Execs, coaches, scouts rank top NFL safeties for 2026

Key Points:

• ESPN surveyed over 70 NFL executives, coaches, and scouts to rank the top 10 players at 11 positions for the 2026 NFL training camps, focusing on the best players currently rather than future projections.
• Kyle Hamilton of the Baltimore Ravens retained the No. 1 safety spot for the second consecutive year due to his versatility as a big nickel and traditional safety, highlighted by his impact on opposing quarterbacks' performance.
• Derwin James Jr. of the Los Angeles Chargers jumped to No. 2 after a strong two-year stretch and a lucrative contract extension, demonstrating durability and multi-positional effectiveness.
• The top 10 safeties list features a mix of established veterans like Jessie Bates III and Budda Baker, as well as emerging talents such as Nick Emmanwori and Calen Bullock, reflecting a blend of coverage skills and physicality.
• Several versatile players who blur positional lines, like Cooper DeJean and Jalen Pitre, received honorable mentions, underscoring the evolving roles and hybrid nature of modern NFL safeties.