Gavin Orr was the mastermind behind the "lifetime" agreement struck between Daly Cherry-Evans and Manly, ensuring his star client earns $10 million over a decade.

Save for Buddy Franklin's Swans contract, the mega deal was unheard of in Australian sport, but there is the likelihood more will be struck after the governing body secured $925 million from the Nine network for the free-to-air rights. It's possible the total broadcast deal could be worth up to $2 billion when pay television, radio and international rights are factored in.

Greg Inglis, Johnathan Thurston and Jarryd Hayne were among the first to crack the magical $1 million-per-season mark in the post-Super League era, but Orr predicts the game's elite will soon command double that figure.

"I think it could happen in just two or three years," Orr told Fairfax Media.

"I think the top four or five players will still be paid like they do in any other sporting franchises around the world. Those guys putting bums on seats deserve to get that, but also the sponsors line up for them to endorse their brand and TV networks want them on because it boosts their ratings.

"If you look at American sports, the first person they try to secure is the quarterback. He touches the ball about 80 per cent of the time so they sign that guy first and then build a team around him.

"That will be the case, someone will always pay big money to that person who can lead a team.

"I don't think those levels are out of the ballpark, it comes down to who they give that money too. They might already have a halfback on $300,000 or $400,000 and might need to go and buy someone who can look after that halfback in the team.

"The big money could go to a front-rower, an edge back-rower, someone like a Sam Burgess or Sonny Bill [Williams]. There will always be someone that can put bums on seats, bring sponsorships in. It's about selecting the right player to invest that type of money in."

The salary cap is $6.55 million and the players' association is reviewing whether there is scope for an immediate rise as part of a mid-collective bargaining agreement review. It's believed that is unlikely, as the extra funds won't flow into the game until 2018, but there are predictions the salary cap could soon rise to as much as $11 million per season, with the club grants increasing by an even greater amount.

The identity of the game's first $2 million man is sure to be a great talking point. Contenders are likely to include New Zealand-bound  Roosters fullback Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, South Sydney captain Greg Inglis, Panthers custodian Matt Moylan, Sea Eagles rookie Tom Trbojevic and Wests Tigers halfback Luke Brooks. Code-hoppers Hayne, Williams and Israel Folau would also be in contention should they wish to return to the game they made their name in, particularly given NRL chief executive David Smith has the discretionary power to top a marquee salary over and above the salary cap.

The challenge for the game is how to best utilise the funds that are available. The clubs have been agitating for more money from head office to grow their businesses and the issue is likely to come to a head given the club participation agreements will soon expire. Only three clubs are making money and the NRL is mindful of protecting clubs from themselves, fearing some could squander extra earnings on coaches and facilities without a guarantee of a return. The governing body has other strategic goals that require funds, including stadium improvements and grassroots growth.

The players' association will want to ensure its members are well remunerated, but the challenge will be to ensure any cap increases are distributed fairly, rather than resulting in just the richest players getting richer.

"The more money that comes into the game and the more players that can reach that [$2 million] figure, the better because it keeps the best players in our game," Orr said.

"They won't be going off to AFL or rugby, they'll be staying."

WHO WILL BE THE NRL'S FIRST $2 MILLION MAN … THE LEADING CONTENDERS

Roger Tuivasa-Sheck The NRL's biggest metre-eater, Tuivasa-Sheck has already agreed to a monster Warriors deal. Given his age and potential, his asking price will only rise.

Matt Moylan It's all upside with Penrith's marquee man. Experts predict the young fullback could make a Darren Lockyer-like transition into the halves … and make just as much impact.

Greg Inglis The youngest of the older brigade of Maroons stars. With cashed-up European clubs on the prowl, the South Sydney captain is a candidate for Dave Smith's discretionary powers.

Jarryd Hayne The exposure the "Hayne Plane" has given the NRL while pursuing his NFL dream has only increased his value.

Luke Brooks Could be the next great Blues halfback if he can continue his development. Technically a free agent next season.

Sonny Bill Williams/Israel Folau/Sam Burgess The game is poorer for their departure. The trio are marketing gold and they would bring plenty of fans with them if they returned to rugby league.