NFL Network released another batch of 10 players on their countdown of the “Top 100 Players of 2016” and two more Broncos are on the list. In fact, DeMarcus Ware and Aqib Talib both find themselves inside the top 40 heading into the 2016 season.
Ware came in at No. 36, up 51 spots from last year, despite missing significant time due to injury. In 11 games (10 starts), Ware compiled 7.5 sacks, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery. He had 3.5 sacks in the playoffs en route to a Super Bowl victory.
But Ware’s place on the list isn’t just due to stats. His NFL peers put him among the greatest pass rushers to ever play the game. Give it a look…
"@DeMarcusWare man, arguably one of the best pass rushers of all-time"
– @52Mack_ #NFLTop100 https://t.co/zmKKqhmh0I
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) June 16, 2016
Talib came in two slots after Ware, making a huge leap to No. 34 after being absent from the list in 2015.
You knew there'd be more.
Another #NoFlyZone member in the #NFLTop100.Number 34. Aqib Talib. pic.twitter.com/rVAi1zZDoO
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) June 16, 2016
Talib appeared on the list at No. 79 in 2014 coming off a solid season with the Patriots.
The #NoFlyZone reference is to the Broncos secondary, which was the best in the league in 2015. Fellow #NoFlyZone members Chris Harris Jr. (No. 52) and T.J. Ward (No. 68) already appeared on the list.
In 2015 Talib registered three interceptions (two for touchdowns) and 13 passes defended for the passing unit and defense that both allowed the fewest yards in the league.