NFL
HomeScoresDraftRumorsFantasyB/R 99: Top QBs of All Time
Featured Video
EPIC NFL Thanksgiving Slate 🙌
NEW ORLEANS, LA - JANUARY 02:  Quarterback Josh Freeman #5 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers avoids a tackle by Will Smith #91 of the New Orleans Saints at the Louisiana Superdome on January 2, 2011 in New Orleans, Louisiana.   The Buccaneers defeated the Saint
NEW ORLEANS, LA - JANUARY 02: Quarterback Josh Freeman #5 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers avoids a tackle by Will Smith #91 of the New Orleans Saints at the Louisiana Superdome on January 2, 2011 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Buccaneers defeated the SaintChris Graythen/Getty Images

NFL Trade Speculation: 50 Players Who Will Never Be Traded

Tony SantorsaJun 5, 2011

This 2011 NFL offseason may have the most trades ever completed in history because of the delayed free-agent period due to the NFL lockout. 

There are no signs of when the lockout will be lifted and when free agency will begin, but once it does, things may be a bit hectic as teams will have such a small period of time to address team needs with training camp creeping around the corner in a few months.

Once NFL free agency begins, here are 50 players who will not be traded.

Be sure to leave feedback on whether or not you agree with these selections—enjoy!

*Note: I made sure to include at least one player from each team.

This article was first seen at PatriotsPlus.net. Be sure to follow Tony Santorsa on Twitter @TonySantorsa.  

Tim Tebow

1 of 50
DENVER - JANUARY 02:  Quarterback Tim Tebow #15 of the Denver Broncos gets back on his feet after being knocked down against the San Diego Chargers at INVESCO Field at Mile High on January 2, 2011 in Denver, Colorado.  (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Image
DENVER - JANUARY 02: Quarterback Tim Tebow #15 of the Denver Broncos gets back on his feet after being knocked down against the San Diego Chargers at INVESCO Field at Mile High on January 2, 2011 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Image

Despite the new regime in Denver, led by John Elway and John Fox, the Broncos will not be trading Tim Tebow.

Tebow was the team's first-round draft choice in 2010, and he showed many signs of greatness in just his rookie season. It is unclear if he'll be able to develop into a solid NFL starting quarterback, but it's definitely worth the wait. 

Josh Freeman

2 of 50
TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 05:  Quarterback Josh Freeman #5 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers throws a pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the game at Raymond James Stadium on December 5, 2010 in Tampa, Florida.  (Photo by J. Meric/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 05: Quarterback Josh Freeman #5 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers throws a pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the game at Raymond James Stadium on December 5, 2010 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by J. Meric/Getty Images)

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Josh Freeman has had the most game-winning drives and fourth-quarter comebacks in the NFL ever since he was drafted in 2009.

Freeman is the cornerstone to Tampa Bay's franchise, and he's simply an "untouchable."

LeSean McCoy

3 of 50
PHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 02:  Lesean Mccoy #25 of the Philadelphia Eagles celebrates after he scored a 1-yard touchdown reception in the first quarter against the Houston Texans at Lincoln Financial Field on December 2, 2010 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvan
PHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 02: Lesean Mccoy #25 of the Philadelphia Eagles celebrates after he scored a 1-yard touchdown reception in the first quarter against the Houston Texans at Lincoln Financial Field on December 2, 2010 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvan

Philadelphia Eagles running back LeSean McCoy's stock is undoubtedly high—but he's simply too valuable to trade away.

McCoy will be entering his third year in the league and has improved consistently in each of this first two years in the NFL. McCoy most certainly has the potential to be the league's top dual-threat running back for the next few seasons. 

TOP NEWS

Colts Jaguars Football
Rams Seahawks Football
Mississippi Football

Darren McFadden

4 of 50
OAKLAND, CA - DECEMBER 19:  Darren McFadden #20 of the Oakland Raiders runs with the ball during their game against the Denver Broncos at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on December 19, 2010 in Oakland, California.  (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CA - DECEMBER 19: Darren McFadden #20 of the Oakland Raiders runs with the ball during their game against the Denver Broncos at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on December 19, 2010 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Oakland Raiders running back Darren McFadden emerged as one of the league's top dual-threat running backs in the NFL.

McFadden is a key part to Oakland's offense, and he's undoubtedly an "untouchable."

