The Denver Broncos’ 2016 regular season is one quarter complete.

The Broncos aced the first four challenges in their defense of the Super Bowl victory that took place back in February. After a thrilling Super Bowl rematch against the Carolina Panthers in the opener that saw the Broncos win a thriller, Denver held off the always pesky Indianapolis Colts in Week 2.

The Broncos then went on the road for a solid road win at Cincinnati in Week 3, and earlier this week they beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with backup quarterback Paxton Lynch taking over.

So with the season heading into the second quarter, who are the players that are leading the way?

Here are the five most important Denver Broncos players so far in 2016.

Atlas (655x81)5. Emmanuel Sanders

Denver Broncos playersFans tend to only remember the draft choices, but John Elway’s acquisition of Emmanuel Sanders has been as good as any draft selection that he has made.

Sanders was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2010, but they had questions about his work ethic and ability to stay healthy. After nearly ending up in Kansas City, Sanders came to Denver and has been a highly productive fan-favorite.

He plays hurt, he makes the tough catches and he has a lot of fun.

So far this season Sanders has 25 catches for 293 yards and three touchdowns. He has been a safety net for the Bronco quarterbacks who know that he will go over the middle without fear and fight for the ball while it is in the air.