Ranking the 25 best NWSL players of 2026 (so far)

Our analysis tracked multiple performance indicators from the 2026 season's first 12 weeks, including goals, assists, expected goals (xG), defensive actions, passing accuracy under pressure, and overall team impact. We weighted recent form heavily while considering injury recovery timelines and international duty scheduling that affects availability.

The rankings blend traditional statistics with advanced metrics like progressive passes, defensive duels won, and shot-stopping efficiency. Players who've maintained excellence across multiple competitions — NWSL regular season, Champions Cup, and international windows — earned premium consideration.

1. Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit)

Rodman's evolution into the league's most dynamic attacking threat has been remarkable. Her pace, directness, and clinical finishing have produced 11 goals and 7 assists in 13 appearances. The USWNT star's ability to create chances from wide positions while maintaining defensive work rate makes her invaluable.

Key stat: Rodman leads the league with 2.3 progressive runs per 90 minutes, consistently breaking defensive lines.

2. Sophia Smith (Portland Thorns FC)

Smith's consistency remains unmatched among NWSL forwards. Despite facing persistent double-teams, she's contributed 9 goals and 8 assists while maintaining her reputation as one of the league's most complete players. Her movement off the ball creates space for teammates even when not directly involved in scoring.

3. Catarina Macario (Chelsea FC - on loan to Portland)

The versatile midfielder/forward has seamlessly adapted to NWSL play during her loan spell. Macario's technical ability and tactical intelligence shine through 6 goals and 11 assists, with her set-piece delivery adding another dimension to Portland's attack.

4. Naomi Girma (San Diego Wave FC)

The USWNT center-back continues setting defensive standards. Girma's aerial dominance (87% aerial duel success rate) and ability to initiate attacks from deep positions make her irreplaceable. Her partnership with fellow defenders has helped San Diego maintain one of the league's best defensive records.

5. Rose Lavelle (OL Reign)

Lavelle's creativity from central midfield positions has been crucial to OL Reign's improved form. Her vision and through-ball accuracy create numerous scoring opportunities, while her pressing intensity sets the defensive tone in midfield.

6. Mallory Swanson (Chicago Red Stars)

When healthy, Swanson remains one of the league's most clinical finishers. Her 8 goals in 10 appearances demonstrate her efficiency, though injury concerns have limited her overall impact this season.

7. Sam Coffey (Portland Thorns FC)

The defensive midfielder's distribution and work rate anchor Portland's system. Coffey's ability to break up opposition attacks while maintaining possession under pressure makes her one of the league's most valuable defensive players.

8. Crystal Dunn (Portland Thorns FC)

Dunn's versatility across multiple positions provides tactical flexibility. Whether deployed as a fullback or winger, her pace and crossing ability create consistent attacking threats down the flanks.

9. Lindsey Horan (OL Reign)

The USWNT captain's leadership and box-to-box energy drive OL Reign's midfield. Her aerial ability on both ends of the pitch, combined with her passing range, makes her one of the league's most complete players.

10. Emily Sonnett (NJ/NY Gotham FC)

Sonnett's defensive consistency and distribution from the back line have been key to Gotham's solid campaign. Her ability to step into midfield when needed adds tactical variety to her team's approach.

11. Jaedyn Shaw (San Diego Wave FC)

The young forward's breakthrough season continues with impressive goal-scoring form. Shaw's movement in the box and finishing ability suggest she'll be a league standout for years to come.

12. Andi Sullivan (Washington Spirit)

Sullivan's defensive midfield play provides the platform for Washington's attacking players to flourish. Her interception rate and pass completion percentage rank among the league's best.

13. Ashley Sanchez (Washington Spirit)

The creative midfielder's vision and technical skills create numerous chances for teammates. Sanchez's ability to find space in congested areas makes her a constant threat.

14. Alyssa Thompson (Angel City FC)

Thompson's pace and directness on the wing have troubled defenses throughout the season. Her crossing accuracy and ability to beat defenders one-on-one make her a valuable attacking asset.

15. Bethany England (Tottenham - on loan to Washington Spirit)

The English striker's physical presence and finishing ability have added a new dimension to Washington's attack. Her hold-up play and clinical finishing in the box make her a consistent goal threat.

16. Lynn Williams (NJ/NY Gotham FC)

Williams' experience and work rate continue to benefit Gotham. Her pressing intensity and ability to create chances from wide positions maintain her status as a valuable squad player.

17. Kristie Mewis (NJ/NY Gotham FC)

The midfielder's passing range and set-piece delivery provide creative outlets for Gotham's attack. Her experience in big games adds valuable leadership to the squad.

18. Sofia Huerta (OL Reign)

Huerta's versatility across defensive and midfield positions provides tactical options. Her crossing ability and defensive work rate make her a consistent contributor.

19. Savannah DeMelo (Racing Louisville FC)

The midfielder's energy and pressing intensity help Louisville compete against stronger opponents. Her ability to win second balls and maintain possession under pressure adds value.

20. Carson Pickett (North Carolina Courage)

The left-back's attacking contributions and defensive solidity have been crucial to North Carolina's campaign. Her crossing ability and pace down the flank create attacking opportunities.

21. Kailen Sheridan (San Diego Wave FC)

The goalkeeper's shot-stopping ability and distribution have kept San Diego competitive in tight matches. Her command of the penalty area and communication with defenders organize the backline effectively.

22. Michelle Cooper (North Carolina Courage)

Cooper's pace and directness provide attacking width for North Carolina. Her ability to track back defensively while contributing in attack makes her a valuable two-way player.

23. Taylor Kornieck (San Diego Wave FC)

The versatile player's aerial ability and physical presence add options in both defensive and attacking situations. Her set-piece threat makes her dangerous in dead-ball situations.

24. Megan Rapinoe (OL Reign) - Limited appearances

When available, Rapinoe's experience and set-piece delivery still influence games. Her leadership and clutch performances in key moments maintain her value despite reduced playing time.

25. Ali Krieger (NJ/NY Gotham FC)

The veteran defender's experience and leadership continue to benefit younger players. Her positioning and communication help organize defensive structures, while her crossing ability adds attacking threat from fullback.

Several factors will influence how these rankings evolve through the season's remainder. International duty for World Cup qualifying will test squad depth, while the Olympics preparation period may limit availability for key players.

Injury recoveries could reshape the list — several players who would typically rank higher have dealt with fitness issues. The return of players like Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe to full fitness could significantly alter team dynamics and individual rankings.

Young players continuing their development trajectories may climb these rankings. The NWSL's competitive balance means consistent performance over flashy moments often determines true value to teams.

Individual award markets reflect these performance levels. MVP betting typically favors attacking players with strong statistical outputs, making Trinity Rodman and Sophia Smith the current frontrunners. Defensive Player of the Year markets should consider Naomi Girma's consistent excellence.

Rookie of the Year betting focuses on first-year professionals, with several players from this list competing for recognition. The award often goes to players who impact winning teams, making team success crucial for individual recognition.

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1. Track performance metrics beyond basic statistics — progressive passes, defensive actions, and team impact matter
2. Consider availability factors including international duty and injury history when evaluating players
3. Monitor team success correlation with individual performances for award betting markets
4. Watch roster changes and loan moves that could affect playing time and performance opportunities
5. Analyze position-specific impacts as different roles contribute value in varying ways