The phrase "tier players" refers to individuals who are considered to be at a higher skill level or ranking in a particular activity or game. Full definition
The game has lost many top tier players because of this particular game mechanic. (nerdgoblin.com)
We have 11 top players but persist with 17 second tier players. (justarsenal.com)
I'm still amazed that so many top - tier players actually attend the combine and work out when, as we said before, so much of the evaluation is already complete. (si.com)