Fun list. Still, it's hard to take serious any top list of NFL players that doesn't start off with a long string of quarterbacks. Matt Schaub was an average quarterback last season but an injury to Schaub would have hurt the Texans more than an injury to JJ Watt. JJ Watt was their #1 player. The first QB listed was Peyton Manning at #7, ranked behind a guard.
Sherman was #5. How much more damaging would it be to lose Wilson compared to Sherman? Ten times more? Seattle barely felt the loss of Browner. Seattle loses Wilson, and good night.
RE: Earl Thomas. Thomas brings schematic value, not statistical value. So it's not a surprise he's off the list. His getting pro-bowls and all-pros will suffice.