NFL Trade Deadline: Ranking the Top 50 Most Untradeable Players in the NFL Today

For years, Peyton Manning of the Indianapolis Colts has widely been considered the best player in the NFL.

Now injured, is Manning still one of the least tradeable players in the NFL? How valuable is Tom Brady to the New England Patriots?

With the NFL trade deadline come and gone, who are the guys who simply cannot be dealt? Has Aaron Rodgers of the Green Bay Packers advanced to the top?

Let's take a look at which players mean the most to their franchises and aren't leaving town anytime soon.

50. Tony Romo, QB, Dallas Cowboys

While no one will mistake Tony Romo for an elite quarterback, he is an incredibly valuable player to the Cowboys.

Yes, Romo has made some mistakes in crunch time, but without his play, Dallas isn't even in the majority of their games.

Many fans, in Dallas and around the league, believe Romo is nothing more than an overpaid choke artist.

However, the former Eastern Illinois quarterback is an above average player and Jason Garrett relies on him to carry the Cowboys offense.

49. Tramon Williams, CB, Green Bay Packers

While Charles Woodson gets the attention from the national media, Tramon Williams is the more valuable player to the Packers.

Williams signed a five-year, $38 million contract in 2010 and is still just 28 years old.

Williams is one of the NFL's best and underrated cornerbacks. The star defensive back plays for perhaps the most high profile team in the NFL, yet receives no recognition for his performance.

But make no mistake about it: the Packers know how good he is.

48. Brandon Flowers, CB, Kansas City Chiefs

Since falling to the second round in the 2008 NFL draft, Flowers has been one of the NFL's best cover corners.

The 5'9" defensive back isn't overly flashy with just 11 career interceptions, but he rarely gets beat.

Earlier this year, Flowers signed a massive six-year extension worth $50 million but hasn't performed up to his usual level.

The former Virginia Tech star appears to be missing fellow Chief Eric Berry, but Flowers has been too consistently good to be left off this list.

47. Eric Berry, SS, Kansas City Chiefs

Though Eric Berry will miss the entire 2011 season with a torn ACL, he is an integral part of the Chiefs' future plans.

The former No. 5 pick was playing like one of the NFL's best safeties at the end of his rookie campaign, but his progression into the elite safety rankings will be temporary halted.

Berry projects to be an Ed Reed type ball hawk with with the ability to play the run as well. On a defense with multiple big names, Berry might be Kansas City's best defensive player.

46. Leon Hall, CB, Cincinnati Bengals

Leon Hall has previously been paired with current Houston Texan Jonathan Joseph , but is now the team's lone star cornerback.

The former Michigan Wolverine recently signed a $39-million extension and looks to be a leader on the Cincinnati defense for a long time.

While the Bengals do have a talented defense, their safeties are not great and Hall is often left on an island. However, Hall is more than up to the challenge and is among the elite cornerbacks in the NFL.

45. LaMarr Woodley, OLB, Pittsburgh Steelers

While LaMarr Woodley has been a good, if not great, pass-rusher for the Pittsburgh Steelers, he is most valued for his overall play.

The former second-round pick accumulated at least 10 sacks in three of his first four seasons and is well on his way to another double digit year in 2011.

The Michigan product recently signed a big contract extension and looks to have a future in Pittsburgh.

With James Harrison's Steeler career likely nearing an end, look for Pittsburgh to rely on Woodley even more in the near future.

44. Aldon Smith, OLB, San Francisco 49ers

Though Aldon Smith is a rookie without an impressive NFL track record, he is already an excellent pass-rusher.

The No. 7 overall finally saw the field consistently in the 49ers' Week 4 game against Philadelphia, and has recorded 5.5 sacks since.

The former defensive end has also looked surprisingly competent in coverage and is not a weak spot in the run game. With just three games in the books, Smith is already looking like a future star.

43. Jon Beason, LB, Carolina Panthers

When healthy, Jon Beason is one of the best defensive players in the linebacker. The former first-round draft pick has a knack for making big plays and is rarely out of position.

However, Beason will miss the entire 2011 season with a torn Achilles tendon.

Beason may not quite be on Patrick Willis's level, but he is not far off and is great in every aspect of the game.

It's no coincidence that Carolina's defense has struggled immensely in the former Hurricane's absence, and the team anxiously awaits his return in 2012.