DeMarcus Ware

5 of 50
SAN DIEGO - AUGUST 21:  Line backer DeMarcus Ware #94 of the Dallas Cowboys in action against San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium on August 21, 2010 in San Diego, California.  (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
SAN DIEGO - AUGUST 21: Line backer DeMarcus Ware #94 of the Dallas Cowboys in action against San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium on August 21, 2010 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

DeMarcus Ware is the Dallas Cowboys' best defensive player. Ware is signed through 2016, and there is zero chance he'll be traded anytime soon. 

Clay Matthews

6 of 50
ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 15:  Clay Matthews #52 of the Green Bay Packers squirts water on his face durign wamr ups against the Atlanta Falcons during their 2011 NFC divisional playoff game at Georgia Dome on January 15, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia.  (Photo by S
ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 15: Clay Matthews #52 of the Green Bay Packers squirts water on his face durign wamr ups against the Atlanta Falcons during their 2011 NFC divisional playoff game at Georgia Dome on January 15, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by S

The chances of Clay Matthews getting traded are just as good as the Super Bowl champion cutting his hair—it won't happen for a long time. 

Jerod Mayo

7 of 50
SAN DIEGO - OCTOBER 24:  Jerod Mayo #51 of the New England Patriots on defense against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium on October 24, 2010 in San Diego, California.  (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
SAN DIEGO - OCTOBER 24: Jerod Mayo #51 of the New England Patriots on defense against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium on October 24, 2010 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

Linebacker Jerod Mayo is the core to the New England Patriots defense.

Mayo led the entire NFL in tackles last season with 174, and there's not a chance he'll be leaving New England anytime soon.  

Mario Williams

8 of 50
HOUSTON - OCTOBER 10:  Mario Williams #90 of the Houston Texans in action during the game against the New York Giants at Reliant Stadium on October 10, 2010 in Houston, Texas.  (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
HOUSTON - OCTOBER 10: Mario Williams #90 of the Houston Texans in action during the game against the New York Giants at Reliant Stadium on October 10, 2010 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

Despite the Houston Texans switching to the 3-4 defense with the new hire of Wade Phillips, Mario Williams will be staying in Houston. In fact, Williams will be switching to outside linebacker—which will make him the largest outside linebacker in the NFL, weighing in at 290 lbs. 

Marshawn Lynch

9 of 50
SEATTLE, WA - JANUARY 08:  Running back Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Seattle Seahawks runs for a 67-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Saints during the 2011 NFC wild-card playoff game at Qwest Field on January 8, 2011 in Seattle, W
SEATTLE, WA - JANUARY 08: Running back Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Seattle Seahawks runs for a 67-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Saints during the 2011 NFC wild-card playoff game at Qwest Field on January 8, 2011 in Seattle, W

Because of Marshawn Lynch's heroic 67-yard touchdown run in the Seattle Seahawks upset win over the New Orleans Saints in the Wild Card round of the playoffs, he won't be leaving Seattle anytime soon.

Lynch may have an expiring contract, but he's too much of a value in Seattle's offense. 

Jamaal Charles

10 of 50
ST. LOUIS, MO - DECEMBER 19: Jamaal Charles #25 of the Kansas City Chiefs rushes against the St. Louis Rams at the Edward Jones Dome on December 19, 2010 in St. Louis, Missouri.  The Chiefs beat the Rams 27-13.  (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images)
ST. LOUIS, MO - DECEMBER 19: Jamaal Charles #25 of the Kansas City Chiefs rushes against the St. Louis Rams at the Edward Jones Dome on December 19, 2010 in St. Louis, Missouri. The Chiefs beat the Rams 27-13. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images)

Running back Jamaal Charles ran for a grand total of 1,467 yards on only 230 attempts—which is good enough for an amazing 6.4 yards per carry.

Charles may emerge as the top running back in 2011, so he's not being traded anytime soon. 

Thomas Jones

11 of 50
KANSAS CITY, MO - JANUARY 02:  Running back Thomas Jones #25 of the Kansas City Chiefs runs down field in a game against the Oakland Raiders at Arrowhead Stadium on January 2, 2011 in Kansas City, Missouri.  (Photo by Tim Umphrey/Getty Images)
KANSAS CITY, MO - JANUARY 02: Running back Thomas Jones #25 of the Kansas City Chiefs runs down field in a game against the Oakland Raiders at Arrowhead Stadium on January 2, 2011 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Tim Umphrey/Getty Images)

Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones make one of the best running-back tandems in the NFL today, so there's no chance that Kansas City would trade away such a significant part of the offense. 

