This is just one sentence

Even without "near", such statement by itself is not enough or convincing.

In the letter, he (you) need to define what's the normal for your peer generation, why you are different. Then the officer can draw conclusion whether you are top or near top.

So, my opinion is
1) if other supporting evidents are clear, don't worry about it.
2) if other supporting evidents are not clear, even your prof agree to drop the "near", it's not enough. Prepare how to respond a RFE.