The NFL generates new storylines and superstars each year. In this edition of the top 100, six breakout players stake their claims to stardom.
While most of the NFL’s superstars begin their careers as high-round picks, that’s not the only route to fame. Late-round selections, journeyman veterans, and even undrafted free agents can capture the spotlight. This edition of the top 100 features three players who didn’t hear their names called during the draft, and six breakout stars make appearances.
For the full context of these rankings, I suggest visiting the previous articles before continuing. This is the fourth installment in an eleven-part series counting down the top 100 players in the NFL entering the upcoming season. The rankings aren’t based solely on performances from 2019, and no free agents, opt-outs, or rookies make appearances.
Now, let’s get acquainted with one of the league’s best right tackles.
70. La’el Collins, RT, Dallas Cowboys
It took a while, but Collins finally delivered on the pre-draft hype that initially labeled him as a first-round pick. An investigation prevented Collins from going in the 2015 NFL Draft, but it didn’t stop the Cowboys from scooping up the LSU product. After starting his career as a guard and missing most of his second season, Collins found stability at right tackle.
Over the past three years, Collins improved steadily until he performed at a borderline Pro Bowl level this past season. He didn’t make the Pro Bowl or earn an All-Pro selection, but all signs point to Collins trending in the right direction.
Pro Football Focus’ (PFF) Ben Linsey even highlighted how Collins buries his opponents, especially in the running game,
"On tape, you see more of Collins’ defenders on the turf than most offensive linemen, and he does a good job of working up to the second level. It may have taken a few years, but Collins’ talent is starting to result in high-level play at right tackle."
Collins arguably doesn’t belong this high on the top 100, but I believe he’ll reach even greater heights in 2020.
69. Marlon Humphrey, CB, Baltimore Ravens
Humphrey experienced his own breakout season in 2019. After starting only 13 games through his first two seasons, the Alabama product started 15 weeks for Baltimore. He also participated in over 70% of the team’s defensive snaps for the first time, lining up for 98% of the unit’s plays. Humphrey finished the season with three interceptions, 14 passes defensed, two forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, and two defensive touchdowns.
Playing alongside Marcus Peters helped Humphrey blossom into one of the best defensive backs in the league. He earned a First-Team All-Pro selection as a defensive back from the Associated Press (AP) and a top-five man-coverage grade from PFF. Ben Linsey also acknowledged the 24-year-old as one of the best players in the NFL under the age of 25.
Expectations remain high for Baltimore’s defense this season, and most of the pressure falls on Humphrey and Peters.