Super Bowl XLVII Player Rankings
Justin Smith is comes in at No. 1; where do Flacco and Kaepernick stand?
By Matt Williamson and Gary Horton | ESPN Insider
you were to pool the rosters for the biggest NFL game of the year, who would you take No. 1?
As the momentum continues to build for Super Bowl Sunday, ESPN Insider's Matt Williamson and Gary Horton recently ranked all 106 roster players for the San Francisco 49ers and Baltimore Ravens. While it's not easy to split hairs evaluating special teamers, there was a strict method to their approach:
1.) How good is this player right now?
2.) What is their value to their team come Super Bowl Sunday?
Positional value absolutely plays a role. Special teamers aren't exactly going to pop up early on these rankings -- though we all know even relatively anonymous players can make a big difference in a Super Bowl. Still, no matter how great a place kicker is, he's never going to top a quarterback.
But speaking of quarterbacks, the two QBs -- Joe Flacco and Colin Kaepernick -- presented an interesting twist compared to last season's rankings, where Tom Brady and Eli Manning were the clear leaders of their teams. But where do you slot a signal caller who has never fit the definition of "elite" and a first-year starter in his first postseason?
While both are blue-chippers -- one of several categories we used to classify players in this exercise -- neither is the most important player in this game. That honor goes to San Francisco's often underrated Justin Smith.
ELITE PLAYERS
1. DT Justin Smith -- 49ers
Smith just might be the most important player in the Super Bowl. He missed time this year with a triceps injury, but his time off showed even further just how great of an overall player he is. No player in this game should benefit from the extra week's rest as much as Smith.
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2. LB Patrick Willis -- 49ers
Everyone will be talking about Ray Lewis leading up to this game, and rightfully so. But Willis is putting together a Hall of Fame-type career himself as the league's top second-level defender over the past several seasons. He is one of the few players in the league who just doesn't have a noticeable weakness to his game.
3. LB Aldon Smith -- 49ers
His sack numbers fell off dramatically when Justin Smith was out of the lineup, but few rush the passer off the edge like Aldon Smith. He is quick off the snap and eats up a lot of grass with his long strides. He also is a great leverage player who can play a power brand of football. He has been a phenom during his two NFL seasons.
4. LB NaVorro Bowman -- 49ers
An argument can be made that Bowman deserves to be even higher on this list than his fantastic partner in crime, Patrick Willis. Clearly, they make up the best pair of second-level defenders in football. A true every-down linebacker, Bowman has rare range, but also doesn't lack for power or physicality. As he demonstrated once again in the NFC Championship, Bowman is superb.
5. LB Terrell Suggs -- Ravens
His Achilles tendon injury "robbed' him of a highly productive 2012 season, but his ability to get back on the field so quickly is a tribute to his toughness and attitude. He is an excellent pass rusher with edge quickness, counter-moves, and an underrated bull rush and power move. He understands blocking angles and has a great motor. Suggs is also good at taking off blocks at the point of attack.
6. RG Marshal Yanda -- Ravens
He is an elite player in every area. He has strength and power at the point of attack and he can play a physical game. With that said, he's even better in space. Yanda is terrific on pulls and traps and gets to the second level. He is rarely out of position and he has great body control. Effort and instincts are also off the charts. No weaknesses.
BLUE CHIPS
7. QB Joe Flacco -- Ravens
He has had a good 2012 regular season and a spectacular post-season. Everything starts with one of the strongest arms in the NFL, which fits perfectly with the deep ball philosophy of this offense. He is mostly a pocket QB and not much of a threat to run, although he has sneaky pocket awareness. He still has periods of inconsistency and his progression reads are not always perfect, but there is not a throw that he can't make and now he has a lot of passing weapons and he is playing with great confidence.
8. RB Ray Rice -- Ravens
He remains one of the most versatile backs in the NFL. Though he's not a big guy, he has a low center of gravity and he runs with surprising power. His change of direction and ability to break a run outside is terrific and his instincts and willingness to let his blocks form shows his patience. He plays faster than his speed indicates and is able to make yards after contact. Rice's underrated outlet receiving skills are all positives and he finishes every play.
9. LT Joe Staley -- 49ers
Staley entered the league as more of a finesse left tackle, but he has really evolved as an elite run blocker for his position. This makes him perfect for the 49ers. One of three first-round picks on San Francisco's offensive line, Staley is now in his prime at 28-years-old.
10. DT Haloti Ngata -- Ravens
While his 2012 season has not been his best -- he's had fewer explosive plays than in the past -- he can dominate as an inside penetrator and is also an underrated interior pass rusher. He can flash with short area range and chase and he seems to recognize blocking schemes well. When he wants to, he can dominate any offensive lineman.
11. RB Frank Gore -- 49ers
Just a great player. He started the season very strong, then gradually slipped as the season progressed, often giving way to Kendall Hunter. Although Gore had some growing pains with the pistol transformation, he once again stepped up for his team when it needed him most.
12. WR Michael Crabtree -- 49ers
An underachiever for the beginning stages of his career, Crabtree has come on like gangbusters with Colin Kaepernick behind center. Clearly the quarterback's top target, Crabtree has some downfield ability, but his forte is making contested catches with his strong, but soft, hands and using some of the best run-after-catch ability in the league.
13. G Mike Iupati -- 49ers
A raw and unpolished mauler coming out of college, Iupati has stepped his game up a great deal this season. It could be argued that he is now the best left guard in football, especially in the run game. Iupati, however, is coming off a rough outing versus Atlanta.
14. TE Vernon Davis -- 49ers
Although his role in this passing game decreased significantly when Kaepernick became the starting quarterback, Davis tortured the Falcons in the NFC title game and is a major reason why the Niners are playing for the Lombardi Trophy. Kaepernick should continue to look Davis' way, as he is among the most talented tight ends in the league today. He also has favorable matchups against Baltimore's linebackers and safeties.
15. QB Colin Kaepernick -- 49ers
Kaepernick was the hardest player to rank on this list. Of course, he is a work in progress and has much to learn as an NFL quarterback, but he is already a difference-maker at the most important position on the field. A star-in-the-making, Kaepernick's 10th NFL start with be in the Super Bowl.
16. WR Torrey Smith -- Ravens
He has become an explosive vertical weapon for a deep passing game that loves to attack the seams. Smith has an excellent burst off the line of scrimmage (LOS) with an extra gear, tracks the ball very well, and has rare after-the-catch ability. His short-to-intermediate route running and hands have improved from a year ago, but he'll only get better.
17. S Ed Reed -- Ravens
He is the best centerfield safety in the NFL and while he doesn't make as many explosive plays as in the past, his instincts and ball skills are still off the charts and that gets him to a lot of balls that you wouldn't expect. His tackling is solid and while he will gamble and take some chances, he is tough to foil and that is why every quarterback he faces must find him before the snap.
CORE PLAYERS
18. LB Paul Kruger -- Ravens
He developed into the edge pass rusher opposite Terrell Suggs that this defense sorely needed in 2012 with terrific sack production. In the past he has been a blue collar back-up, but his relentless effort and ability to finish is a big part of his success. He plays with leverage, he has excellent first step quickness, and he really adjusts his angles to the QB well. He is the epitome of an overachiever, who makes more plays them as his athletic ability indicates.
