Top 100 NFL players entering the 2020 season: No. 30-21
By Samuel Teets
28. Saquon Barkley, RB, New York Giants
Barkley could rank much higher on the top 100 if we looked at his rookie season in a nutshell. That year, the Penn State phenom led the NFL with 2,028 yards from scrimmage. He also scored 15 touchdowns and won the 2018 Offensive Rookie of the Year award. PFF and Sporting News rewarded the former second overall pick with First-Team All-Pro selections.
However, Barkley took several steps back this past season. Between New York’s offensive line playing inconsistently, Eli Manning moving aside for Daniel Jones, and Barkley battling injuries, the 23-year-old couldn’t get into a rhythm. He still recorded 1,441 yards from scrimmage and eight total touchdowns in 13 games.
Opinions remain mixed on Barkley. Some people believe he’s overhyped while others claim he’s still this generation’s best running back. Barkley possesses generational talent, but it could take him several years to recapture his All-Pro form as New York’s offense continues evolving.
27. Von Miller, OLB, Denver Broncos
Based on his performance in 2019, Miller could fall into the 40s on the top 100. However, the 31-year-old deserves the benefit of the doubt. Miller is one of the most productive pass-rushers from the past decade, and he led a defense that carried the Broncos to victory in Super Bowl 50.
The former Super Bowl MVP recorded eight sacks and 20 quarterback hits in 2019, which mark career lows since 2013, when Miller served a six-game suspension. This past year was also the first season in which Miller failed to force a fumble. It wasn’t a total lost year, considering Miller still recorded 37 pressures, which topped his 2018 total of 35.
In his nine-year career, Miller has 106 sacks, eight Pro Bowls, and three Associated Press (AP) First-Team All-Pro selections. The Texas A&M product also received a spot on the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s 2010s All-Decade Team. Miller is a living legend that fans shouldn’t underestimate after one down year.
With Bradley Chubb returning from injured reserve (IR), Miller should rebound in 2020.