The NFLPA released its list of the top 50 players in merchandise sales last season, and three current members of the Pittsburgh Steelers made the cut.
T.J. Watt, Aaron Rodgers and DK Metcalf all finished in the top 50, according to the numbers compiled by the NFLPA. Those numbers include all merchandise sales from last March through this February.
All three players appear on the list for the second season in a row, although Rodgers and Metcalf made this year’s list for the first time with the Steelers. Watt rose slightly in the rankings, finishing No. 15 after placing 17th a year ago.
Rodgers and Metcalf both had slight drops in their rankings from a year ago. Metcalf finished at No. 43 this year after ranking 37th with the Seattle Seahawks the year prior. Rodgers finished just behind him at No. 44 a year after placing 28th during his second and final season with the New York Jets.
A year ago, then-Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson also cracked the top 50, finishing at No. 41 in his only season with Pittsburgh. After departing for the New York Giants last season, Wilson failed to make the list this year in what turned out to be his final season in the NFL.
After signing an extension last offseason, Watt remains one of the faces of the Steelers, even as questions about his age and a quiet season by his lofty standards cause some to question his future with the club. Watt’s legacy with the franchise is secure, and he is still one of the most recognizable defensive players in the league.
But 2026 could be an important season to get back on track after the Steelers elected to extend fellow outside linebacker Nick Herbig this offseason.
The popularity of Rodgers in Pittsburgh has more to do with his résumé than anything he did during his first season in the Black and Gold. While Rodgers’ steady play was enough to guide the Steelers to the division title, his lack of mobility has eliminated a large portion of his game that made him a Hall of Fame talent.
As he returns for a second season, Rodgers may fall out of the top 50 list for merchandise sales, but the Steelers still believe he is their best option to compete now.
It’s no surprise to see Metcalf on this list, either. A top receiver on a team lacking offensive firepower was sure to be a fan favorite.
Based on receiving yards, Metcalf’s first season in Pittsburgh was the worst of his career. With new weapons added to the offense, Metcalf can hope to get back on track statistically as he will no longer be the sole focus in the passing game.
Looking around the AFC North, the Baltimore Ravens had two players feature on the list with Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry unsurprisingly making an appearance.
The Cincinnati Bengals had Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase, while the Cleveland Browns saw rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders crack the top 50.
For the second consecutive season, the Steelers finish at the top of the division for current players on the NFLPA’s list.
Recommended for you