Josh Sweat ranked 95 NFL Top 100 as the Arizona Cardinals’ new defensive end, joining Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David, who secured the 96th position, on the NFL’s Top 100 player rankings for 2025. The updated list highlights Sweat’s impressive Super Bowl-winning season with the Philadelphia Eagles and David’s steadfast leadership on a Buccaneers team chasing more playoff milestones.
Josh Sweat’s Impact on the Eagles and His Move to Arizona
Josh Sweat, after spending seven seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, lands at No. 95 in the NFL Top 100 after helping the team clinch its second Super Bowl championship last year. His outstanding season included 16 games played, 41 tackles, and a team-leading 8.0 sacks, putting him at the front of a franchise-leading defense. In the dominant Super Bowl LIX victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, Sweat contributed significantly with six tackles and 2.5 sacks, earning his coveted first championship ring.
The conclusion of the 2024 season brought a major career shift for Sweat, who signed with the Arizona Cardinals on a four-year contract worth $76.4 million, including $38 million guaranteed. This high-profile acquisition signals the Cardinals’ intentions to strengthen their defense and improve on last season’s 8-9 record under head coach Jonathan Gannon. It also marks Sweat’s debut appearance in the NFL Top 100, building on a Pro Bowl alternate selection in 2021, and a standout 2022 campaign with career highs in tackles and sacks. Sweat’s presence is expected to bolster Arizona’s young roster as they look to rise in the NFL ranks.
Lavonte David’s Longevity and Leadership in Tampa Bay
Meanwhile, Lavonte David exemplifies reliability and excellence, ranking No. 96 on this year’s NFL Top 100. A fixture in Tampa Bay for his entire 13-year career, David played all 17 games last season, leading the Buccaneers with 122 tackles. This marked his third consecutive season surpassing 100 tackles, and the 11th such achievement in his career. Besides his tackle prowess, David added 5.5 sacks, forced three fumbles, recovered another, grabbed an interception, and broke up six passes, showcasing his all-around skill set.
David’s resume includes three All-Pro nods, with a first-team designation in 2013, and a Pro Bowl selection in 2015 after tallying 147 tackles. He anchored the Buccaneers defense during their Super Bowl LV win over the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2020 season. At age 35, his consistency and leadership continue to command respect, earning him a place on the NFL Top 100 for the fifth time, with a career-high No. 36 in 2014. Despite entering his 14th season, David recommitted to Tampa Bay with a new one-year deal and remains critical to the team’s ongoing playoff aspirations.
Early Top 100 Rankings Highlight Standout Players
The NFL initiated this year’s Top 100 player rankings earlier in the week, with several familiar names making the cut. The latest segments of the list are as follows:
100. Ladd McConkey, wide receiver for the Los Angeles Chargers, earns a spot after an impressive rookie year. Leonard Williams, defensive lineman for the Seattle Seahawks, comes in at No. 99, known for his disruptive play on the line. Aaron Jones, running back for the Minnesota Vikings, lands at No. 98, recognized for his versatile offensive ability.
Drake London, wide receiver with the Atlanta Falcons, appears at No. 97, rewarded for stepping up in a young offense. Lavonte David follows at No. 96, and Josh Sweat occupies No. 95 due to his consistent and game-changing defensive efforts. This progression underscores how the annual list recognizes players who demonstrate both on-field excellence and leadership within their teams.
Significance and Implications for the Upcoming Season
Both Josh Sweat and Lavonte David represent the high standards of defensive play in the NFL and are pivotal to their teams’ success in 2025. Sweat’s transition from the Eagles to the Cardinals is expected to bring experience and urgency to Arizona’s defense, offering the team a proven game-changer at a key position. David’s decision to stay with the Buccaneers solidifies Tampa Bay’s leadership core as they aim for a sixth straight playoff appearance, with the linebacker poised to add to his decorated career.
The evolving NFL Top 100 list not only celebrates individual achievements but also forecasts the potential impact of veteran stars and emerging talent in the coming season. As the rankings continue to roll out, eyes remain on both seasoned leaders like David and rising stars such as Sweat, who will shape the narrative of the 2025 NFL season.