Penei Sewell, Jalen Carter, Brock Bowers Top NFL Insiders' Poll of Best Players Under 25 Years Old

Key Takeaways

• The ranking was produced through an anonymous survey of about two dozen NFL coaches, scouts and front-office personnel, asking for their views on players aged 25 or younger.
• Penei Sewell, age 25, is noted for his rapid ascent since entering the league as the No. 7 overall pick in 2021, earning multiple Pro Bowls and First Team All-Pro honors while remaining a durable cornerstone for the Lions as he shifts from right to left tackle to protect quarterback Jared Goff.
• Jalen Carter, 25, is highlighted for his impact with the Philadelphia Eagles, including a Super Bowl championship, a Second Team All-Pro selection in 2024, and a recent four-year, $152 million contract extension despite missing significant time due to injuries in the prior season.
• Brock Bowers, 23, is recognized for an historic rookie season as a tight end in 2024, posting 112 receptions and 1,194 yards with five touchdowns, while acknowledging a setback last season that reduced him to 64 receptions for 680 yards and seven touchdowns due to injuries.
• The article notes Sewell’s impending move to left tackle after the Lions released longtime starter Taylor Decker, signaling an increased responsibility protecting Goff’s blind side and potentially elevating the team’s line performance in 2026.