We have created our rankings of the NFL top 100 players of 2022. Each article will be split up into 10 different players, starting at 100-91 and moving all the way to 10-1.
With that being said, let’s take a look at the next 10 players on the list of our NFL top 100 players of 2022. An MVP candidate quarterback, two All-Pro linebackers and an established receiver ready grace this list.
NFL Top 100 Players of 2022: 40-31
40. Shaquille Leonard – Inside Linebacker – Indianapolis Colts
Shaquille Leonard, who was once known as Darius, may have had his best season in the NFL, which is saying something after his 163 tackle season in 2018. In 2021, Leonard recorded 122 combined tackles, but made up for that void with eight forced fumbles. He also finished the season with four interceptions and three fumble recoveries.
39. Stefon Diggs – Wide Receiver – Buffalo Bills
Stefon Diggs finished 2021 with 103 receptions, 1,225 yards and 10 touchdowns. Those 103 catches added to Diggs’ 230 receptions over the last two years. His ability to take the top off of the defense is a big reason why Josh Allen has turned into an MVP candidate. Diggs should once again factor into the offense with Josh Allen’s cannon arm.
38. Kenny Clark – Defensive Tackle – Green Bay Packers
Kenny Clark may be the most underrated player in the NFL. Clark is the cog that keeps the Packers’ defense somewhat afloat. With a flurry of younger players and stars on the defense, Clark should finally get the help that he needs. Clark’s ability to play the run should pay off for a tough NFC North.
37. Tristan Wirfs – Offensive Tackle – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
In his third season in the NFL, Wirfs may already be the best right tackle in the NFL. Giving Tom Brady frontside protection is not an easy task, but Wirfs may be one of the best the quarterback has had. Leonard Fournette has also seen a career revitalization in Tampa, with not only the help of Brady, but also Wirfs.
36. Corey Linsley – Center – Los Angeles Chargers
After moving from Green Bay to Los Angeles, Linsley has consistently been atop of the center list in the NFL. Linsley has been a major piece for the fast development of Justin Herbert and should continue to anchor down the offensive line.
35. Kevin Byard – Safety – Tennessee Titans
Kevin Byard put together the best season of his career last year. Though his tackles were down to 88 combined tackles from 111 in 2020. His interception total on the other hand rose from 1 in 2020 to 5 in 2021. While Byard looks like a roaming safety, his ability to play down in the box adds to a stout Titans defense.
34. Christian McCaffrey – Running Back – Carolina Panthers
Though Christian McCaffrey has caught the injury bug as of late, he is still one of the biggest game changers in the NFL. With a shaky quarterback situation, McCaffrey should not see a dip in production due to his versatility. In seven games last season, McCaffrey ran for 442 yards and recorded 343 receiving yards. Look for a major bounce back year for the 26 year old.
33. Justin Herbert – Quarterback – Los Angeles Chargers
In just his third year in the league, Justin Herbert has thrown for 69 touchdowns. His cannon of a right arm and willingness to take shots deep instantly put him into the conversation for best quarterback in the NFL. With weapons around him like Keenan Allen, Mike Williams and Austin Ekeler, there is no reason that Herbert should not be consider for MVP all year.
32. Micah Parsons – Outside Linebacker – Dallas Cowboys
Whenever you get drafted early by the Dallas Cowboys, there is a huge spotlight on you. Parsons did more than just fill that. He recorded 13 sacks, lining up all over the field. That is what makes Parsons such an interesting player, his versatility.
31. DeAndre Hopkins – Wide Receiver – Arizona Cardinals
Although Hopkins will miss time early this year, he should return in time for a Cardinals playoff run. Hopkins unquestionably has the talent to serve as an All-Pro receiver, with his ability to find the ball at the highest point. In 10 games last year, Hopkins scored eight touchdowns.
