Jerry Rice, Tom Brady and Lawrence Taylor top our list of the 100 greatest NFL players of all time
In conjunction with the NFL’s 100th season celebration, 19 current and former reporters across the USA TODAY Sports Network were asked to compile a list ranking the 100 greatest players in pro football history.
The challenge was daunting, considering each person had to assess talent back to 1920. While there were no strict parameters, the process for making decisions focused on the field of play and considered elements such as induction to the Hall of Fame, statistics, awards, reputation and the eye test. Each voter was asked to rank 60 players. Those votes produced a list of 170 names. A points system was used for the rankings starting with 60 points for the top player on a list down to 1. Ties were broken by using the highest single vote a player received.
USA TODAY Sports is unveiling the best 100 players in NFL history. (Photo: USA TODAY)
Our panel: Jarrett Bell, USA TODAY; Dave Birkett, Detroit Free Press; Christine Brennan, USA TODAY; Mark Curnutte, Cincinnati Enquirer; Nate Davis, USA TODAY; Pete Dougherty Green Bay Press-Gazette; Gregg Doyel, Indianapolis Star; Gentry Estes, Nashville Tennessean; Doug Farrar, Touchdown Wire; Martin Frank, Wilmington (Del.) News Journal; Mike Jones, USA TODAY; Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz, USA TODAY; Joe Rexrode, formerly Nashville Tennessean; Steven Ruiz, For The Win; Kent Somers, Arizona Republic; Rachel Shuster, former USA TODAY; Art Stapleton, Bergen (N.J. Record); Andy Vasquez, Bergen (N.J.) Record; Larry Weisman, former USA TODAY.
Feel free to agree, disagree, argue or simply enjoy a trip through the years. Let us know on Twitter or Facebook.
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EVERY TEAM'S BEST: Top players in the history of each NFL franchise
BEST TEAMS EVER: Which squad is best in league history?
With that, here are the best 100 player in NFL history:
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1: Jerry Rice
Jerry Rice is a three-time Super Bowl champion and holds the NFL records in all-purpose touchdowns (208), total receptions (1,549), total receiving yards (23,546) and touchdown receptions (197). (Photo: Robert Hanashiro, USA TODAY)
Position: WR
Years: 1985-2004
Teams: San Francisco 49ers, Oakland Raiders, Seattle Seahawks
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (2010); 3-time Super Bowl champ; Super Bowl MVP; NFL MVP; 13 Pro Bowls; Leads the NFL in all-purpose touchdowns (208); Leads the NFL in receiving yards (22,895); Only player in NFL history with more than 20,000 receiving yards; Leads the NFL in total receptions (1,549); Leads the NFL in all-purpose yards (23,546); Leads the NFL in TD receptions (197); leads the NFL in consecutive games with at least one reception (274); holds 36 total NFL records
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2: Tom Brady
Tom Brady is a six-time Super Bowl champion, four-time Super Bowl MVP, three-time NFL MVP and holds a plethora of Super Bowl records. (Photo: Robert Deutsch, USA TODAY)
Position: QB
Years: 2000-Present
Team: New England Patriots
Achievements: 6-time Super Bowl champ; 4-time Super Bowl MVP; 3-time NFL MVP; 3-time First-team All-Pro (2007, 2010, 2017); 2-time Second-team All-Pro (2005, 2016); 2-time NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2007, 2010); NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2009); Holds NFL record for most Super Bowl wins as a player (6); Holds multiple Super Bowl records including most TD passes (18), most passing yards (2,838), most completed passes (256), most passing attempts (392) and most consecutive competitions in a single SB (16); Holds NFL record for most games won by a QB (207); only QB to have 3 consecutive games w/ 300+ passing yards, 3+ TD passes and 0 interceptions; Tied for most Pro Bowl selections (14); Holds NFL record for most postseason games played (40); Holds NFL record for most postseason TD passes (73); Oldest QB to win a Super Bowl (41 years, 6 months)
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3: Lawrence Taylor
Lawrence Taylor is a two-time Super Bowl champion, a nine-time First Team All-Pro selection, the NFL MVP (1986) and a 3-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1981, 1982, 1986). (Photo: Robert Deutsch, USA TODAY)
Position: LB
Years: 1981-1993
Team: New York Giants
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1999); 2-time Super Bowl champ; 10-time Pro Bowl; 9-time first-team All-Pro (1981-1989); second-team All-Pro (1990); NFL MVP (1986); 3-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1981, 1982, 1986); NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (1981)
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4: Jim Brown
Jim Brown is a four-time NFL MVP, an eight-time First Team All-Pro, was the first player in league history to reach 100 rushing touchdowns and still holds the record for average rushing yards per game in a career (104.3). (Photo: AP)
Position: RB
Years: 1957-1965
Team: Cleveland Browns
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1971); 1964 NFL Champ; 4-time NFL MVP (1957,1958, 1963, 1965); 8-time first-team All-Pro (1957-1961, 1963-1965); All-Pro 2nd-team (1962); 9 Pro Bowls appearances; NFL Rookie of the Year (1957); 1st player to reach 100 rushing touchdowns ; 1st NFL player to rush for over 10,000 yards; 10th most touchdowns in NFL history (126); 5th most rushing TDs in NFL history (106); Leads the NFL in average rushing yards per game in career (104.3)
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5: Walter Payton
Walter Payton is a Super Bowl champion, the NFL MVP (1997) and the second leading rusher in NFL history. (Photo: Fred Jewell, AP)
Position: RB
Years: 1975-1987
Team: Chicago Bears
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1993); Super Bowl champ; 7-time first-team All-Pro (1976-1980, 1984, 1985); second-team All-Pro (1986); NFL MVP (1977); NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1977); second leading rusher in NFL history (16,726); 4th most rushing TDs in NFL history (110)
