Two Steelers Are Featured On Prisco's Top 100 NFL Players List

One of the highlights of the NFL offseason is the release of player rankings by analysts who evaluate top talent across the league. Among the most prominent voices is Pete Prisco, a senior NFL analyst at CBS Sports, who recently unveiled his latest Top 100 players list—featuring two members of the Pittsburgh Steelers' defense.

Last year, All-Pro linebacker T.J. Watt was ranked within the top five on Prisco’s list. However, this year he dropped six spots to No. 11. Despite recording 11.5 sacks last season—his lowest total since his rookie year—Watt remained a dominant force. Prisco also pointed out Watt’s reduced impact during the latter part of the season, including the playoff loss to the Baltimore Ravens, in which he failed to register a sack.

"He had 11.5 sacks, but didn't have one in the final three games or in the postseason loss to the Ravens. Watt played a lot of plays and seemed to wear down some late in the season."

After being left off Prisco’s list last season, veteran defensive tackle Cam Heyward demonstrated that he was well worth the contract extension he received in September. He delivered an All-Pro campaign in 2024, recording eight sacks and defending 11 passes. As one of the most impactful players on the Steelers’ roster, Heyward earned a spot at No. 37 on this year’s edition of Prisco’s Top 100 list.

"After a down injury-plagued season in 2023, Heyward had one of his best seasons in 2024. He had eight sacks and was a force for the Steelers defense."

Contrary to Prisco’s analysis, Cam Heyward has shown minimal signs of decline due to age. However, the upcoming season could potentially be his last with the Steelers if his contract lacks guarantees heading into 2026. Meanwhile, T.J. Watt is still seeking to secure a long-term extension, as negotiations with the team remain ongoing.

One notable omission from Prisco’s list is center Zach Frazier, who emerged as one of the top rookies in the league last season. Frazier earned a spot on the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA) All-Rookie Team for his standout performance and is widely regarded as one of the premier centers in the NFL heading into the upcoming season.