The NFL’s 2025 Top 100 players list saw notable entries from both Quinyon Mitchell of the Philadelphia Eagles and Baker Mayfield of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Mayfield made a significant leap to rank at No. 50 after not making the list in 2024, while Mitchell debuted impressively at No. 49 following a commendable rookie season.
Mayfield’s resurgence as a quarterback has turned heads this season. Despite concerns that his successful first season with Tampa Bay could be a fluke, he has solidified his place among the league’s quarterbacks by amassing an impressive 4,500 passing yards and throwing 41 touchdowns, all while achieving a remarkable 71.4% completion rate. Although he tied for the most interceptions thrown with 16, his overall performance has seen him rank 13th for QBR (61.6). This turnaround demonstrates how the right environment can significantly impact a player’s development, as Mayfield’s fortunes contrast sharply with his time at the Cleveland Browns and Carolina Panthers.
On the defensive front, Quinyon Mitchell has made an impact with his strong showing for the Eagles. He finished just behind Jared Verse of the Los Angeles Rams in the Defensive Rookie of the Year voting. Despite not recording an interception, Mitchell contributed significantly with 12 pass breakups and limited opposing quarterbacks to 6.3 yards per target and an 87.2 passer rating. His performance was integral to the Eagles leading the league in passing defense by allowing just 174.2 yards per game. As he continues to develop, Mitchell is on track to make his first Pro Bowl appearance in 2025.
The performance of these two players highlights the dynamic nature of the NFL, where both established and emerging talents continue to shape the league’s future, offering fans a reason to be enthusiastic about the upcoming seasons.