New Faces in the Top 10

Every year, ESPN's survey of the top 10 players at each position brings fresh names to the forefront. This means that some players who were previously in the top 10 have fallen out, whether due to performance issues, injuries, or the overall strength of the rankings. Here, we highlight those players who are looking to reclaim their spots in the 2025 season.

The Rankings Process

To determine the top 10 players, league executives, coaches, and scouts were asked to name their best 10 players at each position. The results were then compiled, and candidates were ranked based on the number of top-10 votes, composite averages, and extensive interviews. ESPN NFL analyst Matt Bowen provided additional research and film study insights. Over 70 voters submitted ballots for at least one position, with many voting on all positions. Follow-up calls with voters helped to break any ties.

Position Rollout Schedule

The top 10 rankings will be unveiled over 11 days, starting with running backs on July 7, followed by defensive tackles (7/8), edge rushers (7/9), safeties (7/10), tight ends (7/11), interior offensive linemen (7/12), offensive tackles (7/13), quarterbacks (7/14), off-ball linebackers (7/15), wide receivers (7/16), and cornerbacks (7/17).

Running Backs to Watch

Breece Hall, RB, Jets (No. 2 in 2024 preseason rankings)

Breece Hall was second only to the 49ers' Christian McCaffrey on last year's list. However, he took a step back in 2024, with 876 rushing yards, 57 catches, and 8 touchdowns, as the Aaron Rodgers-led Jets offense struggled. At 24, Hall is poised for a bigger role and potentially a better season in 2025.

Nick Chubb, RB, Texans (No. 3 in 2024 preseason)

After a serious knee injury in 2023, Chubb returned to the field for the Browns in 2024 but was limited to 332 yards in eight games before a season-ending broken foot in Week 15. Now 29, Chubb signed a one-year, $2.5 million deal with the Texans this offseason.

Travis Etienne Jr., RB, Jaguars (No. 10 in 2024 preseason)

Etienne failed to deliver a third consecutive 1,000-yard season for the struggling Jaguars in 2024, rushing for 558 yards and two touchdowns on a career-low 3.7 yards per carry. How first-year coach Liam Coen integrates Etienne into the offense will be a key storyline in 2025 training camp.

Who Made the 2025 Top 10?

Stay tuned as we reveal the top 10 running backs and other positions over the next 11 days.