011 season and, excluding Peyton Manning (who deserves a pass as a future Hall of Famer), only players who competed in more than 200 snaps during the season were included. That means no Jamaal Charles, no Eric Berry and many other big-name players who didn't qualify for admission.

To see the full 1,000 on one PDF, click here. Need to review any of the rankings? You can see them all at our B/R NFL 1,000 home page.

But now, for the cream of the crop, we compile the top 100.

The following slides, counting down from the 100th player (whose rank was a tie for 98th) to the first, include the original analysis and scoring from our position breakdowns. Thus, the criteria are different from player to player.

The maximum score for a player was 100, except for punters and placekickers. Punters and placekickers were scored on a 50-point scale, and their scores were doubled for inclusion in the overall list.

98. QB Peyton Manning, Denver Broncos

Accuracy Short

10

Manning's ability to throw the ball and lead the receiver are among the best ever. His ball placement is elite, as is his ability to put enough juice on the ball to make it uncatchable for the defender. 

Accuracy Outside the Pocket

8

Not a very mobile quarterback, but Manning's intelligence and upper-body strength make him dangerous when he is forced out of the pocket on the rare occasion. The key to Manning's accuracy here is knowing what his receivers will do. No one is better at anticipating his receivers' moves. 

Accuracy Deep

9.5

No longer a 10 here, Manning is still a top deep-route passer. He's able to put the ball on the correct side consistently and puts enough air under the ball to allow his receivers to run under it.  

Arm Strength

9

Watching film from 2009 and 2010, you see Manning laboring more to get the ball off with the same velocity, but the movement on the ball is still very good. Manning was never a fastball quarterback, but his mechanics and strength combine for a top-notch arm.  

Clutch

10

Few are as good with the game on the line. The demeanor and confidence he brings to the huddle are as good as any quarterback to ever play the game.  

Decision-Making

10

In essence an offensive coordinator on the field, there may never be another quarterback with the football IQ of Peyton Manning. His feel for the game and understanding of what the offense wants to do and what the defense is planning are legendary. 

Mechanics

10

Picture perfect. Manning has a big, tall frame and delivers the ball at about chin-level. He has a quick, compact delivery and amazing hip motion and follow-through.  

Mobility

5

Not a runner, Manning will never be known for his ability to make plays outside the pocket or past the line of scrimmage. What he can do well is slide up in the pocket to avoid the pass rush. 

Pocket Presence

10

Does a great job feeling pressure and moving out of harm's way. He's also among the fastest decision-makers in the league, which allows him to avoid big hits and the pressure other quarterbacks face while trying to decide where to throw the ball.  

Health

0

Missed the entire 2011 season after neck surgeries. His future is questionable. 

Overall

81.5

A healthy Peyton Manning is one of the best in the game, but no one knows if or when we will see him play again.  

98. OLB Daryl Smith, Jacksonville Jaguars

Agility

8

An excellent athlete with good explosiveness and the fluid motion to get deep in coverage.

Coverage

8

A very high-level coverage player who can lock down his man and is athletic enough to make plays on the ball.

Pass Rush

8

Good pass-rusher that displays good timing and anticipation of the snap. Separates himself from other OLBs with his ability to close on the quarterback.

Read & React

8

Has a great feel for the game and where he needs to be in every aspect of the position.

Run Defense

9

Great instincts and vision allow the Jag to accelerate to the ball and make plays. Smith is very tough to run away from or around.

Shed Blocks

8

Uses his hands well to get off blockers. Shows good footwork at impact.

Speed

8

Top-notch speed. Will beat the action to the edge and can chase down ball-carriers.

Strength

8

Very strong player that can hold his own at the point of impact.

Tackle

6.5

Strong fundamentals but can be too inconsistent in delivering a secure tackle. Is worthy of more than his 107 tackles in 2011.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

81.5

Daryl Smith is one of the top handful of 4-3 outside linebackers. His all-around play—be it in pass coverage, run support or even blitz packages—makes Smith an invaluable member of the Jaguars defense.

98. CB Brandon Flowers, Kansas City Chiefs

Agility

9

An excellent athlete with quick hips and the feet to change directions. Gets in and out of cuts in a hurry.

Ball Skills

8

Displays good and aggressive ball skills overall.

Burn Rate

8

Flowers does a great job breaking on the ball when pressed. His biggest area of concern right now is getting in between the ball and the receiver on deep balls.

Coverage

7

Does a good job sticking in the pocket of his man, but the 5'9" Flowers will be targeted often when matched up against taller receivers.

Awareness

9

His best asset, as Flowers is rarely out of position or unprepared for a route.

Range

8

Flowers flashes the ability to stick and move, with great quickness and enough speed to make up ground in a hurry.

Run Defense

7.5

Does a good job reading the ball and planting to break toward the play. A heads-up tackler.

Speed

7

Flowers' speed isn't elite, but he's quick enough in short areas to fly off the ball and close on routes.

Tackle

8

Plays big on the field, showing an ability to lower the hammer on runners and receivers crossing his path.

Health

10

Did not miss any games during the 2011 season.

Overall

81.5

Brandon Flowers doesn't have ideal size for the position, but few players have his quickness or toughness. Flowers is a fighter who can match up in press coverage and redirect receivers off the ball, but he's also smooth enough in coverage to take off downfield.

90. TE Jimmy Graham, New Orleans Saints

Agility

9

Is very light on his feet and moves around quickly, showing the athleticism that made him a basketball player in college.

Pass Blocking

4

A raw pass-blocker who is rarely asked to stay in and protect. Graham is better served in the passing game as a receiver.

Run Blocking

3

Isn’t very physical at the point of attack and can be beaten off the line. Doesn’t yet have a great feel for angles and technique. Due to his height, he loses leverage early and hasn’t shown the footwork to be a drive-blocker.

Route Running

10 

Is a natural athlete with good skills here. Graham is aware of space and does a great job using his body to shield defenders.

Hands

8

Will drop a few, but Graham is sure-handed and dangerous. He’s able to track the ball deep, something few tight ends can do, and is a threat downfield. Graham does a nice job using his hands to go get the football, where his long arms are huge assets.

Speed

9

Doesn’t have great speed out of the blocks, but uses his long stride and quick feet to eat up space. Has enough speed and length to drive defenders off the ball in coverage.

Size

10

Unheard-of size at 6’7” and 260 lbs. Goliath-like.

Release

9

Gets off the line very well in both a two- and three-point stance. Can be used in motion and is strong enough to fight off the jam. Has long arms that allow him to keep defenders at bay. His long stride makes it almost impossible to play him in bump coverage.

Run After Catch

10

Shows his natural athleticism in space. Graham is a threat to take a short pass and turn it upfield for a big gain. His combination of agility, stride and speed make for a deadly combination.

Health

10

Took some hard hits in 2011 but didn’t miss a start.

Overall

82

Graham is one of the best tight ends in the game, but he’s also one of the best receivers in the game. The Saints use him all over the field, where his height and size make him a massive problem for defenders.

90. QB Tony Romo, Dallas Cowboys

Accuracy Short

9

Romo's short-range accuracy has improved dramatically in his nine years with the Cowboys. He's completing high percentage passes over the middle now, thanks in part to tight end Jason Witten and the timing of Jason Garrett's complex passing schemes. 

Accuracy Outside the Pocket

8.5

A good athlete who can make plays outside the pocket. He's able to scramble, but also does a nice job delivering the ball from various angles and release points. 

Accuracy Deep

9

A big area of improvement for Romo, who completed 54.8 percent of his passes traveling over 20 yards in the air—good for second best in the NFL.

Arm Strength

8

Has more than enough arm strength to make every throw you want. He could do a better job putting zip on intermediate routes, but more than makes up for it with a deadly deep ball. 

Clutch

4

Not known for his late-game heroics, Romo can suffer under pressure—both in the pocket and in the moment. His play when games are close has improved, but is still his weakest attribute.

Decision-Making

8

Romo throws few interceptions compared with other starting quarterbacks and is among the more accurate passers in the NFL. His decisions in reading a defense can be less than ideal, but he makes few mistakes that result in a turnover.

Mechanics

10

There's nothing in his delivery, drop back or set up that cause concerns. 

Mobility

6

Not a big threat to run with the football, but Romo can make plays with his legs if needed. He's hesitant to run, but is able to move in the pocket to avoid hits as well as anyone.

Pocket Presence

10

As mentioned, Romo does a great job moving around in the pocket to avoid hits. He's among the best at getting rid of the football quickly and not creating opportunities for sacks.

Health

9.5

Healthy in 2011, Romo missed 10 starts in 2010 and is always at risk for an injury. Having a good backup quarterback is a good plan in Dallas.

Overall

82

Romo hasn't quite made the leap that fans hoped for, but he's still a top quarterback. He isn't the type of quarterback who will make those around him better, but he can win if surrounded by the right mix of talent. 

90. QB Cam Newton, Carolina Panthers

Accuracy Short

7

Newton struggles to connect on short passes outside the hashes, but inside the hashes he's deadly within 15 yards. He's still erratic at times when throwing short, but this is largely due to mechanical issues with his footwork and balance. 

Accuracy Outside the Pocket

8

A valuable runner, Newton has been able to sneak away from pressure and make plays when moving outside the pocket. Much more dangerous when running right, he is still a work in progress at squaring his shoulders to make accurate throws every time. 

Accuracy Deep

9

Was a big surprise in his first NFL season mostly because of how well he threw downfield. Newton-to-Steve Smith was a consistent and dangerous weapon in the Carolina offense. 

Arm Strength

9

Has answered critics who questioned his arm strength, showing exceptional velocity when throwing short and deep.

Clutch

8

Can be erratic under pressure, but made big plays in the face of the pass rush and came through on a roster that won just two game in 2010. Calm and confident no matter the situation.

Decision-Making

6

Newton's greatest weakness is knowing where to go with the football. Too often he will throw the ball up into double or triple coverage.  

Mechanics

8

Tall (6'5") and confident in the pocket, Newton has a clean delivery and great footwork. He throws with true balance and follow-through, unlike many young quarterbacks who too often throw off the back foot.

Mobility

10

Already one of the best runners at the position. He's big, strong and fast when outside the pocket.  

Pocket Presence

7

Newton needs to get better in several areas, and this is one of them. As a running quarterback, he'll take sacks, but he will also hang onto the ball too long looking for options. 

Health

10

Has avoided injuries that plague so many running quarterbacks.

Overall

82

Newton impressed in his first season, showing the skills and athleticism to become a true franchise quarterback for Carolina.

90. QB Jay Cutler, Chicago Bears

Accuracy Short

9

Cutler's accuracy within 15 yards was much improved in two years under Mike Martz, who retired after the season. With his ability to put the ball into tight windows with great velocity, Cutler delivers a catchable ball that gives a receiver room to run. 

Accuracy Outside the Pocket

7.5

More mobile than given credit for, Cutler is a threat to take the ball outside the pocket and throw on the run. His elite arm strength makes throwing while on the move an easy chore. 

Accuracy Deep

7

Strength doesn't equal accuracy on long passes and Cutler hit on just 48.6 percent of passes over 20 yards in 2011.

Arm Strength

10

Well-known for his ability to throw with force, Cutler might have the strongest arm of any quarterback in the NFL.

Clutch

8.5

Heavily criticized for staying on the sideline with an injury in the 2010 playoffs, Cutler has been a winner when it counts, leading his teams to 12 fourth-quarter comebacks and 16 game-winning drives in his six-season career.

Decision-Making

8

Guilty of holding the ball too long in the pocket and will oftentimes throw into coverage and ask his receivers to make plays on the ball. Has improved here, but he's still well behind top quarterbacks.

Mechanics

8

Cutler's delivery and motion will drop down to his side too often, but he does have a quick delivery and good footwork in the pocket. 

Mobility

7

Doesn't run by design, but Cutler is able to move outside the pocket and either throw on the move or tuck the ball and run. A tough runner who will get outside the pocket as needed.

Pocket Presence

9

Doesn't play behind a good offensive line, which inflates his sack numbers, but his awareness of the rush and his ability to get rid of the ball in a hurry are among the best. 

Health

8

A tough player who took heat for his injury in the 2010 playoffs, Cutler did a great job keeping himself healthy behind a porous offensive line until he broke his thumb making a tackle in Week 11 of 2011. 

Overall

82

A polarizing player who is loved by some and hated by others, Cutler is the picture of a strong-armed quarterback who struggled to fit in a timing-based offense. Cutler can lead a team deep into the playoffs—as proven in 2010—even if he's not a traditionally strong statistical passer.

90. LT Doug Free, Dallas Cowboys

Agility

7

Is more of a road grader than athlete and doesn't have great lateral quickness or agility. 

Pass Block, Speed

7

Can struggle getting to the corner due to lack of great agility. Free is much better working in tight spaces. 

Pass Block, Power

8

Works very well in a window and gets the knee bend and leverage to handle power rushers and inside blitzes. 

Run Blocking

9

Is a smart, savvy run blocker who does a good job kicking out ends and getting the hook on outside players. Is a very good combo blocker who can move to his left or right without a drop off in production. 

Move in Space

8

Does a good job clearing out at the first level and then looking to get downfield. Free is used on a number of plays that ask him to block in space.

Pull/Trap

7

Doesn't have the footwork to be effective consistently in space. Will lunge too often and reach for blocks instead of adjusting his body to drive through players. 

Strength

9

Fundamentally strong with a wide frame and solid base. 

Technique

8

Free has good hand placement and a quick punch. He's quick out of his stance but will overextend at times when trying to get to the edge. 

Size

9

A little bit too big at 6'6", 323 lbs, restricting his agility.

Health

10

No injury issues.  

Overall

82

A very good left tackle, Free has the experience and technique to remain a highly graded player in the second tier of elite tackles.

90. DT Vince Wilfork, New England Patriots

Agility

10

Wilfork is scary quick and fluid in the open field. Watching him move around (and return interceptions) is a treat.

Bull Rush

9

A high-level bull rush. He gets his feet behind him and has good strength to push back his blocker.

Speed Rush

2

Wilfork is by no means a speed-rusher. His game is all power.

Run Defense

8

Wilfork isn't asked to make tackles, what he does (and he does it well) is take on blockers and eat up space in the line.

Speed/Burst

7

Has a first step that catches offensive linemen off guard. Can get to the hole before the guard is out of his stance.

Strength

10

Exceptional strength with elite lower-body power.

Shed Blockers

8

Has good hand use, but can still struggle to use secondary moves to get free.

Read & React

10

Knows where to go on every play. Can even drop back in coverage at times if he reads it as a need.

Tackle

8

Missed a handful of tackles in 2011 by coming in out of control.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

82

Vince Wilfork remains one of the best interior linemen in the NFL, even as the Patriots moved him around more in 2011 as they shifted to a 4-3 defense. Wilfork has elite strength and agility for a man his size.

90. CB Carlos Rogers, San Francisco 49ers

Agility

8

Rogers is fluid in his backpedal, and shows nice balance in coming off the ball. Is strong in a window.

Ball Skills

9

Rogers had six interceptions and eight passes defensed during the regular season—not bad for a guy who was labeled as having "bad hands."

Burn Rate

8

Did a nice job limiting completions, fighting through receivers to get to the football.

Coverage

8

Quarterbacks tried to challenge Rogers early in the year, but by the end of the season, few were successfully throwing his way.

Awareness

9

Some of the best awareness in the NFL. Rogers did a wonderful job finding the ball and sticking with receivers through crossing routes and combinations.

Range

7.5

Doesn't have elite-level speed, but makes smart decisions and is able to chew up yards to get to the ball.

Run Defense

7.5

Comes off the edge hard to stick runners, Rogers has a toughness that is underrated.

Speed

7.5

Has enough speed to be an impact, but can’t always chase from behind. 

Tackle

7.5

Not many runners get away from Rogers, who missed just four tackles during the 2011 season.

Health

10

Healthy for all games last year.

Overall

82

Rogers' 2011 season was a redemption tour, as teams who passed on the veteran in free agency were reminded of just how good he is. Rogers showed improved hands in 2011 en route to his first Pro Bowl selection, overcoming what was once thought of as an ability to become an interception-producing cornerback.

90. C Scott Wells, St. Louis Rams

Agility

9

Fires off the ball very fast and has an excellent ability to slide to his left or right. Is able to reach linebackers and get to the outside due to his quickness. 

Awareness

8

A smart leader of the offensive line. He sees changes pre-snap and will make the right calls. Could be better at picking up delays. 

Pass Block, Speed

8

Wells' hand placement and foot speed make him a very good speed-blocker. He's quick enough to get up and out of his stance to meet linebackers trying to crash the gap. 

Pass Block, Power

8

He's not incredibly strong, but Wells is very smart and does a good job using his position, leverage and momentum to his advantage. 

Run Block

7

Takes good angles and has smart leverage, but lacks the strength to be a dominating run-blocker. Is very good, but not quite elite. 

Move in Space

7

Has the quickness to get out in front of runs and to be very effective in leading on screen packages and draws. 

Strength

8

His strength shines when he's moving forward. Is able to set his feet and fight off defenders. Very good leg drive. 

Technique

9

Nearly perfect, but can be a bit high in his run blocking and will get caught reaching and grabbing when beaten by inside rushers. 

Size

8

Ideal size for the position in the Packers' scheme, but nowhere else. He's just 6'2", but so is Aaron Rodgers.

Health

10

Started every game in 2011 for the Packers. 

Overall

82

Scott Wells was a perfect fit at center in the Green Bay offense. And now he's playing for the Rams. You could make a good case for him as the best center in the game. If Wells were better in the run game, he would have made it as our No. 1 center. 

86. OLB Brian Orakpo, Washington Redskins

Agility

9

A special athlete with good lateral agility and unbelievable strength.

