The NFL has seen some of the greatest NFL players since 2000, and many of them have left an undeniable mark on the game. From quarterbacks who led their teams to Super Bowl victories to defensive players who redefined their positions, these athletes are legends.
List of the Greatest NFL Players Since 2000
10. Darrelle Revis

Revis, a Hall of Famer in 2023, is widely regarded as one of the greatest NFL players in his position. His incredible man-to-man coverage and dominance in the early 2000s, especially during his “Revis Island” years, made him a shutdown cornerback. His ability to neutralize the best wide receivers was unmatched.
Stat | Value |
---|---|
Pro Bowls | 7 |
First-team All-Pro | 4 |
Career Interceptions | 29 |
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9. Aaron Rodgers

Aaron Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP, is undoubtedly one of the greatest NFL players at the quarterback position. His unparalleled accuracy and ability to throw touchdowns while keeping interceptions low have set him apart. He’s also the all-time leader in touchdown-to-interception ratio.
Stat | Value |
---|---|
NFL MVP Awards | 4 |
Super Bowl Wins | 1 |
Career Passing TDs | 475 |
8. Ray Lewis

Ray Lewis is remembered as one of the greatest NFL players to ever play linebacker. His leadership and sideline-to-sideline defensive skills made him the backbone of the Baltimore Ravens’ defense. His intensity and ability to read offenses helped define his era.
Stat | Value |
---|---|
Pro Bowls | 12 |
First-team All-Pro | 6 |
Career Sacks | 41.5 |
7. J.J. Watt
J.J. Watt, known for his disruptive play on the defensive line, earned a place among the greatest NFL players with his consistent dominance. His 2014 season, with 20.5 sacks, remains legendary. His blend of size, speed, and skill made him a nightmare for offensive lines.
Stat | Value |
---|---|
Pro Bowls | 5 |
Sacks (Career) | 101 |
Defensive Player of the Year Awards | 3 |
6. Calvin Johnson
Calvin “Megatron” Johnson was a force to be reckoned with, earning his spot as one of the greatest NFL players of all time. His single-season receiving yards record of 1,964 in 2012 is just one example of his dominance. His size and speed made him a nearly unstoppable wide receiver.
Stat | Value |
---|---|
Pro Bowls | 6 |
Receiving Yards in 2012 | 1,964 |
Career Touchdowns | 83 |
5. Randy Moss
Randy Moss’s ability to stretch the field and make big plays placed him among the greatest NFL players of his time. With 156 career touchdown receptions and the ability to take over games, Moss revolutionized the wide receiver position.
Stat | Value |
---|---|
Pro Bowls | 6 |
Career TD Receptions | 156 |
Career Receiving Yards | 15,292 |
4. Peyton Manning
Peyton Manning is undoubtedly one of the greatest NFL players, known for his football IQ and leadership. His 2013 season with the Broncos, where he set records for passing yards and touchdowns, is one of the greatest seasons by any quarterback in NFL history.
Stat | Value |
---|---|
Super Bowl Wins | 2 |
NFL MVP Awards | 5 |
Career Passing Yards | 71,940 |
3. Aaron Donald
Aaron Donald’s quickness and power on the defensive line earned him a spot among the greatest NFL players of his generation. His disruptive style, which helped him win three Defensive Player of the Year Awards, made him one of the most feared players in the NFL.
Stat | Value |
---|---|
Pro Bowls | 10 |
Defensive Player of the Year Awards | 3 |
Career Sacks | 103 |
2. Patrick Mahomes

Patrick Mahomes revolutionized the quarterback position with his unique playmaking ability and arm strength. His incredible mobility, combined with his ability to throw from any platform, made him one of the greatest NFL players in recent memory. He has already captured multiple Super Bowls and MVPs at such a young age.
Stat | Value |
---|---|
Super Bowl Wins | 3 |
NFL MVP Awards | 2 |
Career Passing Yards | 24,241 |
1. Tom Brady

Tom Brady is the undisputed greatest NFL player of all time. With a record seven Super Bowl championships and five Super Bowl MVPs, his achievements are unmatched. Brady’s longevity, leadership, and ability to perform under pressure cemented his legacy as the best quarterback the NFL has ever seen.
Stat | Value |
---|---|
Super Bowl Wins | 7 |
NFL MVP Awards | 3 |
Career Passing Yards | 89,214 |
These top 10 greatest NFL players have defined the NFL in various ways. Their leadership, skill, and dominance across multiple seasons will ensure that their legacies live on for years to come. Whether it’s on offense, defense, or special teams, these legends have shaped the game of football.
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