For the second year in a row, we're picking out the NFL's top players in specific skills and traits. We can argue all day about whether Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson or Saquon Barkley deserves to be the league's MVP, but this is meant to be more granular. Who are the top guys in certain areas rather than just overall?
For example, who is the most instinctive passer in the NFL, or the QB with the biggest arm? Which receiver runs the best routes, and who is the most explosive running back? Which pass rusher has the fastest closing speed, and which defensive back is the top ball hawk in the secondary? Special teams matter, too; who is the best punt returner?
So I picked out 102 different traits and named the best of the best in each spot based on what I've seen on tape this season and the underlying numbers. Let's get rolling, starting with the quarterback-specific skill areas.
Jump to a position:
QB | RB | WR/TE | OL
DL/LB | DB | ST
Most accurate passer: Jared Goff, Lions
Goff has completed 71.8% of his throws, which ranks second behind Tua Tagovailoa (though Goff has played four more games). He is one of the best at delivering a "runner's ball" on deep in-breakers and crossers, and Goff can dice up defenses from the pocket or when attacking the edges on movement concepts.
Strongest arm: Josh Allen, Bills
Allen can hammer the ball to every level of the field with velocity, and he can drive it through the wind in Buffalo. He has 18 completions on throws at least 20 yards downfield this season (seventh). Allen's 74.5 overall QBR leads the league, and he is playing at an MVP level.
