Full Breakdown
Saquon Barkley Tops NFL's 2025 Player Rankings
9/2/2025, 1:38:25 PM
Historic Season Leads to Top Ranking
Saquon Barkley, the Philadelphia Eagles' running back, has been named the No. 1 player in the NFL's Top 100 Players of 2025, as voted by his peers. This accolade follows a record-breaking season in which Barkley rushed for 2,005 yards and 13 touchdowns, earning him the title of Offensive Player of the Year. His performance was pivotal in leading the Eagles to victory in Super Bowl LIX against the Kansas City Chiefs, marking a significant achievement in his first season with the team after leaving the New York Giants.
Barkley's Record-Breaking Performance
Barkley's 2024 season was historic; he became only the ninth player in NFL history to rush for over 2,000 yards in a single season. He also set a franchise record for the Eagles and broke Terrell Davis' record for total rushing yards in a season, including playoffs, with 2,504 yards. Barkley averaged 5.8 yards per carry and contributed significantly in the postseason, amassing 574 rushing yards and five touchdowns.
Notable Rankings and Peers
Following Barkley in the rankings are Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson at No. 2 and Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen at No. 3. Jackson had a stellar season, throwing for 4,172 yards and 41 touchdowns, while Allen led the league in expected points added per play. Both players have garnered significant respect from their peers, with Jackson maintaining his position from the previous year and Allen making a notable leap from No. 12 in 2024.
Other Top Players
The top ten players in the NFL for 2025 also include Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase at No. 4, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes at No. 5, Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow at No. 6, Ravens running back Derrick Henry at No. 7, Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett at No. 8, Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson at No. 9, and Denver Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II at No. 10.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the accolades, some fans and analysts have expressed surprise at the rankings, particularly regarding Josh Allen's placement. Critics argue that Allen's MVP status and performance should have warranted a higher ranking, leading to discussions about potential biases in player voting. The debate highlights the competitive nature of the NFL and the subjective nature of rankings based on peer evaluations.
Official Statements & Responses
Barkley expressed gratitude for being recognized by his peers, stating, "It feels amazing to see that video and be selected No. 1 from my peers just makes it so much better." He emphasized the significance of peer recognition over external accolades, underscoring the respect he has earned within the league.
What's Next for Barkley and the Eagles
As the Eagles prepare to defend their Super Bowl title, they will open the 2025 season against the Dallas Cowboys. Barkley aims to replicate his success from the previous season, with hopes of leading his team to another championship while maintaining his status as one of the league's elite players.
In summary, Saquon Barkley's remarkable achievements and recognition as the top player in the NFL reflect not only his individual talent but also the impact he has had on the Eagles' success. The upcoming season will be a critical test for Barkley as he seeks to build on his historic performance.
