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 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 is 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).
This is a position group without consensus at the top. Seven guards or centers earned at least one first-place vote. Most of last year's top options were factors in the voting yet again.
The Chiefs -- despite a down 2025 season -- still have the league's premier interior tandem. But the Cowboys appear on their way toward competing in that area.
Two second-year players made a spirited run at the top 10, while a few players in their 30s made the top five. And the best story of them all comes from a former undrafted free agent who made his top-10 debut.
Here are the game's top interior offensive linemen.
1. Tyler Smith, G, Dallas Cowboys
Highest ranking: 1 | Lowest ranking: Unranked Age: 25 | Last year's ranking: 2
Smith is the league's highest-paid guard, and for good reason. The 2022 first-round pick has worked his way from offensive tackle prospect to elite guard with three consecutive Pro Bowls. His win rates of 72.1% in the running game and 95.2% in the passing game are quality but not elite numbers. But to watch him is to value him.