NFL News: Predicting the Top-10 Players of 2014
PLAYERS 10-6
Jul 25, 2014; Mankato, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) runs through drills at training camp at Minnesota State University. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
10. Richard Sherman, CB, Seahawks
Patrick Peterson did not make this list. I just didn’t have time for Top-20……corners. Sherman has a mouth as big as the Clink. Opposing fans hate the guy. Opposing teams hate planning how to stop him. He gets a whole lot of press. And it’s because he’s the best at his position and will continue to be for a long time. Expect 2014 to be even better.
9. Luke Kuechly, MLB, Panthers
This guy is just a freak. Sideline to sideline he’s the fastest linebacker in the NFL. His work ethic rivals that of Russell Wilson. The great Derrick Thomas would be impressed. I only hope Wilson doesn’t get to know Kuechly during a game like Dave Krieg did with Thomas.
8. Earl Thomas, FS, Seahawks
As fast as Kuechly is side to side, Thomas is even faster closing in on a pass or getting to a player with the purpose of intimidation (see all those WRs who dared to go across the middle). Earl Thomas is durable, athletic, smart and due to a contract extension, a Seahawk for a long time.
7. Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings
We could spend a lot of time discussing the personal tragedies in this man’s life. I’m sure it’s on his mind most days. Yet somehow on Sunday, Adrian Peterson is able to transform into a dominant back in the NFL. So dominant in fact he almost single-handedly took Minnesota to the playoffs in 2012. If you’ve watched that team in recent years you know what that says about this great running back.
6. Tom Brady, QB, Patriots
If Brady’s career hadn’t started with the injury of Drew Bledsoe all those years ago, there’s a chance he wouldn’t have had much of a career. Fortunately for New England, he was able to not only take over for a beloved QB, but he took that team all the way to a Super Bowl win. In 2013, Brady didn’t see many familiar faces as he looked to pass the ball. Big deal for many signal callers, but for Tom Brady it was an opportunity and a challenge. In real Tom Brady fashion he showed his greatness as a leader and player. I remember when analysts compared him to Joe Montana. Now quarterbacks are compared to him. Watch him while you have the chance.