19. LB Ahmad Brooks -- 49ers
Maybe the most overlooked member of San Francisco's defense, Brooks is an excellent player in his own right. Early in his career, he bounced between different linebacker spots, however he has truly found a home on the outside in this 3-4 scheme. Brooks should give Baltimore's Michael Oher all he can handle on Super Bowl Sunday.
20. WR Anquan Boldin -- Ravens
He is the ultimate blue collar possession receiver who does all the "dirty work" in this intermediate passing game. He may have the strongest hands in the NFL and he can snatch the ball away from his body in traffic or in space, but he goes deeper more than you would think. He is also terrific at turning a short catch into a long run and he really elevates on the high ball.
21. DE Ray McDonald -- 49ers
On a great defense, it can be easy to overlook a high-quality player or two. That is often the case with McDonald, who brings it week after week and is a very stabilizing force to this entire squad. He is a decent pass-rusher but does his best work against the run. He's a heck of a player.
22. P Andy Lee -- 49ers
Lee has been terrific since entering the NFL. He has a big leg, is a very good athlete and has excellent control of his punts. But maybe most importantly, Lee is extremely consistent and reliable. He might be the best punter in the game today.
23. FB Vontae Leach -- Ravens
He is the best lead blocking fullback in the NFL and Rice really trusts him through the hole-- he blocks with leverage and power, his base is excellent, and he is a finisher. Not a gifted rusher, but a little underrated as an outlet receiver. In the end, he's here to block for Rice.
24. T Anthony Davis -- 49ers
A former first-round pick, Davis came to the NFL at an extremely young age. Though he had some growing pains, he stepped it up in a big way this season. He has fantastic size and loads of ability. Already one of the better right tackles in the league, the best might be yet to come for Davis.
25. S Dashon Goldson -- 49ers
The 49ers' used the franchise tag on Goldson after the 2011 season to ensure he would be a part of their great defense this season. Keeping him going forward might be a problem, but in the meantime, he handles the deep half in coverage well and attacks the run as a downhill safety. This is exactly what they ask of him.
26. CB Carlos Rogers -- 49ers
Rogers had a better season in 2011 than he did in 2012, but he is still a quality starting cornerback. Despite his interception numbers as a 49er, Rogers' lacks great hands or ball skills, but he is adept on the outside and is excellent operating out of the slot with his physical style.
27. S Donte Whitner -- 49ers
Before coming to San Francisco, Whitner was more of an in-the-box safety. But he now roams the deep half of the field while displaying great speed to fill in the run game. Whitner is also a thumper without sacrificing reliability as a tackler on the back end of the defense.
28. C Jonathan Goodwin -- 49ers
He is rarely talked about as one of the top centers in the game, but Goodwin is a stabilizing force on the best run-blocking line in football. He is a perfect fit with this team and deserves more accolades than he generally receives.
29. G Alex Boone -- 49ers
For most of his career, Boone was a very mediocre offensive tackle, but he switched to guard and has been a perfect fit in San Francisco's mauling offensive line, especially as a run blocker. Right guard was a problem spot for the Niners last season -- no more.
30. TE Dennis Pitta -- Ravens
He has become a favorite target of Flacco and they have really developed good chemistry. His best attribute is great hands and he snatches everything in sight. He has good, but not elite, deep speed&but he is smart and versatile and he can line up anywhere on the field. He's a unique matchup player in the passing game with surprising toughness after the catch and an excellent feel for all phases of the passing game.
31. C Matt Birk -- Ravens
He may be at the end of his career, but he is still a dependable player who gets by on intelligence and instincts more than physical skills. He can make adjustments and is a reliable position point of attack.
32. LB Ray Lewis -- Ravens
After missing a lot of time with his injury, he has played surprisingly well in the playoffs, especially versus the run. His instincts are still top notch, he steps up and fills well, and is a wrap up tackler. However his range and speed are in decline. He can see a lot of plays, but he just can't get to them and he is a liability in pass coverage at this stage of his career. However, there is nothing that he hasn't seen and his intensity, toughness, and leadership still make him a viable player -- even here at the end.
33. LB Dannell Ellerbe -- Ravens
Although Ray Lewis gets most of the headlines, he is quietly a very good all-around player. He has size and good strength and plays with leverage. He's a good wrap up tackler and can get off blocks and get over the trash. He is adequate in pass coverage and flashes as an inside blitzer and has a knack for finding the ball. Ellerbe's motor is excellent.
34. CB Chris Culliver -- 49ers
The 49ers' nickel defender, Culliver plays one of the outside cornerback spots with Carlos Rogers. He moves to the slot when San Francisco employs five defensive backs. A real up-and-comer who makes a ton of plays, Culliver would start for most teams.
35. LG Kelechi Osemele -- Ravens
He was thrown into the mix early as a rookie at ROT, but his mid-season move to LOG seems to fit him a lot better and he has really settled in. He has great size, good athletic ability, and good pass pro skills. Osemele has improved his run blocking and if he stays focused, his upside is really good because he has an aggressive mentality.
36. RB Bernard Pierce -- Ravens
He has quietly become a productive rookie ball carrier and he has been a nice change of pace for Ray Rice. His skills don't dazzle you, but he runs hard and has a good feel for blocks and run lanes. While he doesn't have great speed, he does not waste a lot of motion and he has a natural feel for the position.
37. NT Isaac Sopoaga -- 49ers
A true 3-4 nose tackle, Sopoaga does the dirty work with his sheer size and power to allow Willis and Bowman to shine. He doesn't offer much as a pass-rusher and comes off the field when San Francisco goes to its nickel package, but the Ravens don't employ a lot of three-wide receiver sets. We should see plenty of Sopoaga in the Super Bowl.
38. LT Bryant McKinnie -- Ravens
He started the season as a backup player, but when the coaches re-shuffled this offensive line in mid-season he moved into left tackle and he has played surprisingly well. He has a massive body with lock on qualities and he is a tough guy to get around, but he does not bend well and he can be beaten by double moves in space. If he can grab you, it is over. But he has short area limitations.
39. RT Michael Oher -- Ravens
He is much more suited to play ROT after being moved from LOT. He is strong at the point of attack and will battle against power. Oher is at his best when he can lock on, but he is not a great space player and when he is isolated on an island vs. a speed rusher he can struggle. However he works to finish and has improving short area skills.
40. S Bernard Pollard -- Ravens
He is the ultimate "enforcer" in this secondary and he gives this defense a real physical presence on the backend. He has excellent instincts, he takes good angles to the ball, and he is an explosive tackler. Pollard is better in run support than pass defense, but he is decent in coverage because he reads routes well, and gets a jump on the ball.
41. QB Alex Smith -- 49ers
A true game-managing quarterback who was very effective for Harbaugh and company as the starter, Smith lost his starting job to Kaepernick late in the season. Now the best backup quarterback in the NFL, Smith could get a shot at starting somewhere in 2013.
42. TE Delanie Walker -- 49ers
Walker runs very well for a tight end and is an excellent athlete, but he is stuck behind Davis on the depth chart. Still, the coaching staff understands Walker is capable of creating mismatches in San Francisco's favor against linebackers, and in turn, gets him on the field plenty. Like Davis, he could see matchups in his favor against the Ravens.
43. K Justin Tucker -- Ravens
He may be a rookie, but he has played like a seasoned veteran. His accuracy and production has been startling and his poise and self-confidence is rare for a young guy. He prepares well, his mechanics are really sound and he seems to love the big stage.