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6: Joe Montana
Joe Montana is a four-time Super Bowl champion, a three-time Super Bowl MVP, two-time NFL MVP and holds several Super Bowl passing records. (Photo: Paul Sakuma, AP)
Position: QB
Years: 1979-1994
Teams: San Francisco 49ers, Kansas City Chiefs
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (2000); 4-time Super Bowl champ; 3-time Super Bowl MVP; 2-time NFL MVP (1989, 1990); 8 Pro Bowl invites; 3-time first-team All-Pro (1987, 1989, 1990); 2-time second-team All-Pro (1981, 1984); holds a Super Bowl record passer rating of 127.8; holds Super Bowl records for most throws without an interception (122)
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7: Reggie White
Reggie White was a Super Bowl champion, a two-time AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year and a 13-time Pro Bowler. (Photo: Robert Deutsch, USA TODAY)
Position: DE
Years: 1985-2000
Teams: Philadelphia Eagles, Green Bay Packers, Carolina Panthers
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 2006; Super Bowl champion (1996); AP Defensive Player of the Year (1987, ‘98); 1st-team All-Pro (1986, ‘87, ‘88, ‘89, ‘90, ‘91, ‘95, 98); 13-time Pro Bowler
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8: Peyton Manning
Peyton Manning is a two-time Super Bowl champion, a five-time NFL MVP, 2-time NFL Offensive Player of the Year and holds several major NFL passing records. (Photo: Jack Gruber, USA TODAY)
Position: QB
Years: 1998-2015
Teams: Indianapolis Colts, Denver Broncos
Achievements: 2-time Super Bowl champ; Super Bowl MVP; 14-time Pro Bowl; 7-time first-team All-Pro (2003, 2004, 2005, 2008, 2009, 2012, 2013); 3-time second-team All-Pro (1999, 2000, 2006); 5-time NFL MVP (2003, 2004, 2008, 2009, 2013); 2-time NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2004, 2013); leads the NFL in career TD passes (539); holds the NFL record for most passing yards in a single season (5,477 in 2013); 2nd most passing yards in NFL history (71,940); 3rd most passes completed in NFL history (6,125)
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9: Johnny Unitas
Johnny Unitas won a Super Bowl, was a three-time NFL champ and holds the third longest passing TD streak in NFL history (47 games). (Photo: Handout)
Position: QB
Years: 1956-1971
Teams: Baltimore Colts, San Diego Chargers
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1979); Super Bowl champ; 3-time NFL Champ; 3rd longest TD streak in NFL history (47 games)
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10: Barry Sanders
Barry Sanders ranks third all-time in rushing yards, was named a Pro Bowler 10 times and was the first player to rush for 1,000 yards in his first 10 seasons. (Photo: H. Darr Beiser, USA TODAY)
Position: RB
Years: 1989-98
Team: Detroit Lions
Achievements: Inducted into Pro Football HOF 2004; 15,269 rushing yards, 3rd all-time; 10 pro bowls; 6-time All Pro; first player to rush for 1,000 yards in his first 10 seasons.
re are Nos. 11-100 in our list of the greatest NFL players of all time:
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11: Joe Greene
Joe Greene is a four-time Super Bowl champion, a two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1972, 1974), the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (1969) and a 10-time Pro Bowler. (Photo: Ferd Kaufman, AP)
Position: DT
Years: 1969-1981
Team: Pittsburgh Steelers
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football HOF (1987); 4-time Super Bowl champ; 5-time First-team All-Pro (1972-1974, 1977, 1979); 3-time Second-team All-Pro (1971, 1975, 1976); 2-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1972, 1974); NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (1969); 10-time Pro Bowler
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12: Dick Butkus
Dick Butkus (51) is a two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1969, 1970), a six-time First Team All-Pro and an eight-time Pro Bowler. (Photo: Associated Press)
Position: LB
Years: 1965-1973
Team: Chicago Bears
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1979); 6-time first-team All-Pro (1965, 1967-1970, 1972); 2-time second-team All-Pro (1966, 1971); 8 Pro Bowls; 2-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1969, 1970)
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13: Ronnie Lott
Ronnie Lott is a four-time Super Bowl champion, a six-time First Team All-Pro and a 10-time Pro Bowler. (Photo: Otto Greule Jr, Getty Images)
Position: DB
Years: 1981-94
Teams: San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Raiders, New York Jets
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 2000; 4-time Super Bowl Champion (1982, ‘84, ‘88, ‘89); 1st-team All-Pro (81, ‘86, ‘87, ‘89, ‘90, ‘91); 10-time Pro Bowler
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14: Anthony Munoz
Anthony Munoz was a nine-time First Team All-Pro, an 11-time Pro Bowler and was named the NFL's Walter Payton Man of the Year in 1991. (Photo: Peter Brouillet, USA TODAY Sports)
Position: LT
Years: 1980-92
Team: Cincinnati Bengals
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1998; 1st-team All-Pro (1981, ‘82, ‘83, ‘85, ‘86, ‘87, ‘88, ‘89, ‘90); 11-time Pro Bowler; 1991 NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year
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15: Deacon Jones
Deacon Jones went to eight Pro Bowls, was a five-time First Team All-Pro and was named the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year two times (1967, 1968). (Photo: NFL, AP)
Position: DE
Years: 1961-1974
Teams: Los Angeles Rams, San Diego Chargers, Washington Redskins
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1980); 5-time First-Team All-Pro (1965-1969); 3-time second-team All-Pro (1964, 1970, 1972); 8 Pro Bowls; 2-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1967, 1968); NFL didn’t record sacks an as official stat until 1982, but it is said Jones had 194.5 during his career
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16: Deion Sanders