Darrelle Revis

12 of 50
PITTSBURGH, PA - JANUARY 23:  Darrelle Revis #24 of the New York Jets reacts during their 19 to 24 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2011 AFC Championship game at Heinz Field on January 23, 2011 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  (Photo by Ronald Martinez
PITTSBURGH, PA - JANUARY 23: Darrelle Revis #24 of the New York Jets reacts during their 19 to 24 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2011 AFC Championship game at Heinz Field on January 23, 2011 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Ronald Martinez

Darrelle Revis is the best shut-down cornerback in the NFL and is the best player on the New York Jets.

Revis signed a four-year, $32 million contract with the Jets last season and will likely be a Jet for life—or at least as long Rex Ryan is head coach. 

Tom Brady

13 of 50
FOXBORO, MA - JANUARY 16:  Quarterback Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots throws a pass during their 2011 AFC divisional playoff game against the New York Jets at Gillette Stadium on January 16, 2011 in Foxboro, Massachusetts.  (Photo by Elsa/Getty
FOXBORO, MA - JANUARY 16: Quarterback Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots throws a pass during their 2011 AFC divisional playoff game against the New York Jets at Gillette Stadium on January 16, 2011 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Elsa/Getty

The reigning, unanimous MVP, Tom Brady will be a New England Patriot for life—enough said. 

Jake Long

14 of 50
MIAMI - OCTOBER 12:  Offensive lineman Jake Long #77 of the Miami Dolphins celebrates after a touchdown by Ronnie Brown #23 against the New York Jets at Land Shark Stadium on October 12, 2009 in Miami, Florida. The Dolphins defeated the Jets 31-27.  (Phot
MIAMI - OCTOBER 12: Offensive lineman Jake Long #77 of the Miami Dolphins celebrates after a touchdown by Ronnie Brown #23 against the New York Jets at Land Shark Stadium on October 12, 2009 in Miami, Florida. The Dolphins defeated the Jets 31-27. (Phot

Jake Long was the Miami Dolphins first-overall selection from the 2008 NFL Draft. Long is the team's top offensive player as he lines up at left tackle, and he's the unsung hero of the entire team. 

Maurice Jones-Drew

15 of 50
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - DECEMBER 19: Maurice Jones-Drew #32 of the Jacksonville Jaguars dives against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 19, 2010 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Colts defeated the Jaguars 34-24. (Photo by Scott Boehm/Getty I
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - DECEMBER 19: Maurice Jones-Drew #32 of the Jacksonville Jaguars dives against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 19, 2010 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Colts defeated the Jaguars 34-24. (Photo by Scott Boehm/Getty I

Maurice Jones-Drew is one of the few "household names" on the Jacksonville Jaguars roster. If the Jaguars want to stop their attendance from continually falling, then trading Jones-Drew will never happen. 

Chris Johnson

16 of 50
INDIANAPOLIS - JANUARY 02:  Chris Johnson #28 of the Tennessee Titans runs for a touchdown during NFL game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on January 2, 2011 in Indianapolis, Indiana.  (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS - JANUARY 02: Chris Johnson #28 of the Tennessee Titans runs for a touchdown during NFL game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on January 2, 2011 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

One of the NFL's most exciting players, Chris Johnson is practically the entire Tennessee Titans' offense—he'll never be traded. 

Joe Flacco

17 of 50
PITTSBURGH, PA - JANUARY 15:  Quarterback Joe Flacco #5 of the Baltimore Ravens looks to pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC Divisional Playoff Game at Heinz Field on January 15, 2011 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Gett
PITTSBURGH, PA - JANUARY 15: Quarterback Joe Flacco #5 of the Baltimore Ravens looks to pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC Divisional Playoff Game at Heinz Field on January 15, 2011 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Gett

The Baltimore Ravens franchise quarterback, Joe Flacco, is a proven winner and one of the team's leaders. With Flacco entering the prime of his year, it will be in the Ravens' best interest to hold onto him as long as possible. 

Colt McCoy

18 of 50
CLEVELAND - DECEMBER 26:  Quarterback Colt McCoy #12 of the Cleveland Browns looks for a receiver against the Baltimore Ravens at Cleveland Browns Stadium on December 26, 2010 in Cleveland, Ohio.  (Photo by Matt Sullivan/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND - DECEMBER 26: Quarterback Colt McCoy #12 of the Cleveland Browns looks for a receiver against the Baltimore Ravens at Cleveland Browns Stadium on December 26, 2010 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Matt Sullivan/Getty Images)

The Cleveland Browns selected Colt McCoy in the third round of the 2010 draft, and he's panned out to be the team's franchise quarterback. In just his rookie season, McCoy appeared in eight games and threw a total of six touchdowns.