42. Von Miller, LB, Denver Broncos

Through just five games, Von Miller has recorded five sacks and two forced fumbles.

The No. 2 overall pick has transitioned from defensive end to 4-3 outside linebacker, which is even more difficult than the usual position change.

While Miller is not yet great against the run or pass, he is making plays and showing all the signs Denver wants to see.

In time, Miller's excellent athletic ability will turn him into an elite all-around player.

41. Hakeem Nicks, WR, New York Giants

Just 23 years old, Hakeem Nicks is already one of the NFL's better wide receivers.

The 6'1" and 210-pounder gained more than 1,000 yards in 2010 and is on pace to exceed last year's numbers.

Nicks is Eli Manning's best and favorite target, and the duo could become elite. Manning runs hot and cold, but Nicks is consistent with a reliable pair of hands.

40. Vince Wilfork, DT, New England Patriots

Over the past few years, Wilfork has established himself as the NFL's best nose tackle and one of the best defensive linemen in the game.

The former first-round draft pick is capable of not only drawing double teams, but beating them.

Unlike many nose tackles, Wilfork can get after the quarterback and shows surprising athleticism for a man of his size. The versatile Wilfork can even play defensive end.

Though New England's defense has struggled this season, Wilfork is still a dominant player.

39. Wes Welker, WR, New England Patriots

While Wes Welker is not physically impressive, his production cannot be denied.

The quick receiver is Tom Brady's primary target and is on pace to break the record for the most receiving yards in a single season.

Many argue that Welker's success is a product of Tom Brady's play and New England's offensive scheme. This isn't entirely untrue, but Welker is still able to get open while facing double teams and the NFL's best cornerbacks.

If Welker were to leave the Patriots, the team's passing game would not be as successful.

38. Patrick Willis, LB, San Francisco 49ers

As is well documented, Patrick Willis is the NFL's best inside linebacker. Willis has become everything the 49ers hoped he would when they drafted him with the 11th pick in the 2007 NFL draft.

The 240-pound Willis is an incredible athlete, capable of playing in coverage and against the run. It's no coincidence that San Francisco has both Willis and a great run defense.

The only reason Willis is this low is the lack of emphasis placed on the middle linebacker position.

37. Chris Johnson, RB, Tennessee Titans

While Chris Johnson has struggled thus far in 2011, he is still one of the NFL's best and most exciting players.

The star running back ran for more than 4,600 yards in his first three NFL seasons and has been the driving force of the Tennessee offense.

Johnson is this low not because he isn't an elite player, but because running backs can be found virtually anywhere.

While it is nice to have a star runner like Johnson, a player nearly as good can be found in the second round of the draft or later.

36. B.J. Raji, DT, Green Bay Packers

The ninth overall pick in 2009, BJ Raji has quickly established himself as one of the game's best interior defensive linemen.

The 6'2", 337-pound nose tackle is a good athlete capable of moving around the defensive line.

Just 25 years old and already a star, Raji looks to be a huge part of the Green Bay defense for years to come.

There is no player on the Packers who impacts both the team's run defense and pass rush as much as the former Boston College star.

35. Ryan Clady, LT, Denver Broncos

Though he is immensely talented, Ryan Clady has struggled with some injuries early in his career.

However, the Broncos left tackle is one the game's best pass blockers and does a decent job in the run game as well.

Clady is still young and developing, but few offensive linemen are better. It's safe to say that if the 2008 draft were redone, Clady would be taken considerably higher than 12th.

34. Julius Peppers, DE, Chicago Bears

Julius Peppers has been one of the game's best pass-rushers since entering the league in 2002.

Though the numbers did not show it in 2010, Peppers was still elite and was a huge part of the Chicago defense's success.

The 6'7", 287-pounder is one of the NFL's best athletes and can be moved all over the field.

The defensive end actually has eight career interceptions as well as an astounding 33 forced fumbles. The former Panther is starting to age, but for the moment, he remains an elite player.

33. Greg Jennings, WR, Green Bay Packers

Greg Jennings doesn't get the same level of attention as other elite wide receivers, but make no mistake about it, he is one of the game's best.

The former second-round pick has been Aaron Rodgers's favorite target for a few years now and is still improving.