Deion Sanders is a two-time Super Bowl champion, was named the AP's NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1994) and was a six-time First Team All-Pro. (Photo: Robert Hanshiro, USA TODAY)
Position: DB
Years: 1989-2000, 2004-05
Teams: Atlanta Falcons, San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys, Washington Redskins, Baltimore Ravens
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 2011; 2-time Super Bowl Champion (1995, ‘96); 1994 AP Defensive Player of the Year; 1st-team All-Pro (‘92, ‘93, ‘94, ‘96, ‘97, ‘98); 8-time Pro Bowler
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17: Otto Graham
Otto Graham was a three-time NFL champion, a four-time AAFC champion and a three-time NFL (UPI) MVP (1951, 1953, 1955). (Photo: AP)
Position: QB
Years: 1946-55
Team: Cleveland Browns
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1965; 3-time NFL Champion (1950, ‘54, ‘55); 4-time AAFC champion (1946, ‘47, ‘48, ‘49); 3-time NFL UPI MVP (1951, ‘53, ‘55), 1st-team All-Pro (1947, ‘48, ‘49, ‘51, ‘53, ‘54, ‘55); 5-time Pro Bowler
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18: John Elway
John Elway is a two-time Super Bowl champion, a Super Bowl MVP, the 1989 AP NFL MVP and a nine-time Pro Bowler. (Photo: Robert Deutsch, USA TODAY)
Position: QB
Years: 1983-98
Team: Denver Broncos
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 2004; two-time Super Bowl champion (1998, ‘99); 1989 AP MVP; 1998 Super Bowl MVP; 1992 Walter Payton Man of the Year; 9-time Pro Bowler;
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19: Emmitt Smith
Emmitt Smith is the NFL's all-time leading rusher (18,355 yards) and rushing touchdowns (164) and is a three-time Super Bowl champion. (Photo: H. Darr Beiser, USA TODAY)
Position: RB
Years: 1990-2004
Teams: Dallas Cowboys, Arizona Cardinals
Achievements: Inducted into Pro Footbal HOF 2010; 18,355 rushing yards, No. 1 all-time; 4,409 attempts, No. 1 all-time; 164 rushing TDs, first all-time; started 219 of 226 games; three-time Super Bowl champ; Super Bowl MVP after 1993 season; NFL MVP 1993 season.
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20: Dan Marino
Dan Marino was the NFL Rookie of the Year in 1983, the NFL MVP in 1984 and was a nine-time Pro Bowler. (Photo: H. Darr Beiser, USA TODAY)
Position: QB.
Years: 1983-1999
Teams: Miami Dolphins
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football HOF (2005); 3-time First-team All-Pro (1984-1986); 4-time second-team All-Pro; NFL MVP (1984); Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (1998); NFL Rookie of the Year (1983); NFL Comeback Player of the Year (1994); 9-time Pro Bowler; Held multiple NFL passing records that have since been broke
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21: Gale Sayers
Gayle Sayers was a five-time First Team All-Pro and a four-time Pro Bowler before his career was cut short by injuries. (Photo: Malcolm Emmons, USA TODAY Sports)
Position: RB
Years: 1965-71
Team: Chicago Bears
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1977; 1st-team All-Pro (1965, ‘66, ‘67, ‘68, ‘69); 4-time Pro Bowler; four seasons in top 10 of all NFL rushers; career cut short by injuries; as a rookie scored four TDs, including 96-yard kickoff return, against Vikings, and later in season scored six touchdowns against 49ers including an 80-yard pass play, 50-yard run and 65-yard punt return.
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22: Sammy Baugh
Sammy Baugh was a two-time NFL champion, a four-time First Team All-Pro and a six-time Pro Bowler. (Photo: AP)
Position: QB
Years: 1937-52
Team: Washington Redskins
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1963; 2-time NFL champion (1937, ‘42); 1st-team All-Pro (1937, ‘40, ‘42, ‘43); 6-time Pro Bowler
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23: Ray Lewis
Ray Lewis was a two-time Super Bowl champion, a Super Bowl MVP, the 2003 AP Defensive Player of the Year and a 13-time Pro Bowler. (Photo: H Darr. Beiser, USA TODAY)
Position: LB
Years: 1996-2012
Team: Baltimore Ravens
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 2018; 2-time Super Bowl champion (2001, 2013); 2003 AP Defensive Player of the Year; 2000-01 Super Bowl MVP; ranks second in league history for solo tackles; 1st-team All-Pro (1999, 2000, ‘01, ‘03, ‘04, ‘08, ‘09); 13-time Pro Bowler
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24: Randy Moss
Randy Moss was a four-time First Team All-Pro, played in six Pro Bowls and holds the NFL record for most touchdown receptions in a season (23). (Photo: Robert Deutsch, USA TODAY)
Position: WR
Years: 1998-2012
Teams: Minnesota Vikings, Oakland Raiders, New England Patriots, Tennessee Titans, San Francisco 49ers
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football HOF (2018); 4-time First-team All-Pro (1998, 2000, 2003, 2007); NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1998); 6-time Pro Bowler; Pro Bowl MVP (1999); Holds NFL record for most TD receptions in a season (23); Holds NFL record for most TD receptions in a rookie season (17); Only player to catch 90+ touchdown passes, return a punt for a touchdown, and throw 2 touchdown passes
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25: Don Hutson
Don Hutson was a three-time NFL champion, a two-time NFL MVP and an eight-time First Team All-Pro. (Photo: AP)
Position: E
Years: 1935-45
Team: Green Bay Packers
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1963; 3-time NFL champion (1936, ‘39, ‘44); 2-time NFL MVP (1941, ‘42); 1st-team All-Pro (1938, ‘39, ‘40, ‘41, ‘42, ‘43, ‘44, ‘45); 4-time Pro Bowler
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No. 26 Brett Favre
Brett Favre is second in the NFL in career passing yards (71,838), has the most career starts of any NFL player (298, 322 including the post season) and was the first player to record 500 career TD passes. (Photo: Robert Deutsch, USA TODAY)
Position: QB
Years: 1991-2010
Teams: Atlanta Falcons, Green Bay Packers, New York Jets, Minnesota Vikings