Matt Ryan

19 of 50
ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 15:  Quarterback Matt Ryan #2 of the Atlanta Falcons rolls out to pass against the Green Bay Packers during their 2011 NFC divisional playoff game at Georgia Dome on January 15, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Packers won 48-21.  (Phot
ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 15: Quarterback Matt Ryan #2 of the Atlanta Falcons rolls out to pass against the Green Bay Packers during their 2011 NFC divisional playoff game at Georgia Dome on January 15, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Packers won 48-21. (Phot

Matt Ryan is one of the few young-and-emerging quarterbacks in the NFL. As Peyton Manning and Tom Brady enter the twilights of their careers, Ryan will emerge as one of the league's best players. 

Peyton Manning

20 of 50
INDIANAPOLIS - JANUARY 02:  Peyton Manning #18 of the Indianapolis Colts gives instructions to his team during NFL game against the Tennessee Titans at Lucas Oil Stadium on January 2, 2011 in Indianapolis, Indiana.  (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS - JANUARY 02: Peyton Manning #18 of the Indianapolis Colts gives instructions to his team during NFL game against the Tennessee Titans at Lucas Oil Stadium on January 2, 2011 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

Peyton Manning—when you think of the Indianapolis Colts, that is the first thing you'll hear. There is zero chance the Colts will ever trade Manning. 

Brian Urlacher

21 of 50
CHICAGO, IL - JANUARY 23:  Brian Urlacher #54 of the Chicago Bears smiles while taking on the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Championship Game at Soldier Field on January 23, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois.  (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - JANUARY 23: Brian Urlacher #54 of the Chicago Bears smiles while taking on the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Championship Game at Soldier Field on January 23, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Linebacker Brian Urlacher is the Chicago Bears leader and one of their best players. Urlacher is the heart and soul of the Bears' defense, and he's the glue that keeps everything intact. 

Ray Lewis

22 of 50
CHARLOTTE, NC - NOVEMBER 21:  Ray Lewis #52 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on November 21, 2010 in Charlotte, North Carolina.  (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - NOVEMBER 21: Ray Lewis #52 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on November 21, 2010 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)

Ray Lewis may be entering the last few years of his career, but he will be a Raven for life. 

Marcell Dareus

23 of 50
NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 28:  NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell poses for a photo with Marcell Dareus, #3 overall pick by the Buffalo Bills, as Dareus holds up a jersey during the 2011 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall on April 28, 2011 in New York City.  (Phot
NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 28: NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell poses for a photo with Marcell Dareus, #3 overall pick by the Buffalo Bills, as Dareus holds up a jersey during the 2011 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall on April 28, 2011 in New York City. (Phot

Marcell Dareus was the second overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, and this guy should develop into one of the league's top defensive linemen. Dareus will play in Buffalo's 3-4 defense, and he's athletic enough to play all three positions on the defensive line—versatility is the kind of thing you'll never want to trade away. 

Eli Manning

24 of 50
GREEN BAY, WI - DECEMBER 26:  Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants throws against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on December 26, 2010 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.  (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
GREEN BAY, WI - DECEMBER 26: Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants throws against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on December 26, 2010 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)

Eli Manning sure has his ups and downs, but he led the 2007 New York Giants in an upset victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII. 

Manning may not come off as the vocal leader of the Giants, but he's definitely one of their leaders. 

Philip Rivers

25 of 50
DENVER - JANUARY 02:  Quarterback Philip Rivers #17 of the San Diego Chargers looks to deliver a pass against the Denver Broncos at INVESCO Field at Mile High on January 2, 2011 in Denver, Colorado. The Chargers defeated the Broncos 33-28.  (Photo by Doug
DENVER - JANUARY 02: Quarterback Philip Rivers #17 of the San Diego Chargers looks to deliver a pass against the Denver Broncos at INVESCO Field at Mile High on January 2, 2011 in Denver, Colorado. The Chargers defeated the Broncos 33-28. (Photo by Doug

Philip Rivers is emerging into one of the league's top offensive players. In 2010, Rivers led the NFL in passing yards and has been improving yearly—imagine how good he'll be in 2011. 

