Bryce Young, Ernest Jones IV Named to NFL Top 100, Check Out the Updated 2026 Rankings

Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young and Seattle Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV made their debuts on NFL Network's annual list of the top 100 players.

Young's career year was rewarded with the No. 98 spot, with Jones slotting in at No. 97 after winning a Super Bowl:

Here's how the ranking looks so far:

NFL Network Top 100

100. Cameron Jordan, DE, Saints

99. Quenton Nelson, G, Indianapolis Colts

98. Bryce Young, QB, Panthers

97. Ernest Jones IV, LB, Seahawks

Jones led Seattle in both tackles (126) and interceptions (five) and had a pick-six in the team's 26-0 shutout of the Minnesota Vikings.

In the Seahawks' Super Bowl LX victory over the New England Patriots, Jones was everywhere. He finished with 11 tackles, including one tackle for loss, as the Patriots were held scoreless until the fourth quarter.

For 11 seasons, Bobby Wagner was a vocal leader and tone-setter in the middle of Seattle's defense. While Jones hasn't yet hit Wagner's level, he's quickly occupying a similar role in the front seven.

Young threw for 3,011 yards, 23 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 16 starts. His team's success undoubtedly helped propel him into the Top 100.

Despite their 8-9 record, Carolina wound up winning the NFC South and pushed the Los Angeles Rams to the brink in the Wild Card Round. Matthew Stafford hit Colby Parkinson for the game-winning touchdown with 38 seconds remaining.

▶️ Full Rams-Panthers Recap

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Young and the Panthers are fast approaching a pivotal moment.

The team has already picked up his fifth-year option, which will earn him $25.9 million in 2027. After that, the 2021 Heisman Trophy winner is headed for free agency.

In May, general manager Dan Morgan said the Panthers have discussed a Young extension internally but that a firm offer will come at "the right time."

As much as the 24-year-old improved in 2025, a long-term term deal would be a big risk when he has yet to put together a strong body of work.

Young's performance in 2026 will likely go a long way toward either shoring up his future in Carolina or forcing the organization to rethink its plan at quarterback.