We are a stone’s throw away from training camp beginning, and this being the case, the normal happenings of professional football will be dominating our lives on a day-to-day basis soon enough.
The last few months have been an exercise in holding our attention until the real thing can. One of the best ways to do this is with things like rankings which is why ESPN’s lists at every position are so popular.
In case you are unaware, ESPN puts together rankings at every position that are assembled on their
sourcing of league executives, coaches, and scouts. The idea here is that those who know the current NFL the best are the ones in charge of the list which is what gives it legitimacy.
Several players on the Dallas Cowboys have been ranked highly. Tyler Smith was the top guard. Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb were both sixth at their respective positions, George Pickens was right behind CeeDee at wide receiver, while others were honorable mentions or placed in the “also receiving votes” category.
You can put Jalen Thompson in that last spot relative to safeties across the league.
ESPN’s list of the top 10 safeties in the NFL:
- Kyle Hamilton, Ravens
- Derwin James Jr., Chargers
- Xavier McKinney, Packers
- Brian Branch, Lions
- Jessie Bates III, Falcons
- Nick Emmanwori, Seahawks
- Antoine Winfield Jr., Buccaneers
- Budda Baker, Cardinals
- Kerby Joseph, Lions
- Calen Bullock, Texans
Jalen Thompson missed out on the honorable mentions category, but he showed up in the “also receiving votes” portion as noted. This featured players like Minkah Fitzpatrick, Jalen Ramsey, and Kevin Byard for some context.
Obviously there is no Caleb Downs listed as he has yet to play a down at the professional level, but it goes without saying that the collective hope around here is that he is on this list come this time next year.
