2013 – QB Peyton Manning
Manning performed on a different galactic plane to other quarterbacks in 2013, finishing with single-season records in passing yards (5,477) and touchdowns (55). He wasn’t as dominant in 2014, but still managed 4,727 yards and 39 passing touchdowns as he led the Denver Broncos to a 12-4 record. But worrying signs began to emerge down the stretch, suggesting that the great man’s arm strength was beginning to diminish.
The Broncos went one and done in the 2014 postseason. Although they and Manning went on to win the Super Bowl after the 2015 season, he wasn’t the same player that he had been and retired following their victory over the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50.