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (2016); Super Bowl champ; 3-time first-team All-Pro (1995-1997); 3-time second-team All-Pro (2001, 2002, 2007); 11-time Pro Bowler (1992, 1993, 1995-1997, 2001-2003, 2007-2009); 3-time AP NFL MVP; 2nd in the NFL in career passing yards (71,838); Has the most career starts of any NFL player (298, 322 including the post season); 1st player to 500 career TD passes; 1st NFL QB to defeat 32 franchises
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27: Alan Page
Alan Page was the 1971 NFL MVP, a two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1971, 1973) and had 23 fumble recoveries in his career. (Photo: Anonymous, AP)
Position: DT
Years: 1967-81
Teams: Minnesota Vikings, Chicago Bears
Achievements: Inducted into Pro Football HOF in 1988 in hometown of Canton, Ohio; played in 238 consecutive games, including postseason; NFL MVP for 1971 season; NFL defensive player of the year 1971, 1973; 23 fumble recoveries.
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28: Bruce Smith
Bruce Smith was a two-time Defensive Player of the Year (1990, 1996) and holds the NFL career sack record (200). (Photo: Kevin Higley, AP)
Position: DE
Years: 1985-2003
Teams: Buffalo Bills, Washington Redskins
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football HOF (2009); 8-time First-team All-Pro (1987, 1988, 1990, 1993-1997); 2-time Second-team All-Pro (1989, 1998); 2-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1990, 1996); NFL career sack record (200 sacks)
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29: Jack Lambert
Jack Lambert is a four-time Super Bowl champion and a two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1976, 1983). (Photo: AP)
Position: LB
Years: 1974-1984
Team: Pittsburgh Steelers
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football HOF (1990); 4-time Super Bowl champion; 6-time First-team All-Pro (1976, 1979-1983); 2-time Second-team All-Pro (1975, 1978); 2-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1976, 1983); NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (1974); 9-time Pro Bowler
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30: John Hannah
John Hannah was a seven-time First Team All-Pro and a nine-time Pro Bowler. (Photo: AP)
Position: G
Years: 1973-85
Team: New England Patriots
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1991; 1st-team All-Pro (1976, ‘78, ‘79, ‘80, ‘81, ‘83, ‘85); 9-time Pro Bowler.
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31: Bob Lilly
Bob Lilly won a Super Bowl, was named a First Team All-Pro seven times and played in 11 Pro Bowls. (Photo: Malcolm Emmons, USA TODAY Sports)
Position: DT
Years: 1961-74
Team: Dallas Cowboys
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1980; Super Bowl Champion (1972); 1st-team All-Pro (1964, ‘65, ‘66, ‘67, ‘68, ‘69, ‘71); 11-time Pro Bowler
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32: Ed Reed
Ed Reed was the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2004, is a five-time First Team All-Pro and holds the record for most playoff interceptions (9). (Photo: Mitch Stringer, USA TODAY Sports)
Position: S
Years: 2002-2013
Teams: Baltimore Ravens, New York Jets, Houston Texans
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football HOF (2019); Super Bowl Champion; 5-time First-team All-Pro (2004, 2006-2008, 2010); 3-time Second-team All-Pro (2003, 2009, 2011); 9-time Pro Bowler; NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2004); Tied for Most Career Playoff Interceptions (9); Longest Interception Return in NFL History (107 yards); Most Career Interception Return Yards (1,590); First player in NFL history to return an interception, punt, blocked punt and fumble for a TD; Holds the record for most multi-interception games in a career (12); Tied for most career blocked punts returned for TD (3)
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33: Dick 'Night Train' Lane
Dick "Night Train" Lane was a seven-time First Team All-Pro, holds the record for the most interceptions in an NFL season (14) and is fourth on the all-time interceptions list. (Photo: Harold P. Matosian, AP)
Position: CB
Years: 1952-1965
Teams: Los Angeles Rams, Chicago Cardinals, Detroit Lions
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1974); 7-time first-team All-Pro (1956-1957, 1959-1963); 7 Pro Bowls; 4th most interceptions in NFL history (68); most interceptions in a season in NFL history (14)
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34: Drew Brees
Drew Brees is Super Bowl champion, a two-time NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2008, 2011) and has been named a Pro Bowler 12 times. (Photo: Brace Hemmelgarn, USA TODAY Sports)
Position: QB
Years: 2001-Present
Teams: San Diego Chargers, New Orleans Saints
Achievements: Super Bowl XLIV champion; 2-time NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2008, 2011); First-team All-pro (2006); 12 pro bowls
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35: Gino Marchetti
Gino Marchetti was a two-time NFL champion, a seven-time First Team All-Pro selection and an 11-time Pro Bowler. (Photo: AP)
Position: DE
Years: 1952-66
Teams: Dallas Texans, Baltimore Colts
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1972; 2-time NFL champion (1958, ‘59); 1st-team All-Pro (1957, ‘58, ‘59, ‘60, ‘61, ‘62, ‘64); 11-time Pro Bowler
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36: Tony Gonzalez
Tony Gonzalez currently holds the NFL record for receiving yards and receptions by a tight end, is second behind only Jerry Rice for most all-time receptions and was named a Pro Bowler 14 times, which is tied for the most all-time. (Photo: Daniel Shirey, USA TODAY Sports)
Position: TE
Years: 1997-2013
Teams: Kansas City Chiefs, Atlanta Falcons
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football HOF (2019); 6-time First-team All-Pro (1999-2001, 2003, 2008, 2012); 4-time Second-team All-Pro (2002, 2004, 2006, 2007); 14-time Pro Bowler (tied for most all-time); holds the NFL record for total receiving yards by a TE (15,127); Leads the NFL in career receptions for TEs (1,325); Second in NFL history for receptions behind Jerry Rice; tied for most seasons with 1,000+ receiving yards by a TE (4).