Steven Jackson

26 of 50
SEATTLE, WA - JANUARY 02:  Running back Steven Jackson #39 of the St. Louis Rams rushes with the ball against the Seattle Seahawks during their game at Qwest Field on January 2, 2011 in Seattle, Washington.  (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)
SEATTLE, WA - JANUARY 02: Running back Steven Jackson #39 of the St. Louis Rams rushes with the ball against the Seattle Seahawks during their game at Qwest Field on January 2, 2011 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)

The St. Louis Rams haven't had much to be proud about ever since the "Greatest Show on Turf," but Steven Jackson is definitely one of the things to admire. 

Jackson has been the league's most consistent running back, and he's an integral part to the Rams' offense. 

Cam Newton

27 of 50
NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 28:  Cam Newton, #1 overall pick by the Carolina Panthers holds up a jersey on stage after he was picked during the 2011 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall on April 28, 2011 in New York City.  (Photo by Chris Trotman/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 28: Cam Newton, #1 overall pick by the Carolina Panthers holds up a jersey on stage after he was picked during the 2011 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall on April 28, 2011 in New York City. (Photo by Chris Trotman/Getty Images)

This is definitely a far-fetched one, but assuming Cam Newton pans out to be one of the league's most dynamic quarterbacks, why would the Carolina Panthers ever think of trading the 2011 first-overall selection? 

Patrick Peterson

28 of 50
TEMPE, AZ - APRIL 29:  First round draft pick Patrick Peterson of the Arizona Cardinals poses with a team jersey during a press conference to introduce him at the team's training center auditorium on April 29, 2011 in Tempe, Arizona.  (Photo by Christian
TEMPE, AZ - APRIL 29: First round draft pick Patrick Peterson of the Arizona Cardinals poses with a team jersey during a press conference to introduce him at the team's training center auditorium on April 29, 2011 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by Christian

There is something about Patrick Peterson that makes me think "greatness."

Peterson was arguably the most talented and athletic player in the 2011 NFL Draft class, and I have a strong feeling that he'll turn out to be the next Ed Reed or Champ Bailey for the next decade. 

Ben Roethlisberger

29 of 50
ARLINGTON, TX - FEBRUARY 06:  Ben Roethlisberger #7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers celebrates after Rashard Mendenhall #34 ran for an eight yard touchdown against the Green Bay Packers in the third quarter of Super Bowl XLV at Cowboys Stadium on February 6, 2
ARLINGTON, TX - FEBRUARY 06: Ben Roethlisberger #7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers celebrates after Rashard Mendenhall #34 ran for an eight yard touchdown against the Green Bay Packers in the third quarter of Super Bowl XLV at Cowboys Stadium on February 6, 2

When you think of winning, well, Ben Roethlisberger simply defines it—sorry, Charlie Sheen.

Roethlisberger has seen three Super Bowls in just seven years in the NFL, and he's won two of them. Why would the Steelers ever think of parting ways with Big Ben? 

Chris Cooley

30 of 50
ARLINGTON, TX - DECEMBER 19:  Tight end Chris Cooley #47 of the Washington Redskins dives on a two point conversion against Barry Church #42 of the Dallas Cowboys at Cowboys Stadium on December 19, 2010 in Arlington, Texas.  (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Gett
ARLINGTON, TX - DECEMBER 19: Tight end Chris Cooley #47 of the Washington Redskins dives on a two point conversion against Barry Church #42 of the Dallas Cowboys at Cowboys Stadium on December 19, 2010 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Gett

Chris Cooley definitely isn't a "household name" throughout the NFL, but in the league's biggest market, Cooley is the Washington Redskins' top player.

Cooley has been a member of the Redskins ever since 2004 and has been an extremely productive player. He may be a tight end, a fullback or even an H-back, but he's going to be a Redskin for a very long time.  

Jared Allen

31 of 50
DETROIT, MI - JANUARY 02:  Jared Allen #69 of the Minnesota Vikings smiles on the bench after returning an interception for a touchdown while playing the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on January 2, 2011 in Detroit, Michigan. Detroit won the game 20-13.  (Ph
DETROIT, MI - JANUARY 02: Jared Allen #69 of the Minnesota Vikings smiles on the bench after returning an interception for a touchdown while playing the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on January 2, 2011 in Detroit, Michigan. Detroit won the game 20-13. (Ph

Ever since Jared Allen entered the league, he's been a sack machine. 

