WWE Superstars who were instrumental in getting NXT to where it is today

#2 Seth Rollins

Remember when Rollins had some blonde in his hair?

Back before he was the Kingslayer, the Beastslayer and the Architect of the Shield, Rollins was a head-banging, blonde-streaked upstart in NXT. He won the tournament to crown the first-ever NXT Champion. Judging from that accolade, it wasn't that much of a surprise when he picked up title after title on the main roster.

As FCW transitioned into NXT, several of the Superstars were carried over to help ease the formatting transition. Instead of being a competition, it turned into an actual brand. And before WWE started to sign up stars from Ring of Honor, Rollins was one of the first to make the jump.

He had been wrestling in ROH as Tyler Black, having won that promotion's World title. Rollins might have completely changed his character upon debuting as a member of The Shield, but Triple H must have seen something special to not only sign him to the company but also make him the first NXT Champion.

He must have impressed even more to be considered for a role in the Shield. Due to how his career has gone thus far, I think the future is safe in the hands of stars like Rollins. Triple H has proven to have a great eye for talent.