Bull Rush

8

Strong enough to win at the point of attack, Orakpo would score higher if he had slightly better fundamentals in using leverage.

Speed Rush

9

Has blinding speed in the first three yards. Will get the jump on anyone the offense tries to line up in front of him.

Read & React

7.5

Sees the ball well, but would like better awareness in run support and when asked to cover. Hurt by tunnel vision at times.

Run Defense

6

A major area where Orakpo can improve. Right now he's turning the run inside but can be beat to the edge with a stutter-step move.

Shed Blocks

8

Strong enough to toss fullbacks and tight ends aside but will get caught up by the best tackles.

Speed

9

Rare speed for the position, Orakpo moves like a 260-pound safety in space.

Strength

10

They don't make them much stronger than Orakpo on the field and in the weight room.

Tackle

6

Plays too high and too wild at times. Better control and better open-field breakdown would help.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

82.5

One of the most exciting young players in the NFL, Brian Orakpo maybe hasn't hit your radar yet, but he should be in the middle of it. Few outside linebackers in the league have his combination of production and potential. The skills are there for the young Redskin to be the best.

86. LT Trent Williams, Washington Redskins

Agility

8

Has good short-area agility and quickness. Williams isn't great at extending, but he has the footwork to be effective as a zone blocker.

Pass Block, Speed

9

Has the length, quick hands and footwork to be very good against speed rushers. Improved greatly in 2011 at getting to the corner and setting up to block. 

Pass Block, Power

7.5

He works well enough to the outside, but counter moves to the inside gave him trouble. Is a natural knee-bender, and has solid agility, so it’s not out of the question that he could improve over time. 

Run Blocking

7.5

He has a toughness that few top linemen possess. Williams gets good position and doesn’t let defenders into his pads. Really does nice work running opponents right out of the play and pancaking them. Still learning the intricacies of the zone system, though. Can miss assignments.

Move in Space

9

Showed better quickness moving to his right than to his left. Shows good enough quick depth on his slide move. Sets into his stance fairly quickly and has fast, active hands. 

Pull/Trap

6.5

Used some on slide blocking and showed the footwork to move around well enough. Although he needs to improve his footwork some, it’s good enough for the few times he’ll probably be asked to pull or trap. 

Strength

8.5

Has shown he can handle a strong punch without it knocking him around. Stays stationary in his set and is strong enough to maintain his leverage.  

Technique

7.5

Where Williams gets knocked is in his technique. He lunges at defenders too much and doesn’t always get proper arm extension. Goes in reverse too much instead of just shuffling his feet laterally. 

Size

9

Williams has a solid frame and a powerful build at 6'5", 318 lbs. He’s not trim and cut, but he doesn’t need to be. He has long arms, but could use them better. 

Health

10

No injury issues. 

Overall

82.5

No player impressed me more this season at left tackle than Williams, who made a tremendous improvement over his rookie season. A four-game suspension for drug use doesn't help Williams, even if character isn't a graded trait. If he keeps his head on straight, Williams has Pro Bowl talent. 

86. DT Sione Pouha, New York Jets

Agility

6

Quick enough with very good natural strength, Pouha can be limited laterally.

Bull Rush

8

Has a powerful initial punch and can follow up by getting his pads into the blocker and driving them back.

Speed Rush

5

Not a part of Pouha's game.

Run Defense

10

Shuts down two gaps every play, taking on the middle of the offensive line and generating enough pressure that a center and guard are consistently blocking him.

Speed/Burst

7

Has a good first step and nice inside quickness, but will get bogged down giving chase.

Strength

10

Unbelievable strength, Pouha can dig in and anchor in the middle of the line.

Shed Blockers

7.5

Can use his hands to disengage while on the move or in a box.

Read & React

9

A smart, experienced player who won't bite on draws or screens. Is never out of position.

Tackle

10

A hard-hitter who will close on the ball and rarely misses a tackle opportunity.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

82.5

Pouha ranks as the best nose tackle in football, thanks to his strength and leverage at the point of attack, as well as his ability to take on two gaps every play. Darrelle Revis is the Jets' best defender, but the Tongan isn't far behind.

86. C Nick Mangold, New York Jets

Agility

7

The first thing you notice about Mangold is his quickness. He's incredible at getting off the ball. Average lateral quickness.

Awareness

8

Top-notch here, but can get caught up on twists and delayed inside blitzes.  

Pass Block, Speed

8

Mangold shows very good ability to adjust to speed-rushers. Will quickly reset in his set to pick up changes. 

Pass Block, Power

8

Strong enough to set his feet post-snap and hold his ground. Can get pushed back by a strong nose tackle when playing one-on-one. 

Run Block

9

Very good at blowing off the ball and powering the run game. Big and strong, he uses his lower body to push the pile with ease. 

Move in Space

5.5

Limited ability to fire off and get set into screens. Isn't asked to pull or get out in front of the ball much. 

Strength

10

Elite strength at the position. 

Technique

8

Will get caught holding too often with a wide reach. Needs to show better leverage due to his height. 

Size

10

Is the ideal build for an NFL center at 6'4" and 307 lbs. Has long arms and a solid frame. 

Health

9

Played in 14 games during 2011 season, missing two with injury. 

Overall

82.5

The classic choice for best center would go to Mangold. He has been a dominant player since the Jets made him a first-round pick six years ago. Mangold is truly gifted at the position.

74. WR Andre Johnson, Houston Texans

Agility

10

A rare and exceptional combination of size, speed and athleticism.

Blocking

4

Has been better in previous years, and could have been limited by injury, but didn't show much as a blocker for the Texans in 2011.

Hands

8

Catches well when the ball is away from his body, showing a first-class catching radius.

Release

10

Johnson has great push off the line of scrimmage and is tough to get re-routed.

Route Running

10

Runs precise routes with the size and speed to challenge the best cornerbacks and safeties in the NFL.

Catch in Traffic

10

Has the strength to overpower most DBs when challenged.

Speed

10

Elite ability to turn a short catch into a long gain and accelerate past coverage.

Yards After Catch

6

Based on 2011 alone, Johnson struggled to pick up big yards after the catch and utilize said elite speed.

Vision

10

Does a great job adjusting to find the ball, showing good vision and anticipation.

Health

5

Struggled with injury throughout the 2011 season (and career).

Overall

83

Were it not for injury, Andre Johnson would be contending for the No. 1 ranking. A five-time Pro Bowl selection and four-time All-Pro, Johnson's overall ability, including route running and vision, is near unparalleled.

74. WR Jordy Nelson, Green Bay Packers

Agility

9

Is an excellent athlete with the burst and strength to win battles on the outside.

Blocking

6

Has good strength but can struggle to stay connected to his assignments. 

Hands

9.5

Nelson can go up and high-point the ball in a crowd, showing strong hands and very few drops.

Release

7

Uses his leverage and alignment well to keep free from defenders at the line.

Route Running

8

A high-level route runner who can sink his hips and explode out of routes.

Catch in Traffic

7.5

Flashes potential but has inconsistent hands (in traffic) to make the tough catch.

Speed

10

Considerably faster than his 40-time would indicate, Nelson has legitimate downfield speed with elite burst and acceleration.

Yards After Catch

8

Has dangerous run after catch ability in the open field. 

Vision

8

Does a good job tracking the ball over either shoulder and when on the move.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

83

The Kansas State product's stock took off in 2011, as he proved his worth as the No. 2 in the Green Bay offense. His 18.6 yards/reception was near tops in the league last season. Throw out production and look at hands, speed and route running, and Jordy Nelson is one of the best.

74. S Jairus Byrd, Buffalo Bills

Agility

8

Has top-level natural strength and balance.

Run Defense

7

Doesn’t always attack the ball and can be slow to diagnose when dropping into his backpedal.

Blitz

8

Has all the qualities of an athlete who can attack the line, but needs to improve his tackling in the open field. Byrd added one sack and two pressures in 2011.

Range

9

Is able to chew up yards to get to the right place. Has very good closing speed.

Coverage

9

Byrd excels at keeping quarterbacks from targeting his player in coverage. Was thrown at just 33 times in 2011.

Tackle

9

A clean tackler who doesn’t let many players get by him, Byrd can take down guys in the open field without issue. Very few mistakes.

Ball Skills

8

Can go up and get the football, and has a good skill set to separate the defender from the ball. 

Speed

7

Would hit the low-4.5 range if he were to run a 40-yard dash today.

Completion Percentage

8

Byrd has very good coverage skills and range. Does a good job of breaking up passes thrown his way.

Health

10

Did not miss a game with injury in 2011. 

Overall

83

A ball hawk who flies around the field making plays, Byrd has been an impact player in the Bills secondary since being drafted in '09. His three interceptions and seven passes defensed in 2011 were a huge part of the team's defensive success.

74. RG Brian Waters, New England Patriots

Agility

7

His footwork, from speed to balance, is perfect, but Waters has aged and his agility has fallen off.

Pass Block, Speed

10

Is able to handle speed-rushers thanks to his toughness and quick feet. He has big, strong hands and can redirect or mirror speed-rushers with quick, choppy feet.

Pass Block, Power

10

Has the ability to dig in his heels and thwart the bull rush. He's big, strong and impossible to move once he locks on.

Run Blocking

5.5

Struggled late in 2011 to open holes and get the right leverage and hand placement to allow lanes. Doesn’t extend well to the outside.

Move in Space

7

Does a good job clearing out at the first level and then looking to get downfield. Doesn’t have the agility to be a factor on the second level.

Pull/Trap

7

Used some on slide blocking and showed the footwork to move around good enough. Although he needs to improve his footwork some, it’s good enough for the few times he’ll probably be asked to pull or trap.

Strength

8.5

Fundamentally strong with a wide frame and solid base.

Technique

8

Great experience and IQ for the game. He's quick out of his stance but will overextend at times trying to get to the edge.

Size

10

A little short at 6’2”, but makes up for it with a strong and wide base.

Health

10

Played every game in 2011.

Overall

83

Waters had a brilliant 2011 season after being written off by the Kansas City Chiefs. His ability as a pass-protector in the middle of the line was key to the Patriots’ playoff run.

74. RB Steven Jackson, St. Louis Rams

Agility

8

Surprisingly quick for his size, Jackson complements it with great footwork.

Ball Protection

8

Is great 99 percent of the time but did fumble twice in 2011.

Burst

9

Generates great power and acceleration out of his snap. While he doesn't have great speed, he gets to his fastest in a hurry.

Hands

9

Has good awareness and uses his hands—not his body—to pull in catches.

Pass Block

7

Has great strength to hold his ground, but technique and awareness could be better.

Power

9.5

Excellent power, showing he can break tackles or move the pile without slowing down.

Route Running

7.5

Runs clean routes for such a big man with a high center of gravity for a RB.

Speed

7

Lacks great downfield speed but will be able to get to the corner without issue.

Vision

9

Has elite instincts and vision while running through the line or getting lateral to find a crease on the edge.

Health

9

Sat out one game in 2011.

Overall

83

Lost in what has been a very bad offense most of his career, Jackson is often forgotten in best running back discussions. He's failed to go over 1,000 yards just once in his career (his rookie year), though, an incredible feat considering the supporting cast around him.

74. P Shane Lechler, Oakland Raiders

Inside the 20

7

When you add up every punt from every punter and factor in their ratio of punts that land inside the 20, Lechler comes in just above average. Of his punts, 29 landed inside the 20-yard line and 44 were returned.

Inside the 10

7

Lechler's play dropped off a bit in 2011 based on how well he pinned the ball deep. Just 11 of his 77 punts were downed inside the 10-yard line. 

Power

9.5

The year's longest punt was 80 yards, and it was Shane Lechler who booted it. That 80-yard bomb came against the Chicago Bears at home. His average of 49.9 wasn't the best in the game, but it was close.

Hang Time

8

Lechler's 5.40 hang time was good enough to be tied for seventh overall in the NFL.

Accuracy

10

Lechler has the best directional accuracy of any punter in the game. He has exceptional control and can kick accurately and consistently to either corner from any place on the field. Only seven of his 80 kicks went out of bounds.

Overall

41.5

Some will be surprised that Lechler isn't ranked higher, even though he's No. 3. The difference between Lechler and the two guys above him are his hang time and his percentages when asked to punt the ball inside the red zone. Lechler is damn good, but based on 2011, there are two guys better.

74. OLB Clay Matthews, Green Bay Packers

Agility

8.5

Athletic enough to execute a strong shoulder dip in space and turn his hips to attack the edge.

Bull Rush

8.5

Strong enough to get tackles to take a step back and then pound them with a heavy bull rush.

Speed Rush

10

Has a rare blend of strength, speed and flexibility in space. Does a great job changing direction to turn the corner.

Read & React

8.5

Will still get sucked in on play-actions but is otherwise tough to fool.

Run Defense

8

Hasn't had a huge impact in the run game but does a great job limiting outside runs and making the offense go up the middle for his Packer teammates.

Shed Blocks

8

If he can keep one arm free, Matthews will beat the blocker every time.

Speed

8

Has more burst than straight-line speed. Closes on the ball with great range.

Strength

7.5

Good overall strength that shows up in every part of his game.

Tackle

7

For an elite player, Matthews missed far too many tackles in 2011. He must do a better job breaking down and using his body to tackle, minimizing the number of arm tackles.

Health

9

Sat out Week 17 with an injury during 2011 season.

Overall

83

A freak of an athlete on the edge, Clay Matthews saw less production and impact in 2011 as offenses game-planned around him. Still, Matthews was named to his third Pro Bowl in as many seasons in the league. The talent is there for Matthews to dominate this list for the next decade if he rededicates himself to perfecting his tackling ability.

74. LT Donald Penn, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Agility

7

Penn boasts an excellent burst off the line, but he doesn't have the lateral quickness or balance of an elite left tackle. He has good body control, but I'd like to see more control when getting to the edge.

Pass Block, Speed

8

Penn can quickly get set up and punch pass rushers. He's good at reaching the corner, but not great. A top pass protector nonetheless. 

Pass Block, Power

7

Can get run over a bit if he's not set up. Grades out very well against power rushers. Struggles with stunts and will be beaten inside by tackles at times.

Run Blocking

9

His quickness off the snap and low center of gravity make Penn a dominant blocker when moving forward.  

Move in Space

8

Moves well laterally and can mirror-and-punch well. Has quick feet, great vision and good balance. 

Pull/Trap

8

Is able to get out in front of the run and lead block. Is quick enough to pull and create holes for the back. Combination of quickness and strength are dangerous. 

Strength

9

Is a massive tackle with great lower-body strength and size. Great bubble and can really sit down to stonewall blockers or get his momentum going to drive-block. 

Technique

8

A good straight-up blocker, Penn can struggle with changes from the defensive line but has a clean explosion and does a good job controlling his body and keeping leverage throughout the block. 

Size

9

Great bulk for the position at 6'5", 305 lbs. Is a compact, thick player who looks shorter than he is.  

Health

10

No injury issues.

Overall

83

An underrated player, Penn is a solid and consistent left tackle who plays well in run and passing situations. He's the most talented and productive player on the Tampa Bay offense. 

74. LT Andrew Whitworth, Cincinnati Bengals

Agility

7

Is one of the biggest tackles in the game and relies on strength over agility. Can be a slow starter and doesn't show the footwork of an elite athlete.

Pass Block, Speed

9

Is quick out of the blocks and agile enough to meet defenders trying to turn the corner. Whitworth's massive wingspan makes him tough to beat if defenders are even close to his range. 

Pass Block, Power

10

Has the power to knock defenders off the ball, and is quick enough to snap power-rushers out of their stance with a quick punch off the ball.

Run Blocking

7

Struggled late in 2011 to open holes and get the right leverage and hand placement to allow lanes. Has the ability, but his technique hasn't been great in run blocking. 

Move in Space

6

Has big, long legs and can be a bit off balance when moving laterally. Would like to see him sink his weight and chop his feet more. 

Pull/Trap

7

Once he gets moving, Whitworth is a bull in a china shop. He struggles to get moving, though, and doesn't have the elite agility of smaller tackles. 

Strength

9

Is strong enough to stop defenders in their tracks and can get dirty in the run game by pancaking defenders off the ball.  

Technique

8

A smart player with a great feel for leverage and how to get the upper hand with proper angles. Is smooth, big enough to block out the sun and surprisingly fast. As a run-blocker, his angles can be lazy and he struggles to get low enough to move the pile.

Size

10

He's 6'7" and 335 lbs. He is part of the new breed of bigger, more athletic tackles measuring over 6'5". 

Health

10

No injury issues. 

Overall

83

Early in the season I ranked Whitworth very high, but he's tailed off throughout the season, especially in the run game. The talent is there for him to become a top-five left tackle. 

74. LG Andy Levitre, Buffalo Bills

Agility

7

Levitre has enough agility to get to the edge when run blocking and to quickly slide to pick up pass-rushers turning the corner.

Pass Block, Speed

8

Did well adjusting to pass-rushers, whether by blitz or stunt. Has very good awareness and the quick feet to make heads-up plays.

Pass Block, Power

8

Excelled at helping down block on nose tackles. Is strong enough to take his lead step and meet defenders in the hole.

Run Blocking

6

Levitre doesn’t show the same dominance in the run game. Is much better as a defender instead of attacker when blocking.

Move in Space

7

Can struggle to get clean and find the second level, but was effective on screen packages.

Pull/Trap

8

Can be used when pulling to his left, but doesn't move as well going right. Has good vision at the next level and can move with adequate quickness.

Strength

9

Good strength. Has a strong base and the proper bulk needed. He doesn't show great field strength when locking on with defenders. Would like to see stronger hands as well.

Technique

10

Has few flaws, especially as a pass-blocker, but gets too high out of the blocks when run blocking and doesn't have great leg drive.

Size

10

Short at 6’2”, but having played center and guard this isn’t an issue.

Health

10

Took every snap during 2011 season.

Overall

83

A versatile player with good awareness and excellent pass-blocking skills, Levitre can struggle at times to open the door in the run game. If he can work on his run technique, he’ll be truly elite.

74. DE J.J. Watt, Houston Texans

Agility

8

Watt shows a great first step with the power to back up his every move. A tremendous overall athlete.

Bull Rush

8

Once Watt develops a solid countermove to his already strong bull rush, tackles will be left powerless.

Speed Rush

6

More of a power-rusher, Watt can work in space but is less effective there.

Run Defense

9

Sees a ton of action playing on the left side of the defensive line. Is able to take out lead blockers and attack the ball.

Speed/Burst

8

Shows excellent first-step quickness to penetrate the offensive line.

Strength

10

A bit of a freak in terms of raw strength, Watt is already one of the best at his position in the NFL after one year.

Pass Deflect

9

Watt displays a heads-up ability to find the ball and get his hands up—and he's athletic enough to pick off passes others will simply bat down.

Read & React

7

Still learning how to read flawlessly, Watt does a great job working through the line to get the ball.

Tackle

8

Has big, long arms that allow him to reach runners in traffic.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

83

A player I'm so glad I was wrong about before the season, J.J. Watt looked a little lost during the first preseason game...and then he turned it on. Watt has the strength and burst to fire off the ball and get into the backfield against stronger right tackles. The sky is the limit for the former Wisconsin Badger, who should be a perennial Pro Bowler.

74. CB Johnathan Joseph, Houston Texans

Agility

9

Joseph has the quick feet and loose hips we love in draft prospects. Joseph is a fluid athlete with great body control.

Ball Skills

10

Joseph had four interceptions and eight passes defensed in 2011, but that doesn't begin to tell how quick he was in closing and attacking the ball.

Burn Rate

6

The one area where Joseph comes in lower than expected is his burn rate. Joseph allowed upwards of 58 percent of passes thrown his way to be completed.

Coverage

9

Joseph was targeted just 76 times in 16 games, good for 4.75 per game and amongst the top numbers in the NFL.

Awareness

9

Joseph is rarely out of position, and has the quickness to make adjustments on the fly without being exposed.

Range

9

Has the closing speed to find the ball and get to it in a hurry. Joseph's ability to take a hard angle to the ball is textbook.

Run Defense

6

Will fight through blocks, but isn't a great closer. A better open-field tackler.

Speed

9

Has great speed in space, with enough burst to accelerate after being turned by receivers. Not many players in the league can outrun him. 

Tackle

6

An above-average tackler in space, Joseph could do a better job of staying balanced and getting low to power through.

Health

10

Joseph played in every game during the 2011 season.

Overall

83

The play of Johnathan Joseph tells a story of the Houston Texans 2011 season: quiet at first, but by midseason people realized they were both for real. Joseph's play was outstanding, and it catapulted him into the national spotlight as one of the best cornerbacks in the game.

68. WR Greg Jennings, Green Bay Packers

Agility

8

An excellent athlete with solid agility.

Blocking

5.5

Can be timid to make contact. Too pretty to get dirty.

Hands

8

Shows soft hands and good extension to bring in the ball.

Release

10

Comes off the snap with good presence and nice burst, making it tough for corners to get their hands on the 5'11", 198-pounder.

Route Running

10

Is a good route runner who can run combination routes with excellent foot quickness, agility and acceleration.

Catch in Traffic

9

Good ability to adjust and make acrobatic-type catches.

Speed

9

Has the burst to separate from defenders and can maintain the separation.

Yards After Catch

6

Has the speed to pick up yards, but lack of size equals difficulties in breaking tackles.

Vision

10

Adjusts to the ball in flight without struggling to find the ball.

Health

8

Missed three games in 2011.

Overall

83.5

Jennings' numbers (67 and 949, nine TDs) may not be elite, but his ability is. Few receivers in the NFL bring his level of route running and hands in a total package. Jennings is one of the best route runners we saw in scouting the game's best.

68. RT Tyron Smith, Dallas Cowboys

Agility

8

Smith is a great overall athlete with quick feet and excellent balance. Would like to see him play under more control. Could make the switch to left tackle. 

Pass Block, Speed

8.5

Has long arms and a big stride. Is able to take two shuffle steps and get to the corner to meet defenders. Doesn't get fooled into taking outside bait. A smart player as a rookie in 2011. 

Pass Block, Power

8.5

Smith did give up eight sacks in 2011, most of them coming when he lost his hold on pass-rushers. He has to get stronger and hold his ground longer. Other than that handful of plays, he was exceptional.  

Run Blocking

9.5

Has a mean streak and will lock on and drive tacklers out of the play. Is good at chipping and getting to the next level on weak-side runs.   

Move in Space

7.5

Moves very well at 6'5", 311. Has light feet and a good lateral move. Could come out lower in his stance to improve blocks downfield.   

Pull/Trap

6.5

Doesn't play great under his pads. Lacks the experience to efficiently move and locate targets.  

Strength

8

Good strength with a strong base and the proper bulk. Would be graded higher if he showed a better understanding of using his strength in pass protection.

Technique

7

Still a work in progress, but he has quick hands and reflexes. A natural knee-bender who is patient and strong at the point of attack. Keeps his head on a swivel and shows the ability to extend and pick up the edge.   

Size

10

Ideal height, bulk and length.  

Health

10

Started every game in his rookie season. 

Overall

83.5

One of the more promising tackles in the game today, Smith has the athletic ability to make the move to the left side and still be an elite player. Had a Pro Bowl-caliber season. 

68. QB Matthew Stafford, Detroit Lions

Accuracy Short

8.5

Stafford throws with good zip and is able to quickly locate receivers and deliver the ball. Hits receivers in stride. Once his timing improves, will be near perfect. 

Accuracy Outside the Pocket

8

Moves well on the run for a non-running quarterback. Is able to square his shoulders and has the upper-body strength to torque into the throw. Good vision allows him to locate targets on the move. 

Accuracy Deep

7.5

Stafford has the arm to make deep throws, but must work on his placement and timing on deep routes. Will too often throw the ball up and ask the receiver to make a play on the ball. 

Arm Strength

10

Has a rocket of an arm and is able to cleanly make every throw with a tight spiral and clean mechanics.  

Clutch

9

Stafford has that rare calm when the pressure mounts; now he needs more experience and more confidence in his offensive line and secondary targets. 

Decision-Making

8.5

Still learning the position and how to read a defense, Stafford improved in 2011 and looks to be on the upswing. 

Mechanics

10

Does everything a quarterback should when setting up in his drop, timing his steps and delivering the football. Flawless. 

Mobility

6

Isn't a runner, but has the agility to escape the pocket and get outside the tackle box to make plays with his arm or legs. Is tough and not afraid to run when needed. 

Pocket Presence

7

Stafford can be guilty of holding onto the football for too long, and is responsible for a good number of sacks because of his indecisive nature. 

Health

9

Healthier in 2011 than in previous seasons, but Stafford has played through a number of small injuries, with a broken finger affecting his midseason production. 

Overall

83.5

One of the bright young quarterbacks in the NFL, Stafford is still only in his second full season in terms of number of starts. If he can stay healthy, Stafford has top-five potential. 

68. QB Matt Ryan, Atlanta Falcons

Accuracy Short

8.5

Take away the drops by a young Falcons wide receiver corps and Matt Ryan completed 70 percent of his passes in 2011. He throws a very catchable ball and is underrated in terms of delivering strikes to targets within 15 yards. 

Accuracy Outside the Pocket

7.5

He isn't asked to throw much outside the pocket, but has shown the ability to get outside the pocket and locate receivers breaking back toward the ball. Squares up nicely and connects on short attempts outside the pocket. 

Accuracy Deep

8.5

The Atlanta offense goes deep a moderate amount, but Ryan's accuracy there hasn't been good. He completed 30 percent of his throws targeted 20 yards or more downfield. 

Arm Strength

8

The velocity is great, but when going deep the ball starts to flutter and wobble. Ryan is excellent throwing with force inside 20 yards.

Clutch

8

Known as "Matty Ice" for a reason, Ryan has led Atlanta to 10 fourth-quarter comebacks and 15 game-winning drives in four seasons. Like all great quarterbacks, he is calm under pressure and gets better with more on the line.  

Decision-Making

8.5

Has cleaned up his decision-making, showing an improved knowledge of the offense. He's starting to feel the coverage better and is doing a much better job at looking off coverage. Ryan is nearing elite here. 

Mechanics

10

Nothing to dislike. He stands tall in the pocket at 6'4", is light on his feet and throws with velocity in a clean, over-the-top delivery. 

Mobility

6

While not a threat to run, he is able to move around in the pocket and get away from the pass rush. Ryan isn't necessarily fast, but he's agile and smart at finding openings. 

Pocket Presence

8.5

While the sack numbers have gone up in Atlanta, Ryan's responsibility for taking sacks has gone down.   

Health

10

Rarely injured during his time in the NFL, Ryan hasn't missed a start in two seasons and has only missed two games in four years.

Overall

83.5

One of the best young quarterbacks in the game, once Ryan improves his accuracy when throwing deep he will quickly move up this list.

68. LT Jared Gaither, San Diego Chargers

Agility

6.5

Excellent burst off the line. Can be very heavy-footed at times, though. The short-area quickness displayed is solid, as is his balance, but agility is a weakness for Gaither.

Pass Block, Speed

10

Grading from his games as a member of the San Diego Chargers, Gaither was the best left tackle in the NFL in this category. He struggled in Kansas City in very limited duty, but in San Diego he was single-handedly blocking two players on some plays.  

Pass Block, Power

10

Was quick out of a two-point stance and has the strength to be a wall against power-rushers. No one got past Gaither at left tackle, especially when they tried inside power moves.

Run Blocking

9

Is powerful off the line and has the strength to move the pile. San Diego wisely ran behind Gaither often, as his sheer mass and girth cleared holes on the left side of the line.

Move in Space

6

Moves well laterally and can mirror-and-punch well. Has quick feet, great vision and good balance. Isn't exceptionally quick and can struggle when asked to move outside his box.

Pull/Trap

6

Is able to get out in front of the run and lead block. Is quick enough to pull and create holes for the back. Lack of elite agility or speed limit his play. 

Strength

10

Is a massive tackle with great lower-body strength and size. Great bubble and can really sit down to stonewall blockers or get his momentum going to drive block. Devastating initial punch.

Technique

8

Gaither will get a little high at times, but when asked to hold the edge on the left side of the line he's dominant. If Gaither can work on getting his base lower, especially on run plays, his score will be a 10.

Size

10

Great bulk for the position. Is a tall (6'9"), lean player who has the muscle tone and overall strength to be elite. 

Health

8

Had early season back issues but was not used in Kansas City to his full potential. Once signed by San Diego, Gaither showed how dominant he can be when put to use. 

Overall

83.5

A player forgotten by many when the Baltimore Ravens let him go, Gaither signed in Kansas City and was seldom used. Once released he signed in San Diego and was inserted into the lineup immediately. He rewarded them with All-Pro-caliber play as the season ended. Gaither, when healthy, has the talent to be the best left tackle in the NFL. 

68. DT Kevin Williams, Minnesota Vikings

Agility

8

Has the agility to move laterally and upfield at the snap with the quickness to catch blockers off guard.

Bull Rush

8

Strong enough to push and drive the center off the ball.

Speed Rush

8

Generates more pressure than sacks, but has the speed to blow past guards waiting in their stance.

Run Defense

9

Uses his speed and quickness to reestablish the line of scrimmage.

Speed/Burst

8

Has excellent natural quickness and burst in space.

Strength

7

Strong enough to handle individual blockers, but cannot beat a double-team consistently.

Shed Blockers

8.5

Can separate in traffic with strong, quick hands.

Read & React

9

You won't fool Williams, who plays with excellent awareness and pre-snap recognition.

Tackle

8

Williams won't miss many—if any—tackles.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

83.5

No longer a double-digit sack artist, Williams has moved into the phase of his career where he's drawing more double-teams, creating more pressures, and showing leadership on the line. He's incredibly valuable to the Vikings defense, and in 2011 he showed the quickness to still be a factor against the run.

61. RT Sebastian Vollmer, New England Patriots

Agility

9

Vollmer's burst off the ball is impressive. Has the footwork to be effective as a zone-blocker. 

Pass Block, Speed

8.5

Can get to the corner to cut off pass-rushers, but isn't always under control and balanced. Three-year veteran can improve in this area with more experience.  

Pass Block, Power

8

Works very well in a window and gets the knee bend and leverage to handle power-rushers and inside blitzes.  

Run Blocking

8.5

Is a smart, savvy run-blocker who does a good job kicking out ends and getting the hook on outside players. Can move to his left or right without a drop-off in production. 

Move in Space

7.5

Above average at clearing out at the first level and then looking to get downfield. Is used on a number of plays that ask him to block in space. Often leads the way on screen packages.

Pull/Trap

8.5

Is able to get out in front of the run and lead block. Is quick enough to pull and create holes for the back. Combination of quickness and strength is dangerous.   

Strength

8

Is strong enough to control the line of scrimmage. Would have a higher score if he showed more consistency. 

Technique

10

Penalized just once in his six starts this season. Vollmer has clean technique and doesn't make mistakes. 

Size

10

Ideal size (6'8", 315). He's tall with long arms and big, thick hands.   

Health

6

Has missed 10 games in three seasons due to injury.  

Overall

84

Vollmer has elite potential, but he has to stay healthy first. If he does that, he could top the 2012 list of the best right tackles. 

61. RB Arian Foster, Houston Texans

Agility

9

Runs with great body control and quick feet. Foster is a smooth, fluid athlete.

Ball Protection

5

Had more fumbles than you'd like to see during the 2011 season.

Burst

9.5

Able to go from what looks like a jog to full speed in a split second.

Hands

9.5

Has soft hands with good arm extension and the presence of mind to tuck the ball away before running.

Pass Block

7

Relishes the ability to stand in and deliver a hit to the same defenders trying to hurt him throughout the contest.

Power

8

Runs with high knees to drive through tacklers. Gets his pads low and can deliver a big hit.

Route Running

10

A smooth, capable route runner who is a big part of Houston's passing game.

Speed

8

Deceptively fast runner who doesn't look like he's moving fast—until you notice he's pulling away from defenders.

Vision

10

Has elite vision to take the handoff, make one cut and then find openings to the end zone. 

Health

8

Sat out three games last season.

Overall

84

An undrafted free agent in 2009 after a lackluster senior year with the Tennessee Volunteers, you could easily make the argument for Arian Foster as the NFL's best running back. He has the production, size, speed, strength and third-down ability to be a longtime great at the position.

61. OLB Tamba Hali, Kansas City Chiefs

Agility

8

Hali has very good open-field quickness and nice hip flexibility.

Bull Rush

10

Strong enough to generate pressure on the backfield with a strong bull rush off the edge.

Speed Rush

10

Has the speed and agility to separate off the edge and make plays in the backfield.

Read & React

8

Recognizes alignments and pre-snap formations. Rarely out of position for the KC defense.

Run Defense

8

Strong enough to take on the run but is still primarily a pass-rusher.

Shed Blocks

9

Has good strength and leverage to take on and dispose of blockers.

Speed

8

With top-tier speed for the position, Hali can separate in space and track down the ball.

Strength

8

Has good total-body strength to take on blockers and execute in traffic.

Tackle

5

Far too many missed tackles in 2011. Hali gets too high and too wide in pursuit.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

84

Hali is one of the premier pass-rushers in the NFL and has racked up 26.5 sacks over the last couple years, but he's largely a one-trick pony. Though most outside linebackers in a 3-4 defense focus on the pass rush, he has yet to develop elite skills as a run-stopper. Even so, with what the Chiefs ask him to do, Hali is an elite OLB.

61. OLB Aldon Smith, San Francisco 49ers

Agility

9

Has exceptional open-field quickness and hip flexibility.

Bull Rush

10

Has very good strength but also shows elite leverage and leg drive at the point of attack.

Speed Rush

10

Has superb quickness and burst to pressure the pocket and make plays on the QB. He set the 49ers rookie record for sacks with 14 last year. Smith is elite.

Read & React

7

Still developing his sense for where the ball is going, but Smith does a good job anticipating where the play will end up.

Run Defense

3

Was barely a factor in run support, largely being removed on obvious run downs.

Shed Blocks

8

Strong and agile enough to either take on or slip blocks on the edge.

Speed

9

Has excellent, top-level burst and acceleration off the edge.

Strength

8

Strong enough to take on the blocks and assignments against opposing linemen.

Tackle

10

Smith rarely misses tackles in space. This kid is the definition of a lockdown tackler.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

84

Largely used as a pass-rusher and sometimes run-stuffer in his rookie campaign, Smith is less of an all-around player than others. Still, the No. 7 overall pick out of Missouri is such an effective pass-rusher that he easily warrants a top ranking at outside linebacker. Once he develops other areas, watch out.

61. OLB Cameron Wake, Miami Dolphins

Agility

8

Wake shows very good quickness and nice three- to five-yard agility.

Bull Rush

8

Strong enough to win most battles at the line of scrimmage facing a stationary tackle.

Speed Rush

10

You can't expect to hold Wake down on the edge. He's too quick and too smooth in his pass-rushing sets.

Read & React

9

Sees and flows to the ball very well. Won't get fooled by play-actions or misdirections.

Run Defense

7

Does a good job tracking the ball from the outside, though Wake can get sucked down on counters.

Shed Blocks

10

Strong enough to take on blocks and push the pile, he is impossible to keep locked up.

Speed

8

Has exceptional speed off the edge. Wake shows the quickness to turn, catch and chase without issue.

Strength

7

Wake is 250 pounds and strong in space but can be taken out in traffic.

Tackle

7

A good athlete who can break down and take on the run, Wake will get overpowered when he's not completely clean to make a form tackle.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

84

Cameron Wake's transition from CFL to elite NFL pass-rusher is complete. In 2011 he became a premier pass-rusher for the Dolphins, showing the ability to close on the quarterback and take on the ball with ease. Wake will move to defensive end in 2012, where his speed and power should net big production.

61. K Robbie Gould, Chicago Bears

Accuracy

10

Gould missed just four kicks all year, making 87.5 percent of his attempts. He made 6-of-6 outside 50 yards.

Kickoff Power

7

Has a strong leg, as shown by his 42 touchbacks and kickoff average of 67.7 yards. The Bears are kicking into the wind half of the game, too.

Field-Goal Power

10

Automatic from outside of 50 yards—a rarity. His long of 57 yards was good for sixth best in the NFL.

Hang Time

5

Gould has great distance, but his hang time needs work. His best for 2011 was just 4.4 seconds.

Carlson Rating

10

Without a miss inside of 40 yards or deeper than 50, Gould's score was among the highest. If not for four misses in the 40- to 49-yard range he would have ranked as No. 1 in this stat.

Overall

42

When you think of the best kickers, it's unlikely Robbie Gould gets much mention outside of Chicago—and maybe even inside Chicago. An All-Pro selection way back in 2006, Gould had a good enough 2011 to be up for consideration again.

61. CB Nnamdi Asomugha, Philadelphia Eagles

Agility

8

Asomugha is a silky-smooth athlete, but he can get a little high at times, which slows down his ability to change direction.

Ball Skills

8

Has quick reflexes and excellent vision. Doesn't pull down a high number of interceptions, however. 

Burn Rate

5.5

Asomugha clearly struggled moving into the Eagles defense, and it showed, as he allowed twice as many completions in 2011 than he did in 2010.

Coverage

10

One of the most respected cornerbacks in the NFL, Asomugha didn't adapt well to the scheme change in Philadelphia. Regardless, he was still a blanket cover man, as teams threw his way just 47 times.

Awareness

10

Asomugha does a great job sitting back and reading the route. One of the smarter players in the game. 

Range

10

Has the speed and length to make up ground in a hurry.

Run Defense

7.5

Is a lanky player who doesn't have great strength, but he'll throw himself at the ball without reservation.

Speed

8

Has great short-area quickness, and isn't a straight-line sprinter, but there are few NFL wideouts who can outrun him in coverage.

Tackle

7

Asomugha missed eight tackles in the games we charted, most of them weak attempts to bring down a player by the ankles.

Health

10

Completely healthy during the 2011 season.

Overall

84

Asomugha took a step back in 2011 as he was introduced to a new scheme without an offseason to prepare for the changes. By Week 14, Asomugha was back to his dominant self, giving fans an indicator of where he'll be in 2012.

59. S Adrian Wilson, Arizona Cardinals

Agility

9

Exceptional athlete who shows some stiffness when changing direction.  

Run Defense

10

Has the speed and instincts to quickly attack the ball, which he does.

Blitz

7

Does everything you’d want at the position, but his success rate of getting to the quarterback isn’t good enough to warrant a higher grade.

Range

8.5

Like a great center fielder, he will sit back and read the ball and then attack. It’s a rush to watch him operate in space.

Coverage

10

Able to be a shutdown force in coverage. Keeps opposing quarterbacks from attempting to throw into his zone. Is a player teams game-plan around due to his ability in man coverage.

Tackle

6

Is a good tackler, but will whiff as well by being too high and not breaking down to take on the ball-carrier.

Ball Skills

7

Had solid numbers in 2011, but missed on some opportunities. Can go up and get the football, and has a good skill set to separate the defender from the ball. 

Speed

7

Wilson has seen his speed regress slightly, but makes up for this with great awareness and toughness.

Completion Percentage

10

Does a great job limiting completions when he’s in coverage. Near the best in the game at keeping quarterbacks in check.

Health

10

Clean bill of health.

Overall

84.5

Long recognized as one of the elite safeties in the NFL, Adrian Wilson still has it. He's a versatile threat who can punish receivers and also lock down tight ends in coverage when needed. Few players have his all-around ability.

59. QB Matt Schaub, Houston Texans

Accuracy Short

10

A very smart passer who wastes few throws underneath. Schaub has a quick delivery that allows him to throw the ball with ease on crossing routes and outs.  

Accuracy Outside the Pocket

9

Not a scrambler, but can get outside the pocket and is able to make difficult throws on the move.  

Accuracy Deep

8.5

Houston doesn't attempt many deep passes, but when they did in 2011 Schaub connected on an impressive 43.2 percent of passes deeper than 20 yards. Having a healthy Andre Johnson would have improved that number greatly.  

Arm Strength

8

Not known as a big-arm guy, Schaub doesn't have elite strength but can get the job done. His short passes have good velocity even if they lack the zip of other quarterbacks.  

Clutch

9

Able to handle pressure from defenses without getting frustrated. Has led Houston on 10 game-winning drives. 

Decision-Making

10

A very smart quarterback who will not lose games for his team. Limits turnovers and does a great job getting the ball to the open man. Excelled without Johnson for part of 2011, showing he needn't rely on one option. 

Mechanics

10

Has great balance in his drop steps and sets up quickly. His understanding of how deep to drop and his ability to strike quickly are elite.  

Mobility

6

Schaub lacks the speed to extend the play, but he's quick enough to step up and out of the pocket when pressured. Able to throw on the run as well.  

Pocket Presence

10

Does a great job feeling the pass rush and getting out of the pocket as needed. Schaub steps up in the pocket to avoid the outside rush and is tall enough to get the ball out of his hands once the passing window opens. 

Health

4

Known as injury-prone early in his eight-year career, he missed the final six games of 2011 season with a foot injury.   

Overall

84.5

Schaub can be inconsistent, but during the 2011 season he started to put his talent to good use. If he can stay in the Gary Kubiak system for another year—and stay healthy—he could make a sizable move up the rankings. 

51. TE Rob Gronkowski, New England Patriots

Agility

10

Good lateral agility to get into his route quickly. Is an overall great athlete who puts his skills on display regularly. Has the speed, burst and flexibility that NFL scouts love.

Pass Blocking

4

A solid in-line blocker who has a solid punch off the snap and can sustain blocks. Isn’t asked to stay in and protect much, as he is the Patriots' best downfield threat.

Run Blocking

8.5

Has the lateral agility to mirror and the hand strength to latch on and drive block. Very good seal-blocker on the edge and is surprisingly effective driving defenders off the ball.

Route Running

10 

A very smart route-runner who took his experience at wide receiver in college and transformed himself into a dominant player. He has a great understanding of space and how to read safeties, which makes him dangerous in zone routes.

Hands

5.5

Soft hands to pluck the ball outside of his frame but puts too many balls on the ground due to poor concentration. Can bend low to get the ball. Catches the ball with his hands, but will body-catch when he feels footsteps.

Speed

9

Good acceleration and straight-line speed allow Gronkowski to blow by defenders. Quick release off the snap. Has enough speed to pressure cover men into their backpedal early. Is often covered by cornerbacks.

Size

10 

Has ideal NFL size (6'6", 265 lbs) with no issues.

Release

8

Good initial quickness off the snap with strong use of hands to fight through the initial jam. Has enough straight-line speed to challenge down the seam.

Run After Catch

10

Doesn’t make many people miss but has great acceleration and very good field vision to find openings and get through traffic.

Health

10

Didn’t miss a start in 2011.

Overall

85

The NFL’s best all-around tight end, Gronkowski is an underrated and overlooked blocker in combination with his jaw-dropping ability as a tight end for the New England Patriots. He’s a matchup nightmare.

51. S George Wilson, Buffalo Bills

Agility

10

Able to quickly shift direction and close on the ball. Shows ability with the ball in his hands, too.

Run Defense

10

A lockdown tackler who lives around the football. Has the speed and instincts to quickly attack.

Blitz

6

Is a player the team is comfortable blitzing, but needs to show better awareness and agility to change direction and attack the passer.

Range

9

Is able to chew up yards when going to the football—both on the ground and through the air. Has very good closing speed.

Coverage

7.5

Strong enough to play in press coverage. There aren’t many quarterbacks who successfully challenge Wilson. 

Tackle

9

A clean tackler who doesn’t let many players get by him, Wilson can take down guys in the open field without issue. Very few mistakes.

Ball Skills

8.5

Can go up and get the football, and has a good skill set to separate the defender from the ball. Shows great hands for the interception.

Speed

10

Wilson is much faster than many may notice. 

Completion Percentage

7

Does a good job breaking on the ball and can separate passes, but is only on the verge of being elite. 

Health

8

Wilson missed two games during the 2011 season with injury.

Overall

85

Wilson's first half of 2011 was one of the best performances by a safety I've seen in the last few years. And then his play started to slip as offenses figured out the Bills scheme. Wilson's overall ability shouldn't be marred by the play of his team. He's an elite safety with his sights set on becoming the best.

51. RT David Stewart, Tennessee Titans

Agility

8

Stewart does a good job making up ground with long arms and legs. Is able to reach the edge to punch pass-rushers off balance. Has quick feet and a big, long stride.  

Pass Block, Speed

9.5

Has the length to take one kick step and easily reach the edge. He has big, strong hands and can redirect or mirror speed-rushers with quick, choppy feet.  

Pass Block, Power

10  

Is known for his ability to dig in his heels and thwart the bull rush. He's impossible to move once he locks on.  

Run Blocking

6.5

Struggled late in 2011 to open holes and get the right leverage and hand placement to maintain lanes. Playing on the edge, he's not getting the right angle to turn defenders. 

Move in Space

6

Has long legs and can be a bit off balance when moving laterally. Would like to see him sink his weight and chop his feet more. 

Pull/Trap

6

Stewart can struggle to get moving, as doesn't have the elite agility of smaller tackles. 

Strength

9

Has shown he can handle a strong punch. Stays stationary in his set and is strong enough to maintain his leverage.   

Technique

10

Penalized just twice in '11. Stewart has textbook technique. 

Size

10

He's 6'7" and plays stronger than his 315 lbs.

Health

10

Missed one start in 2011, but quickly recovered. 

Overall

85

You could make a good argument for Stewart as the best pass-blocking right tackle in the NFL. He comes in at No. 4 mostly because of his lack of dominance in the run game. 

51. RB Ray Rice, Baltimore Ravens

Agility

9

A compact runner with good flexibility and balance, Rice is a great all-around athlete.

Ball Protection

8

Lost two fumbles for Baltimore in 2011.

Burst

9

Has a powerful lower body that lets him get to top speed in a flash.

Hands

10

A damn good receiver who doesn't drop receptions when thrown his way. One of the Ravens' best receiving options.

Pass Block

5

More often asked to release as a receiver, Rice lacks the size to offer much as a blocker.

Power

8

Generates great power from a short, thick frame that will put defenders on their ass if they get in the hole.

Route Running

9

Can do more than make plays out of the backfield. Rice is comfortable in space running routes.

Speed

8

Has very good top-end speed and can pull away from the defense when he finds a seam.

Vision

9

Lack of great height (5'8") doesn't keep him from picking and choosing holes and creases to run through.

Health

10

Didn't miss any time last season.

Overall

85

A tough, hard-nosed runner who is also one of the best contributors as a receiver in the game. Ray Rice is a complete back who would receive few arguments if listed as the best running back in the NFL.

51. LT Jordan Gross, Carolina Panthers

Agility

9

Gross has good agility and can stretch laterally. Does a good job sliding and has a quick, sudden burst out of his stance.

Pass Block, Speed

8

Can get beat to the corner but has good recovery speed and is smart enough to take the right angles to give himself an advantage.

Pass Block, Power

8

Is small by left tackle standards and can be beat here, but he makes up for his lack of size and strength with leverage and smart play. 

Run Blocking

8

Would like to see Gross get dirty more often. He can try to finesse block too often in the run game. Doesn't play with a mean streak. 

Move in Space

8

Good lateral agility and quickness, plus he's light on his feet. Gross does a good job mirroring and kicking out to pick up the edge. 

Pull/Trap

8

Can block down and is strong enough to wall off defenders. Is a great backside run-blocker, but not a strong lead blocker. Smart enough to combo block down.

Strength

8

Could be strong, especially in the power train, but has good functional strength.  

Technique

9

A true knee-bender who will drop his weight and keep his balance and form through a block. Smooth hand placement and great leverage. 

Size

9

Comes in just shy of most left tackles at 6'4".  

Health

10

No injury issues for Gross. 

Overall

85

Gross is an underrated tackle who doesn't jump off the film, but is incredibly solid in every aspect of the game. He doesn't make mistakes and is consistent as a run- and pass-blocker.  

51. ILB Ray Lewis, Baltimore Ravens

Agility

8

Shows the flexibility and speed to be a factor athletically. Lewis' agility hasn't dropped off much with age.

Coverage

9

Does a good job locking up tight ends going over the middle. Gets very good depth in his drops.

Pass Rush

6

Struggles to get guards turned to effectively blitz through the A-gap. The Ravens prefer to use him in coverage.

Read & React

10

Lewis has legendary ability to read the offense. He is an instinctive player who is quick to locate the level of the ball and takes good angles to get there.

Run Defense

9

An explosive run-stopper with good strength and instincts, Lewis can shut down the run inside the hashes and still shows the ability to stretch to the flats.

Shed Blocks

10

He does a good job of using his hands to keep blockers off him and keeps working his way to the play.

Speed

8

Has enough speed to close on the ball in space. An explosive runner.

Strength

9

Strong enough to hold his ground against the run, Lewis can contain the best backs in the game with strong arms.

Tackle

9

Is an explosive tackler who shows great snap and wrap on contact but had a handful of missed tackles in 2011.

Health

7

Lewis missed four games last year.

Overall

85

What more can you say about Ray Lewis? He's a sure-fire first-ballot Hall of Fame linebacker who has etched his name in NFL history books. Basing our scouting reports on 2011 alone, Lewis comes in just shy of the No. 1 spot. Historically, there are few—if any—better than Lewis.

51. DT Richard Seymour, Oakland Raiders

Agility

8

A natural athlete who can switch from a power position to playing on the edge without losing production.

Bull Rush

8

Has a high-level bull rush, but will get too high at times and can get lock-kneed.

Speed Rush

8

Has the quickness and a nice swim move to play on the edge, but has never been a premier pass-rusher.

Run Defense

9

Seymour is at his best anchoring on the edge, setting himself up to stop the run and force plays back inside. His penetration against the run is legendary.

Speed/Burst

9

Seymour moved from a solid eight to a seven by the end of the 2011 season.

Strength

9

Has good all-around strength, showing the legs to drive blockers, and the arms to reach and grab backs.

Shed Blockers

7

Uses his hands well to generate separation, but will struggle to free himself from angle blocks.

Read & React

8

An experienced, smart player who doesn't make mistakes.

Tackle

9

A sure thing in traffic and in space, Seymour's missed tackles are few and far between.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

85

Versatile enough to play end or tackle, Seymour remains one of the preeminent defensive linemen in the NFL, and a guide by which scouts grade young defensive linemen.

51. C Chris Myers, Houston Texans

 

Agility

10

Incredibly quick off the ball. Myers has the agility to move from center and get involved in the run game to his left or right. Very light on his feet. Ideal for a zone-scheme center. 

Awareness

8

Good overall awareness and pre-snap reads. Will make changes as needed and does a good job adjusting to what the defense does. 

Pass Block, Speed

7.5

Centers are rarely great in pass protection, and Myers grades out as very good. He's quick, but can be beaten with a strong inside move from a defensive tackle or inside linebacker charging hard. 

Pass Block, Power

7.5

Can get blown off the ball, which is what the Bengals' Geno Atkins did regularly during their wild-card playoff meeting. 

Run Block

10

This is where Myers makes his money. He has great burst off the ball and quickly gets into the defender. Is strong and agile enough to use his momentum to redirect players. Has great vision to see the defense in the zone-blocking scheme. 

Move in Space

6

Does a good job moving laterally and is very agile. Myers was downgraded here because he doesn't get out as well to help with screen packages. Is good in space when run blocking, but not setting up the pass. 

Strength

8

Myers has just average strength and is a smaller player. Gets by with great agility and smart angles and leverage. 

Technique

8

Does a good job getting up out of his stance. Has quick hands and a deadly first step. Can get a little off balance at the point of attack.  

Size

10

Myers doesn't have ideal size for center, but has ideal size for a center in a zone scheme like the one Houston runs. He's 6'4", 289 lbs.

Health

10

Didn't miss a game in 2011. 

Overall

85

Myers may not come to mind as the best center in the NFL, but he narrowly outscores Nick Mangold to claim the top spot. Myers was great in 2011 in powering the dynamic Houston run game and deserves his mention here. 

 

46. RG Jahri Evans, New Orleans Saints

Agility

8

Does a good job making up ground with long arms and legs. Can be heavy-footed, but has very good burst and balance.

Pass Block, Speed

7.5

Can get beat to the inside but has good recovery speed and is smart enough to take the right angles to give himself an advantage.

Pass Block, Power

7.5

Can get run over a bit if he's not set up. Struggles with stunts and will be beaten inside by tackles at times. Has a soft inside shoulder.

Run Blocking

10 

Does a good job drive blocking and is great at kicking out defensive ends or moving in space on stretch plays. Can drive block defenders out of his zone.

Move in Space

8

Has a long stride and quick feet, allowing him to make up ground when working to get to the second level to attack linebackers. Keeps his balance. Has a surprising first step.

Pull/Trap

8

Is more of a man-blocking guard, but Evans can get down the line of scrimmage and work to get to linebackers on zone or stretch runs.

Strength

8.5

Grades out very well on the move, but can give up ground when asked to lock down as a pass-protector. Weak inside shoulder leads to sacks and penetration.

Technique

8

Evans is fluid, quick and strong at the point of attack. He's very quick out of his stance and does a great job moving forward to push the pile. Has consistent hand placement.

Size

10

Fits the ideal mold of a guard at 6’4” and 320 lbs.

Health

10

Did not miss a start in 2011.

Overall

85.5

One of the best pure run-blockers, at any position, in the NFL. Saw his pass blocking regress as New Orleans replaced their starting center. In a pass-heavy offense he was not as effective but allowed just three sacks.

46. OLB Sean Weatherspoon, Atlanta Falcons

Agility

9

Weatherspoon has elite speed and the natural quickness and flexibility few possess.

Coverage

6

Showed improved cover skills but still lacks the ability to match up in man coverage.

Pass Rush

9

Flashed good quickness and burst, plus a natural instinct for using his body to attack the passer.

Read & React

8.5

Good overall understanding of where he needs to be pre-snap with few mistakes in post-snap reads.

Run Defense

9

Has the ability to either step up and make the tackle or, at a minimum, to cut off the outside run and funnel the play back inside.

Shed Blocks

10

Has strong hands and the skills needed to get free from blockers.

Speed

9

Weatherspoon has top-level speed, allowing him to make plays from sideline to sideline.

Strength

8

Showed improved strength in his second season, wrapping up better on tackles and proving harder to block.

Tackle

7

Has good range and decent form but lets too many runners get through his reach.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

85.5

If you are looking for a 4-3 outside linebacker with three-down skills, it doesn't get better than Atlanta's Sean Weatherspoon. Another Mizzou product, he's tough, athletic, quick and mean on the edge. SW's ability to drop back in coverage and attack garners him a top-five ranking.

46. LG Evan Mathis, Philadelphia Eagles

Agility

7

Does a good job making up ground with long arms and legs. Can be heavy-footed, but has very good burst and balance.

Pass Block, Speed

10

In viewing 16 Eagles games, not once did Mathis struggle with speed-rushers. His quickness and balance are phenomenal.

Pass Block, Power

7.5

The Miami Dolphins and Atlanta Falcons gave Mathis some trouble, but no one else did all season. In those two games he was taken inside by a strong tackle and then blitzed through the A-gap.

Run Blocking

10

Watching Mathis clear rushing lanes against the Dolphins and Jets was a thing of beauty. He strikes out low, has enough force to drive off the ball and is strong enough to seal off rush lanes. His ability to get upfield is very good.

Move in Space

8

Would be a 10 if not for average play in screen games. Mathis excels at firing off—chipping the nose tackle—and finding the MIKE linebacker.

Pull/Trap

7

Mathis can get down the line of scrimmage and work to get to linebackers on zone or stretch runs.

Strength

7

Great lower-body strength and size. Great bubble and can really sit down to stonewall blockers. Power was affected second half of the season with a turf toe injury.

Technique

10

Very clean blocker who keeps his hands inside and uses his base to power through the defender. Limited penalties in 2011. Seals on the backside better than any guard in football.

Size

10

Ideal build for the job. He’s 6’5” and 304 lbs.

Health

9

Missed one game with injury.

Overall

85.5

An underrated technician, Mathis’ 2011 would have graded out markedly higher if not for injury. His ability to clean house in the run game, and his technique while doing it, makes him one of the best players in the game at his position.

46. DT Geno Atkins, Cincinnati Bengals

Agility

7

Atkins' subtle agility is hidden in his short, stocky frame, but it's there.

Bull Rush

9

Fires off the line with low center of gravity and excellent body control, maximizing his momentum to crash and drive at the line of scrimmage.

Speed Rush

10

Uses his quick first step to catch blockers off guard. He's flexible enough to dip his shoulder and slip through the line.

Run Defense

7.5

Can be disruptive in the run game, shows the ability to penetrate and make tackles. The one area where there is room for slight improvement would be his ability to stuff lanes.

Speed/Burst

8

Has a short, but quick first step that lets him get inside the frame of blockers.

Strength

9

Deceptively strong, watch Atkins use an outside rip move to stutter free of a blocker and you'll see how strong he is.

Shed Blockers

9

Uses his hands, and entire upper body, to shake free of blockers.

Read & React

8

For a second-year player, Atkins was lights-out. Did a great job reading and reacting to keys in the alignment and backfield.

Tackle

8

Missed two tackles in the games we charted this year. Atkins is a solid, sound tackler.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

85.5

A second-year stud, Atkins has quickly surpassed his draft stock and expectations. He's a penetrator who can also stop the run. A big body who knows how to rush the passer. There's really nothing that Atkins can't do.

46. DE Julius Peppers, Chicago Bears

Agility

10

A former college basketball player, Peppers is one of the most athletic men in the NFL.

Bull Rush

7

Strong enough to force his way through tackles who try to get in his way.

Speed Rush

9

Has deceptive speed, and is fast enough to blow past tackles who get caught flatfooted.

Run Defense

6

Is strong enough to play the run, but will get caught looping outside too often.

Speed/Burst

8

Has one of the best first steps at the right defensive end position, with strong chase speed to boot.

Strength

9

Incredibly strong for the position. Has the ability to throw off blockers.

Pass Deflect

8.5

This is where his days as a rebounder really come in to play. Peppers can get up and knock the ball down.

Read & React

9

Peppers does a great job finding the ball post-snap. He's rarely fooled by play action or misdirection.

Tackle

9

Has the long arms to fight through blockers and wrap up. A very strong tackler.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

85.5

One of the best in the game, Julius Peppers can do it all. If the Bears need a pass-rusher, he can accelerate to the quarterback with the best of them. Need someone to stop the run? Peppers will play the hole and throttle blockers. Peppers remains the ideal mold for a 4-3 defensive end.

39. WR Mike Wallace, Pittsburgh Steelers

Agility

10

Has rare speed in his first few yards and good body control down the field.

Blocking

3

Fails to make contact and sustain impact.

Hands

8

Very few drops in 2011, showing improved concentration and range.

Release

9

Initial speed makes Wallace incredibly tough to jam.

Route Running

9

A smooth route runner who can sink his hips and drive into breaks in his routes.

Catch in Traffic

8

Shows good concentration and strength to make catches on the ground or in the air while covered.

Speed

10

Wallace has next-level speed and burst, with legitimate downfield speed to separate.

Yards After Catch

9

Has good run skills after the catch and can turn a short catch into a long touchdown with just a single missed tackle.

Vision

10

Does a good job tracking the ball over either shoulder, showing he can find the ball at any level.

Health

10

Didn't miss any time in 2011.

Overall

86

An elite deep threat, Mike Wallace has become a truly elite NFL wide receiver a few years out of college. His potential and ceiling remain high, as Wallace can still stand to develop better routes underneath. What Wallace brings in terms of hands, yards after catch and deep speed precipitates the pace of the Steelers offense.

39. P Mike Scifres, San Diego Chargers

Inside the 20

8

Scifres punted 47 times during the 2011 season, and he put 19 of those punts inside the 20-yard line.

Inside the 10

10

The best in the NFL at drilling the ball deep, he dropped 14 punts inside the five-yard line (one in every 3.3 punts). 

Power

8

An average punt of 47.5 yards puts Scifres near the top of the NFL's averages. His longest punt of the year was 71 yards.

Hang Time

9

With an average hang time of 5.5 seconds, he was tied for third best in 2011.

Accuracy

8

It's hard to ask for better punting when asking a player to pin the ball deep. The only area where he could improve would be his directional punting. And that's being very picky.

Overall

43

Scifres may not get mentioned in the same breath as Shane Lechler as the best punter in the AFC, but the truth is he had a better 2011 when you break down both their play and their numbers.

39. OLB Von Miller, Denver Broncos

Agility

10

Has rare quickness and elite change-of-direction skills. Brings a nice combination of power and athleticism.

Bull Rush

9

Even at a slightly undersized 245 pounds, Miller has very good strength. Once he improves his leverage, this area will continue to grow.

Speed Rush

10

Has the agility to fire off the line and make players miss. Can bend and turn his body to come off the edge and force tackles to overextend.

Read & React

5

Benched early in the year for missed assignments, Miller rebounded and finished out the year showing excellent awareness in space.

Run Defense

6

Played the run better than expected. Has good strength to close on the ball. Must get better at playing disciplined, assignment football.

Shed Blocks

8

Powerful and fast off the line, Miller is tough to get a hand on, much less contain.

Speed

10

Rare speed for the position is a major advantage to Miller's game.

Strength

9

Country-strong—he uses his entire body to complement his natural strength and make plays.

Tackle

10

A violent, aggressive hitter who hardly misses tackles.

Health

9

Miller missed one game in 2011.

Overall

86

Von Miller more than lived up to his billing as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2011 NFL draft, earning a Pro Bowl invite and AP Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. That's just the beginning. Miller has elite potential, and with a full offseason to learn, the Denver Broncos should have the NFL's best outside linebacker very soon.

39. LG Mike Iupati, San Francisco 49ers

Agility

10

The most athletic of any guard in the NFL, Iupati moves like a tight end at 331 lbs.

Pass Block, Speed

8

Has the quickness and vision to pick up speed-rushers. Is big enough, and strong enough, to prevent guys from getting around him. His quick feet are a huge plus here.

Pass Block, Power

8

Iupati had bad games against big defensive tackles (Seattle, Baltimore, Arizona), but the rest of the year was nearly flawless.

Run Blocking

8

Take away his Week 1 game against Seattle and Iupati would be a nine or 10 here. He can struggle at times, but settled down over the course of the season. Needs to play with a little less fire at times and remain under control.

Move in Space

7

Able to get upfield and clean house on screen packages, Iupati struggled against early in the year to clear to the second level.

Pull/Trap

7

Has the speed and agility to be very effective when leading on sweeps, but will miss at times when asked to move to his left. Much better going to the right.

Strength

10

Unbelievable strength when firing off the ball. Has a low center of gravity and a big, strong base.

Technique

8

Can get a little wide in his grip, but was flagged just four times all season.

Size

10

Impressively built with great strength, Iupati is 6’5”, 331 lbs.

Health

10

Did not miss a start during 2011 season.

Overall

86

Having played just two years in the NFL, Iupati is already one of the best at his position. His strength and agility separate him from the pack. As he learns and becomes more comfortable in the 49ers’ system, Iupati will be tough to slow down.

39. K Josh Scobee, Jacksonville Jaguars

Accuracy

9

Knocked down 92 percent of his kicks, with just two misses in 2011.

Kickoff Power

10

For such a small person, at 6'1" and 191 lbs, Scobee can kick the crap out of the football. His average of 71 yards led the NFL in 2011, and his 37 touchbacks on 61 kicks is up there in terms of percentage downed inside the end zone.

Field-Goal Power

8

The Jaguars let him try from any distance inside of 60 yards, and he delivered by making 5-of-6 attempts from 50 yards or more. His long of 2011 was a 55-yarder that tied him for eighth best.

Hang Time

6

The only area where he could really improve, his hang time maximum of 4.30 seconds is just barely above the league average.

Carlson Rating

10

Scobee didn't miss inside of 40 yards all season, and then missed just twice on kicks longer than 40 yards. His 2011 season was damn near perfect.

Overall

43

Scobee had my vote for AFC All-Pro kicker through most of the season. His accuracy was the best in the conference by two full percentage points. Had he scored a better hang time throughout the year, he would be our No. 1 kicker.

39. DE Trent Cole, Philadelphia Eagles

Agility

10

Cole is one of the most underrated athletes in the game. Has an unnaturally fast first step and good upper-body strength.

Bull Rush

7

Not quite strong enough to push the pile when locked inside.

Speed Rush

10

Cole has a quick first step that will get tackles bailing in a hurry—which lets him undercut and open up secondary rushing moves.

Run Defense

8

Better than he's given credit for as a smaller pass-rusher, Cole does a great job catching runners as they cross his face.

Speed/Burst

10

Cole received our highest ranking among defensive ends in terms of speed and burst off the edge.

Strength

7

Strong enough to shed blockers and push through traffic.

Pass Deflect

7

Lacks the height to jump up and deflect at a high rate.

Read & React

9

Is able to read the blockers and find the football. Plays well off his keys.

Tackle

9

Has great closing speed and will pounce on the ball-carrier.

Health

9

Missed some time in 2011 due to injury.

Overall

86

Trent Cole could easily be considered the best pure DE in the NFL when you take away hybrid players and 3-4 defensive ends. Cole is one the premier edge-rushers in the game.

39. CB Joe Haden, Cleveland Browns

Agility

9

A great athlete who shows the qualities in space to keep pace with the NFL's elite.

Ball Skills

10

Haden led the NFL in passes defensed in 2011, with 17. Did a good job closing on the football, but didn't bring down any interceptions last year.

Burn Rate

8

Teams will throw at Haden, but they won't complete many passes to his side of the field. Locked down opposing quarterbacks to a 49.4 percent completion rate.

Coverage

8

The type of cornerback around whom teams game-plan, Haden was targeted the same number of times as Darrelle Revis in 2011.

Awareness

9

Haden has exceptional vision and is quick to process information. He's rarely caught guessing or out of position.

Range

8.5

The combination of speed and agility culminate in Haden's ability to quickly find the ball and close in on it in a hurry.

Run Defense

7

Has a nice feel for the run game, and will step up and take on tosses and sweeps to his side of the field. A great chase-tackler.

Speed

8.5

Haden has enough speed to keep up with any wide receiver in the NFL.  

Tackle

9

A surprisingly good tackler for a cornerback. Haden is physical at the point of attack and does a great job using his body to secure the tackle.

Health

9

Haden sat out one game during the 2011 season.

Overall

86

Joe Haden is one of the best in the game, and don't let anyone else tell you different—Haden is the ideal combination of athlete, cover man and tackler. There isn't an identifiable weakness to his game.

37. RG Marshal Yanda, Baltimore Ravens

Agility

8

Yanda is quick off the blocks and has the footwork to reach the corner on pulls and traps. He's light on his feet and shows good overall lateral agility and quickness.

Pass Block, Speed

9

Has experience at tackle, which helps out here. Allowed two sacks during regular season. Was beaten by Houston’s defense for two sacks due to them crowding his space.

Pass Block, Power

9

Struggled some against 3-4 defenses late in the year, but otherwise exceptional at holding his ground. Smart enough to cut defenders when being overpowered.

Run Blocking

8.5

Does a great job kicking out defensive ends or moving in space on stretch plays. Can drive block defenders out of his zone.

Move in Space

7

Does a good job moving his feet and keeping his balance when mirroring pass-rushers or setting up out of his stance. Experience at tackle helps.

Pull/Trap

7

Is used on pull and stretch plays and will lock on and drive. Has the agility to be used pulling both right and left. Good vision.

Strength

9

Yanda is among the strongest players on the field at his position. Very good field strength.

Technique

9

Is very clean in his stance and in his kick steps. Smooth and athletic. Does a good job getting and maintaining leverage.

Size

10 

Very good size and bulk at 6’3” and 310 lbs.

Health

10

Played every game during 2011 season.

Overall

86.5

A prototypical guard, Yanda is versatile and smart along the offensive line. When asked to play inside at guard he is among the best all-around blockers in the NFL.

37. LT Jake Long, Miami Dolphins

Agility

9

Is great in short spaces. Long has exceptional lateral agility and quickness. His footwork, from speed to balance, is perfect. 

Pass Block, Speed

8.5

Long isn't as quick as other tackles, but he makes up for it with long arms and a big reach. 

Pass Block, Power

10

Long is known for his ability to dig in his heels and thwart the bull rush. He's big, strong and impossible to move once he locks on. 

Run Blocking

9

Does a good job drive blocking, but has seen his play drop off this year due to a lack of strength. 

Move in Space

8

Does a good job chopping his feet and staying on his toes. Can slide to the left or right and has the quickness to stay with pass rushers. 

Pull/Trap

8

Is used mostly on angle blocks, but does a good job locking on and clearing out defensive ends. Keeps his feet moving through blocks. 

Strength

8

Is still bothered by a 2010 shoulder injury, which is limiting his ability to clear rushing lanes like before.  

Technique

8

A model of consistency in previous years, Long had a down season in 2011. He struggled with giving up his inside shoulder and lacked the strength shown previously.

Size

10

Long has great size for the position. He's the ideal left tackle build. 

Health

8

Has struggled recovering from a shoulder injury during 2010 season. This appears to be affecting his strength in 2011.

Overall

86.5

Recognized in previous seasons as one of the best in the game, Long has taken a step back this season after recovering from injury. He has the talent to return to elite status in 2012. 

34. QB Eli Manning, New York Giants

Accuracy Short

9

A steady and consistent passer within 15 yards, Manning throws with zip on crossing routes and has cut down on throwing too high and outside over the middle. His yards per attempt in 2011 were up nearly a full yard per attempt over 2010, thanks to his improved accuracy.

Accuracy Outside the Pocket

9

Able to remain accurate outside the tackle box. Not a pure runner, but does a very good job adjusting his body to make throws when on the move, and looks downfield any time he's pressured to the outside.  

Accuracy Deep

10

Manning's deep accuracy has improved as he has cleaned up his mechanics. He no longer throws a deep ball that flutters, instead throwing tight spirals with the zip and air needed to reach his receiver.

Arm Strength

9

Never known for his arm strength, Manning is able to deliver with velocity on short routes and has the arm strength to push the ball vertically and to the outside. 

Clutch

9

Manning is much improved, but he's thrown too many interceptions late for his grade to go up to a 10. See the Giants' regular-season game against the San Francisco 49ers in 2011 as evidence. He threw two key interceptions that eventually cost New York the game.

Decision-Making

7

Manning's completion percentage (61 percent in 2011) doesn't indicate bad decision-making, but his interceptions (16) and their timing is most troubling. Continues to struggle in reading a defense and managing the play clock.

Mechanics

10

There's nothing to argue about with Manning's mechanics. He's a textbook passer with good balance, form and follow-through. 

Mobility

5

Does a good job getting outside the pocket but is never someone defensive players game-plan for as a runner.  

Pocket Presence

9

Not elusive, but Manning's awareness of incoming pressure has improved dramatically over the years. 

Health

10

Injury-free through his eight-season career. 

Overall

87

Manning's 2011 regular season started much better than it ended, but there was marked improvement in his decision-making and in cutting down his interception numbers from 2010. And you can't argue with his postseason performance.

34. LT Eugene Monroe, Jacksonville Jaguars

 

Agility

8

Monroe is quick off the blocks and has the footwork to reach the corner on speed pass-rushers. He's light on his feet and shows good overall lateral agility and quickness. 

Pass Block, Speed

8

Has the quickness to beat pass-rushers to the corner and then knock them off balance. Monroe has the athletic ability to meet speed-rushers and stop them before they can turn the corner. 

Pass Block, Power

9

Does a good job standing his ground against a bull rush. Is very strong in his lower and upper body and can stonewall an inside rush.

Run Blocking

9

Does a great job kicking out defensive ends or moving in space on stretch plays. Can drive block defenders out of his zone. 

Move in Space

8

Does a good job moving his feet and keeping his balance when mirroring pass-rushers or setting up out of his stance. 

Pull/Trap

8

Is used on pull on stretch plays and will lock on and drive. Has the agility to be used pulling both right and left. Good vision.  

Strength

9

Monroe is among the strongest players on the field at his position. 

Technique

8.5

Is very clean in his stance and in his kick steps. Smooth and athletic. Does a good job getting and maintaining leverage. 

Size

9.5

At 6'5" and 308 lbs, he's just shy of the ideal size for the position. 

Health

10

No injury issues. 

Overall

87

One of the best young tackles in the league, Monroe has a very bright future. Many don't recognize his play outside of Jacksonville, but he played at an All-Pro level this season. 

34. ILB NaVorro Bowman, San Francisco 49ers

Agility

10

Bowman has excellent change-of-direction skills and the top-level speed to give chase all over the field.

Coverage

7

Does a nice job getting initial depth and plays well with the ball in front of him. Can struggle to turn and run.

Pass Rush

9

The 49ers love to pull the trigger on inside-linebacker blitzes, and Bowman has the quickness to slide through the A-gap and beat down the quarterback.

Read & React

8

Showed exceptional skills for a young player starting for his first full season.

Run Defense

10

Able to lock down the run from sideline to sideline, showing exceptional range and good ability to shed blocks on the move.

Shed Blocks

9

Strong and slippery at the point of attack. Bowman doesn't always overpower blockers but is rarely tied up for long.

Speed

10

Has elite speed and acceleration to the ball. Can run down backs and receivers from behind and close off the edge.

Strength

8

Very good functional strength to take on blockers and stand up ball-carriers.

Tackle

6

The only real glaring weakness from Bowman's 2011 film—he must become a better form tackler. Too often he was going high and missing.

Health

10

Didn't miss any time in 2011.

Overall

87

One of the surprise stars last year, NaVorro Bowman's first year as a starter in San Francisco was a memorable one. Another former Nittany Lion, he is quickly becoming one of the best all-around linebackers in the NFL. The scary part is that Bowman is turning just 24 years old on May 28 and is just starting to realize his potential.

32. S Ed Reed, Baltimore Ravens

Agility

10

A rare athlete, Reed has impressive initial quickness. Once he diagnoses a play, he's there in a flash.

Run Defense

7

Struggled at times against the run in 2011, notably against San Diego. He's being used more and more in deep coverage, where he's not asked to be a factor in the box.

Blitz

8

With athletic ability like Reed's, getting to the quarterback is almost natural. He's not great at disengaging from blockers, but has the tools to get to the passer.

Range

10

Has legendary range. Is able to get from point A to point B without missing a step. Rarely does he "guess" wrong on where the ball is going. A highly intelligent player.

Coverage

10

Teams targeted Reed just 37 times in 2011, speaking to his reputation as a playmaker.

Tackle

7

Will miss tackles in space if he comes in too high. For all his greatness, Reed is just slightly above average as a tackler.

Ball Skills

10

Reed may be the best ever in this category, and his 2011 season was still elite. He's a constant threat to either intercept the ball or, at the very least, knock it down. Seems to live around the ball.

Speed

8

He has slowed down since his college days at The U, but he's still fast enough to compete at a very high level.

Completion Percentage

7.5

Will give up completions, but is always around the ball. Allowed 19 catches in 2011.

Health

10

Did not miss a game with injury in 2011, but does fight off small injuries.

Overall

87.5

Let the outrage begin. Reed is a sure-fire Hall of Famer and deserves major credit for advancing the game, but his 2011 season (which is what we're grading on) showed regressed skills. Reed's speed is not what it used to be, and his ability to stop the run has never been elite. Reed was and is great, but he's no longer the top free safety in the NFL.

32. RB Maurice Jones-Drew, Jacksonville Jaguars

Agility

10

Has exceptional quickness, body control and strength coming from a small, stocky package.

Ball Protection

5

Six fumbles in 2011 were way too many for MJD.

Burst

10

Has superior quickness but is able to cut and accelerate better than any player in the game.

Hands

9

A solid receiver with soft, sure hands.

Pass Block

9

Strong enough to stand in and drill defenders who try to get to his quarterback.

Power

8

Has the strength to finish runs and pick up very good yards after contact.

Route Running

8.5

A smart route runner who uses his quickness, strength and body control to get open.

Speed

8

Doesn't possess great downfield speed but is so quick that he makes up for it.

Vision

10

Does a great job setting up his blockers and then running to daylight. Patience serves as a strong plus.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

87.5

A tough all-around back who brings exceptional skills as a runner and receiver but should receive more credit for his blocking skills. Jacksonville's single-season record holder for both rushing yards and all-purpose yards, MJD should be more widely recognized as an elite back in today's game.

27. WR Wes Welker, New England Patriots

Agility

9

A very quick receiver and superb footwork.

Blocking

5

Strong for his size but can struggle to win in one-on-one blocks.

Hands

7

Usually more than reliable, Welker did have an uncharacteristic number of drops in 2011. Most of these were passes that he touched but failed to put away before turning his body.

Release

9

Works hard to get off the line, using his quickness and leverage to come free of defenders.

Route Running

10

Great instincts. Welker is unsurpassed and the league's best at working through coverages and finding soft zones to sit down in.

Catch in Traffic

8

Has amazing ability to latch on to the ball in traffic, despite his lack of great size.

Speed

10

Shows more burst than deep speed but is shifty and can be damn hard to get your hands on.

Yards After Catch

10

Shows terrific ability to find running lanes and can frequently turn short catches into big gains.

Vision

10

Sees the field very well. Of his first-class skill set, one of his better assets is his intelligence and vision.

Health

10

Didn't miss any time last season.

Overall

88

Wes Welker is the ultimate slot receiver, but he can align in multiple formations and positions without sacrificing matchups. He's quick and tough, proving his worth as a hot read for Tom Brady and one of the game's highest producers over the last five years. Afforded the Patriots offense another 122 receptions and 1,569 yards in 2011.

27. RB Darren Sproles, New Orleans Saints

Agility

10

One of the best all-around athletes in the NFL with great hips and quick feet.

Ball Protection

10

Zero fumbles during a year in which he set the NFL's single-season yardage record.

Burst

10

From zero to 60 in no time at all. When Sproles finds an opening, he's gone.

Hands

10

A sure-handed, smart receiver who doesn't drop passes and is a consistent threat.

Pass Block

2

Ideally, not someone you want staying in the backfield to block. Won't contribute more than a chip here and there.

Power

6

Officially listed at 5'6" and 190, Sproles is a small player who naturally does not generate much punch on impact.

Route Running

10

Moves like a receiver coming out of the backfield or even lining up in the slot.

Speed

10

A defense-breaker who, if he finds a seam, can absolutely fly downfield.

Vision

10

Able to find the first hole to get through but then excels at finding cutback lanes and reading his blockers at the first and second level.

Health

10

Didn't miss any time last year.

Overall

88

As the NFL has changed from a power run game to a spread-it-out passing attack, the running back position has changed. No player better personifies that change than Darren Sproles. His ability as a runner and receiver allows the Saints offense to operate with numerous looks and mismatch options. Sproles is the NFL's best rushing/receiving threat at running back, and that's why he gets our No. 1 ranking at the position in the 2012 B/R 1000.

27. OLB James Harrison, Pittsburgh Steelers

Agility

8

Has very good initial quickness and strength. The Steeler doesn't lack range.

Bull Rush

8

Shows good leverage and lower-body drive but doesn't have the size to win every battle.

Speed Rush

10

Nearly impossible to stop when he has a full head of steam coming off the edge, Harrison has elite footwork and quickness to make tackles miss.

Read & React

10

A smart player who doesn't get enough credit for his pre-snap reads and alignment. His ability to flow with the football—even in coverage—is top-notch.

Run Defense

10

If Harrison isn't making the tackle, he's shutting down outside running lanes and forcing the ball away. He's also great in backside pursuit.

Shed Blocks

9

Very tough at the point of attack, Harrison's leg drive and continued movement make him a difficult assignment.

Speed

8.5

Has very good speed and quickness off the edge.

Strength

9.5

Harrison has natural strength but perhaps most importantly is incredibly tough.

Tackle

8

Is among the most violent hitters in the NFL today. Harrison launches himself at the ball, which results in either a monster collision or a missed tackle.

Health

7

Missed five games in 2011.

Overall

88

One of the most active linebackers in the NFL, James Harrison may be most well-known for his fines and big hits. What gets lost is that he's actually pretty damn good in coverage, against the run and in getting to the quarterback. Soon to turn 34 in May, Harrison may never be featured by the NFL due to his love/hate relationship with the commissioner, but his production on Sundays is elite.

27. LT Michael Roos, Tennessee Titans

Agility

8

Does a good job making up ground with long arms and legs. Is able to reach the edge to punch pass-rushers off balance. Has quick feet and a big, long stride. 

Pass Block, Speed

9

Roos is able to handle speed-rushers thanks to his wingspan and quick feet. At 6'7" he is able to take one kick step and easily reach the edge. He has big, strong hands and can redirect or mirror speed-rushers with quick, choppy feet. 

Pass Block, Power

9

Roos does a good job standing his ground, but he can be beat by a hard bull rush if the defender beats him off the ball. While this doesn't happen often, Roos can be beaten off the snap and shows a weakness in this area. 

Run Blocking

8

Roos can struggle to get his pad level low and keep it there when locking on in run blocking. Does a good job providing backside support and has the agility to get to the second level. He can pancake block in space, but he rarely dominates off the ball.

Move in Space

8

Has a long stride and quick feet, allowing him to make up ground when working to get to the second level to attack linebackers. Roos is quick enough to stand up off the snap and punch at speed-rushers. 

Pull/Trap

8

Is more of a man-blocking-style tackle, but Roos can get down the line of scrimmage and work to get to linebackers on zone or stretch runs. 

Strength

10

Elite lower-body strength and can get run over defenders when he gains leverage and drives into him.

Technique

9

Can be a little stiff and a little high coming out of his stance. Works best from a two-point stance, where he can keep his head and pad level up. These are minor concerns, as Roos has excellent punching ability and the quick feet to slide and mirror rushers. 

Size

9

At 6'7" Roos is among the taller tackles in the game. This can be an issue on a team with a shorter quarterback, but also because taller tackles are usually more stiff in the run game and can struggle to get leverage to drive block. 

Health

10

Roos has no health issues. 

Overall

88

One of the better, and more underrated, players at the position. Roos is a rock-solid pass-protector who is able to create space for the run game and has the agility to get to the second level. His all-around game with no significant weaknesses makes Roos one of the best in the game. 

27. P David Akers, San Francisco 49ers

Accuracy

10

Factoring in the playoffs, Akers was good on 90 percent of his kicks in 2011. Take just the playoffs into account, where the pressure is highest, and he was a perfect 4-of-4.

Kickoff Power

9

Akers defied logic by booting for an average of 69.7 yards (fourth best) in 2011, despite playing home games in the horrible San Francisco wind, and forcing 54 touchbacks on 106 kicks. 

Field-Goal Power

9

Ask him to kick over 50 yards; he doesn't care. Akers dropped down 7-of-9 attempts, including a long of 55 yards.

Hang Time

6

Akers' hang time could be better; he hit 4.3 seconds at best. This alone keeps him from being the highest graded kicker in the game.

Carlson Rating

10

On 50 attempts this year, Akers made a record 45 kicks. His 2011 regular season was phenomenal, but his performance in the postseason was more than anyone could have asked for.

Overall

44

Akers' record of 45 kicks made in a single season may not be broken for some time. He grades out as the best kicker in the game if you eliminate hang time. 

22. RT Tyson Clabo, Atlanta Falcons

 

Agility

8

Clabo is not an elite athlete at the position, but he has enough agility to drive off the edge when run blocking and to quickly kick out to pick up pass-rushers turning the corner. 

Pass Block, Speed

10

Has great quickness in and out of his stance and is the best in the league at getting to the corner out of his stance and hitting edge-rushers taking a wide angle to the quarterback.  

Pass Block, Power

9.5

Has the strength to stand toe-to-toe and wall off power-rushers, but also does a great job playing with the leverage needed to get inside the pads of bigger, stronger defenders. 

Run Blocking

9.5

Clabo does a great job getting out in the run game. Is able to work as a lead-blocker, or as a pulling player on power schemes. 

Move in Space

8

Has a long stride and quick feet, allowing him to make up ground when working to get to the second level to attack linebackers.  

Pull/Trap

8

Is asked pull on stretch plays and will lock on defenders and drive. Has the agility to be used pulling both right and left. Good vision.  

Strength

9

Has elite strength for the position. Great upper-body strength with strong hands and arms to punch at pass-rushers.  

Technique

9

Is very clean in his stance and in his kick steps. Smooth and athletic. Does a good job getting and maintaining leverage.   

Size

8

At 6'7" is taller than most tackles. This can be an issue on a team with a shorter quarterback, but also because taller tackles are usually more stiff in the run game and can struggle to get leverage to drive block.  

Health

10

No injury issues. 

Overall

89

Among the best at the right tackle position, Clabo is finally being recognized nationally. He's top-tier when it comes to run blocking and pass protecting.  

22. QB Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh Steelers

Accuracy Short

9

With a big arm and increased vision, Roethsliberger is becoming one of the best passers in the league. He's finding windows in the coverage and delivering flawless strikes.

Accuracy Outside the Pocket

9

As a big man (6'5", 241 lbs) who is hard to bring down, he is dangerous outside the pocket as a runner, but more so because of his ability to throw on the move and under pressure. He rarely misses when on the move.  

Accuracy Deep

9

One of the areas where he first entered elite status—his ability to throw deep with accuracy—is still impressive. His passes never go into a loose spiral. 

Arm Strength

9

Able to make throws to every area. 

Clutch

10

A Super Bowl winner and proven player in big moments, he has earned his stripes as a clutch quarterback.

Decision-Making

8

Over the past few seasons, has started making smarter decisions as the Steelers moved to a passing-dominated offense. 

Mechanics

9

A bit unconventional, but he is able to adjust his release point to deliver the ball as needed when in the pocket or on the move. 

Mobility

7

Agile enough to escape the pocket, and once he gets moving, he's a bull to tackle. 

Pocket Presence

10

Able to see the entire field and easily distribute the football to the open receiver. Feels the blitz well and is big enough to fight off pass-rushers.

Health

9

While not suffering a big injury in 2011, Roethlisberger is routinely banged up and was hampered in the playoffs by a bad ankle. He may always play through injury, but he is on the injury list often.

Overall

89

As the Peyton Mannings of the league drop off, Roethlisberger is one of the quarterbacks ready to step into his place. A proven winner and productive passer, he is just starting to come into his own as a pure passer.

22. LT Duane Brown, Houston Texans

Agility

10

Brown has incredible quickness and excels at getting up out of his stance and dropping back at a 45-degree angle to attack edge-rushers coming out of a 3-4 or wide 4-3 set.  

Pass Block, Speed

10

Brown did not allow a sack all season due in large part to his speed and ability on the edge. He has great quickness in and out of his stance and is the best in the league at getting to the corner out of his stance and hitting edge-rushers taking a wide angle to the quarterback. 

Pass Block, Power

9.5

Brown is more than just quick. He has the strength to stand toe-to-toe and wall off power-rushers, but he also does a great job playing with the leverage needed to get inside the pads of bigger, stronger defenders. 

Run Blocking

8

Brown plays in a zone scheme that asks him to down-block to the play side. Because of this Brown is rarely asked to lock on and drive defenders, as the Texans run behind right tackle Eric Winston. What Brown does well is move in space and get to the second level to attack would-be tacklers. 

Move in Space

8.5

Is very quick off the ball with good footwork and agility to move laterally to his left or right.  

Pull/Trap

8.5

Is able to get out in front of the play and make impact blocks downfield. Has the agility and speed to be a lead-blocker off the edge. Will look to make multiple hits downfield. 

Strength

7

Brown does not have great strength compared to the other left tackles ranked, but playing in a system built on speed, strength isn't a major requirement. 

