NFL: Best 10 players 25 or younger

7 of 11

Oct 27, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) throws the ball away as he’s hit by Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller (58) during the second half at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos won 45-21. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Von Miller, LB, Denver Broncos

The Denver Broncos took Texas A&M’s Von Miller with the second overall pick in 2011 and have rarely regretted that choice.

Miller was the Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2011, bursting onto the scene with 11.5 sacks, 64 tackles and two forced fumbles on the way to a Pro Bowl berth.

He was even better in 2012, earning All-Pro honors and another Pro Bowl trip after posting a franchise-record 18.5 sacks to go with 68 tackles, an interception and six forced fumbles.

He was limited to nine games in 2013 because of disciplinary action and a knee injury, but had five sacks and 34 tackles along with three forced fumbles in a little more than half a season.

Miller’s 30 sacks in his first two seasons are tied with Hall of Famer Derrick Thomas for the third-most in a player’s first two seasons, behind Aldon Smith (33.5) and Hall of Famer Reggie White (31).

Home/NFL