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37: Rod Woodson
Rod Woodson won a Super Bowl, was the 1993 AP Defensive Player of the Year and an 11-time Pro Bowler. (Photo: Robert Hanashiro, USA TODAY)
Position: DB
Years: 1987-2003
Teams: Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, Baltimore Ravens, Oakland Raiders
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 2009; 2001 Super Bowl champion; 1993 AP Defensive Player of the Year; 1st-team All-Pro (1989, ‘90, ‘92, ‘92, ‘94, 2002); 11-time Pro Bowler
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38: Eric Dickerson
Eric Dickerson was the 1996 AP Offensive Player of the Year, a five-time First Team All-Pro and a six-time Pro Bowler. (Photo: Robert Deutsch, USA TODAY)
Position: RB
Years: 1983-93
Teams: Los Angeles Rams, Indianapolis Colts, Los Angeles Raiders, Atlanta Falcons
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1999; 1986 AP Offensive Player of the Year; 1st-team All-Pro (1983, ‘84, ‘86, ‘87, ‘88); 6-time Pro Bowler
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39: Mel Blount
Mel Blount was a four-time Super Bowl champion, the 1975 AP Defensive Player of Year and a five-time Pro Bowler (Photo: Greenawalt, AP)
Position: DB
Years: 1970-83
Team: Pittsburgh Steelers
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1989; 4-time Super Bowl champion (1974, ‘75, ‘78, ‘79); 1975 AP Defensive Player of Year; 1st-team All-Pro (1975, ‘81); 5-time Pro Bowler
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40: O.J. Simpson
O.J. Simpson was named the AP’s NFL MVP in 1973, was a five-time First Team All-Pro and a six-time Pro Bowler. (Photo: Associated Press)
Position: RB
Years: 1969-79
Teams: Buffalo Bills, San Francisco 49ers
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1985; 1973 NFL AP MVP; 1973 Bert Bell Award winner; 1st-team All-Pro (1972, ‘73, ‘74, ‘75, ‘76); 6-time Pro Bowler
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41: Aaron Rodgers
Aaron Rodgers is a two-time NFL MVP (2011, 2014), a Super Bowl champ and a seven-time Pro Bowler. (Photo: John David Mercer, USA TODAY Sports)
Position: QB
Years: 2005-Present
Team: Green Bay Packers.
Achievements: Super Bowl XLV champion; 2x NFL MVP (2011, 2014); Super Bowl XLV MVP; 2-time First-team All-pro (2011, 2014); Second-team All-pro (2012); Seven pro bowls
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42: Ray Nitschke
Ray Nitschke was a three-time NFL champion and a two-time Super Bowl champion. (Photo: Associated Press)
Position: LB
Years: 1958-72
Team: Green Bay Packers
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1978; 3-time NFL champion (1961 ‘62, ‘65); 2-time Super Bowl champion (1966, ‘67); 1st-team All-Pro (1964, ‘65); Pro Bowler
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43: Forrest Gregg
Forrest Gregg was a three-time Super Bowl champion, seven-time First Team All-Pro and played in nine Pro Bowls. (Photo: Vernon Biever, AP)
Position: T
Years: 1956-71
Teams: Green Bay Packers, Dallas Cowboys
Achievements: Inducted into Pro Football HOF (1977); 3-time Super Bowl Champion, 7-time First-team All-pro (1960, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967); nine pro bowls.
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44: Chuck Bednarik
Chuck Bednarik was a two-time NFL champion, a six-time First Team All-Pro and played in eight Pro Bowls. (Photo: Associated Press)
Position: C/LB
Years: 1949-62
Team: Philadelphia Eagles
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1967; 2-time NFL champion (1949, ‘60); 1st-team All-Pro (1950, ‘51, ‘52, ‘53, ‘54, ‘60); 8-time Pro Bowler
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45: Jim Thorpe
Jim Thorpe was First Team All-Pro in 1923 and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963. (Photo: Pro Football Hall of Fame)
Position: RB
Years: 1920-28
Teams: Canton Bulldogs, Cleveland Indians, Oorang Indians, Rock Island Independents, New York Giants, Chicago Cardinals
Achievements: Inducted into Pro Football HOF (1963); First-team All-pro (1923)
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46: Mike Singletary
Mike Singletary was a Super Bowl champ, a seven-time First Team All-Pro and played in 10 Pro Bowls. (Photo: Tony Tomsic, USA TODAY Sports)
Position: LB
Years: 1981-92
Team: Chicago Bears
Achievements: Inducted into Pro Football HOF (1998); Super Bowl XX Champion; 7-time First-team All-pro (1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1991); Second-team All-pro (1990); 10 pro bowls
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47: Red Grange
Red Grange was a running back with the Chicago Bears and New York Yankees. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963. (Photo: AP)
Position: RB
Years: 1925-34
Teams: Chicago Bears, New York Yankees
Achievements: Inducted into Pro Football HOF (1963); 2-time First-team All-pro (1930, 1931)
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48: Roger Staubach
Roger Staubach was the NFL MVP in 1971 and was the MVP of Super Bowl VI. (Photo: AP)
Position: QB
Years: 1969-79
Team: Dallas Cowboys
Achievements: Inducted into Pro Football HOF in 1985; NFL MVP 1971, Super Bowl VI MVP; 22,700 passing yards, 153 passing touchdowns, 20 rushing touchdowns, 2,264 rushing yards; lost statistics by delaying entry into NFL for four years because of military commitment after graduating from the Naval Academy.
