What happened: It is Maye's first appearance on the annual list, which is determined by NFL player voting. The top 10 will be unveiled one player per weekday from Aug. 24 through Sept. 4.
Why it matters: Maye enters 2026 after finishing second in MVP voting and leading New England to the Super Bowl. The peer vote places him among the league's highest-regarded quarterbacks before his third season.
By the numbers: Maye completed a league-leading 72% of his passes in 2025 and became the eighth quarterback to reach 4,000 passing yards and 30 touchdowns while completing at least 70%. He recorded a passer rating of 100 or better in 13 games.
What to watch: The countdown resumes Monday with the first top-10 selection.