44. CB Tarell Brown -- 49ers
Brown has logged a ton of snaps this year as San Francisco's starting cornerback. Although aggressive throughout the route and not a bashful tackler, Brown does his best work in man-to-man coverage. He is underappreciated by most fans who don't watch the Niners on a regular basis.
45. CB Corey Graham -- Ravens
Until this year, he has been mostly a special teams performer. He does not have a perfect skill set for this man-to-man cover secondary, but he makes up for it with good instincts, quick reactions and good ball skills. He is probably not at his best as a turn-and-run man corner, but he is feisty and physical.
46. NT Ricky Jean Francois -- 49ers
No one will mistake Jean Francois with Justin Smith, but he did fill in well as a run-stuffer while Smith was out with injury. Jean Francois offers very little as a pass-rusher, but he is a quality third 3-4 defensive end who could start on several defenses around the NFL.
SOLID CONTRIBUTORS
47. WR Jacoby Jones -- Ravens
He is a big receiver with an unusual skill set. He's an electrifying return specialist -- both punt returns and kickoff returns -- and yet he looks a little bit like a straight line guy with good speed and burst, but not jaw-dropping. As a receiver he is showing some vertical ability and production. While his route running skills and hands are not elite, they are good enough. This guy plays better than you expect him to.
48. LB Courtney Upshaw -- Ravens
His stats are not off the charts in 2012, but he is showing some potential as an edge pass rusher. However he is not there yet. He is a physical guy with strength and leverage and probably better vs. the run at this stage. He is not natural in pass coverage, but luckily that's something that he is not asked to do much in this defense. He has a lot of upside, but you get the feeling that he did not make the impact that was expected of him as a rookie.
49. P Sam Koch -- Ravens
He is a dependable veteran with a big leg and the power to handle all weather conditions. His mechanics are good, along with hang time and distance, and he handles pressure well and his consistency is a real positive.
50. TE Ed Dickson -- Ravens
Dickson does not have Pitta's production and chemistry with Flacco, but he is a terrific athlete and one of the reasons that we see more two tight end sets from the Ravens. He is an adequate position/wall off-blocker, but his best use is as a receiving tight end. Athletically, he is everything that they want, especially if his hands become more consistent and he is an excellent matchup receiver.
51. RB LaMichael James -- 49ers
Many eyebrows raised when the Niners selected James in the 2012 draft -- and then James saw very little action for most of the year. But when Hunter went down, James' role grew. And it became apparent what the 49ers saw in him: big-play ability. He has very fresh legs at this late stage of the season and complements Gore and Kaepernick very well.
52. WR Randy Moss -- 49ers
This future Hall of Famer isn't close to being the difference-maker or highlight-reel player he was a few years back, but Moss still has very good ball skills and can get downfield. Underestimating him would be a mistake, especially with Kaepernick behind center.
53. DE Arthur Jones -- Ravens
He seems to be a solid fixture in their defensive end rotation. He has power and can hold his own at the point of attack, but he lacks great range and explosive pass rush skills. With that said, he works to finish and he is a little more productive as an inside penetrator than you might think.
54. DE Pernell McPhee -- Ravens
An improving young player , McPhee flashes with some quickness and pass-rush skills. His effort is excellent and he has developed a knack for getting his hands up and deflecting passes. As a run defender he is raw and he needs to play with better leverage.
55. LB Albert McClellan -- Ravens
Most of his production is on special teams and he has an intriguing skill set He has size and strength and underrated AA and his pass defense has improved and his high motor gives him a nice upside as a guy with some versatility.
56. FB Bruce Miller -- 49ers
Miller has decent hands, but his role is not to carry the football. He is a power blocker who the 49ers send at the opponent in many different ways. Rarely does Miller just line up as the lead back in an I-formation and block downhill, but he can do that -- and pretty much anything asked of him concerning blocking.
57. LG Bobbie Williams -- Ravens
He is a veteran near the end of his career, and while his athletic skills may be in decline he is still a massive guard with starting experience in this league. If he can lock on a defender he can be effective in a short area, but in space he is in trouble.
58. NT Terrence Cody -- Ravens
Cody is the inside two-gap run stopper that the Ravens need in their defense. He is strictly a short area guy with limited range to the edges and his pass-rush skills are limited. He's only a two-down run player.
59. NT Ma'ake Kemoeatu -- Ravens
An aging veteran player, Kemoeatu has struggled to stay healthy over his career, but he has great size and is a nice fit as a 3-4 two-gap run stuffer. He doesn't have a lot of range or provide much of a pass-rush threat, but he adds depth and can clog the middle.
60. CB Jimmy Smith -- Ravens
He has all the skills necessary to be an elite man corner in this league, but those skills haven't yet transferred to the field. He can jump routes, shows a physical style of play, run with most receivers and play outside or over the slot -- so what is missing?
61. QB Tyrod Taylor -- Ravens
He doesn't get much playing time, but Taylor has Wildcat/option-type skills, can scramble out of trouble and has underrated arm strength.
62. WR A.J. Jenkins -- 49ers
No team in the league might have gotten less out of its rookie class than the 49ers and that starts with their first-round pick, Jenkins. But it is far too early to label him a bust. Jenkins is a very smooth route runner with excellent deep speed, which is ideal for Kaepernick's big arm. He could be the ideal complement starting opposite Crabtree in 2013.
63. WR Tandon Doss -- Ravens
He has missed time in his young career with a sports hernia issue. He has good size and his best asset may be his quickness, which suits him well in the slot. He also has excellent hands and seems to have a feel for finding a hole in the defense.
64. WR Ted Ginn Jr. -- 49ers
A speedster with a great track background, Ginn never contributed significantly as a wide receiver. He isn't very physical and is a straight-line athlete, but Ginn is a very dangerous return man, while also seeing snaps on offense when the 49ers bring in extra wideouts.
65. G Leonard Davis -- 49ers
The mammoth Davis entered the league as a high draft pick, but he never lived up to that billing. Instead, he has moved inside to guard, where his heavy feet are not so exposed. Now, he sees a fair amount of playing time as the 49ers' sixth offensive lineman, a formation they utilize quite a bit.
66. CB Perrish Cox -- 49ers
Cox is the sixth defensive back in the 49ers' rarely used dime package. Unless an injury besets San Francisco's top three corners, Cox's role in the Super Bowl will most likely just be on special teams -- an area in which he excels.
67. G Daniel Kilgore -- 49ers
The 49ers' offensive line has stayed quite healthy this season, so Kilgore hasn't been called on to play a prominent role. But he does see the field when San Francisco utilizes extra-heavy offensive personnel.
68. CB Cary Williams -- Ravens
An improving player with good size and length, Williams' motor and instincts are really good. He has good man-to-man and zone cover skills, can turn and run with receivers and has a knack for breaking on the ball when it is in the air.
69. LS Brian Jennings -- 49ers
An unknown, like most long-snappers, Jennings is exceptional at what he does. An instrumental player who never gets talked about, Jennings is among the best in the league.
70. CB Chykie Brown -- Ravens
Brown has good, pure speed and some turn-and-run cover skills, but he is still raw and his mechanics can get sloppy. He athletic ability and explosiveness give him a little bit of an upside as a cover guy.
