In the United States, Lamar Jackson, the quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens, was ranked No. 69 on the NFL Top 100 list, as voted by active players in the league. This ranking represents a significant decline of 67 spots from his previous year's position, where he was much higher on the list. The drop in ranking has raised eyebrows and sparked discussions within the NFL community, especially considering Jackson's achievements as a two-time league MVP.
The 2025 season was challenging for Jackson, as he faced injuries that caused him to miss four games. Despite entering the season with high hopes for a Super Bowl run, the Ravens ended up with an 8-9 record, failing to qualify for the playoffs. Jackson's performance during the season included completing 63.6% of his pass attempts, accumulating 2,549 passing yards, and throwing for 21 touchdowns against seven interceptions. Additionally, he recorded a career-low in rushing yards with only 349 yards and two rushing touchdowns.
When asked about his controversial ranking during a training camp press conference, Jackson responded nonchalantly, stating, "It is what it is. You know, I play football. I don’t care about rankings." His comments reflect a focus on his performance and team success rather than personal accolades. The reaction to his ranking has been mixed, with some fans and analysts expressing disbelief at such a low position for a player of his caliber.
The NFL Top 100 list is an annual tradition that generates significant attention and debate among fans and players alike. Rankings are determined by votes from active players, making it a unique perspective on how players view their peers. Jackson's drop in ranking has led to discussions about the impact of injuries on a player's reputation and how performance in a single season can dramatically affect public perception. As the NFL season progresses, it will be interesting to see how Jackson responds to this ranking and whether he can reclaim his status among the league's elite players.
