With the MLR set to enter into its third season, the level continues to rise. 

Three new teams will be joining the league, as well as a slew of new players from all around the world that, in some cases, are the biggest names in World Rugby. 

Although the MLR is in no way the cash cow that the NFL, NBA, or MLB are, it still presents a great opportunity for players to live and play in some of the coolest places in America, and get paid to do it. 

Emerging and established talent alike will be joining the MLR ranks this year, and here's a look at the top five biggest names set to make their mark:

5. Rene Ranger - Colorado Raptors

The six-test All Black is set for his latest endeavor overseas, where he joins the recently rebranded Colorado Raptors. 

Ranger has played at the highest level in world rugby for over a decade, which includes stints in Super Rugby, Top 14, Mitre 10 Cup, and the Japanese Super League. 

Renowned for his bruising running style and ability to make breaks from anywhere on the field, the wing/center will be an absolute handful in the MLR this year, even at his current age of 33. 

4. Digby Ioane - Colorado Raptors

Another really good signing by the Raptors, their recent acquisition of the Australian speedster will compliment Ranger quite well in the backline. 

The 34 year old was one of the most electric players in Super Rugby when he played for the Queensland Reds from 2008-2013. 

His success in the southern hemisphere won him 35 caps for the Wallabies, and eventually a big contract to play overseas in France, and then in Japan. 

He returned to Super Rugby for a brief stint with the Crusaders in 2017, but injuries have plagued his last couple of years. Should he be healthy and ready to go for MLR season three, get your popcorn ready. 

3. Juan Manuel Leguizamón - Seattle Seawolves

As the saying goes, "the rich get richer."

Looking for a third consecutive MLR title, the Seawolves are not looking to take their foot off the gas whatsoever. Their addition of Argentinian legend Leguizamón to the back row is a warning shot to the rest of the league that they're still raising the bar. 

With 87 caps and four World Cup appearances to his name, Leguizamón has been at the heart of Argentina's success over the past 14 years. 

He played in England for the London Irish from '05-'08, and in France for Stade Francais, '08-'11, and Lyon, '11-'15. He then returned to Argentina, where he's been a member of Super Rugby side Jaguares since their inception in 2016. 

Look for the big fella to have a major presence in the Seawolves' quest for a three-peat. 

2. Mathieu Bastareaud - Rugby United New York

The massive French center has been one of the northern hemisphere's most recognizable figures over the past decade. 

With 54 caps for France and another 331 in the Top 14 on his record, the 31 year old's decision to move to the states comes as somewhat of a big surprise. 

During his spell in Toulon, Bastareaud was one of the key cogs in a machine that won three consecutive Heineken Cup titles, all of which he started, and one of which (2013), he won man of the match. 

He has incredible skill and agility for a beast of his stature, and having only just reached his 30's, there's plenty of reason to believe he's still got lots left in the tank. 

1. Ma'a Nonu - San Diego Legion

One of the most identifiable players of the past 15 years, Nonu is a bonafide legend, no matter who you ask. 

Nonu is one of only nine players to ever win 100 caps for the prestigious All Blacks, and one of only 21 players to win two World Cups. 

He has also played for Super Rugby franchises the Hurricanes, the Highlanders, and the Blues, the latter of which he played for as recently as 2019. 

Nonu has additionally suited up for the Black Ricoh Rams in Japan, and then spent 2015-2018 playing alongside Mathieu Bastareaud at Toulon. 

He will be 37 at the start of this MLR season, but there is no doubt that he's still one of the top centers in the game, in any competition. 

Joining a side that was seconds away from MLR glory last season, Nonu should thrive in a backline alongside Joe Pietersen, JP Du Plessis, Nate Augspurger and company.