1. Peyton Manning (QB), 2012
When he signed his five-year contract in 2012, for $96 million, there was skepticism about whether Peyton Manning could even play again. After playing 13 seasons in Indianapolis, Manning sat out the entire 2011 campaign while he underwent multiple neck surgeries.
When the Colts drafted Andrew Luck, they cut the 36-year-old Manning, and John Elway convinced him to come to Denver. All he did in his four seasons in the Mile High City was throw for over 17,000 yards and 140 touchdowns, while leading the Broncos to an incredible 45-12 record, a record-setting offense in 2013, and two Super Bowls, including a victory.
The Broncos gambled on Manning, and acquired their greatest quarterback since Elway. Like Elway, he was able to retire on top, as a champion.