SECOND-TIER PLAYERS, BACKUPS AND SPECIAL-TEAMERS
71. C Gino Gradkowski -- Ravens
He can play both guard and center and is a candidate to replace Birk when he retires. He is not yet a power player, but his tenacity serves him well and his upside is intriguing. He is a future starter.
72. S Sean Considine -- Ravens
A veteran backup safety and special teams performer at this stage of his career, Considine is a decent zone cover guy, but his man-to-man skills are not impressive. He gets by on instincts and decent ball skills.
73. DT Will Tukuafu -- 49ers
A defensive tackle by trade -- and by his girth -- Tukuafu has made a name for himself as a power fullback in San Francisco's short-yardage packages. He probably is what he is as a defensive lineman at this point of his career, but the 49ers have figured out a way for him to contribute on game day.
74. LB Brendon Ayanbadejo -- Ravens
He has stayed in this league because of his special teams production, but he also has underrated cover skills and better speed and range than you might think.
75. K David Akers -- 49ers
After a great 2011 season, Akers is struggling in a big way. Hopefully for the 49ers' sake, their place-kicker doesn't cost them a Super Bowl. It is certainly a possibility in what projects as a tight game.
76. TE Garrett Celek -- 49ers
Celek is a quality third tight end with good size and some receiving ability. He also is a valued member of San Francisco's special teams and has made some big plays for this offense.
77. RB Anthony Dixon -- 49ers
In his third season, Dixon is pretty much what he is at this point. His help on special teams is appreciated, but as a running back, he is a pounder with limited big-play or receiving ability.
78. LB Larry Grant -- 49ers
Grant and Gooden make up a solid pair of backups for Willis and Bowman at inside linebacker. Grant won't see time with the base defense unless an injury occurs, but he does contribute quite a bit on special teams.
79. TE Billy Bajema -- Ravens
He is a dependable veteran who can contribute in blocking and short yardage situations, especially with two young, pass-catching TEs, Pitta and Dickson, ahead of him on the depth chart.
80. NT Ian Williams -- 49ers
A short, wide body in his second season, Williams shows promise as San Francisco's backup nose tackle. But in today's pass-heavy NFL with so many sub package defenses, backup nose tackles rarely see the field.
81. LB Clark Haggans -- 49ers
Haggans isn't nearly the player he once was for the Steelers or even later in his career in Arizona, but he is a true 3-4 outside linebacker and that experience in the scheme gives him value as a backup to Aldon Smith and Brooks.
82. RB Anthony Allen -- Ravens
His snaps have been limited in his first two years, but he does run hard and with a little power.
83. LS Morgan Cox -- Ravens
He has enough size to hold up versus the rush and his mechanics and accuracy are solid on his snaps, along with his velocity. The coaches like his consistency.
84. LB Josh Bynes -- Ravens
He was promoted from the practice squad to the active roster in mid-season, but he is only a depth backup and special teams guy with decent inside strength and short area power. He doesn't have a lot of range or edge speed.
85. LB Tavares Gooden -- 49ers
Gooden is a backup inside linebacker who could see some action if Willis or Bowman were to go down. But in the meantime, Gooden is a core member of San Francisco's special teams.
86. S C.J. Spillman -- 49ers
A backup safety on the depth chart, Spillman really shines on special teams. It is easy to overlook how valuable core special teams guys like Spillman really are, but against the excellent Ravens' special teams, Spillman's role will be crucial.
87. G Joe Looney -- 49ers
Like pretty much all of San Francisco's rookie class, Looney has not been called upon to perform this year. The 49ers offensive line has been very healthy all season, but Looney still remains a promising interior prospect.
88. CB Chris Johnson -- Ravens
He is a veteran player that gives the Ravens some experience, but he can be a liability in man-to-man coverage.
89. CB Asa Jackson -- Ravens
He was reinstated early in the playoffs after serving a four-game suspension for a performance-enhancing substance, but his only role right now for the Ravens is on special teams.
90. S James Ihedigbo -- Ravens
He is a veteran player who was released by the Patriots and signed by the Ravens early in the season. He has good special teams experience and a solid run-support background, but his cover skills are not his strength.
91. WR Chad Hall -- 49ers
Hall is an interesting player in that he is almost equal parts wide receiver, running back and returner. He has some similarities to Danny Woodhead in New England but isn't as strong of a runner, nor is he as dynamic overall. Don't be surprised if Jim Harbaugh has a trick up his sleeve involving Hall on Super Bowl Sunday.
BOTTOM-OF-THE-ROSTER PLAYERS
92. QB Scott Tolzien -- 49ers
Still quite young, Tolzien could develop into the 49ers' No. 2 quarterback a development that could happen sooner rather than later with Smith likely leaving town this offseason.
93. DT Bryan Hall -- Ravens
He has had virtually no positional playing time so far in his young career. He has size and some power and decent inside run-defense skills, but his pass rush production and range are not strengths yet.
94. CB Tramaine Brock -- 49ers
Brock appeared in all 16 regular-season games this year, but because the 49ers have been quite healthy at cornerback, his contributions have been mostly on special teams.
95. LB Michael Wilhoite -- 49ers
Wilhoite shows promise and could have a bright future in this league. But for now, we just don't have much to go on. He is obviously in a rough spot on San Francisco's depth chart and will have to make a name for himself on special teams in the meantime.
96. S Darcel McBath -- 49ers
McBath played very little in 2012 and did little of note outside of his special-teams contributions.
97. WR Deonte Thompson -- Ravens
He had virtually no playing time at WR as a rookie and most of his production is on cover teams and also as a kickoff returner. He has some straight-line speed and he is young, so there is a little bit of an upside.
98. S Trenton Robinson -- 49ers
Robinson is strictly a special-teams player at this point and unlikely to be anything else in the immediate future.
99. G Ramon Harewood -- Ravens
If he can ever stay healthy and avoid IR he can develop into a good player at guard or tackle. He has great size and a long wingspan, and if he can get his hands on the defender he is effective, but his athletic ability in space is a work in progress.
100. LB Cam Johnson -- 49ers
Johnson is an interesting player whom San Francisco nabbed late in the draft. He is a bit of a project but has the skill set to develop into a quality third outside linebacker for the 49ers' 3-4 scheme. For now, he is mostly an afterthought.
101. WR David Reed -- Ravens
He has ACL problems in his past and durability has been a concern and so far most of his production comes on special teams. All of his skills are adequate -- though not exciting -- but he needs to stay healthy.
102. RB Jewel Hampton -- 49ers
Hampton is buried at a deep position and certainly won't benefit going forward when Hunter returns from injury.
103. DE Tony Jerod-Eddie -- 49ers
Jerrod-Eddie is the Niners' fourth defensive end. He probably won't see the field unless Smith's triceps injury flares up. San Francisco hopes that won't be the case.
104. DE DeAngelo Tyson -- Ravens
As a 2012 rookie he is still raw with a decent upside. Right now he is at his best as an interior run defender. His range and pass-rush skills are limited, but there could be improvement over time.
105. S Omar Brown -- Ravens
He is a practice squad guy who has become a regular roster guy. He adds depth to the backend of this secondary but his main role, if any, is on special teams. He has developmental skills with decent size and athletic ability.
106. LB Adrian Hamilton -- Ravens
Because of LB injuries he was promoted from the practice squad to the regular roster, but most of his production is on special teams. He has good size and some explosiveness and he is young and developmental as an edge rusher.
