Top 100 NFL players entering the 2020 season: Nos. 80-71

76. Grady Jarrett, DT, Atlanta Falcons

Jarrett is well on his way to becoming one of the league’s elite defensive tackles. Some fans might argue he’s already there. After recording 7.5 sacks, 69 tackles, 16 quarterback hits and 26 pressures in 2019, Jarrett received a Second-Team All-Pro bid from the AP. However, five defensive tackles rank ahead of him on this countdown.

The son of legendary Falcons linebacker Jessie Tuggle, Jarrett entered the NFL as a fifth-round pick in 2015. The Clemson product cashed in on his success last offseason, signing a four-year, $68 million extension. Based on his production in 2019, Jarrett should’ve asked for more money.

75. Jaylon Smith, MLB, Dallas Cowboys

While Leighton Vander Esch is arguably Dallas’ most talented defender, Smith thrust himself into that conversation over the past two seasons. After suffering a devastating knee injury in his final collegiate game, Smith didn’t know if he’d ever become a productive player at the NFL level. However, he’s one of the top 100 players in the league today.

Dallas took a chance on Smith, selecting him with a second-round pick in 2016. The Notre Dame product sat out his entire rookie season and only saw limited action in 2017 before becoming a full-time starter. Over the past two years, Smith amassed 263 tackles and 6.5 sacks while starting all 32 games.

With Vander Esch battling injuries, Smith played a leading role on Dallas’ defense last year. He received his first Pro Bowl nod and played well enough to rank among the 15 best linebackers on the top 100.