The 2026 NFL training camps are on the horizon, and with that in mind, ESPN surveyed league executives, coaches and scouts to help us rank the top 10 players at 11 different positions. This is the seventh edition of these annual rankings.
Here's how it works: Voters gave their own top 10 players at a position, then we compiled the results and ranked candidates based on the number of top-10 votes, composite average and dozens of interviews, with research and film study help from ESPN NFL analyst Matt Bowen as well as ESPN Research. More than 70 voters submitted a ballot on at least one position, and in many cases all positions. Additional voting and follow-up calls with those surveyed contributed to placements.
This was not a five-year projection or a career achievement award, but meant to answer a simple question: Who are the best players right now?
Our rollout schedule: running backs (July 6), cornerbacks (July 7), edge rushers (July 8), defensive tackles (July 9), tight ends (July 10), offensive tackles (July 11), interior offensive linemen (July 12), quarterbacks (July 13), off-ball linebackers (July 14), wide receivers (July 15) and safeties (July 16).
Defensive tackle yielded a few surprises in this year's rankings.
First, the No. 1 selection was a mild upset based on precedent -- but not a shock based on recent tape. Two players dominated the race at the top, followed by close voting among Nos. 3 to 6. And a few former No. 1 players dipped a spot -- or six. Also, the final three spots were all debuts. And the list of players who just missed the cut is well-stocked with former Pro Bowlers and All-Pros.
Here are the best interior game-wreckers based on votes from league executives, scouts and coaches.
1. Leonard Williams, Seattle Seahawks
Highest ranking: 1 | Lowest ranking: 8 Age: 32 | Last year's ranking: 6
Williams had never previously cracked the top five since this project's inception in 2020. But he has always been a major talent, and he has maximized his contributions over the past two years in Seattle coach Mike Macdonald's defense.
These days, he's an absolute nightmare to block. Several offensive coaches did not hesitate to say Williams was the toughest player to guard last season.