Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair ranked 92 [1] on the 2026 NFL Top 100 Players list.
The recognition marks a historic milestone for the franchise, as Al-Shaair is the first Houston player to ever be named to the list [3].
The NFL Top 100 is a unique ranking because it is voted on by the league's own players. The process recognizes the best performers from the 2025 season [1]. Al-Shaair's specific ranking was published June 24, 2026 [2], as part of a broader rollout that began June 22 and continues through Aug. 21, 2026 [1, 2].
The announcement was shared via NFL.com and on X, formerly known as Twitter [1, 2]. By securing the 92nd spot [1], Al-Shaair joins an elite group of players recognized by their peers for on-field excellence. This peer-voted honor often carries significant weight in the league, as it reflects the respect of opponents who face these athletes directly during competition.
Al-Shaair's inclusion on the list serves as a validation of his contributions to the Texans' defense. While the list features a wide array of positions, the linebacker's presence highlights his impact during the previous campaign. The rollout of the Top 100 typically generates significant momentum leading into the NFL's training camps and regular season preparations.
“Azeez Al-Shaair is the first Houston player to ever be named to the list.”
Al-Shaair's ranking is more than a personal achievement; it represents a shift in the league's perception of the Houston Texans. For a franchise that has historically struggled for national recognition among its peers, having a player break the Top 100 barrier suggests that the team's defensive talent is now viewed as elite on a league-wide scale.
