Full Breakdown
NFLPA Highlights Future Top 50 Licensor Stars in Annual Rising Stars List
7/22/2026, 12:37:29 AM
NFLPA Releases Rising Stars Rankings
The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) issued its yearly Rising Stars list on Tuesday, identifying the ten rookie players it expects to join the Top 50 roster of licensed player product sales in coming seasons. The same release also named ten veteran players who have not yet appeared on the Top 50 list but are projected for future inclusion.
Rookie Players Projected for Future Top 50 Placement
Leading the rookie segment, Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza occupies the No. 1 spot. He is followed by Cowboys safety Caleb Downs, Cardinals running back Jeremiyah Love, Titans wide receiver Carnell Tate, Eagles wide receiver Makai Lemon, Commanders linebacker Sonny Styles, Saints wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, Giants linebacker Arvell Reese, Ravens wide receiver Ja’Kobi Lane, and Buccaneers edge rusher Rueben Bain. These ten athletes comprise the NFLPA’s projection of the next wave of high-selling licensed merchandise.
Veteran Players Not Yet on the Top 50 List
Among seasoned players, the list is topped by Saints quarterback Tyler Shough. Additional veterans highlighted include Bears tight end Colston Loveland, Raiders tight end Brock Bowers, Chiefs running back Kenneth Walker, Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan, Buccaneers wide receiver Emeka Egbuka, Cardinals tight end Trey McBride, Dolphins running back De’Von Achane, Bills running back James Cook, and Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez.
Implications for Player Branding and Licensing
The NFLPA’s selections signal which athletes are expected to drive future growth in licensed product sales, a key revenue stream for both players and the league’s merchandising partners. By spotlighting emerging talent alongside overlooked veterans, the association provides a roadmap for sponsors, retailers, and fans seeking to align with players poised for heightened market visibility.
