The NFL Top 100 Players 2025 list kicked off with a spotlight on Buffalo Bills running back James Cook and Denver Broncos defensive end Zach Allen, who debuted at No. 89 and No. 90, respectively, following a 31-27 Bills victory over the Broncos on July 6, 2025, in a preseason thriller at Highmark Stadium.
Voted by players, the NFL Top 100 Players 2025 rankings, announced on July 7, highlight their breakout 2024 seasons.
Cook’s Explosive Rise
James Cook’s NFL Top 100 Players 2025 debut at No. 89 reflects his pivotal role in the Bills’ offense.
In the 31-27 win, Cook rushed for 85 yards and two touchdowns on 13 carries, showcasing his efficiency, per NFL.com.
“He’s a game-changer,” said Josh Allen, praising Cook’s versatility, per ESPN.
Cook’s 2024 season saw him lead the NFL with 16 rushing touchdowns, tying a Bills record, despite splitting carries with Allen, per Bleacher Report.
His 4.9 yards per carry and 258 receiving yards cemented his first Pro Bowl nod.
Allen’s Defensive Dominance
Zach Allen’s NFL Top 100 Players 2025 debut at No. 90 underscores his breakout with the Broncos.
In the Bills-Broncos clash, Allen recorded five tackles and a sack, disrupting Buffalo’s rhythm, per CBS Sports. “He’s a force,” Broncos coach Sean Payton said, per DenverBroncos.com.
Allen’s 2024 stats included 8.5 sacks, 15 tackles for loss, and a league-leading 67 pressures among interior linemen, earning him second-team All-Pro honors, per NFL.com.
His 40 quarterback hits ranked him among the NFL’s elite, per Sports Illustrated.
Unveiling the Top 100
The NFL Top 100 Players 2025 reveal, running through September 1 on NFL Network, began with Nos. 100-81, featuring Ladd McConkey, Creed Humphrey, and Tua Tagovailoa, per USA Today.
Cook and Allen joined this group, with Cook’s ranking sparking debate. “No. 89 is too low for James Cook,” a fan posted on X, per X post.
The Bills’ AFC Championship run in 2024, where Cook shone with 49 receiving yards, boosted his profile, per Buffalo Rumblings. Allen’s role in Denver’s surprise playoff push further solidified his spot, per The Gazette.
Key Stats from 2024 Seasons
- Cook’s Rushing: 1,009 yards, 16 touchdowns, 4.9 ypc
- Cook’s Receiving: 32 catches, 258 yards, 2 touchdowns
- Allen’s Tackles: 61, with 15 tackles for loss
- Allen’s Pass Rush: 8.5 sacks, 67 pressures, 40 QB hits
- Top 100 Reveal: Nos. 100-81 announced, 10 weekly until September 1
Expert Insight: Rising Stars
Analyst Pete Prisco from CBS Sports said, “The NFL Top 100 Players 2025 debuts of Cook and Allen show the league’s depth.
Cook’s touchdown prowess and Allen’s pressure rate make them cornerstones for their teams.” This NFL Top 100 Players 2025 recognition highlights their impact, per CBS Sports.
Contract and Future Outlook
James Cook’s NFL Top 100 Players 2025 nod comes as he enters a contract year, with Buffalo prioritizing an extension after his Pro Bowl seasons, per Buffalo Rumblings.
Zach Allen, in the final year of a $45.8 million deal, could command a raise, with some arguing his No. 90 rank undervalues his top-5 DE status, per Predominantly Orange.
Cook’s efficiency, despite 207 carries in 2024, contrasts with Allen’s durability, playing all 16 games, per NFL.com. Both face high expectations, with the Bills and Broncos eyeing deep playoff runs in 2025.
Fan Reactions and Snubs
The NFL Top 100 Players 2025 list stirred debate, with some fans arguing Cook deserved a higher spot given his 16 touchdowns, per The SportsRush.
Allen’s ranking also drew criticism, with X posts calling him a “top-5 DE snubbed at No. 90,” per X post. Pat Surtain II and Josh Allen are expected to rank higher, per Broncos Wire.
Final Thoughts: NFL Top 100 Players 2025
The NFL Top 100 Players 2025 list, with James Cook and Zach Allen debuting, sets the stage for a thrilling reveal through September.
Cook’s explosive playmaking and Allen’s defensive dominance, showcased in the Bills’ 31-27 win, justify their spots.
As the NFL Top 100 Players 2025 unfolds, will Buffalo and Denver see more stars climb the ranks? Comment your thoughts below.
Top 100 Players of 2025, Nos. 90-89: Broncos' Zach Allen, Bills' James Cook debuthttps://t.co/qTgSdvYCii pic.twitter.com/3sihVeum7b
— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) July 8, 2025
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