Allen joined the Minnesota Vikings in 2008 and has been one of their best defenders. I don't see why the Vikings would ever want to trade away Allen—he's a dominant force on the pass rush and is a team leader. 

A.J. Green

32 of 50
NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 28:  A.J. Green, #4 overall pick by the Cincinnati Bengals, holds up a jersey after he was drafted during the 2011 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall on April 28, 2011 in New York City.  (Photo by Chris Trotman/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 28: A.J. Green, #4 overall pick by the Cincinnati Bengals, holds up a jersey after he was drafted during the 2011 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall on April 28, 2011 in New York City. (Photo by Chris Trotman/Getty Images)

A.J. Green may be a rookie, but he'll turn out to be the league's best wide receiver for the next decade.

The Cincinnati Bengals found a real gem with the fourth overall pick in the 2011 draft. 

Calvin Johnson Jr.

33 of 50
DETROIT - OCTOBER 31:  Calvin Johnson #81 of the Detroit Lions celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the fourth quarter of the game against the Washington Redskins at Ford Field on October 31, 2010 in Detroit, Michigan. The Lions defeated the Redski
DETROIT - OCTOBER 31: Calvin Johnson #81 of the Detroit Lions celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the fourth quarter of the game against the Washington Redskins at Ford Field on October 31, 2010 in Detroit, Michigan. The Lions defeated the Redski

Calvin Johnson Jr. was the second overall pick in the 2007 NFL Draft, and he's lived up to all expectations.

When you think of the Detroit Lions, you immediately think of Calvin Johnson Jr.—one of the league's most explosive wide receivers. 

Alex Smith

34 of 50
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - JANUARY 02:    Alex Smith #11 of the San Francisco 49ers runs against the Arizona Cardinals during an NFL game at Candlestick Park on January 2, 2011 in San Francisco, California.  (Photo by Jed Jacobsohn/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - JANUARY 02: Alex Smith #11 of the San Francisco 49ers runs against the Arizona Cardinals during an NFL game at Candlestick Park on January 2, 2011 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Jed Jacobsohn/Getty Images)

Mark my word—Alex Smith will be a San Francisco 49er for life.

Why am I making such a bold prediction? Well, Smith will be pairing up with the first offensive head coach in his career in Jim Harbaugh. 

Harbaugh is going to turn around the career of Smith, and he'll finally live up to all the hype. 

Andre Johnson

35 of 50
HOUSTON, TX - DECEMBER 13:  A dejected Andre Johnson #80 of the Houston Texans walks off the field after Houston was defeated by Baltimore in overtime at Reliant Stadium on December 13, 2010 in Houston, Texas.  (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TX - DECEMBER 13: A dejected Andre Johnson #80 of the Houston Texans walks off the field after Houston was defeated by Baltimore in overtime at Reliant Stadium on December 13, 2010 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)

Andre Johnson is arguably the NFL's top offensive player. 

Johnson was been nothing but amazing with the Houston Texans, and there's zero chance that the Texans will ever trade away No. 80. 

Mike Williams

36 of 50
SAN FRANCISCO - NOVEMBER 21:  Mike Williams #19 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates after he scored a touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers at Candlestick Park on November 21, 2010 in San Francisco, California.  (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO - NOVEMBER 21: Mike Williams #19 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates after he scored a touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers at Candlestick Park on November 21, 2010 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers struck gold with wide receiver Mike Williams. 

The Bucs selected Williams in the fourth round of the 2010 draft, and he had an amazing rookie season—65 receptions for 964 yards and 11 touchdowns. 

Drew Brees

37 of 50
SEATTLE, WA - JANUARY 08:  Quarterback Drew Brees #9 of the New Orleans Saints looks on before taking on the Seattle Seahawks during the 2011 NFC wild-card playoff game at Qwest Field on January 8, 2011 in Seattle, Washington.  (Photo by Jonathan Ferrey/G
SEATTLE, WA - JANUARY 08: Quarterback Drew Brees #9 of the New Orleans Saints looks on before taking on the Seattle Seahawks during the 2011 NFC wild-card playoff game at Qwest Field on January 8, 2011 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Jonathan Ferrey/G

Drew Brees has already switched teams once, but he's found his home for life with the New Orleans Saints. 

Brees may not only be the face of the Saints' franchise, but he's the face of the city of New Orleans. 