Technique

9.5

Brown is fluid, quick and strong at the point of attack. He's very quick out of his stance and does a great job moving back and to his left to set the edge. He moves with excellent balance and has good pad level and leverage. 

Size

8

Is undersized compared to other tackles but is a great fit in the Houston offense. Playing in a man-blocking scheme, Brown may move to guard. 

Health

10

Brown has no injury issues. 

Overall

89

Duane Brown can be summed up in one simple statistic—he didn't allow a single sack all season. Even with three different quarterbacks taking time in the Houston offense. Even with one of those quarterbacks being a fifth-round rookie draft pick. Brown is on track to quickly become the elite pass-blocking tackle in the NFL—if he's not there already.

22. LG Carl Nicks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Agility

7

Nicks, who played for the Saints in 2011, is light on his feet and shows good overall lateral agility and quickness. Nicks doesn’t have elite agility, but is a very good overall athlete for his size.

Pass Block, Speed

10

Nearly perfect at reacting to speed-rushers. Is an excellent tandem-blocker with the center, but is aware enough to catch blitzers crashing off his back.

Pass Block, Power

10

Has the ability to dig in his heels and thwart the bull rush. He's big, strong and impossible to move once he locks on.

Run Blocking

8

Does a good job drive blocking and is great at kicking out defensive ends or moving in space on stretch plays.

Move in Space

7

Has a long stride and quick feet, allowing him to make up ground when working to get to the second level to attack linebackers. Keeps his balance. Has a surprising first step.

Pull/Trap

7

Nicks can get down the line of scrimmage and work to get to linebackers on zone or stretch runs.  

Strength

10

Fundamentally strong with a wide frame and solid base. Has a very strong punch.

Technique

10

Great experience and IQ for the game. He's quick out of his stance and doesn’t overextend or miss.

Size

10

Built like a brick, he’s 6’5” and 341 lbs.

Health

10

Started every game in 2011 season.

Overall

89

Nicks carries the grade of being the best guard, regardless of side, in the NFL. His ability to power the run game with fire and strength makes him incredibly valuable in short-yardage situations. The fact that he gave up just two sacks in 18 games is even more impressive.

22. CB Charles Woodson, Green Bay Packers

Agility

9

Woodson may have lost a small step since his earlier days, but he's still an amazing all-around athlete who combines quickness and balance at the position.

Ball Skills

10

Woodson dominated again in 2011, notching seven interceptions and seven passes defensed—all on just 53 targets.

Burn Rate

8

Woodson's numbers are distorted a bit by high attempts thrown his way against Carolina and Minnesota (rookie quarterbacks), but he still locked down opposing receivers when challenged.

Coverage

8

Woodson was one of the least-targeted cornerbacks in the NFL during the games we charted. Quarterbacks and offensive coordinators obviously still have great respect for his ability to take the ball away.

Awareness

10

With experience and a high football IQ, Woodson is the best in the game at reading a route and stepping in front of it to create a turnover.

Range

8.5

One area where Woodson has perhaps slipped, but he is still competing at a level on par with the top few players in the game.

Run Defense

10

Woodson plays more in the slot these days, which means he has to be ready to stop the run from an almost outside linebacker position. 

Speed

8.5

No longer the burner he was at Michigan, but Woodson's speed is still respected.  

Tackle

7

Woodson missed 18 tackles in 2011, which highlights his tendency to come in high and hot. This allows players to leave him hugging air.

Health

10

Sat out Week 17 once the Packers had clinched home-field advantage, but otherwise healthy.

Overall

89

Some will say that Charles Woodson is losing a step; it didn't show up on film. Woodson may play more in the slot these days, but he's a lockdown cover man no matter where you line him up. One of the all-time great ball hawks, Woodson is still a threat to create turnovers if teams challenge him.

21. RT Bryan Bulaga, Green Bay Packers

Agility

9

Bulaga is great in short spaces. He has exceptional lateral agility and quickness. His footwork, from speed to balance, is perfect. Could make a move to left tackle with his agility.

Pass Block, Speed

8.5

Has the quickness to beat pass-rushers to the corner and then knock them off balance. He has the length to knock speed-rushers off balance and the strength to finish them once he locks on.  

Pass Block, Power

8.5

Excels at setting his feet and dropping his weight to stop oncoming bull-rushers. He's thick enough to handle a strong rush and uses the right leverage and technique to wall off rushers.  

Run Blocking

10

Does a great job getting out in the run game. Is able to work as a lead-blocker and can even show some ability on stretch and zone plays.  

Move in Space

8.5

Can get to the second level and has the quickness to be a lead-blocker on the edge. He has elite footwork to get through traffic every time but can get off balance. 

Pull/Trap

8.5

Is among the faster tackles in the NFL. Shows good vision, good agility and a natural smoothness to his movements. He's able to drive block defenders while on the move.   

Strength

9

Could be stronger, but has good functional strength for a player of his build and make-up.  

Technique

9.5

A true knee-bender who will drop his weight and keep his balance and form through a block. Smooth hand placement and great leverage. Gets a little high at times, and will throws his hands outside the numbers.  

Size

10

Bulaga has the look of a left tackle at 6'5", 314 lbs. He's tall, lean and strong throughout. 

Health

8

Missed four games because of injury in 2011. He's struggled to stay on the field.  

Overall

89.5

There is a lot to like about this second-year tackle. Bulaga may eventually move to left tackle based on his athleticism and blocking ability. 

18. S Eric Weddle, San Diego Chargers

Agility

9

Exceptional athlete who is naturally strong. Weddle's first step is insanely fast.

Run Defense

7

Weddle does a nice job sticking his nose in the box, but he's a deep safety, and the Chargers know it. He's rarely used for coming up and stuffing the run, but when he is, you can expect an impact to be made.

Blitz

7

Not asked to go get the quarterback often, as he is more valuable in coverage. He did tally two quarterback pressures in 2011.

Range

10

The best in the game at either safety position. Weddle flies all over the field and makes plays in places few safeties can reach while the ball is in flight.

Coverage

10

Rarely challenged these days, at a rate of 1.6 times per game based on 2011 game charting. Quarterbacks know he's dangerous, and his ability to stick in the pocket of targets keeps passers from challenging him.

Tackle

8

A good inside/out tackler who has the range and speed to find the ball and attack at an angle. Will miss a few, and can struggle to chase at times, but is very solid.

Ball Skills

10

Weddle is a player who is always around the ball. Whether it’s an interception, a pass breakup or a tackle right after the catch, he’s always there.

Speed

9

Is able to successfully close on the ball at any distance. Has the speed to be a factor in pursuit.

Completion Percentage

10

Weddle allowed the lowest percentage of completed passes (targets vs. completions) of any starting safety in the NFL—just over 40 percent.

Health

10

Did not miss a game with injury in 2011. 

Overall

90

The NFL's best free safety, Weddle led all safeties in interceptions, and was second in completion percentage allowed. No player in the game breaks on the ball better from the safety position, and Weddle is a finisher who can tackle and make the interception. The San Diego Charger is a rare talent.

18. LT Joe Thomas, Cleveland Browns

 

Agility

8

Thomas is not an elite athlete at the position, but he has enough agility to get to the edge when run blocking and to quickly kick out to pick up pass-rushers turning the corner. Thomas is light on his feet and has good foot speed. 

Pass Block, Speed

9

Is quick enough to take the big kick step and get to far-reaching pass-rushers trying to turn the corner. Thomas has the length to knock speed-rushers off balance and the strength to finish them once he locks on. 

Pass Block, Power

10

Thomas excels at setting his feet and dropping his weight to stop oncoming bull-rushers. He's thick enough to handle a strong rush and uses the right leverage and technique to wall off rushers. 

Run Blocking

7

Thomas struggled as a run-blocker in 2011. A once-dominant player in this area, Thomas doesn't show the same strength or drive when locking on to defenders. Better consistency when finishing his blocks would raise Thomas' score.

Move in Space

8

Thomas can get to the second level and has the quickness to be a lead-blocker on the edge, but he does not have the elite footwork to get through traffic every time. Thomas has great vision and will find pursuing defenders when getting upfield. 

Pull/Trap

8

Thomas is not asked to pull much, but he has the agility to do so. As a trap-blocker he does a great job setting up the play and is patient enough to let defenders get penetration before hitting them from the side. 

Strength

10

Has elite strength for the position. Great upper-body strength with strong hands and arms to punch at pass-rushers. Thomas has great leg drive and can lock on and drive block defenders. 

Technique

10

Thomas plays with great leverage and has a good understanding of angles and schemes. He's rarely out of position and doesn't miss assignments.  

Size

10

Thomas is what the picture would look like if you asked scouts to draw the prototypical left tackle. He has the ideal height, length and bulk for the position. 

Health

10

Thomas has no injury issues of note. 

Overall

90

Clearly among the best at his position in the NFL, Thomas' performance slipped a tad this season without left guard Eric Steinbach in the lineup. Thomas is still an elite pass-protector, but his play against the run was less than impressive in 2011, costing him the top spot. 

18. DE Jared Allen, Minnesota Vikings

Agility

9

Allen has exceptional quickness and rare strength for the position.

Bull Rush

10

Strong enough to engage blockers and then push his way through them to the backfield.

Speed Rush

10

Fast enough to beat tackles to the corner, Allen is also flexible enough to dip and close.

Run Defense

8

Can be beat if a team runs off tackle, as he's constantly looping around end.

Speed/Burst

10

Allen has the quickness to dominate even the best tackles, as evidenced by his NFL-best 22 sacks.

Strength

9

Allen has the hand and arm strength to keep blockers from getting inside his frame.

Pass Deflect

7

Has the hands to knock balls down, but is often out of range.

Read & React

8

There are times, albeit rare, when Allen can be mentally taken out of the game. The other 99 percent of the time he's unstoppable.

Tackle

9

A hard, violent tackler who has amazing closing speed.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

90

One of the best in the NFL, Allen could arguably be the best pass-rusher in the game. His numbers certainly back it up. Allen led the league with 22 sacks in 2011, third best all-time.

17. DE Terrell Suggs, Baltimore Ravens

Agility

9

Suggs has a rare combination of speed, burst and strength at the position.

Bull Rush

9

He is strong enough to go through blockers—setting them up for a spin or swim move later on.

Speed Rush

9

Fast enough to crash the edge, Suggs has great lower-body flexibility to dip his hips and bend the corner.

Run Defense

10

A lockdown defender on the edge, Suggs plays the run with strength and discipline.

Speed/Burst

8.5

Suggs isn't known for a great 40 time, but his burst is among the best in the NFL.

Strength

9

A thick, strong player who uses his size and strength well on the field.

Pass Deflect

8

Suggs is tall enough and athletic enough to get up and knock the ball down.

Read & React

10

Rarely out of position, Suggs is the game's best defensive end at reading and recognizing play calls.

Tackle

8

Suggs is a damn good tackler, but there are times when he misses open-field tackles.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

90.5

Suggs could be classified as either a defensive end or an outside linebacker, but we looked at where he played most of his snaps in 2011 and listed him at end—and he dominated. The 2011 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Suggs does it all as a pass-rusher, run-stuffer and even cover man in the Ravens' complex defensive system.

12. WR Larry Fitzgerald, Arizona Cardinals

Agility

9

Has electric quickness and agility and is able to get away from defenders.

Blocking

6

Strong and dedicated, when the Cards ask their star wideout to block, he delivers.

Hands

10

Rarely does the ball hit the ground when thrown Fitzgerald's way.

Release

10

He has the strength to get great push off the line of scrimmage and is tough to get rerouted.

Route Running

10

Excels no matter the route. Fitzgerald has a long stride but can break down and sink his hips to get in and out of route stems.

Catch in Traffic

10

Has the strength to overpower most cornerbacks when challenged. 

Speed

7

It's unlikely he would impress in a 40-yard dash, but Fitzgerald has the speed where he can stretch deep zones.

Yards After Catch

9

He has good run skills after the catch and can turn a short catch into a long touchdown with just a single missed tackle.

Vision

10

Does a great job adjusting to find the ball, showing good vision and anticipation to make acrobatic catches.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

91

Fitzgerald doesn't rank as the No. 1 receiver (he's close), but if you talk about the best all-around wide receiver in football, it is hard to find an argument against Larry Fitzgerald as the top player. He may not be as electric or highlight-worthy as others, but he's a quiet technician who simply dominates on the field for the mediocre Cardinals.

12. S Troy Polamalu, Pittsburgh Steelers

Agility

9

A top-level athlete who stands apart from the crowd, shows some small stiffness when changing direction. Still, one of the best in the game among safeties.

Run Defense

10

A lock-down tackler who lives around the football. Has the speed and instincts to quickly attack the ball. Ideal when playing up around the line of scrimmage.

Blitz

9

When the quarterback sees Polamalu coming on a blitz, an audible or protection change will be called. Is a threat to get to the backfield and make plays.

Range

9

Patient and deadly. Will sit back and read the ball and then attack. It’s a rush to watch him operate in space.

Coverage

8.5

Does a good job recognizing routes and keeping himself in position to make a play on the ball. There’s a lot to like here. Would want to see better hips to flip and run with would-be receivers, but that’s being incredibly picky.

Tackle

9

A clean tackler who doesn’t let many players get by him, can easily take down guys in the open field without issue. Very few mistakes. A big hitter.

Ball Skills

10

Polamalu is a player who is always around the ball. Whether it’s an interception, a pass breakup or a tackle right after the catch, he’s always there.

Speed

8.5

Doesn’t have world-class speed, but is among the faster players at his position. Runs at a solid projection of a high 4.4 in the 40-yard dash.

Completion Percentage

8

Getting close to the top of the NFL, Polamalu has very good coverage skills and the range to be a factor. With (better) support and more experience, a higher score is possible in 2012.

Health

10

Did not miss a game with injury in 2011. A solid, reliable player.

Overall

91

Simply the best. Polamalu has set the tone for what a strong safety in the NFL should look like (minus the hair) and how they should play. His overall ability, be it against the run or deep in coverage, is what NFL scouts and general managers look for in the position.

12. K Sebastian Janikowski, Oakland Raiders

Accuracy

8

Janikowski's average of 87.5 percent ranked him near the top. He has always been known as a little wild, but he played under more control in 2011 and hit 28-of-32 kicks.

Kickoff Power

10

No one is better. Janikowski's average of 64.7 doesn't truly reflect just how strong his leg is. He drilled 32-of-80 kicks for touchbacks. 

Field-Goal Power

10

Led the NFL with a 63-yard field goal against Denver in Week 1, three points that decided the game (23-20, Oakland). He attempted a league-leading 10 kicks over 50 yards, making seven.

Hang Time

7.5

Posted a very respectable maximum hang time of 4.6 seconds but could stand to be more consistent here. 

Carlson Rating

10

Despite having a less-than-elite conversion rate in 2011, Janikowski was perfect inside 40 yards and then missed just once for the 40- to 49-yard range. His seven kicks made at 50-plus yards was tied for best in the game.

Overall

45.5

When you combine power, accuracy and intimidation, you get Sebastian Janikowski. He led the league in distance, attempts over 50 yards and in small children terrified by his sheer mass.

12. DT Haloti Ngata, Baltimore Ravens

Agility

8

Combines the textbook mix of speed, flexibility and quickness needed along the defensive line.

Bull Rush

10

Ngata has the strength to push and collapse the pocket against any offensive line.

Speed Rush

8

Creates pressure well off the edge, but can also slip blockers and penetrate up the middle.

Run Defense

8

Moving around and playing gap assignments, Ngata does a great job crowding a rush lane or setting the edge.

Speed/Burst

9

Ngata may not run a great 40 time when compared to other positions, but his first three yards are some of the most violent in the NFL.

Strength

10

Easily one of the five most powerful and impactful defensive linemen in the NFL.

Shed Blockers

10

Most blockers bounce off Ngata, but the few who do tie him up don't hang around for long.

Read & React

10

A smart player who can easily play multiple positions without losing sight of the ball or game plan.

Tackle

8

Rarely misses tackles and has the agility to extend outside the tackle box.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

91

Defensive end, defensive tackle, 3-tech, 5-tech—no matter what you call Haloti Ngata, he's the best in the game. Ngata dominates the line of scrimmage, drawing attention from blockers in a way that few interior defensive linemen have ever seen.

12. DE Jason Pierre-Paul, New York Giants

Agility

10

The most athletic player in the NFL on a pound-for-pound basis, Jason Pierre-Paul is a freak of nature. He once did backflips the length of the football field.

Bull Rush

9

JPP has developed a nice bull rush that counters into a spin move back to the edge. He's becoming impossible to block with one guy.

Speed Rush

10

There's not a tackle in the NFL who could block JPP if he plays at the level he was at in the playoffs for a full season.

Run Defense

8

Will get caught taking a wide arc to the quarterback and giving up the edge to off-tackle runs.

Speed/Burst

10

JPP has the fastest first step of any player in the NFL—at any position. Watching his first three yards is surreal.

Strength

9

His strength is continually improving, and in 2011, JPP was tossing blockers who tried to strong-arm him aside. You have to block him with your entire body. Or just hold—it's easier.

Pass Deflect

10

Athletic enough to get his hands up on the ball, JPP is aware and alert at the line.

Read & React

9

Still gets fooled at times on screen packages, JPP has to learn to throttle down when the path to the quarterback is too easy.

Tackle

6

The only thing keeping JPP from the No. 1 spot was his eight missed tackles during the 2011 regular season.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

91

In only his second season, Jason Pierre-Paul dominated the NFL at DE. Lining up at right end for most of the year, JPP was one of the most impactful players in the game. Watch his Week 13 game against Green Bay (six QB pressures), Week 14 against Dallas (two sacks), or even his entire playoff resume. JPP is quickly becoming elite.

