1. Aaron Rodgers, Packers: The reigning Super Bowl MVP is coming off one of the most remarkable postseason runs in recent memory. He's handled his business deftly on the field and off -- reference the way Rodgers navigated the local minefield when then-iconic Brett Favre was traded in 2008 -- can make plays with his head, arm and legs and is just 27. If you had to pick one guy to lead your team for the next decade, hard to argue against the man currently wearing the championship belt.
2. Tom Brady, Patriots: He's coming off his second league MVP campaign in the last four seasons. But he struggled in the playoffs, where he's lost his past three starts after seeming nearly bulletproof early in his career. Rodgers by a hair, as in Brady's now shorter locks.
3. Drew Brees, Saints: He's passed for 22,918 yards during his tenure in New Orleans, the most prolific five-year stretch in league history. Brees' leadership skills, accuracy and dedication are off the charts. And it takes a special guy to supplant Archie Manning as the most beloved player in franchise history.
4. Peyton Manning, Colts: Admittedly, ranking the four-time MVP this low doesn't feel right. But he's coming off a season slightly subpar by his ridiculously lofty standards and, more troubling, dealing with a surgically repaired neck at age 35 which throws a dent into what has been his nearly bulletproof persona.
5. Michael Vick, Eagles: Unlike the QBs listed in front of him (and a couple below him), he doesn't have a ring. What he does have is the scariest skill set of anyone (maybe ever) at the position and, now, the dedication and experience to maximize his gifts.
