Five Texans Appear on NFL Top 100

On August 21, 2026, the NFL announced its Top 100 Players of 2026 rankings, with Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. earning the 12th spot. Anderson, who will turn 25 on September 2nd and is entering his fourth NFL season, has already garnered respect from his peers. Indianapolis Colts tight end Mo Alie-Cox and Seattle Seahawks guard Grey Label have both highlighted Anderson's impressive get-off speed and his rising status as a top pass rusher in the league.

Anderson's final statistics for the 2026 season were remarkable: 54 combined tackles, 17.0 sacks (including playoffs), 24 QB hits, 102 total pressures, 3 pass deflections, 6 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, 1 fumble recovered for a touchdown, and 779 total snaps. His Pro Bowl and First Team All-Pro selections further solidify his status as a top-tier talent in the NFL.

This marks Anderson's highest ranking on the NFL Top 100, as he previously finished 12th in 2019 and tied with fellow Texans defensive end J.J. Watt in 2019 and 2014. Anderson is the fifth Texan to grace the Top 100, tying a franchise record. Other Houston Texans players making the list include LB Azeez Al-Shaair at #92, WR Nico Collins at #58, CB Derek Stingley, Jr. at #25, and DE Danielle Hunter at #23.