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49: Jim Parker
Jim Parker was a two-time NFL champion, a nine-time First Team All-Pro and an eight-time Pro Bowler. (Photo: AP)
Position: OG/OT
Years: 1957-1967
Team: Baltimore Colts
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football HOF (1973); 2-time NFL champion, 9-time First-team All-Pro (1957-1965); Second-team All-Pro (1966); 8-time Pro Bowler
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50: Bronko Nagurski
Bronko Nagurski was a three-time NFL champion and a four-time First Team All-Pro. (Photo: AP)
Position: FB
Years: 1930-43
Team: Chicago Bears
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1963; 3-time NFL champion (1932, ‘33 ‘43,); 1st-team All-Pro (1932, ‘33, ‘34, ‘36)
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51: John Mackey
John Mackey was a Super Bowl champion and a five-time First Team All-Pro. (Photo: Anonymous, AP)
Position: TE
Years: 1963-72
Teams: Baltimore Colts, San Diego Chargers
Achievements: Inducted into Pro Football HOF (1992); Super Bowl V champion; 3-time First-team All-pro (1966,1967,1968); five pro bowls
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52: Terrell Owens
Terrell Owens is third all-time in receiving yards and played in six Pro Bowls. (Photo: Huy Nguyen, The Dallas Morning News)
Position: WR
Years: 1996-2010
Teams: San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, Buffalo Bills, Cincinnati Bengals
Achievements: Inducted into Pro Football HOF (2018); 5-time First-team All-pro (2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, 2007); 3rd all-time receiving yards; six pro bowls
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No. 53 Merlin Olsen
Merlin Olsen was a five-time First Team All-Pro and played in 14 Pro Bowls. (Photo: AP)
Position: DT
Years: 1962-1976
Team: Los Angeles Rams
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football HOF (1982); 5-time First-team All-Pro (1966-1970); 3-time Second-team All-Pro (1965, 1973, 1974); NFL Rookie of the Year (1962); 14-time Pro Bowler (this is a career NFL record. Olsen is tied with Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Bruce Matthews and Tony Gonzalez)
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No. 54. LaDainian Tomlinson
LaDainian Tomlinson was the NFL MVP and Offensive Player of the Year in 2006 and a five-time First Team All Pro. (Photo: Robert Hanashiro, USA TODAY)
Position: RB
Years: 2001-11
Teams: San Diego Chargers, New York Jets
Achievements: Inducted into Pro Football HOF (2017); NFL Most Valuable Player (2006); NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2006); 3-time First-team All-pro (2004, 2006, 2007); 2-time Second-team All-pro (2002, 2003); five pro bowls
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No. 55 Gene Upshaw
Gene Upshaw was a two-time Super Bowl champion, a five-time First Team All-Pro and a Pro Bowler seven times. (Photo: Manny Rubio, USA TODAY Sports)
Position: G
Years: 1967-81
Team: Oakland Raiders
Achievements: Inducted into Pro Football HOF (1987); 2-time Super Bowl champion; AFL Champion; 5-time First-team All-pro (1968, 1969, 1970, 1974, 1977); 4- time Second-team All-pro (1972, 1973, 1975, 1976); seven pro bowls
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No. 56 Steve Young
Steve Young was a two-time NFL MVP (1992, 1994), a Super Bowl MVP and won six NFL passing titles. (Photo: Robert Hanashiro, USA TODAY)
Position: QB
Years: 1985-99
Teams: Tampa Bay Buccaneers, San Francisco 49ers
Achievements: Inducted into Pro Football HOF 2005; two-time NFL MVP (1992, 1994); Super Bowl MVP (1994); 33,124 passing yards, 64.3 completion percentage, 232 touchdowns, 4,239 rushing yards, 43 touchdowns; seven-time Pro Bowler; won six NFL passing titles.
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No. 57 Marshall Faulk
Marshall Faulk was a three-time NFL Offensive Player of the Year and is the only player in league history with 12,000 rushing and 6,000 receiving yards. (Photo: Robert Hanashiro, USA TODAY)
Position: RB
Years: 1994-2005
Teams: Indianapolis Colts, St. Louis Rams
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football HOF (2011); Super Bowl champion; 3-time First-team All-Pro (1999-2001); 3-time Second-team All-Pro (1994, 1995, 1998); NFL MVP (2000); 3-time NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1999-2001); NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1994); 7-time Pro Bowler; one of only 3 NFL players to amass at least 10,000 rushing yards and 5,000 receiving yards; only player to accumulate 12,000 rushing and 6,000 receiving yards; only NFL RB with 100+ rushing and 30+ receiving TDs; holds NFL career record for most games with a rushing and receiving TD (15).
