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).
How do Justin Jefferson, Ja'Marr Chase, George Pickens and A.J. Brown stack up at WR? ESPN Illustration The NFL's receiver renaissance continues, as the sheer depth of elite pass catchers in recent years has elevated the overall game. In fact, this is arguably the league's deepest position overall. Each year in our top-10 series, wide receiver typically features the most players who receive at least one vote. This year, 26 players made that cut.
Teams now consider this a premier position, and they pay for it, too. Receiver trails only quarterback and edge rusher in pay scale, with the position representing four of the top-12 highest-paid non-quarterbacks.
Unlike last year, when 15 players earned enough votes for top-10 consideration, this year's results were more clear-cut. And two first-time recipients are pushing toward the top after massive performances last season. But some things don't change -- like two former LSU pass catchers battling for supremacy. Here's the full top 10, as voted on by league executives, coaches and scouts.
1. Ja'Marr Chase, Cincinnati Bengals
Highest ranking: 1 | Lowest ranking: 3 Age: 26 | Last year's ranking: 1
Chase dominated the voting like it was an unprepared rookie cornerback on an island, earning around 70% of the first-place votes despite finishing third in catches (125) and fourth in receiving yards (1,412) last season. The reason: He looks different than everybody else with the ball in his hands.