Athletes nowadays become more popular with their fans with the help of the internet and social media. Just like the common people, sports icons are also breathing under the same rock. May it be TikTok, Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, they’re just like everyone else. Here are the top 10 most followed NFL players on Instagram in 2023.
10. Saquon BarkleyÂ
The New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley is arguably one of the best RBs in the NFL. In recent memory, Barkley has always been a top-ranked running back in the league. The 2-time NFL Pro Bowl footballer was drafted in 2018 and eventually became a star in the league. However, his career was met with multiple injuries, including his sprained ankle against the Arizona Cardinals earlier this season. Without him, the Giants have been struggling in the offensive end.
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Despite that, the 26-year-old star running back is already one of the most popular NFL players today. The 2018 Rookie of the Year has seen his fair share of success in the sport, except winning a Super Bowl.
Instagram followers: 2.6 million
9Â JuJu Smith-Schuster
JuJu Smith-Schuster, or simply JuJu, had just recently won the Super Bowl championship last year while he was playing alongside Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes in Kansas. But, during the offseason, JuJu left the Chiefs and signed a 3-year/$30 Million deal with the New England Patriots.
Being an interactive and approachable athlete made him one of the most followed NFL players. With more than 3.4 Million followers, it’s safe to say there are millions of fans who want to see his updates on and off the court.
Instagram followers: 3.4 million
8. Joe Burrow
It’s no surprise that the rising star quarterback Joe Burrow would be one of the most influential NFL players today. Burrow, 26, was drafted first overall by the Cincinnati Bengals back in 2020 and quickly put himself as one of the best QBs in the league.
Joe Burrow has seen his fair share of success during college and in the NFL. His talents and charismatic looks made him one of the most popular athletes in the United States in the past year.
Instagram followers: 3.9 million
7. Travis Kelce
After being linked to Taylor Swift, Kansas City Chiefs star tight end Travis Kelce‘s popularity skyrocketed. Along with that is the number of his Instagram followers.
In just a matter of days, Kelce’s followers grew into millions. Although he is already a superstar in his own right, being rumored to have an intimate relationship with one of the most influential artists of all time probably boosted his stardom. Do you think this is the Taylor Swift effect?
Instagram followers: 4 million
6. Cam Newton
More times than not, having millions of followers would mean you’re a well-liked personality. Unfortunately for former Carolina Panthers Cameron “Cam” Newton, his huge social media following says otherwise. Many a man and a woman say negative things about Newton on the internet. Some would say he is self-centered, arrogant, cocky, and dresses weird. While he wears outrageous outfits sometimes, Cam Newton’s teammates believe he is one of the nicest guys in the league.
The hate towards the 2015 NFL MVP is very uncalled for. But, being popular for the wrong reasons may have taken a toll on his career as he continues to struggle to find a team since 2021. The 2011 first-overall pick still has a lot left in him, so why is he not playing right now?
Instagram followers: 4.7 million
5. Russell Wilson
Aside from being known as one of the most elite quarterbacks and even one of the best during his prime, the 34-year-old veteran Russell Wilson continues to spread his greatness even off camera. Wilson is arguably one of the most beloved athletes today, not because of his impeccable skills, but because of his passion for the sport and his family.
Just like the NBA’s LeBron James, Wilson is also popular for being a philanthropist and loves to give back to the community every now and then. However, in the past year, he’s been met with multiple controversies including a locker-room drama with the Seattle Seahawks and allegedly spending the funds meant for his charity.
Instagram followers: 5.5 million
4. Patrick Mahomes
Wait, Patrick Mahomes is only 4th? Arguably the best quarterback in the NFL right now ranks as one of the most influential and most followed stars on Instagram. Well, it shouldn’t be surprising after winning two MVPs and two Super Bowls, am I right?
Pat Mahomes’ Instagram account boasts a staggering 5.9 Million followers. The 28-year-old star is already making a case as a future Hall-of-Famer and could even surpass the GOAT, Tom Brady. It does not come as a shock that the Kansas City Chiefs are the favorites to become champions again with how amazing Mahomes is playing this year.
Instagram followers: 5.9 million
3. Tom Brady
You know who it is! Dubbed by many as the greatest of all time, Tom Brady‘s name does not need any introduction anymore. Every American football fan knows Brady’s legendary seven (7) Super Bowl titles and his remarkable 23-season career.
Some would say that his divorce and un-retirement in 2022 took a toll on the number of his followers.
Instagram followers: 14.5 million
2. Antonio Brown
Former NFL star Antonio Brown only played 12 seasons in the NFL, but he made sure it was a career he wanted it to be. A Super Bowl, multiple All-Pro and Pro-Bowl selections, and many more honors, Brown definitely had a great run in the NFL. Before joining the league, Brown was considered to be a low pick. However, AB shocked everyone as he slowly became one of the most skilled wide receivers we have seen in the game.
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Unfortunately, just recently, Antonio Brown was arrested after allegedly failing to pay child support. It’s ironic that a multi-millionaire athlete, who probably is also paid millions by Instagram due to his huge fandom, isn’t paying a single dime to his kids. Well, that’s something.
Instagram followers: 16.1 million
1. Odell Beckham Jr.: NFL Players’ King of Instagram
Odell Beckham Jr. has never been the best wide receiver in the NFL throughout his career. So, why is OBJ so popular among football fans? With almost 18 million Instagram followers, the 30-year-old star has already surpassed Tom Brady’s popularity in the sport.
Beckham Jr. isn’t the best on the field, but his incredible catches, jaw-dropping touchdowns, and “flashy” style of play made him so famous. Not only that, but OBJ has also made a name for himself as an illustrious model and social media icon.
Instagram followers: 17.7 million