Justin Smith is comes in at No. 1; where do Flacco and Kaepernick stand?
By Matt Williamson and Gary Horton | ESPN Insider
you were to pool the rosters for the biggest NFL game of the year, who would you take No. 1?
As the momentum continues to build for Super Bowl Sunday, ESPN Insider's Matt Williamson and Gary Horton recently ranked all 106 roster players for the San Francisco 49ers and Baltimore Ravens. While it's not easy to split hairs evaluating special teamers, there was a strict method to their approach:
1.) How good is this player right now?
2.) What is their value to their team come Super Bowl Sunday?
Positional value absolutely plays a role. Special teamers aren't exactly going to pop up early on these rankings -- though we all know even relatively anonymous players can make a big difference in a Super Bowl. Still, no matter how great a place kicker is, he's never going to top a quarterback.
But speaking of quarterbacks, the two QBs -- Joe Flacco and Colin Kaepernick -- presented an interesting twist compared to last season's rankings, where Tom Brady and Eli Manning were the clear leaders of their teams. But where do you slot a signal caller who has never fit the definition of "elite" and a first-year starter in his first postseason?
While both are blue-chippers -- one of several categories we used to classify players in this exercise -- neither is the most important player in this game. That honor goes to San Francisco's often underrated Justin Smith.
ELITE PLAYERS
1. DT Justin Smith -- 49ers
Smith just might be the most important player in the Super Bowl. He missed time this year with a triceps injury, but his time off showed even further just how great of an overall player he is. No player in this game should benefit from the extra week's rest as much as Smith.
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2. LB Patrick Willis -- 49ers
Everyone will be talking about Ray Lewis leading up to this game, and rightfully so. But Willis is putting together a Hall of Fame-type career himself as the league's top second-level defender over the past several seasons. He is one of the few players in the league who just doesn't have a noticeable weakness to his game.
3. LB Aldon Smith -- 49ers
His sack numbers fell off dramatically when Justin Smith was out of the lineup, but few rush the passer off the edge like Aldon Smith. He is quick off the snap and eats up a lot of grass with his long strides. He also is a great leverage player who can play a power brand of football. He has been a phenom during his two NFL seasons.
4. LB NaVorro Bowman -- 49ers
An argument can be made that Bowman deserves to be even higher on this list than his fantastic partner in crime, Patrick Willis. Clearly, they make up the best pair of second-level defenders in football. A true every-down linebacker, Bowman has rare range, but also doesn't lack for power or physicality. As he demonstrated once again in the NFC Championship, Bowman is superb.
5. LB Terrell Suggs -- Ravens
His Achilles tendon injury "robbed' him of a highly productive 2012 season, but his ability to get back on the field so quickly is a tribute to his toughness and attitude. He is an excellent pass rusher with edge quickness, counter-moves, and an underrated bull rush and power move. He understands blocking angles and has a great motor. Suggs is also good at taking off blocks at the point of attack.
6. RG Marshal Yanda -- Ravens
He is an elite player in every area. He has strength and power at the point of attack and he can play a physical game. With that said, he's even better in space. Yanda is terrific on pulls and traps and gets to the second level. He is rarely out of position and he has great body control. Effort and instincts are also off the charts. No weaknesses.
BLUE CHIPS
7. QB Joe Flacco -- Ravens
He has had a good 2012 regular season and a spectacular post-season. Everything starts with one of the strongest arms in the NFL, which fits perfectly with the deep ball philosophy of this offense. He is mostly a pocket QB and not much of a threat to run, although he has sneaky pocket awareness. He still has periods of inconsistency and his progression reads are not always perfect, but there is not a throw that he can't make and now he has a lot of passing weapons and he is playing with great confidence.
8. RB Ray Rice -- Ravens
He remains one of the most versatile backs in the NFL. Though he's not a big guy, he has a low center of gravity and he runs with surprising power. His change of direction and ability to break a run outside is terrific and his instincts and willingness to let his blocks form shows his patience. He plays faster than his speed indicates and is able to make yards after contact. Rice's underrated outlet receiving skills are all positives and he finishes every play.
9. LT Joe Staley -- 49ers
Staley entered the league as more of a finesse left tackle, but he has really evolved as an elite run blocker for his position. This makes him perfect for the 49ers. One of three first-round picks on San Francisco's offensive line, Staley is now in his prime at 28-years-old.
10. DT Haloti Ngata -- Ravens
While his 2012 season has not been his best -- he's had fewer explosive plays than in the past -- he can dominate as an inside penetrator and is also an underrated interior pass rusher. He can flash with short area range and chase and he seems to recognize blocking schemes well. When he wants to, he can dominate any offensive lineman.
11. RB Frank Gore -- 49ers
Just a great player. He started the season very strong, then gradually slipped as the season progressed, often giving way to Kendall Hunter. Although Gore had some growing pains with the pistol transformation, he once again stepped up for his team when it needed him most.
12. WR Michael Crabtree -- 49ers
An underachiever for the beginning stages of his career, Crabtree has come on like gangbusters with Colin Kaepernick behind center. Clearly the quarterback's top target, Crabtree has some downfield ability, but his forte is making contested catches with his strong, but soft, hands and using some of the best run-after-catch ability in the league.
13. G Mike Iupati -- 49ers
A raw and unpolished mauler coming out of college, Iupati has stepped his game up a great deal this season. It could be argued that he is now the best left guard in football, especially in the run game. Iupati, however, is coming off a rough outing versus Atlanta.
14. TE Vernon Davis -- 49ers
Although his role in this passing game decreased significantly when Kaepernick became the starting quarterback, Davis tortured the Falcons in the NFC title game and is a major reason why the Niners are playing for the Lombardi Trophy. Kaepernick should continue to look Davis' way, as he is among the most talented tight ends in the league today. He also has favorable matchups against Baltimore's linebackers and safeties.
15. QB Colin Kaepernick -- 49ers
Kaepernick was the hardest player to rank on this list. Of course, he is a work in progress and has much to learn as an NFL quarterback, but he is already a difference-maker at the most important position on the field. A star-in-the-making, Kaepernick's 10th NFL start with be in the Super Bowl.
16. WR Torrey Smith -- Ravens
He has become an explosive vertical weapon for a deep passing game that loves to attack the seams. Smith has an excellent burst off the line of scrimmage (LOS) with an extra gear, tracks the ball very well, and has rare after-the-catch ability. His short-to-intermediate route running and hands have improved from a year ago, but he'll only get better.
17. S Ed Reed -- Ravens
He is the best centerfield safety in the NFL and while he doesn't make as many explosive plays as in the past, his instincts and ball skills are still off the charts and that gets him to a lot of balls that you wouldn't expect. His tackling is solid and while he will gamble and take some chances, he is tough to foil and that is why every quarterback he faces must find him before the snap.
CORE PLAYERS
18. LB Paul Kruger -- Ravens
He developed into the edge pass rusher opposite Terrell Suggs that this defense sorely needed in 2012 with terrific sack production. In the past he has been a blue collar back-up, but his relentless effort and ability to finish is a big part of his success. He plays with leverage, he has excellent first step quickness, and he really adjusts his angles to the QB well. He is the epitome of an overachiever, who makes more plays them as his athletic ability indicates.