Ndamukong Suh

38 of 50
CHICAGO - SEPTEMBER 12: Ndamukong Suh #90 of the Detroit Lions awaits the start of play against the Chicago Bears during the NFL season opening game at Soldier Field on September 12, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bears defeated the Lions 19-14. (Photo by
CHICAGO - SEPTEMBER 12: Ndamukong Suh #90 of the Detroit Lions awaits the start of play against the Chicago Bears during the NFL season opening game at Soldier Field on September 12, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bears defeated the Lions 19-14. (Photo by

Ndamukong Suh was the second overall pick in the 2010 draft and was the league's Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Suh was a sack machine in his rookie season as he accumulated 10 sacks—so there's no point of trading away the team's top defensive player. 

Aaron Rodgers

39 of 50
GREEN BAY, WI - FEBRUARY 08:  Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers hoists the Lombardi Trophy during the Packers victory ceremony at Lambeau Field on February 8, 2011 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.  (Photo by Matt Ludtke/Getty Images)
GREEN BAY, WI - FEBRUARY 08: Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers hoists the Lombardi Trophy during the Packers victory ceremony at Lambeau Field on February 8, 2011 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Matt Ludtke/Getty Images)

Aaron Rodgers finally brought the Vince Lombardi trophy back to Title Town this past season. 

Rodgers successfully replaced an all-time great in Brett Favre, and there's zero chance he'll ever be traded. 

Michael Vick

40 of 50
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - DECEMBER 19:  Michael Vick #7 of the Philadelphia Eagles against the New York Giants at New Meadowlands Stadium on December 19, 2010 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.  (Photo by Nick Laham/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - DECEMBER 19: Michael Vick #7 of the Philadelphia Eagles against the New York Giants at New Meadowlands Stadium on December 19, 2010 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Nick Laham/Getty Images)

I'm going to sum this up very simple: As long as Andy Reid is head coach in Philadelphia, Michael Vick will remain an Eagle. 

Reggie Wayne

41 of 50
INDIANAPOLIS - NOVEMBER 28: Reggie Wayne #87 of the Indianapolis Colts runs with the ball during the NFL game against the San Diego Chargers at Lucas Oil Stadium on November 28, 2010 in Indianapolis, Indiana.  (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS - NOVEMBER 28: Reggie Wayne #87 of the Indianapolis Colts runs with the ball during the NFL game against the San Diego Chargers at Lucas Oil Stadium on November 28, 2010 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

Reggie Wayne has been the league's most consistent wide receivers as a member of the Indianapolis Colts. As long as Peyton Manning is the team's quarterback, Wayne will be his No. 1 target. 

Bart Scott

42 of 50
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - AUGUST 27:  Bart Scott #57 of the New York Jets in action against the Washington Redskins  during their preseason game on August 27, 2010 at the New Meadowlands Stadium  in East Rutherford, New Jersey.  (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Image
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - AUGUST 27: Bart Scott #57 of the New York Jets in action against the Washington Redskins during their preseason game on August 27, 2010 at the New Meadowlands Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Image

Bart Scott teamed up with head coach Rex Ryan to create one of the most fierce defenses in the NFL.

Scott is the New York Jets' heart and soul, and he's simply too valuable to lose. 

Roddy White

43 of 50
ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 15:  Roddy White #84 of the Atlanta Falcons smiles during warm ups against the Green Bay Packers during their 2011 NFC divisional playoff game at Georgia Dome on January 15, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia.  (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty I
ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 15: Roddy White #84 of the Atlanta Falcons smiles during warm ups against the Green Bay Packers during their 2011 NFC divisional playoff game at Georgia Dome on January 15, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty I

With the emergence of Matt Ryan, Roddy White has turned into one of the league's top wide receivers.

Ryan and White form one of the most explosive combinations in the NFL, and the Atlanta Falcons will do whatever it takes to keep these guys together.

Sam Bradford

44 of 50
GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 05:  Quarterback Sam Bradford #8 of the St. Louis Rams throws a pass during the NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at the University of Phoenix Stadium on December 5, 2010 in Glendale, Arizona.  The Rams defeated the Cardinals
GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 05: Quarterback Sam Bradford #8 of the St. Louis Rams throws a pass during the NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at the University of Phoenix Stadium on December 5, 2010 in Glendale, Arizona. The Rams defeated the Cardinals

Quarterback Sam Bradford was the first overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft and had a stellar rookie season, as he won the Offensive Rookie of the Year. 

The St. Louis Rams have finally found their franchise quarterback—now they just need to add some wide receivers. 

