The AP’s 2025 All-Pro teams are out. And once again, the selections sparked immediate debate. When traditional voting meets modern analytics, friction is inevitable, especially after a season packed with elite quarterback play, dominant trench performances, and defensive stars who tilted the field every week.
Several players produced first-team caliber seasons by every measurable standard. Yet they were left on the second team or off the list entirely. Here are the most notable omissions.
The Biggest All-Pro Snubs of 2025
Quarterback: Drake Maye
Maye made it to the AP All-Pro 2025 second team, but his stats were screaming first-team material. He ranked fourth in passing yards, third in touchdowns, and led the NFL in completion percentage and passer rating. PFSN graded him as the top quarterback in football. Many evaluators believed the production gap favored Maye.
Running Back: James Cook
Cook did not earn AP first-team honors despite leading the NFL in rushing yards. He averaged 5.2 yards per carry and finished with 12 rushing touchdowns. He also topped all running backs in PFSN’s RB Impact grade. That combination usually seals the deal.
EDGE: Maxx Crosby
Crosby’s absence from the AP first team raised eyebrows. He ranked near the league lead in tackles for loss, splash plays, and total tackles among edge rushers. His overall impact remained elite every week.
Right Tackle: Colton McKivitz
McKivitz quietly dominated. He posted a 91.4 OL Impact score and was a driving force behind San Francisco’s run game. While Trent Williams drew the spotlight, McKivitz’s efficiency arguably matched or exceeded several first-team picks.
Offensive Center: Ryan Neuzil
Neuzil led all centers in OL Impact. His 93.7 grade was the best among all offensive linemen in 2025. He allowed just one sack across the entire season. Despite that, he was edged out in voting.
Wide Receivers: George Pickens
Pickens made the AP second team, but his production pushed into first-team territory. He finished in the top ten in receptions, receiving yards, touchdowns, and yards per target. His role expanded when Dallas dealt with injuries, and he delivered.
Guard: Tyler Smith
Smith dominated at guard throughout the season. When asked to slide out to tackle late, his play didn’t drop. His 89.2 OL Impact score and positional versatility made his omission notable.
Defensive Tackles: Jalen Carter
Carter earned one of the highest DT Impact grades in the NFL. With several interior linemen missing eligibility thresholds, his consistent pressure and disruption stood out even more.
Safeties: Xavier McKinney and Calen Bullock
McKinney was graded as the top safety in football by PFSN with a 92.7 grade. He combined substantial coverage numbers with reliable tackling and turnover production. The AP placed him on the second team, but the data suggests a stronger case. While Bullock flew under the radar. He tied for fourth among safeties in interceptions and pass breakups and allowed a passer rating under 50 in coverage. His season rivaled any safety selected above him.
All-Pro voting always sparks disagreement. This year’s list may have done it more than most. As analytics continue to shape evaluation, the definition of “best” continues to evolve.
