Cleveland Browns players earn spots on ESPN top 100 NFL list

ESPN released its annual top 100 NFL players list as the 2026 season continues. Carson Schwesinger earned a spot at number 85, marking the linebacker's first appearance on the list following his performance as the 2025 Defensive Rookie of the Year. Newly acquired pass rusher Jared Verse appeared at number 69, a drop from his 2025 ranking of 55. Cornerback Denzel Ward did not make the cut, marking the third time in eight seasons he has been excluded from the ranking. The Browns defense remains a focus after the team allowed 283.6 yards per game last season and traded Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams. These personnel changes and individual player rankings follow the team’s consistent top-five defensive performance over the last several years.

• 12:04 AMYahoo Sports — Where did Denzel Ward rank in ESPN's Top 100 NFL Players?
• 12:01 AMYahoo Sports — Where did Jared Verse rank in ESPN's Top 100 NFL Players?
• 11:58 PMYahoo Sports — Where did Carson Schwesinger rank in ESPN's Top 100 NFL Players?