Jennings is only 28 years old and has many good years ahead of him. With Rodgers and Jennings likely to be in Green Bay for years, the Packers should have an elite passing attack for a long time to come.

32. Roddy White, WR, Atlanta Falcons

Thus far in 2011, Roddy White is not producing at his usual level. However, the former first-round pick has been excellent over the past few years and has established himself as one of the game's best receivers.

Though White isn't used much as a vertical threat, he does a great job of working the underneath and gaining yards after the catch.

The entire Atlanta offense has disappointed this year, but White has been and will continue to be a huge part of the Falcons' offensive success.

31. A.J. Green, WR, Cincinnati Bengals

In his rookie season, AJ Green already looks like a superstar. The No. 4 pick has over 450 receiving yards and four touchdowns through just six games with a rookie signal-caller.

The 6'4" and 207-pound Green is still thin as a rail, but he is so good that his lack of bulk doesn't even matter.

When watching Green, one can't help but think: if he is already this good as a rookie, how amazing is he going to be a few years from now?

30. Clay Matthews III, OLB, Green Bay Packers

With 23.5 sacks in his first two NFL seasons, Clay Matthews has been extremely productive early in his career.

The former USC star has developed into a huge player for the dynamic Packers defense and may be the team's best defensive player.

While the 6'3", 255-pounder isn't great against the run, Matthews does a good job in coverage and dominates as a pass-rusher.

Look for Matthews to develop into one of the game's best and most consistent edge rushers.

29. Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, New York Giants

Yes, Jason Pierre-Paul is already this good. The 15th overall pick in 2010, Pierre-Paul was always seen as a high upside player.

However, in just his second season, he is reaching his enormous potential. The former South Florida star has an astounding 7.5 sacks through his first six games in 2011.

Pierre-Paul is a tremendous athlete and has developed the pass rush moves to simply dominate offensive linemen.

The New York star is simply too explosive and powerful to be consistently blocked by one lineman. Already one of the game's most explosive defenders, Pierre-Paul is only going to get better.

28. Matt Ryan, QB, Atlanta Falcons

Matt Ryan has been a good quarterback since entering the NFL in 2008, but hasn't progressed as much as the Falcons hoped.

Though Ryan passed for more than 10,000 yards in his first three seasons, he hasn't made as many as plays as Atlanta would like and is hesitant to drive the ball down the field.

With this said, Ryan is a good quarterback with incredible intelligence. The former No. 3 overall pick is accurate and rarely makes costly mistakes.

Regardless of whether or not he improves like the Falcons hope he does, Ryan will be the starting quarterback in Atlanta for quite a while.

27. Josh Freman, QB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Josh Freeman was seen as a risky pick when the Buccaneers drafted him 17th in 2009, but the move payed off for Tampa Bay last year.

Though Freeman has gotten off to a rough start to the 2011 season, he has already proven how good he is.

The former Kansas State star has a rocket arm and is a great athlete. Freeman isn't just a physical specimen, however, and threw just six interceptions while completing more than 60 percent of his passes in 2010.

The Tampa Bay offense is currently experiencing a bit of a sophomore slump, but Freeman and the Buccaneers will regain last year's form at some point.

26. Joe Haden, CB, Cleveland Browns

The seventh overall pick in 2010, Joe Haden has already proven himself to be one of the NFL's best cornerbacks.

Cleveland constantly has the 22-year-old Haden on the opposing team's No. 1 wideout, and the Florida product typically succeeds.

While not allowing many catches in 2010, Haden recorded six interceptions and excelled against the run. At 5'11" 190-pounds, Haden is a big athlete who can cover fast or physical wideouts.

Though Haden may never surpass Darrelle Revis as a player, he could be on the same level.

25. Adrian Peterson, RB, Minnesota Vikings

As was expected when he entered the NFL in 2007, Adrian Peterson is the best running back in the game.

The 6'1", 217-pounder has an unheard of combination of speed and power and has carried the Vikings offense during each of his five seasons.

While Peterson is undoubtedly one of the best players in the NFL, he is not as valued due to the nature of the running back position.

Even an optimistic outlook assumes that Peterson has five more elite seasons left, and a good running back is not exactly difficult to find.