19. LB Ahmad Brooks -- 49ers
Maybe the most overlooked member of San Francisco's defense, Brooks is an excellent player in his own right. Early in his career, he bounced between different linebacker spots, however he has truly found a home on the outside in this 3-4 scheme. Brooks should give Baltimore's Michael Oher all he can handle on Super Bowl Sunday.
20. WR Anquan Boldin -- Ravens
He is the ultimate blue collar possession receiver who does all the "dirty work" in this intermediate passing game. He may have the strongest hands in the NFL and he can snatch the ball away from his body in traffic or in space, but he goes deeper more than you would think. He is also terrific at turning a short catch into a long run and he really elevates on the high ball.
21. DE Ray McDonald -- 49ers
On a great defense, it can be easy to overlook a high-quality player or two. That is often the case with McDonald, who brings it week after week and is a very stabilizing force to this entire squad. He is a decent pass-rusher but does his best work against the run. He's a heck of a player.
22. P Andy Lee -- 49ers
Lee has been terrific since entering the NFL. He has a big leg, is a very good athlete and has excellent control of his punts. But maybe most importantly, Lee is extremely consistent and reliable. He might be the best punter in the game today.
23. FB Vontae Leach -- Ravens
He is the best lead blocking fullback in the NFL and Rice really trusts him through the hole-- he blocks with leverage and power, his base is excellent, and he is a finisher. Not a gifted rusher, but a little underrated as an outlet receiver. In the end, he's here to block for Rice.
24. T Anthony Davis -- 49ers
A former first-round pick, Davis came to the NFL at an extremely young age. Though he had some growing pains, he stepped it up in a big way this season. He has fantastic size and loads of ability. Already one of the better right tackles in the league, the best might be yet to come for Davis.
25. S Dashon Goldson -- 49ers
The 49ers' used the franchise tag on Goldson after the 2011 season to ensure he would be a part of their great defense this season. Keeping him going forward might be a problem, but in the meantime, he handles the deep half in coverage well and attacks the run as a downhill safety. This is exactly what they ask of him.
26. CB Carlos Rogers -- 49ers
Rogers had a better season in 2011 than he did in 2012, but he is still a quality starting cornerback. Despite his interception numbers as a 49er, Rogers' lacks great hands or ball skills, but he is adept on the outside and is excellent operating out of the slot with his physical style.
27. S Donte Whitner -- 49ers
Before coming to San Francisco, Whitner was more of an in-the-box safety. But he now roams the deep half of the field while displaying great speed to fill in the run game. Whitner is also a thumper without sacrificing reliability as a tackler on the back end of the defense.
28. C Jonathan Goodwin -- 49ers
He is rarely talked about as one of the top centers in the game, but Goodwin is a stabilizing force on the best run-blocking line in football. He is a perfect fit with this team and deserves more accolades than he generally receives.
29. G Alex Boone -- 49ers
For most of his career, Boone was a very mediocre offensive tackle, but he switched to guard and has been a perfect fit in San Francisco's mauling offensive line, especially as a run blocker. Right guard was a problem spot for the Niners last season -- no more.
30. TE Dennis Pitta -- Ravens
He has become a favorite target of Flacco and they have really developed good chemistry. His best attribute is great hands and he snatches everything in sight. He has good, but not elite, deep speed&but he is smart and versatile and he can line up anywhere on the field. He's a unique matchup player in the passing game with surprising toughness after the catch and an excellent feel for all phases of the passing game.
31. C Matt Birk -- Ravens
He may be at the end of his career, but he is still a dependable player who gets by on intelligence and instincts more than physical skills. He can make adjustments and is a reliable position point of attack.
32. LB Ray Lewis -- Ravens
After missing a lot of time with his injury, he has played surprisingly well in the playoffs, especially versus the run. His instincts are still top notch, he steps up and fills well, and is a wrap up tackler. However his range and speed are in decline. He can see a lot of plays, but he just can't get to them and he is a liability in pass coverage at this stage of his career. However, there is nothing that he hasn't seen and his intensity, toughness, and leadership still make him a viable player -- even here at the end.
33. LB Dannell Ellerbe -- Ravens
Although Ray Lewis gets most of the headlines, he is quietly a very good all-around player. He has size and good strength and plays with leverage. He's a good wrap up tackler and can get off blocks and get over the trash. He is adequate in pass coverage and flashes as an inside blitzer and has a knack for finding the ball. Ellerbe's motor is excellent.
34. CB Chris Culliver -- 49ers
The 49ers' nickel defender, Culliver plays one of the outside cornerback spots with Carlos Rogers. He moves to the slot when San Francisco employs five defensive backs. A real up-and-comer who makes a ton of plays, Culliver would start for most teams.
35. LG Kelechi Osemele -- Ravens
He was thrown into the mix early as a rookie at ROT, but his mid-season move to LOG seems to fit him a lot better and he has really settled in. He has great size, good athletic ability, and good pass pro skills. Osemele has improved his run blocking and if he stays focused, his upside is really good because he has an aggressive mentality.
36. RB Bernard Pierce -- Ravens
He has quietly become a productive rookie ball carrier and he has been a nice change of pace for Ray Rice. His skills don't dazzle you, but he runs hard and has a good feel for blocks and run lanes. While he doesn't have great speed, he does not waste a lot of motion and he has a natural feel for the position.
37. NT Isaac Sopoaga -- 49ers
A true 3-4 nose tackle, Sopoaga does the dirty work with his sheer size and power to allow Willis and Bowman to shine. He doesn't offer much as a pass-rusher and comes off the field when San Francisco goes to its nickel package, but the Ravens don't employ a lot of three-wide receiver sets. We should see plenty of Sopoaga in the Super Bowl.
38. LT Bryant McKinnie -- Ravens
He started the season as a backup player, but when the coaches re-shuffled this offensive line in mid-season he moved into left tackle and he has played surprisingly well. He has a massive body with lock on qualities and he is a tough guy to get around, but he does not bend well and he can be beaten by double moves in space. If he can grab you, it is over. But he has short area limitations.
39. RT Michael Oher -- Ravens
He is much more suited to play ROT after being moved from LOT. He is strong at the point of attack and will battle against power. Oher is at his best when he can lock on, but he is not a great space player and when he is isolated on an island vs. a speed rusher he can struggle. However he works to finish and has improving short area skills.
40. S Bernard Pollard -- Ravens
He is the ultimate "enforcer" in this secondary and he gives this defense a real physical presence on the backend. He has excellent instincts, he takes good angles to the ball, and he is an explosive tackler. Pollard is better in run support than pass defense, but he is decent in coverage because he reads routes well, and gets a jump on the ball.
41. QB Alex Smith -- 49ers
A true game-managing quarterback who was very effective for Harbaugh and company as the starter, Smith lost his starting job to Kaepernick late in the season. Now the best backup quarterback in the NFL, Smith could get a shot at starting somewhere in 2013.
42. TE Delanie Walker -- 49ers
Walker runs very well for a tight end and is an excellent athlete, but he is stuck behind Davis on the depth chart. Still, the coaching staff understands Walker is capable of creating mismatches in San Francisco's favor against linebackers, and in turn, gets him on the field plenty. Like Davis, he could see matchups in his favor against the Ravens.
43. K Justin Tucker -- Ravens
He may be a rookie, but he has played like a seasoned veteran. His accuracy and production has been startling and his poise and self-confidence is rare for a young guy. He prepares well, his mechanics are really sound and he seems to love the big stage.
