Leonard Williams earning the No. 99 spot on the NFL’s Top 100 List has sparked discussions about his place among the league’s best players. Specifically, this acknowledgment stands out as only eight defensive tackles made the list for 2024, highlighting the difficulty for players in that position to gain recognition compared to the 20 wide receivers included.
Critics, including media personalities like Corbin K. Smith, argue that Williams is still not getting the appreciation he deserves. In fact, analytics from Pro Football Focus (PFF) suggest that the 2025 season was the best of Williams’ career, with an impressive 87.1 DEF grade, only surpassed by one other season in 2016. His strong performance earned him Pro Bowl selections both years, alongside NFL Defensive Player of the Year votes.
Last season, Williams showcased elite numbers among interior defensive linemen, tying for second with 11 sacks, ranking fourth with 15 quarterback hits, and tying for ninth with 54 pressures. His previous performance in 2020 with the New York Giants, which placed him at No. 84 on the 2021 list, had similar statistical outputs, but this year he stepped into a more versatile role, contributing in unexpected ways, such as a remarkable 92-yard pick-six against the New York Jets. This pivotal play catalyzed a comeback victory for the Seahawks and exemplified his unique skill set for a player of his size.
Despite making the Top 100, many fans and analysts question what Williams needs to achieve to be regarded as a top 80 player, considering his already impressive rankings in PFF’s grades. However, since this list relies on player votes, personal relationships, and performance against peers may weigh more heavily than pure statistics.
While his placement at No. 99 may seem low, the discussions it has ignited are a positive sign of his growing recognition within the league. Players and fans alike are making a case for Williams, suggesting that as he continues to excel, further acknowledgment will surely follow.