24. Joe Flacco, QB, Baltimore Ravens

Though Joe Flacco has not yet entered the elite ranks of quarterbacks, he is an excellent player.

The 6'6" 245-pounder was a controversial pick in 2008, but the move has paid off for Baltimore.

Flacco has an absolute cannon of an arm that can make any throw. The Delaware product has struggled some in 2011, but he should rebound and put together yet another solid season.

23. Jared Allen, DE, Minnesota Vikings

Since entering the NFL as a fourth-round pick in '04, Jared Allen has been an incredible threat off the edge.

In his eighth season, the former Chief has 92.5 career sacks and is off to a phenomenal start in 2011, accumulating 9.5 sacks through his first six games.

Though Allen is 29 years old, he is still playing at an elite level and seems to have a number of great seasons ahead of him.

This type of thing is always difficult to predict, but there is nothing to suggest Allen is facing a dramatic drop-off anytime soon.

22. Mario Williams, DE, Houston Texans

The controversial pick in 2006 has established himself as one of the NFL's most talented pass-rushers when healthy.

However, Mario Williams' season ended early in 2010, and he is once again on the injured reserve.

Transitioning to 3-4 outside linebacker, Williams had five sacks in as many games this year before tearing his pectoral. The former No. 1 overall pick should resume his success when he becomes healthy in 2012.

Just 26 years old, Williams still has a bright future ahead of him.

21. Haloti Ngata, DT, Baltimore Ravens

The 12th overall pick in 2006, Ngata is arguably the best defensive lineman in football.

The 6'4" 330-pounder is capable of playing any position along the line in Baltimore's 3-4 defensive scheme. Ngata is incredibly strong and is an immovable object in the run game; he also had an impressive 5.5 sacks 2010.

After losing some weight, Ngata is playing as well as ever and has accumulated two sacks and two forced fumbles through six games.

Ngata is still only 27 years old and will be dominating the NFL for many years to come.

20. Ndamukong Suh, DT, Detroit Lions

The No. 2 overall pick in the 2010 NFL draft, Ndamukong Suh had one of the best rookie seasons for a defensive player in recent memory.

The Nebraska product accumulated an astonishing 10 sacks and 66 tackles. As a rookie, Suh led all defensive tackles in sacks and ranked 17th in the NFL for any position.

The 6'4" 305-pounder is incredibly strong and quick with the ability to penetrate or take up blockers. The second year star may have the brightest future of any defensive player in the NFL.

If Suh played a position that contributed more to the pass rush, he would be near the top of this list.

19. Jake Long, LT, Miami Dolphins

The first pick of the 2008 draft, Jake Long quickly established himself as an elite offensive lineman.

The 6'7", 317-pounder is a great athlete with incredible strength. The Michigan alum is excellent in both the pass and run game.

Though Long hasn't been great in 2011, his track record speaks for itself. Even struggling, Long is one of the better left tackles in the NFL andwill regain his prior form as he continues to recover from injuries.

18. Andre Johnson, WR, Houston Texans

The No. 3 overall pick in 2003, Andre Johnson is capable of gaining 100 yards a game, every game. The former Hurricane has only failed to dominate when hindered by injuries, as he currently is.

At 6'3" and 225 pounds, Johnson is a physical specimen capable of running through or by any defender. With an elite combination of physical skill and catching ability, Johnson has been the NFL's best wide receiver over the past three seasons.

Though he is now 30 years old, Johnson will not stop dominating until injuries and old age eventually end his career.

17. Michael Vick, QB, Philadelphia Eagles

Michael Vick is quite possibly the NFL's most talented player.

The 6'0", 215-pounder isn't particularly big but has a rocket arm and unparalleled scrambling ability. Few players are better runners than Vick, and none of them play quarterback.

The former Falcon has had his share of off-field problems, but has greatly improved under Andy Reid. Capable of running and passing for more than 4,000 yards in a season, Vick is the most electrifying player in the game.

However, Vick is now 31 years old and still isn't an elite passer. Eventually old age and injuries will limit his running ability, and Vick won't be the great player he currently is.

16. Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Arizona Cardinals

Larry Fitzgerald may not be quite the player Andre Johnson is, but the Cardinal wideout certainly is on the field more.

Though Fitzgerald isn't overly explosive, he has consistently put up great numbers and has perhaps the best hands in the NFL.

