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New York Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson and Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert lead the group of players ranked Nos. 71-80 in the NFL Network Top 100 list of best NFL players for the 2024 season.
Here is a look at how the rankings shook out:
Wilson and Herbert both have the chance to soar up the rankings this season as their circumstances improve.
Wilson will be receiving a seismic upgrade in quarterback play as Aaron Rodgers replaces Zach Wilson as the Jets’ starting quarterback. Of course, that was what we were expecting last season before Rodgers tore his Achilles on New York’s first offensive drive of the season.
Wilson managed to put up 95 receptions for 1,042 yards and three touchdowns despite taking throws from arguably the NFL’s worst quarterback room. Even if Rodgers winds up injured again, new backup Tyrod Taylor is also a night-and-day difference from Zach Wilson, who was traded to the Denver Broncos.
Herbert lost his top target this offseason in Keenan Allen and running back Austin Ekeler this offseason, but he’ll be playing for the best coach of his career in Jim Harbaugh. Gaudy individual stats may not be in the cards for Herbert this season as the Chargers revamp their offense, but he’ll have a chance to play for a proven winner.
If Herbert is able to elevate a shaky receiving corps and running back room and win some more games, that may be enough to finally cement him among the game’s best quarterbacks.
Sam LaPorta is a new entry into the top 100 after a stellar rookie season in Detroit. LaPorta put up 86 receptions for 886 yards and 10 touchdowns during the regular season and hauled in another 21 passes during the Lions’ run to the NFC Championship Game.
Kyren Williams is also a newbie after a breakout second season that saw the Notre Dame product rush for 1,144 yards and 12 touchdowns in just 12 games played.