The annual ranking of the league’s perceived best performers, as voted upon by their peers, provides a snapshot of talent at a specific point in time. The 2013 edition reflected performance during the preceding 2012 season. For instance, a quarterback might have been ranked highly due to exceptional passing statistics, while a defensive end could have made the list because of a high sack total and consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
This type of list serves multiple functions. It generates fan engagement and discussion, provides a form of recognition for player accomplishments, and offers a historical record of the NFL’s elite at that moment. The rankings can influence player endorsement deals and provide talking points for sports media throughout the offseason. Furthermore, examining such lists in retrospect offers insight into which players sustained their level of play and which players saw their performance decline.