The most shocking thing about Fitzgerald is his age—he's still just 28 years old. Fitzgerald has remained incredibly healthy and produced four straight thousand-yard seasons.

With a new contract in hand, the former Pittsburgh Panther star isn't likely to stop tearing up the NFL anytime soon.

15. Eli Manning, QB, New York Giants

Though Eli Manning isn't a great quarterback by any means, he is far and away the most important player on the New York Giants.

The first pick in the 2004 NFL draft, Manning still doesn't make great decisions but has become a more accurate passer.

The 30-year-old is off to a great start in 2011 and could end up with his best season yet. Manning doesn't have as good of weapons as many other quarterbacks, yet he consistently produces.

Still relatively young for a quarterback, Manning still has a number of years ahead of him.

14. Joe Thomas, LT, Cleveland Browns

As the third pick of the 2007 NFL draft, Joe Thomas faced enormous expectations. The Wisconsin product immediately succeeded and has made the Pro Bowl in his four seasons.

Now the highest paid offensive lineman in the NFL, Thomas is still dominating.

Few offensive linemen can match Thomas athletically and he may be the best technician in the game. The 6'6" 310-pounder does a great job against speed rushers and will never be beaten mentally.

Only 26 years old, Thomas is already the NFL's best offensive tackle and should continue to improve.

13. DeMarcus Ware, OLB, Dallas Cowboys

Selected one pick before Shawne Merriman in 2005, DeMarcus Ware has dramatically outperformed the former Charger linebacker.

At 6'4" and 255 pounds, Ware may be the most explosive pass-rusher in the NFL and is excellent in coverage as well.

The 29-year-old has already produced five seasons with 10 or more sacks and broke the 20 mark in 2008.

There isn't a better 3-4 outside linebacker in the NFL than Ware, and the former Troy defensive end doesn't look to stop killing quarterbacks in the near future.

12. Darrelle Revis, CB, New York Jets

Yet another member of the incredible 2007 draft class, Darrelle Revis is widely considered to be the best defensive back in the NFL.

The New York cornerback is capable of covering virtually any wide receiver on an island without surrendering many catches.

While the 26-year-old star does not record many interceptions, he rarely has the chance to pick off a pass. Revis does, however, already have three interceptions and a touchdown in the early part of the 2011 season.

The shutdown corner is the best player on an excellent Jets defense and isn't likely to be leaving New York anytime soon.

11. Matt Schaub, QB, Houston Texans

Since being traded to Houston, Matt Schaub has been an excellent quarterback when healthy.

Schaub experienced some injuries in his first two seasons with the Texans, but has thrown for more than 4,000 yards in the two years since.

The former Falcon definitely benefits from having Andre Johnson as a receiver but does not have any other great receiving options.

Now 30 years old, Schaub is no longer young, but he does have a few good years ahead of him.

10. Peyton Manning, QB, Indianapolis Colts

Yes, Peyton Manning is hurt and is 35 years old, but this is the same guy who has won a Super Bowl, numerous MVP awards and is one of the best quarterbacks to ever play the game.

If there is even the slightest chance that Manning can return from his neck injury, the Colts simply cannot trade him.

Without Manning, Indianapolis is a complete mess. The Colts are one of the worst teams in the NFL and may even have a chance at the much-hyped Andrew Luck.

However, even if Luck does end up a Colt, Manning has tons of value to Indianapolis and is the perfect mentor for a young quarterback.

9. Calvin Johnson, WR, Detroit Lions

Though Calvin Johnson has always been the most talented wide receiver in the NFL, he is now the best.

The 6'5", 235-pounder is a physical freak and is virtually impossible to cover. Almost no pass is uncatchable for "Megatron" and Johnson has the speed to burn as well.

The No. 2 pick in 2007, Johnson has produced from the beginning of his career and is continuing to improve.

The 26-year-old has a legitimate chance to go down in history as one of the best wide receivers to ever play the game.

8. Matthew Stafford, QB, Detroit Lions

Matthew Stafford has been hindered by injuries in his young career, but has shown flashes of brilliance.

Now healthy, Stafford is tearing up the NFL with the help of some explosive talent around him. However, the former No. 1 overall pick still lacks a viable offensive line, and injuries remain a concern.