44. CB Tarell Brown -- 49ers
Brown has logged a ton of snaps this year as San Francisco's starting cornerback. Although aggressive throughout the route and not a bashful tackler, Brown does his best work in man-to-man coverage. He is underappreciated by most fans who don't watch the Niners on a regular basis.
45. CB Corey Graham -- Ravens
Until this year, he has been mostly a special teams performer. He does not have a perfect skill set for this man-to-man cover secondary, but he makes up for it with good instincts, quick reactions and good ball skills. He is probably not at his best as a turn-and-run man corner, but he is feisty and physical.
46. NT Ricky Jean Francois -- 49ers
No one will mistake Jean Francois with Justin Smith, but he did fill in well as a run-stuffer while Smith was out with injury. Jean Francois offers very little as a pass-rusher, but he is a quality third 3-4 defensive end who could start on several defenses around the NFL.
SOLID CONTRIBUTORS
47. WR Jacoby Jones -- Ravens
He is a big receiver with an unusual skill set. He's an electrifying return specialist -- both punt returns and kickoff returns -- and yet he looks a little bit like a straight line guy with good speed and burst, but not jaw-dropping. As a receiver he is showing some vertical ability and production. While his route running skills and hands are not elite, they are good enough. This guy plays better than you expect him to.
48. LB Courtney Upshaw -- Ravens
His stats are not off the charts in 2012, but he is showing some potential as an edge pass rusher. However he is not there yet. He is a physical guy with strength and leverage and probably better vs. the run at this stage. He is not natural in pass coverage, but luckily that's something that he is not asked to do much in this defense. He has a lot of upside, but you get the feeling that he did not make the impact that was expected of him as a rookie.
49. P Sam Koch -- Ravens
He is a dependable veteran with a big leg and the power to handle all weather conditions. His mechanics are good, along with hang time and distance, and he handles pressure well and his consistency is a real positive.
50. TE Ed Dickson -- Ravens
Dickson does not have Pitta's production and chemistry with Flacco, but he is a terrific athlete and one of the reasons that we see more two tight end sets from the Ravens. He is an adequate position/wall off-blocker, but his best use is as a receiving tight end. Athletically, he is everything that they want, especially if his hands become more consistent and he is an excellent matchup receiver.
51. RB LaMichael James -- 49ers
Many eyebrows raised when the Niners selected James in the 2012 draft -- and then James saw very little action for most of the year. But when Hunter went down, James' role grew. And it became apparent what the 49ers saw in him: big-play ability. He has very fresh legs at this late stage of the season and complements Gore and Kaepernick very well.
52. WR Randy Moss -- 49ers
This future Hall of Famer isn't close to being the difference-maker or highlight-reel player he was a few years back, but Moss still has very good ball skills and can get downfield. Underestimating him would be a mistake, especially with Kaepernick behind center.
53. DE Arthur Jones -- Ravens
He seems to be a solid fixture in their defensive end rotation. He has power and can hold his own at the point of attack, but he lacks great range and explosive pass rush skills. With that said, he works to finish and he is a little more productive as an inside penetrator than you might think.
54. DE Pernell McPhee -- Ravens
An improving young player , McPhee flashes with some quickness and pass-rush skills. His effort is excellent and he has developed a knack for getting his hands up and deflecting passes. As a run defender he is raw and he needs to play with better leverage.
55. LB Albert McClellan -- Ravens
Most of his production is on special teams and he has an intriguing skill set He has size and strength and underrated AA and his pass defense has improved and his high motor gives him a nice upside as a guy with some versatility.
56. FB Bruce Miller -- 49ers
Miller has decent hands, but his role is not to carry the football. He is a power blocker who the 49ers send at the opponent in many different ways. Rarely does Miller just line up as the lead back in an I-formation and block downhill, but he can do that -- and pretty much anything asked of him concerning blocking.
57. LG Bobbie Williams -- Ravens
He is a veteran near the end of his career, and while his athletic skills may be in decline he is still a massive guard with starting experience in this league. If he can lock on a defender he can be effective in a short area, but in space he is in trouble.
58. NT Terrence Cody -- Ravens
Cody is the inside two-gap run stopper that the Ravens need in their defense. He is strictly a short area guy with limited range to the edges and his pass-rush skills are limited. He's only a two-down run player.
59. NT Ma'ake Kemoeatu -- Ravens
An aging veteran player, Kemoeatu has struggled to stay healthy over his career, but he has great size and is a nice fit as a 3-4 two-gap run stuffer. He doesn't have a lot of range or provide much of a pass-rush threat, but he adds depth and can clog the middle.
60. CB Jimmy Smith -- Ravens
He has all the skills necessary to be an elite man corner in this league, but those skills haven't yet transferred to the field. He can jump routes, shows a physical style of play, run with most receivers and play outside or over the slot -- so what is missing?
61. QB Tyrod Taylor -- Ravens
He doesn't get much playing time, but Taylor has Wildcat/option-type skills, can scramble out of trouble and has underrated arm strength.
62. WR A.J. Jenkins -- 49ers
No team in the league might have gotten less out of its rookie class than the 49ers and that starts with their first-round pick, Jenkins. But it is far too early to label him a bust. Jenkins is a very smooth route runner with excellent deep speed, which is ideal for Kaepernick's big arm. He could be the ideal complement starting opposite Crabtree in 2013.
63. WR Tandon Doss -- Ravens
He has missed time in his young career with a sports hernia issue. He has good size and his best asset may be his quickness, which suits him well in the slot. He also has excellent hands and seems to have a feel for finding a hole in the defense.
64. WR Ted Ginn Jr. -- 49ers
A speedster with a great track background, Ginn never contributed significantly as a wide receiver. He isn't very physical and is a straight-line athlete, but Ginn is a very dangerous return man, while also seeing snaps on offense when the 49ers bring in extra wideouts.
65. G Leonard Davis -- 49ers
The mammoth Davis entered the league as a high draft pick, but he never lived up to that billing. Instead, he has moved inside to guard, where his heavy feet are not so exposed. Now, he sees a fair amount of playing time as the 49ers' sixth offensive lineman, a formation they utilize quite a bit.
66. CB Perrish Cox -- 49ers
Cox is the sixth defensive back in the 49ers' rarely used dime package. Unless an injury besets San Francisco's top three corners, Cox's role in the Super Bowl will most likely just be on special teams -- an area in which he excels.
67. G Daniel Kilgore -- 49ers
The 49ers' offensive line has stayed quite healthy this season, so Kilgore hasn't been called on to play a prominent role. But he does see the field when San Francisco utilizes extra-heavy offensive personnel.
68. CB Cary Williams -- Ravens
An improving player with good size and length, Williams' motor and instincts are really good. He has good man-to-man and zone cover skills, can turn and run with receivers and has a knack for breaking on the ball when it is in the air.
69. LS Brian Jennings -- 49ers
An unknown, like most long-snappers, Jennings is exceptional at what he does. An instrumental player who never gets talked about, Jennings is among the best in the league.
70. CB Chykie Brown -- Ravens
Brown has good, pure speed and some turn-and-run cover skills, but he is still raw and his mechanics can get sloppy. He athletic ability and explosiveness give him a little bit of an upside as a cover guy.