Peyton Hillis

45 of 50
CLEVELAND - NOVEMBER 07:  Running back Peyton Hillis #40 of the Cleveland Browns runs the ball against the New England Patriots at Cleveland Browns Stadium on November 7, 2010 in Cleveland, Ohio.  (Photo by Matt Sullivan/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND - NOVEMBER 07: Running back Peyton Hillis #40 of the Cleveland Browns runs the ball against the New England Patriots at Cleveland Browns Stadium on November 7, 2010 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Matt Sullivan/Getty Images)

The 2012 Madden cover-boy, Peyton Hillis has turned into a superstar over the past year.

Hillis is one of the league' most powerful running backs, and he's the heart and soul of the Cleveland Browns' offense. 

Arian Foster

46 of 50
HOUSTON - JANUARY 02:  Running back Arian Foster #23 of the Houston Texans rushes past linebacker Kirk Morrison  #52 of the Jacksonville Jaguars at Reliant Stadium on January 2, 2011 in Houston, Texas.  (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)
HOUSTON - JANUARY 02: Running back Arian Foster #23 of the Houston Texans rushes past linebacker Kirk Morrison #52 of the Jacksonville Jaguars at Reliant Stadium on January 2, 2011 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)

Running back Arian Foster came out of nowhere in 2010 as he rushed for 1,616 yards—good enough for first in the NFL.

Foster will be a Houston Texan for a while—or at least until he stops producing. 

Rashard Mendenhall

47 of 50
PITTSBURGH, PA - JANUARY 23:  Rashard Mendenhall #34 of the Pittsburgh Steelers runs the ball against the New York Jets during the 2011 AFC Championship game at Heinz Field on January 23, 2011 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Steelers won 24-19.  (Photo b
PITTSBURGH, PA - JANUARY 23: Rashard Mendenhall #34 of the Pittsburgh Steelers runs the ball against the New York Jets during the 2011 AFC Championship game at Heinz Field on January 23, 2011 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Steelers won 24-19. (Photo b

Rashard Mendenhall defines what the Pittsburgh Steelers are all about—toughness.

Mendenhall is one of the NFL's hardest running backs, and he's the kind of guy you want carrying the rock with the game on the line. 

Adrian Peterson

48 of 50
PHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 28:  Adrian Peterson #28 of the Minnesota Vikings runs against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on December 26, 2010 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.  (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 28: Adrian Peterson #28 of the Minnesota Vikings runs against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on December 26, 2010 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)

Adrian Peterson has lived up to all expectations as he very well may be the NFL's top running back.

Peterson has suited up as a Minnesota Viking for four seasons and averaged a stellar 4.8 yards per carry. 

Greg Jennings

49 of 50
ARLINGTON, TX - FEBRUARY 06:  Greg Jennings #85 of the Green Bay Packers celebrates scoring a fourth quarter touchdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers  during Super Bowl XLV at Cowboys Stadium on February 6, 2011 in Arlington, Texas.  (Photo by Rob Carr/G
ARLINGTON, TX - FEBRUARY 06: Greg Jennings #85 of the Green Bay Packers celebrates scoring a fourth quarter touchdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers during Super Bowl XLV at Cowboys Stadium on February 6, 2011 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Rob Carr/G

Wide receiver Greg Jennings has really made a name for himself as Aaron Rodgers' go-to-man.

As long as Rodgers is the Green Bay Packers' quarterback, Jennings will be the team's No. 1 wide receiver. 

Terrell Suggs

50 of 50
PITTSBURGH, PA - JANUARY 15:  Linebacker Terrell Suggs #55 of the Baltimore Ravens reacts after sacking quarterback Ben Roethlisberger #7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during the AFC Divisional Playoff Game at Heinz Field on January 15, 2011 in Pittsburgh, P
PITTSBURGH, PA - JANUARY 15: Linebacker Terrell Suggs #55 of the Baltimore Ravens reacts after sacking quarterback Ben Roethlisberger #7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during the AFC Divisional Playoff Game at Heinz Field on January 15, 2011 in Pittsburgh, P

Terrell Suggs is one of the league's biggest trash talkers and most fierce competitiors.

The entire Baltimore Ravens defense revolves around physicallity and toughness, and Suggs defines that. 

EPIC NFL Thanksgiving Slate 🙌

TOP NEWS

Colts Jaguars Football
Rams Seahawks Football
Mississippi Football
Packers Bears Football

TRENDING ON B/R