The Georgia product has a rocket arm and can drive the ball down field with ease. Though the young quarterback has good accuracy, he is still somewhat inconsistent and prone to mistakes.

As he gains more experience, Stafford should solidify himself as an elite player.

7. Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Pittsburgh Steelers

Ben Roethlisberger has led the Steelers to two Super Bowl trophies and is still relatively young.

The 6'5" 240-pounder is a good athlete and incredibly difficult to bring down. With tremendous arm strength and good accuracy, Roethlisberger has one of the best arms in the game.

Though Roethlisberger does tend to hold on to the ball for too long, Pittsburgh's offensive line has not helped him. The 11th pick in 2004 is often forced to run outside of the pocket in order to make a play due to constant pressure.

The Steelers do not have an elite offense, but with Ben Roethlisberger in charge, the team can still put up points.

6. Sam Bradford, QB, St. Louis Rams

This is not at all to say that Sam Bradford is the sixth most valuable player in the NFL, but he simply cannot be traded.

After putting together one of the best rookie quarterback seasons in history, Bradford has struggled in his second year. However, the St. Louis offensive line has been terrible and Bradford has too much potential to possibly be dealt.

The No. 1 pick in 2010, Bradford possesses incredible accuracy and intelligence. Bradford is still attempting to play with a serious lack of offensive talent, but he has disappointed thus far in 2011.

However, the former Sooners' status, potential and contract all solidify his status as a Ram.

5. Cam Newton, QB, Carolina Panthers

This may seem a little extreme, but Cam Newton has been impressive enough to deserve this ranking.

The rookie quarterback has demonstrated electrifying playmaking ability while being surprisingly sound mentally.

The No. 1 pick in 2011, Newton is already playing far beyond even his supporters' expectations. Newton is still raw, and that fact makes his performance even more impressive.

As he develops, Newton could become a scary player. Even if Newton were struggling this year, it would be difficult to envision a scenario in which the Panthers would give up on their prized draft pick.

4. Drew Brees, QB, New Orleans Saints

After seriously injuring his shoulder, Drew Brees was expected to be finished as an NFL quarterback. However, the New Orleans star is better than ever and has already won a Super Bowl for the Saints.

At the age of 32, Brees isn't young, but he isn't terribly old either.

The 6'0", 210-pounder is small but makes up for his physical limitations with phenomenal accuracy. The former Charger is one of the most accurate passers in the history of the NFL and is extremely smart as well.

Despite scoring many points, the New Orleans offense really isn't that talented outside of Brees and would struggle mightily without such a great quarterback (à la Indianapolis).

3. Phillip Rivers, QB, San Diego Chargers

The fourth overall pick in 2004, Philip Rivers hasn't been quite as good as his predecessor, Drew Brees, but he is an excellent quarterback nonetheless.

The 6'5" 230-pounder has consistently produced huge numbers for the Chargers but can't seem to make it to the Super Bowl.

At 29 years old, Rivers is still young and improving as a quarterback. Though the North Carolina State product does have plenty of talent around him, he is not merely a game manager.

Rivers doesn't possess great physical ability, but few quarterbacks are better.

2. Tom Brady, QB, New England Patriots

Tom Brady is one of the most well known names in sports, and for good reason.

The former sixth-round draft consistently makes the playoffs, winning three Super Bowls and MVP trophies as well. Brady has had just one elite wide receiver to throw to yet is consistently among the NFL's passing leaders.

Bill Belichick's star quarterback is impossibly smart, is extremely accurate and throws a great deep ball. Brady has even developed great arm strength since entering the NFL.

Though he is 34 years old, Brady does not appear to be slowing down or dealing with injuries. Behind the fantastic New England offensive line, Brady may not be done for a while.

1. Aaron Rodgers, QB, Green Bay Packers

Brett Favre's successor in Green Bay, Aaron Rodgers has quickly developed into one of the NFL's top two quarterbacks.

Rodgers can pick apart the most impressive of secondaries while making incredibly few mistakes. He possesses fantastic arm strength and athletic ability, but also has elite accuracy and intelligence.

Watching Rodgers play, one can hardly believe that the star quarterback is only 27 years old. It's difficult to believe that that someone so good is still developing and improving.

It may seem hard to believe, but this star quarterback may end up with a better career than Brett Favre.