3. Von Miller, OLB, Broncos
This is a no-brainer. Von Miller is the best pass rusher in the league, full stop. The Broncos’ outside linebacker proved his worth in the Super Bowl, notching 2.5 sacks, with one of them a strip on Cam Newton. Miller had a lackluster 2015 regular season (by his standards), but was an absolute force on the field in the playoffs. He has 60 sacks over his five-year career in Denver, and if the Broncos don’t pay him what he’s worth, he will likely sit out the 2016 season and leave the Broncos franchise.
Von Miller is worth every penny due to his stats, which don’t tell the whole story. Miller is routinely in the backfield, and creates interception and sack opportunities for others with his presence. He’s an integral part of that defense. By simply being on the field and demanding attention from the opposition’s pass protection, he makes every single player around him better.
Miller knows his worth, and will refuse to play unless he’s paid what he’s worth.
Next: 2. Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers