It's no coincidence that the Seahawks' defense took a step back when Wagner -- who missed five games last season with a toe injury -- was off the field. He is unquestionably the heart and soul of his unit, bringing a fierce presence and contributing rugged play within the box. The energetic playmaker has superb instincts, awareness and diagnostic skills, but his physicality, toughness and tenacity are what set him apart from most others at the position. Wagner punishes runners and receivers who dare cross into his area, exhibiting exceptional snap and pop on contact. Wagner, who measures 6-0 and 241 pounds, has superior leverage and explosive weight transfer, which prevents runners from falling forward at the end of plays. That's critical to playing winning defense against the dink-and-dunk offenses that live off RAC (run after the catch) yardage on the perimeter. Given the continued dominance of the Seahawks' defense and Wagner's annual impact on the unit with his tackling prowess, the fourth-year pro certainly deserves this spot.