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No. 58 Raymond Berry
Raymond Berry was a two-time NFL champion and a six-time Pro Bowler. (Photo: AP)
Position: Split end
Years: 1955-67
Team: Baltimore Colts
Achievements: Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1973; 2-time NFL champion (1958, ‘59); 1st-team All-Pro (1958, ‘59, 60); 6-time Pro Bowler
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59: Earl Campbell
Earl Campbell was a three-time AP Offensive Player of the Year and played in five Pro Bowls. (Photo: Darryl Norenberg, USA TODAY Sports)
Position: RB
Years: 1978-85
Teams: Houston Oilers, New Orleans Saints
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1991; 1979 AP MVP; NFL PFWA MVP (1978, ‘79); AP Offensive Player of the Year (1978, 1979, 1980); 1st-team All-Pro (1978, ‘79, ‘80); 5-time Pro Bowler
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60: Junior Seau
Junior Seau was the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1992, the NFL Man of the Year in 1994 and played in 12 Pro Bowls. (Photo: Robert Hanashiro, USA TODAY)
Position: LB
Years: 1990-2009
Teams: San Diego Chargers, Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football HOF (2015); 8-time First-team All-Pro (1991-1996, 1998, 2000); 2-time Second-team All-Pro (1997, 1999); NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1992); NFL Man of the Year (1994); 12-time Pro Bowler
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61: Charles Woodson
Charles Woodson is a Super Bowl champion, the 2009 Defensive Player of the Year and played in nine pro bowls. (Photo: Kyle Terada, USA TODAY Sports)
Position: DB
Years: 1998-2015
Teams: Oakland Raiders, Green Bay Packers
Achievements: Super Bowl XLV champion; 2009 Defensive Player of the Year; 3-time First-team All-Pro (1999, 2009, 2011); Four-time Second-team All-Pro (2000, 2008, 2010, 2015); nine pro bowls; NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year
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62: Lance Alworth
Lance Alworth was a champion in Super Bowl VI champion, an AFL champion in 1963 and was a six-time First Team All-Pro. (Photo: Associated Press)
Position: WR
Years: 1962-72
Teams: San Diego Chargers, Dallas Cowboys
Achievements: Inducted into Pro Football HOF (1978); Super Bowl VI champion; AFL Champion (1963); AFL Player of the Year (1963); 6-time First-team All-Pro (1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968); Second-team All-Pro (1969); seven pro bowls
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63: Bart Starr
Bart Starr was a two-time Super Bowl champion, a two-time Super Bowl MVP, a five-time NFL champion and a four-time Pro Bowler. (Photo: Malcolm Emmons, USA TODAY Sports)
Position: QB
Years: 1956-1971
Team: Green Bay Packers
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1977); 2-time Super Bowl champ; 2-time Super Bowl MVP; 5-time NFL champ; 4-time Pro Bowl; first-team All-Pro (1966); 3-time second-team All-Pro (1961, 1962, 1964); NFL MVP (1966); holds the NFL record for the highest postseason passer rating (104.8)
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64: J.J. Watt
J.J. Watt has won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award three times (2012, 2014, 2015) and is the first player with multiple 20-sack seasons (2012, 2014). (Photo: Troy Taormina, USA TODAY Sports)
Position: DE
Years: 2011-Present
Team: Houston Texans
Achievements: 5-time First-team All-Pro (2012-2015, 2018); 3-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2012, 2014, 2015); Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (2017); 5-time Pro Bowler; Pro Bowl Defensive MVP (2014); Bert Bell Award (2014); first player with multiple 20-sack seasons (2012, 2014)
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65: Larry Fitzgerald
Larry Fitzgerald holds the NFL record for most seasons with 90+ receptions (8). (Photo: Joe Camporeale, USA TODAY Sports)
Position: WR
Years: 2004-Present
Team: Arizona Cardinals
Achievements: 1st-team All-Pro (2008); 2-time 2nd-team All-pro (2009, 2011), 11-time Pro Bowler, Pro-Bowl MVP (2008); Holds NFL record for most seasons with 90+ receptions (8); Most TD receptions in a postseason (7 in 2008); Most receptions in a postseason (30 in 2008); Most receiving yards in a postseason (546 in 2008); Third all-time in career receptions (1,303); Second all-time in career receiving yards (16,279)
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66: Mike Webster
Mike Webster was a five-time First Team All-Pro and played in nine Pro Bowls. (Photo: Gene J. Puskar, Associated Press)
Position: C
Years: 1974-90
Teams: Pittsburgh Steelers, Kansas City Chiefs
Achievements: Inducted into Pro Football HOF (1997); 5-time First-team All-pro (1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1983); Second-team All-Pro (1984); nine pro bowls
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67: Jack Ham
Jack Ham was a four-time Super Bowl champion and was the league's NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1975. (Photo: AP)
Position: LB
Years: 1971-1982
Team: Pittsburgh Steelers
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football HOF (1988); 4-time Super Bowl champ; 6-time First-team All-Pro (1974-1979); 2-time Second-team All-Pro (1973, 1980); NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1975); 8-time Pro Bowler
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68: Joe Namath
Joe Namath was a Super Bowl champion, a Super Bowl MVP and played in five Pro Bowls. (Photo: Associated Press)
Position: QB
Years: 1965-77
Teams: New York Jets, L.A. Rams (1977)
Achievements: Five pro bowls; Super Bowl champion and Super Bowl MVP; Inducted into Pro Football HOF (1985); first to pass for more than 4,000 yards in one season; had 27,663 passing yards and 173 TDs for career.