SECOND-TIER PLAYERS, BACKUPS AND SPECIAL-TEAMERS
71. C Gino Gradkowski -- Ravens
He can play both guard and center and is a candidate to replace Birk when he retires. He is not yet a power player, but his tenacity serves him well and his upside is intriguing. He is a future starter.
72. S Sean Considine -- Ravens
A veteran backup safety and special teams performer at this stage of his career, Considine is a decent zone cover guy, but his man-to-man skills are not impressive. He gets by on instincts and decent ball skills.
73. DT Will Tukuafu -- 49ers
A defensive tackle by trade -- and by his girth -- Tukuafu has made a name for himself as a power fullback in San Francisco's short-yardage packages. He probably is what he is as a defensive lineman at this point of his career, but the 49ers have figured out a way for him to contribute on game day.
74. LB Brendon Ayanbadejo -- Ravens
He has stayed in this league because of his special teams production, but he also has underrated cover skills and better speed and range than you might think.
75. K David Akers -- 49ers
After a great 2011 season, Akers is struggling in a big way. Hopefully for the 49ers' sake, their place-kicker doesn't cost them a Super Bowl. It is certainly a possibility in what projects as a tight game.
76. TE Garrett Celek -- 49ers
Celek is a quality third tight end with good size and some receiving ability. He also is a valued member of San Francisco's special teams and has made some big plays for this offense.
77. RB Anthony Dixon -- 49ers
In his third season, Dixon is pretty much what he is at this point. His help on special teams is appreciated, but as a running back, he is a pounder with limited big-play or receiving ability.
78. LB Larry Grant -- 49ers
Grant and Gooden make up a solid pair of backups for Willis and Bowman at inside linebacker. Grant won't see time with the base defense unless an injury occurs, but he does contribute quite a bit on special teams.
79. TE Billy Bajema -- Ravens
He is a dependable veteran who can contribute in blocking and short yardage situations, especially with two young, pass-catching TEs, Pitta and Dickson, ahead of him on the depth chart.
80. NT Ian Williams -- 49ers
A short, wide body in his second season, Williams shows promise as San Francisco's backup nose tackle. But in today's pass-heavy NFL with so many sub package defenses, backup nose tackles rarely see the field.
81. LB Clark Haggans -- 49ers
Haggans isn't nearly the player he once was for the Steelers or even later in his career in Arizona, but he is a true 3-4 outside linebacker and that experience in the scheme gives him value as a backup to Aldon Smith and Brooks.
82. RB Anthony Allen -- Ravens
His snaps have been limited in his first two years, but he does run hard and with a little power.
83. LS Morgan Cox -- Ravens
He has enough size to hold up versus the rush and his mechanics and accuracy are solid on his snaps, along with his velocity. The coaches like his consistency.
84. LB Josh Bynes -- Ravens
He was promoted from the practice squad to the active roster in mid-season, but he is only a depth backup and special teams guy with decent inside strength and short area power. He doesn't have a lot of range or edge speed.
85. LB Tavares Gooden -- 49ers
Gooden is a backup inside linebacker who could see some action if Willis or Bowman were to go down. But in the meantime, Gooden is a core member of San Francisco's special teams.
86. S C.J. Spillman -- 49ers
A backup safety on the depth chart, Spillman really shines on special teams. It is easy to overlook how valuable core special teams guys like Spillman really are, but against the excellent Ravens' special teams, Spillman's role will be crucial.
87. G Joe Looney -- 49ers
Like pretty much all of San Francisco's rookie class, Looney has not been called upon to perform this year. The 49ers offensive line has been very healthy all season, but Looney still remains a promising interior prospect.
88. CB Chris Johnson -- Ravens
He is a veteran player that gives the Ravens some experience, but he can be a liability in man-to-man coverage.
89. CB Asa Jackson -- Ravens
He was reinstated early in the playoffs after serving a four-game suspension for a performance-enhancing substance, but his only role right now for the Ravens is on special teams.
90. S James Ihedigbo -- Ravens
He is a veteran player who was released by the Patriots and signed by the Ravens early in the season. He has good special teams experience and a solid run-support background, but his cover skills are not his strength.
91. WR Chad Hall -- 49ers
Hall is an interesting player in that he is almost equal parts wide receiver, running back and returner. He has some similarities to Danny Woodhead in New England but isn't as strong of a runner, nor is he as dynamic overall. Don't be surprised if Jim Harbaugh has a trick up his sleeve involving Hall on Super Bowl Sunday.
BOTTOM-OF-THE-ROSTER PLAYERS
92. QB Scott Tolzien -- 49ers
Still quite young, Tolzien could develop into the 49ers' No. 2 quarterback a development that could happen sooner rather than later with Smith likely leaving town this offseason.
93. DT Bryan Hall -- Ravens
He has had virtually no positional playing time so far in his young career. He has size and some power and decent inside run-defense skills, but his pass rush production and range are not strengths yet.
94. CB Tramaine Brock -- 49ers
Brock appeared in all 16 regular-season games this year, but because the 49ers have been quite healthy at cornerback, his contributions have been mostly on special teams.
95. LB Michael Wilhoite -- 49ers
Wilhoite shows promise and could have a bright future in this league. But for now, we just don't have much to go on. He is obviously in a rough spot on San Francisco's depth chart and will have to make a name for himself on special teams in the meantime.
96. S Darcel McBath -- 49ers
McBath played very little in 2012 and did little of note outside of his special-teams contributions.
97. WR Deonte Thompson -- Ravens
He had virtually no playing time at WR as a rookie and most of his production is on cover teams and also as a kickoff returner. He has some straight-line speed and he is young, so there is a little bit of an upside.
98. S Trenton Robinson -- 49ers
Robinson is strictly a special-teams player at this point and unlikely to be anything else in the immediate future.
99. G Ramon Harewood -- Ravens
If he can ever stay healthy and avoid IR he can develop into a good player at guard or tackle. He has great size and a long wingspan, and if he can get his hands on the defender he is effective, but his athletic ability in space is a work in progress.
100. LB Cam Johnson -- 49ers
Johnson is an interesting player whom San Francisco nabbed late in the draft. He is a bit of a project but has the skill set to develop into a quality third outside linebacker for the 49ers' 3-4 scheme. For now, he is mostly an afterthought.
101. WR David Reed -- Ravens
He has ACL problems in his past and durability has been a concern and so far most of his production comes on special teams. All of his skills are adequate -- though not exciting -- but he needs to stay healthy.
102. RB Jewel Hampton -- 49ers
Hampton is buried at a deep position and certainly won't benefit going forward when Hunter returns from injury.
103. DE Tony Jerod-Eddie -- 49ers
Jerrod-Eddie is the Niners' fourth defensive end. He probably won't see the field unless Smith's triceps injury flares up. San Francisco hopes that won't be the case.
104. DE DeAngelo Tyson -- Ravens
As a 2012 rookie he is still raw with a decent upside. Right now he is at his best as an interior run defender. His range and pass-rush skills are limited, but there could be improvement over time.
105. S Omar Brown -- Ravens
He is a practice squad guy who has become a regular roster guy. He adds depth to the backend of this secondary but his main role, if any, is on special teams. He has developmental skills with decent size and athletic ability.
106. LB Adrian Hamilton -- Ravens
Because of LB injuries he was promoted from the practice squad to the regular roster, but most of his production is on special teams. He has good size and some explosiveness and he is young and developmental as an edge rusher.
