Author: Jake Turner

Jake Turner is the pen name under which the UpNext In Sports team writes and edits its guides: rules, positions and basics of soccer, American football and other sports, checked against official rulebooks. Read our editorial policy (upnextinsports.com/editorial-policy/) and disclaimer (upnextinsports.com/disclaimer/).
April 2, 2026 Off

The Most Important Positions in Football Ranked

By Jake Turner

This football positions guide ranks the NFL roles that have the biggest impact on winning, from quarterback and left tackle to edge rusher and cornerback. It also explains the research behind each ranking and where the evidence is limited.