Only quarterback Patrick Mahomes, wide receiver Justin Jefferson, and quarterback Jalen Hurts ranked higher. The next highest-ranked defensive lineman was Chris Jones of the Kansas City Chiefs, who came in at No. 10.
"Bosa was named the Defensive Player of the Year in 2022 and finished sixth in MVP voting (highest among defensive players), well-deserved accolades considering his performance," wrote NFL Media's Coral Smith. "He was the league leader in sacks (18.5) and QB hits (48) and finished second in tackles for loss (19). Still only four years into his career, Bosa continues to build momentum as one of the top pass rushers in the league."
NFL Network finished revealing the ranking on Monday. The NFL Top 100 is different than other rankings because it is voted on by the players, making it an honor to be included. It is based on player performance during the previous year and predicted performance during the upcoming season. This year's ranking is the league's 13th.
Bosa is holding out from training camp, awaiting a new contract from the 49ers. While some fans may be concerned, the team isn't. There is confidence inside the building that a deal will get done, and Bosa's head coach isn't worried about the talented pass rusher falling behind.
"Everybody wants people here, and you want to do that stuff, but it doesn't affect the team as much from the D-end standpoint," Shanahan said on Monday. "I have as much confidence in Nick as any player I've ever been around in terms of how he prepares and everything.
"I know they're going to get it right, both sides, and I'm excited for when I do see him."
Below is a list of the eight 49ers players listed within this year's NFL Top 100. That's the most by any single team.
- Nick Bosa, No. 4
- Trent Williams, No. 14
- Fred Warner, No. 15
- George Kittle, No. 19
- Christian McCaffrey, No. 35
- Deebo Samuel, No. 61
- Talanoa Hufanga, No. 78
- Dre Greenlaw, No. 79
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