11. RT Eric Winston, Kansas City Chiefs

 

Agility

10

A college left tackle and converted tight end, Winston is able to reach edge-rushers with quick footwork and exceptional balance. Has the agility to get to the edge on runs and to the corner on passes.

Pass Block, Speed

9

Kills with quickness. Can take the big kick step and get to far-reaching pass-rushers trying to turn the corner. He has great quickness in and out of his stance and is the best in the league at getting into defenders off the snap.

Pass Block, Power

9

Stops most power-rushers in their tracks with his strength, and knows how to use leverage against anyone stronger than he is.   

Run Blocking

9

A very good lead-blocker in Houston's zone scheme. He's quick, powerful and has a strong grasp of what angles to take and where to lock on.  

Move in Space

8.5

Is very quick off the ball with good footwork and agility to move laterally to his left or right.    

Pull/Trap

9

Is able to get out in front of the play and make impact blocks downfield. Has the agility and speed to be a lead-blocker off the edge.  

Strength

9

Can get dirty in the run game by pancaking defenders off the ball.   

Technique

8

Would like to see fewer penalties, which means keeping his hands inside. Or at least hiding it better. Otherwise, he's exceptional. 

Size

10

Has excellent size at 6'7", 302 lbs, especially for the quick-blocking scheme he is in. 

Health

10

No injury issues last season with the Texans. 

Overall

91.5

One of the best tackles in the NFL, Winston amazes with a complete game. He grades out exceptionally well as both a run-blocker and pass-protector. It's a shame he was ignored by the Pro Bowl for the 2011 season. 

10. LT Jason Peters, Philadelphia Eagles

 

Agility

9

A great overall athlete, Peters is able to reach edge-rushers with quick footwork and exceptional balance. Peters is quick out of his stance and has the lateral agility to slide and mirror the fastest rushers in the league. 

Pass Block, Speed

9

Peters can handle speed-rushers thanks to his own athleticism, long arms to redirect and a powerful base that allows him to wall off rushers who are coming at him from a wide angle. A former tight end, Peters is able to get to the corner and knock speed-rushers off balance. 

Pass Block, Power

9

Peters has a very strong lower body and is able to drop anchor and stonewall power-rushers. His quickness is frustrating to pass-rushers, but he also has the power to lock on to rushers and control them. 

Run Blocking

10

Peters does a great job getting out in the run game. Is able to work as a lead-blocker or as a pulling player on power schemes. As a left tackle he is often asked to work down the line of scrimmage, and his agility and length make him dangerous on the backside.

Move in Space

9

Is very light on his feet and able to reach to get to the second level. Peters can be used to pull and has the speed to trap defenders on backside runs. The overall athleticism and agility of Peters is very impressive. 

Pull/Trap

9.5

Does a good job keeping his balance and is among the faster tackles in the NFL in space. Peters has good vision, good agility and a natural smoothness to his movements. He's able to attack the second level and still drive block defenders while on the move. 

Strength

9

Peters doesn't have great weight-room strength, but his on-field power is more than enough. Peters is able to handle speed- and power-rushers with big, thick arms and a lower body built up to handle either style of rusher. 

Technique

10

Peters is clean and fluid in his technique. Is quick out of his stance and shows great knee bend. He doesn't overextend when blocking on the edge. Peters does a great job keeping his feet under him and sliding to reach defenders. 

Size

9.5

Peters passes the eyeball test. He has the long arms, thick legs and well-rounded bubble to handle the duties of the left tackle position. To be very picky, at 6'4" Peters is a bit shorter than most elite left tackles.

Health

8

Peters missed time during the 2011 season to injury but returned after missing just two games. 

Overall

92

Jason Peters has everything you want from a left tackle in today's NFL. He is quick enough to handle the speed-rushers lining up on the right side of the defense, strong enough to take on 5-technique defensive ends in a 3-4 scheme and smart enough to make decisions on the fly. 

7. QB Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints

Accuracy Short

10

Few quarterbacks can place the ball in a window like Brees when the route is fewer than 15 yards. Brees is in a rare class of those able to get the football exactly where he wants every time.

Accuracy Outside the Pocket

10

Always dangerous on the move, he does a great job squaring his shoulders to make throws on the run. He's able to move both left and right and is deadly accurate when outside the tackle box.

Accuracy Deep

10

Can stretch it out without losing touch and aim. Among the best in the game here. 

Arm Strength

8

Can put good zip on the ball, but can't throw super deep or super fast. If there's any weakness to Brees' game, it is his lack of arm strength.

Clutch

9

His ability to deliver in big moments is elite. Great under pressure from a pass rush as well as when the game is on the line. 

Decision-Making

9

Brees' 2010 season was full of uncharacteristic interceptions (22 total), and we saw some of that again in 2011 (14). His decision-making will always be affected by his lack of height (he's 6'0"), which makes seeing over taller linemen a chore. 

Mechanics

10

Does a great job in his throwing motion and footwork from snap to follow-through. 

Mobility

8

Not known as a speedster, Brees is a dangerous runner and passer outside the pocket. 

Pocket Presence

9

Smart and steady, he will hold the ball when pressure comes and can take too many sacks, but for the most part he's able to feel the rush and make plays under pressure.

Health

10

Since coming to New Orleans from San Diego in 2006, Brees has been healthy.

Overall

93

Brees has never entered the Peyton Manning or Tom Brady levels of play, but he's close.

7. OLB DeMarcus Ware, Dallas Cowboys

Agility

10

Ware has elite quickness, balance and body control.

Bull Rush

10

Strong enough to make an impact and drive the blocker, but follows it up with dangerous quickness to make a secondary move.

Speed Rush

10

No player at the position comes off the ball faster than Ware. His burst and acceleration allow him to beat tackles off the edge—no matter how far back off the line they set up in anticipation.

Read & React

10

Can change direction on the fly once he makes a read. A rare player who reads as well on the run as he does when stationary.

Run Defense

7

The one argument Ware's detractors can make is he's not elite against the run. Still, he's better than most give him credit for.

Shed Blocks

10

Has the size, speed and strength to be a force when moving forward—and he's always moving. Ware is nearly impossible to block.

Speed

10

Ware brings great burst and acceleration to the position. There are OLBs faster in 10- or 20-yard runs, but none are quicker off the ball.

Strength

8

Has strong arms and legs. Can dominate a play with this strength.

Tackle

8

Ware was charted with four missed tackles in 2011 but was otherwise rock solid.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

93

This is what a 3-4 outside linebacker should look like. DeMarcus Ware has elite athleticism, combining burst, vision, strength and a nonstop motor. A Pro Bowl selection six consecutive years through 2011, his play, production and ability are all best at OLB. The Dallas Cowboy is hands down the best outside linebacker in the NFL today.

7. DE Justin Smith, San Francisco 49ers

Agility

8.5

Smith doesn't have great speed, but he's a fantastic athlete with good burst and crazy strength.

Bull Rush

10

Strong enough to generate pressure by driving his man back off the ball, creating a more shallow pocket.

Speed Rush

7.5

Smith isn't asked to jump out in space much, but he does have enough burst to take the edge and close on the quarterback.

Run Defense

9

Smith does an excellent job anchoring the edge. He's strong enough to drive blockers back off the line of scrimmage.

Speed/Burst

10

While Smith doesn't have track-star speed, his burst more than makes up for it. His short-area quickness is elite.

Strength

10

Strong enough to drive the strongest, biggest tackles back on to their heels.

Pass Deflect

8

Does a good job staying in passing lanes and getting his hands up when the ball is thrown.

Read & React

10

Smith's best characteristic, he excels at finding the ball and then doing whatever necessary to shut it down.

Tackle

10

The man simply doesn't miss tackles—well, to be fair he missed one. All year.

Health

10

Didn't miss any games in 2011.

Overall

93

The NFL's best all-around defensive end just might be the best defensive player in the NFL. Justin Smith has become the prototypical 3-4 defensive end, playing with speed and power off the edge. Smith is able to shut down the run, pressure the backfield and create sack opportunities for himself and his teammates.

6. WR Calvin Johnson, Detroit Lions

Agility

10

An athletic freak who combines speed, size, strength and quickness all into one unstoppable package.

Blocking

8

Super strong at the point of attack, Johnson is able to hit defenders and take them out of the play.

Hands

8

Dropped a few easy passes but is the game's best at extending to make tough catches away from his huge frame.

Release

10

You would think that at 6'5" and 236 lbs he would be easy to at least disrupt at the line, but Johnson is too quick to let cornerbacks get even a quick punch on him.

Route Running

8.5

No one runs a better go route, but Johnson could spend more time working on his intermediate routes, where the team asks him to change direction.

Catch in Traffic

10

Has the strength in his hands to bring the ball down even when facing a double- or triple-team in coverage.

Speed

10

It's almost unbelievable, but Johnson runs a legitimate 4.35 in the 40-yard dash.

Yards After Catch

9

Fast enough to generate yards after the catch and is almost impossible to tackle in the open field.

Vision

10

Sees the ball exceptionally well without a delay once it's thrown.

Health

10

Didn't miss any time last year.

Overall

93.5

Not only the best receiver in the NFL, but one of the most dominant players in the game. Period. Calvin Johnson dominated the 2011 season with a healthy Matthew Stafford tossing passes his way, and led the league with 1,681 receiving yards. The NFL record books can plan on being assaulted by Megatron for the foreseeable future.

3. P Andy Lee, San Francisco 49ers

Inside the 20

10

Break it down any way you want—by eye or by averages, Andy Lee is elite. He kicked 96 times in 18 games and downed 41 of the inside the 20. That was the most of any punter in the game.

Inside the 10

9

Actually led the NFL in punts inside the 10-yard line with 14. All the more impressive considering he had the fourth-most punts. 

Power

10

With an average of 50.9 yards, he had the best average among qualifying punters. The only people with a better average each had one punt on the year. 

Hang Time

8

Lee's hang time of 5.40 seconds is all the more impressive considering the wind/rain/fog storms he plays through alongside San Francisco Bay.

Accuracy

10

Punted 96 times this year. Just four of those punts went out of bounds. When you think control, Andy Lee is who you think of. 

Overall

47

The best of the best. Lee is near perfect at what he does. There is not a more valuable punter in the NFL today. He is the ideal combination of power, accuracy, hang time and everything in between. 

3. ILB Patrick Willis, San Francisco 49ers

Agility

10

Throw out positions—Willis is one of the most athletic players in the NFL. Period.

Coverage

10

Has the speed and agility to keep up with his man over the middle and up the seam. Throwing Willis off track in coverage doesn't happen.

Pass Rush

9

Shows good success in attacking the quarterback through the guard-center gap on delayed blitzes. His burst and aggressive tackling style are a huge asset here in the pass rush.

Read & React

10

Sees the field well, reading the offensive line to determine where the ball is going and making the right calls to get the Niners defense in position.

Run Defense

7

Saw his run defense drop off a bit last season, but some of this was due to teams targeting him and letting NaVorro Bowman run free early in the year. By the playoffs, Willis was once back to form.

Shed Blocks

10

Has textbook form when taking on and discarding blockers, using his arms and hands to create space and then exploding through the blocker.

Speed

10

Willis moves like a running back in space—which is why he's so successful stopping them behind the line of scrimmage.

Strength

10

As strong as any linebacker in the NFL, Willis is impossible to block and strong enough to bring down the best backs.

Tackle

10

A violent, aggressive tackler who rarely misses tackles. Willis has a rare combination of ability here.

Health

8

Willis sat out three games in 2011.

Overall

94

The best of the best, Patrick Willis is among the best overall players in the NFL today. Whether you look at him as an athlete, his intangibles or his statistics, few can hold up to what Willis did in the 2011 regular season and playoffs. As captain of the most dominant defense in the NFL, the five-time Pro Bowler out of Ole Miss is deserving of the high praise and grade he receives here.

3. CB Darrelle Revis, New York Jets

Agility

9.5

Darrelle Revis has elite footwork and quickness, using his lower-body strength to drive on the ball and change direction on the fly.

Ball Skills

10

Attacks the ball on the rare occasion that he's targeted, showing good hands and a closing speed that allows him to bait quarterbacks.

Burn Rate

10

Revis makes his money in coverage, but where he's best is at limiting receptions.

Coverage

10

Revis Island was targeted just over five times per game in 2011.

Awareness

10

Revis allowed the lowest completion percentage of any starting cornerback in the NFL.

Range

10

Revis does a great job extending on the ball. He has elite speed and a quick first step, which allows him to close on the ball when he seems out of position.

Run Defense

7.5

Lost in talk of how great Revis is in coverage, people forget he's pretty good against the run too. Revis knows how to force the run back inside to his linebackers.

Speed

9

He has the top-end speed to keep up with the best receivers in the game step for step. 

Tackle

8

Has clean form and is able to get low to take out hard-running ball-carriers. Doesn't miss many tackles.

Health

10

Started every game during the 2011 season.

Overall

94

The best cornerback in the NFL no matter how you slice it, Darrelle Revis is one of the top players in the NFL. He is the closest thing the NFL has to a shutdown corner today, displaying a rare blend of speed, toughness and agility in coverage.

2. QB Tom Brady, New England Patriots

Accuracy Short

10

Was third in the league with a 65.5 percent completion percentage—even more impressive when you factor in the 17 dropped passes counting against him. The Patriots offense is built around high-efficiency strikes to wide receivers and tight ends over the middle. This is where Brady excels.

Accuracy Outside the Pocket

9.5

Not known as a runner, he is able to step up and out of the pocket and deliver strikes downfield. When Brady must move laterally, he's able to square his shoulders and throw accurately both across his body and downfield.

Accuracy Deep

9.5

Not the same since Randy Moss left, but Brady's touch on long routes is still superb. Inexperience with wide receivers definitely hurt Brady in 2011. Too often Brady threw deep into coverage, where poor accuracy results in interceptions.

Arm Strength

9.5

Never had a big arm, but still throws with excellent velocity inside 20 yards. There was some noticeable wiggle in his deep balls in 2011 that I had not seen before, but in mechanics and velocity, Brady is still elite.

Clutch

10

Few quarterbacks in NFL history have been as good with the game on the line as Brady. Among non-injured quarterbacks in 2011, Brady leads all active passers with 27 game-winning drives.

Decision-Making

9.5

Too often forced the ball into windows that weren't there in 2011, a new problem. See his four-interception game against the Bills as evidence of Brady pressing.

Mechanics

10

The gold standard for NFL and college quarterbacks. He stands tall, has a clean motion and wastes no time.

Mobility

6.5

It is well-documented how slow Brady ran at the NFL Scouting Combine (5.23!). But he is smooth and deceptive. Does a nice job stepping out of the way of pressure and has great field vision to see openings.

Pocket Presence

10

Watching Brady lightly bounce on his toes in the pocket, scanning the field and moving deftly away from pass rushers is a thing of beauty. His ability to “feel” the pass rush ranks not only among the best in the game today, but of all time.

Health

10

Has been healthy since recovering from 2008 ACL tear, despite constant mention on the Patriots' injury report.

Overall

94.5

Brady may no longer be the best quarterback, but he's still deadly. In an offense built around No. 12, he continues to rise to the challenge. Now in the twilight of his career, after 12 seasons, Brady relies more on knowledge than raw ability. With the addition of a solid No. 1 wide receiver, Brady could challenge our No. 1 quarterback for supremacy in 2012.

1. QB Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers

Accuracy Short

10

Completed 68.3 percent of his passes in the 2011 regular season, showing off his ability to thread the ball to receivers. Not only deadly accurate, but throws a catchable ball that receivers can convert into big plays after the catch. 

Accuracy Outside the Pocket

10

One of Rodgers' more underrated attributes is his ability to make plays on the move. Not only mobile, he is accurate on the run. Ability to square up shoulders and deliver a strike is textbook. 

Accuracy Deep

10

Completed 60.7 percent of his passes over 20 yards in the air—best in the league. 

Arm Strength

9.5

Arm strength is a combination of velocity and being able to throw far—Rodgers has both. Whether on the move or in a classic dropback, his quick release delivers a tight spiral with ideal movement. While rarely throwing deep, has shown the ability to throw long when needed. 

Clutch

10

The Packers don’t play from behind often, but Rodgers executes the two-minute drill as well as any quarterback in the league. He’s also great amid chaos, delivering on 61.8 percent of his passes when pressured in 2011. 

Decision-Making

10

Out of 502 pass attempts, threw six interceptions in 2011—a rate of one for every 83 attempts, second best in the NFL (to Alex Smith). Was second in touchdowns and completion percentage as well (to Drew Brees), showing he knows where to put the football. 

Mechanics

10

A picture of perfect mechanics in college at Cal, Rodgers remains a poster boy for perfection. He has a clean, over-the-top delivery with a snap follow-through. His weight is balanced and he’s light on his feet.  

Mobility

9.5

Underrated scrambler had the third-most runs for a quarterback, behind Michael Vick and Cam Newton. Averaging 284 yards on the ground per season in four years as a starter. 

Pocket Presence

9.5

If Rodgers has a weakness, it’s how long he holds the ball in the pocket. While much improved in 2011, Rodgers has a habit of waiting for his receivers to break open, and of taking sacks. Through 11 weeks, six of the 23 sacks on Rodgers were charted as his fault. 

Health

10

Healthy in 2011, he missed time in 2010 due to a concussion but has been a healthy start for four years otherwise. 

Overall

98.5

Rodgers grades out as the best quarterback going into the 2012 season. His decision-making, mobility and accuracy separate him from the rest. Firmly entrenched in the discussion with Tom Brady and Drew Brees as the best quarterbacks in the league today and for the future.