Division rivals just handed Colts standout guard Quenton Nelson the ultimate form of respect he truly deserves
Indianapolis Colts standout guard Quenton Nelson is back on the NFL’s Top 100 list after missing out the last three seasons and earned some mighty high praise from his AFC South rivals.
Indianapolis Colts guard Quenton Nelson is one of the top players at his position and is finally being recognized as such by his peers once again coming off his eighth consecutive Pro Bowl season and another second-team All-Pro nod.
On Monday, the NFL started unveiling this year’s edition of the Top 100 players list and Nelson came in at #99. While it seems low for a player of his standards, it’s the first time since 2022 that Nelson was recognized on this list, which is voted on by the players.
Nelson has now made the NFL’s Top 100 list four times in his eight-year NFL career. This latest nod proves his play is nowhere near slowing down, even though he missed the cut the previous three editions.
AFC South rivals can’t help but to praise Indianapolis Colts star Quenton Nelson
The best part of the NFL’s Top 100 reveal process isn’t seeing where certain players rank, it’s hearing from the rival players give first-hand explanations as to why the view certain players as top players in the league. For Nelson, two AFC South rivals that know him well dropped some mighty high praise his way.
“I know I need to bring my A-game every time I line up against Quenton,” Tennessee Titans star defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons explained. “He plays the game hard. Facing him twice a year for my last seven years, he’s been unbelievable. It’s nothing but respect for Quenton.”
People outside the league can look at the PFF blocking grades and check the stats to see how good a player is. The numbers for Nelson have been elite his entire career but what doesn’t show up on the stat sheet is what really makes him one of the best.
Teammates, current or former, of Nelson’s featured on the highlight reel also praised his relentless hustle, intensity, consistency, and overall leadership. It’s no wonder why this guy has been a Pro Bowler in each season of his career and another AFC South opponent sees an even greater honor on the way for Nelson.
“I’ve seen Q a few times, man. He’s a master of technique. You talk about taking your craft to the next game, he has. I think that’s what has allowed him to stay in this game so long,” Houston Texans pass rusher Will Anderson Jr. explained. “He’s powerful, he’s smart, he’s instinctive, man. He knows how to stay in front of you. He’s one of the best, he’s going to be a Hall of Famer, too.”
This isn’t anything new for Colts fans. Nelson is already a franchise legend for this team but hearing stuff like that from his rivals on the field creates goosebumps. He continues to be a special the Colts are lucky to have. He did deserve a higher ranking, though.