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69: Orlando Pace
Orlando Pace played in seven Pro Bowls and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. (Photo: Anne Ryan, USA TODAY)
Position: LT
Years: 1997-2009
Teams: St. Louis Rams, Chicago Bears
Achievements: Inducted into Pro Football HOF (2016); 3-time First-team All-Pro (1999, 2001, 2003); Second-team All-Pro (2000); seven pro bowls.
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70: Art Shell
Art Shell won two Super Bowls and was inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. (Photo: Focus On Sport, Getty Images)
Position: OT
Years: 1968-82.
Team: Oakland Raiders (L.A. 1982).
Achievements: Two-time Super Bowl champion. Hall of Fame. Played 207 games. NFL 1970s all-decade team.
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71: Ted Hendricks
Ted Hendricks was a four-time Super Bowl champion, a four-time First Team All-Pro and an eight-time Pro Bowler. (Photo: Malcolm Emmons, USA TODAY Sports)
Position: LB.
Years: 1969-83
Teams: Baltimore Colts, Green Bay Packers, Oakland Raiders, L.A. Raiders.
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football HOF (1990); 4-time Super Bowl champion; 4-time First-team All-Pro (1971, 1974, 1980, 1982); 2-time Second-team All-Pro (1972, 1976); 8-time Pro Bowler
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72: Randy White
Randy White was a Super Bowl champion, a Super Bowl MVP and a nine-time Pro Bowler. (Photo: Malcolm Emmons, USA TODAY Sports)
Position: DT.
Years: 1975-88
Team: Dallas Cowboys.
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1994; 1977 Super Bowl Champion; 1977 Super Bowl MVP; 1st-team All-Pro (1978, ‘79, ‘81, ‘82, ‘83, ‘84, ‘85); 9-time Pro Bowler
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73: Bruce Matthews
Bruce Matthews played in 14 Pro Bowls and started 293 games in his NFL career (second in NFL history). (Photo: Michael Madrid, USA TODAY Sports)
Position: OL.
Years: 1983-2001
Teams: Houston Texans, Tennessee Titans.
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 2007; 1st-team All-Pro (1988, ‘89, 90, ‘92, ‘98, ‘99, 2000); 14-time Pro Bowler; started 293 games in career (second in NFL history).
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74: Larry Allen
Larry Allen was a Super Bowl champion and played in 11 Pro Bowls. (Photo: Tim Heitman, USA TODAY Sports)
Position: OL.
Years: 1994-2007
Teams: Dallas Cowboys, San Francisco 49ers.
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 2013; 1995 Super Bowl Champion; 1st-team All-Pro (1996, ‘97, ‘98, ‘99, 2000, ‘01); 11-time Pro Bowler
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75: Terry Bradshaw
Terry Bradshaw was a four-time Super Bowl champion and a two-time Super Bowl MVP. (Photo: AP)
Position: QB
Years: 1970-83
Team: Pittsburgh Steelers.
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1989; 4-time Super Bowl champion (1974, ‘75, ‘78, ‘79) ; 1978 AP MVP; Super Bowl MVP (1978, ‘79); 1978 Bert Bell Award winner; 1st-team All-Pro (1978); 3-time Pro Bowler
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76: Sid Luckman
The Chicago Bears' Sid Luckman won four NFL championships and was a First Team All-Pro five times. (Photo: Herbert K. White, AP)
Position: QB.
Years: 1939-50
Team: Chicago Bears.
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1965; 1943 Joe F. Carr MVP Trophy winner; 4-time NFL Champion (1940, ‘41, ‘43, ‘46); 1st-team All-Pro (1941, ‘42, ‘43, ‘44. ‘47); 3-time Pro Bowler
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77: Jim Otto
Jim Otto was a 10-time First Team All-Pro selection and played in 12 Pro Bowls. (Photo: AP)
Position: Center.
Years: 1960-74
Team: Oakland Raiders.
Achievements: Inducted into Hall of Fame in 1980; 1st-team All-Pro selection (1960, ‘61, ‘62, ‘63, ‘64, ‘65, ‘67, ‘68, ‘69, ‘70); 12-time Pro Bowler
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78: Michael Strahan
Michael Strahan won a Super Bowl, played in seven Pro Bowls, won a defensive player of the year award (2012) and holds the record for the most sacks in one season (22.5). (Photo: Jack Gruber, USA TODAY)
Position: DE.
Years: 1993-2007
Team: New York Giants.
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (2014); Super Bowl champ; 7 Pro Bowls; 4-time first-team All-Pro (1997, 1998, 2001, 2003); 2-time second-team All-Pro (2002, 2005); NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2001); holds the NFL record for most sacks in a season (22.5); 6th most career sacks in NFL history (141.5)
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79: Kellen Winslow Sr.
Kellen Winslow was selected as a First Team All-Pro three times and played in five Pro Bowls. (Photo: Handout photo)
Position: TE.
Years: 1979-87
Team: San Diego Chargers.
Achievements: Inducted into the Pro Football HOF (1995); 3-time First-team All-Pro (1980-1982); Second-team All-Pro (1987); 5-time Pro Bowl selection
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80: Adrian Peterson
Adrian Peterson was the NFL MVP in 2012, was named a First Team All-Pro four times and has played in seven Pro Bowls. (Photo: Chris Humphreys, USA TODAY Sports)
Position: RB.
Years: 2007-present
Teams: Minnesota Vikings, Arizona Cardinals, New Orleans Saints, Washington Redskins.
Achievements: NFL Most Valuable Player (2012); NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2012); 4-time First-team All-Pro (2008, 2009, 2012, 2015); 3-time Second-team All-Pro (2007, 2010, 2013); seven pro bowls; NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (2007). Eight on all-time rushing list coming into 2019 season.
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