In a league where nearly 800 players appear in a given season, what separates the best from the rest?
Some stars shine because of a perfect fit in a specific tactical system. Others give their team a sense of identity at an elemental level, carving out moments of individual brilliance. There’s just as much value in rigid adherence to a style as in individual expression. As the USL Championship continues to improve with each passing season, it only gets harder to narrow this list down, but the second-tier’s true standouts – no matter their flavor – bring an unmistakable je ne sais quoi.
Raw skill matters, but it can’t be the only measuring stick. National team caps and accolades in other leagues are nice in isolation, but the goal is to name the 50 players that are making a week-to-week mark in the USL. Spreading the love is also a goal. Louisville City, for example, might have 12 players that deserve a nod in theory, but at some point it’s Danny Cruz’s management that’s doing the heavy lifting. Every team in this league has difference-makers that deserve attention, even if their club isn’t lighting up the table.
With all that said, let’s rank the USL Championship's top 50 players for 2025.
50. Gabi Torres, FB, El Paso Locomotive
You could argue that Gabi Torres doesn’t have a true position, but that makes his profile all the more unique. Splitting time between left back and the No. 8 spot in El Paso, Torres has become one of the USL’s premier transition players. He leads the league with 27 interceptions, and he’s fourth among fullbacks in terms of dribble attempts. Whether the Locomotive need an energetic stopper in the midfield or a progressive wide presence, they can dependably turn to Torres.
