Best NFL Player by Jersey Number

SI Staff | Oct 2, 2012

Best NFL Player by Jersey Number /

Best NFL Player by Jersey Number

00

A team of SI.com's finest numerologists crunched the data on jersey numbers to come up with the best performers in professional football at each number from 00 to 99. We based our decision on a combination of factors, including the player's impact on the game, statistics and his team's success during the time he wore the number. We start with 00. The Hall of Fame center manned the middle for the Raiders for 15 seasons. He was named all-league 12 straight years (1960-71) and played in six AFL title games and one Super Bowl. Runner-up: Ken Burrough

An All-America halfback-fullback out of Cal and 1953 first-round pick, Olszewski played nine seasons in the NFL (for the Chicago Cardinals, Detroit and Washington) and one AFL season (Denver). He rushed for 3,320 yards and 16 touchdowns.

1

A CFL legend (he won five consecutive Grey Cups with Edmonton) before heading south, Moon completed 3,988 of 6,823 passes for 49,325 yards and 291 touchdowns in 17 NFL seasons. Runner-up: Benny Friedman Worthy of consideration: Gary Anderson, John (Paddy) Driscoll, Ray Flaherty, Jason Elam, Curly Lambeau

2

The Hall of Fame halfback was a two-time Pro Bowl selection and a member of the NFL's 1940 All-Decade team. He played his entire NFL career for the Chicago Cardinals and scored a pair of touchdowns in Chicago’s 28-21 win in the 1947 NFL Championship. Runner-up: David Akers Worthy of consideration: Steve Christie

3

A two-way superstar, Nagurski excelled for the Bears at fullback and linebacker. He gained 4,031 yards over nine NFL seasons (1930-37, 1943) and scored the go-ahead touchdown in the 1943 title game. He was 35 at the time. Runner-up: Jan Stenerud Worthy of consideration: Tony Canadeo, Daryle Lamonica, Mark Moseley, Jeff Reed

4

Favre has defined toughness and production, from his consecutive start streak to his three MVP awards and 11 Pro Bowl selections. He led the Packers to seven division championships, four title games and two Super Bowls, including a win in Super Bowl XXXI. Favre became the first quarterback to win a playoff game at the age of 40 in leading Minnesota to the NFC Championship Game. Runner-up: Tuffy Leemans Worthy of consideration: John Kasay, Ernie Nevers, Reggie Roby, Adam Vinatieri

5

McNabb was the face of the Eagles franchise for a decade before moving to Washington and Minnesota. A six-time Pro Bowler with five NFC Championship games on his resume, he is one of six quarterbacks to have both 25,000 passing yards and 3,000 rushing yards. Runner-up: Paul Hornung Worthy of consideration: Morten Andersen (Atlanta), Jeff Garcia, George McAfee

6

Butler played 11 seasons for the Bears (and two for the Cardinals), hitting on 265 of 361 career field goals and 413 of 426 extra point attempts. He was particularly effective from long range, making 16 of 42 field goals from 50 yards or more. Runner-up: Rolf Benirschke Worthy of consideration: Steve Owens

7

The personification of persistence. Elway lost the first three Super Bowls he appeared in before leading the Broncos to titles in 1997 and '98. He led Denver to a record 47 fourth-quarter comebacks. Runner-up: Ben Roethlisberger Worthy of consideration: Morten Andersen (New Orleans), Dutch Clark, George Halas, Mel Hein, Bert Jones, Dan Pastorini, Joe Theismann, Michael Vick, Bob Waterfield.

8

As the trigger man for the Cowboys dynastic teams in the 1990s, Hall of Famer Aikman led the team to three Super Bowl titles. Runner-up: Steve Young Worthy of consideration: Mark Brunell, Ray Guy, Archie Manning, Davey O'Brien, Larry Wilson

9

Brees not only reinvented his career in New Orleans, he helped lift up the downtrodden city to its first Super Bowl title five years after one of the worst natural disasters in history. A six-time Pro Bowl QB and four-time All-Pro, Brees broke the single season passing yards record in 2011 and enters the 2012 season with four consecutive seasons of at least 4,000 passing yards and 30 touchdowns. A 2009 Super Bowl champion, Brees also set the single-season record for highest completion percentage, 71.2%, in 2011. Runner-up: Sonny Jurgensen Worthy of consideration: Tommy Kramer, Jim McMahon, Steve McNair, Carson Palmer

10

A dual-threat thanks to his remarkable scrambling ability, Tarkenton set NFL records (since broken) for attempts (6,467), completions (3,686), yards (47,003) and touchdowns (342). He led the Vikings to three Super Bowl appearances. Runner-up: Steve Bartkowski Worthy of consideration: Eli Manning, Byron (Whizzer) White, Jim Zorn

11

"The Dutchman" led the Eagles to an NFL Championship in 1960, the same year he was named NFL MVP. Van Brocklin won passing titles in 1950 and 1952 and was named to nine Pro Bowls. Runner-up: Phil Simms Worthy of consideration: Drew Bledsoe, Larry Fitzgerald, Danny White

12

Tough call over Terry Bradshaw but Brady gets the top spot for winning in a tougher era. He's 138-40 as a starter, including 14-5 in the postseason and holds the NFL record for the most consecutive wins (10) in the postseason. Plus, well, Gisele. Runner-up: Terry Bradshaw Worthy of consideration: John Brodie, Randall Cunningham, Bob Griese, Jim Kelly, Joe Namath, Ken Stabler, Roger Staubach, Doug Williams

13

With 61,361 yards passing and 420 touchdowns, Marino is the second most prolific passer in NFL history. He was the first player to pass for 5,000 yards in a season and finished 13 seasons with at least 3,000 yards passing. He was selected to nine Pro Bowls and led the Dolphins to a Super Bowl appearance in the 1984 season. Runner-up: Kurt Warner Worthy of consideration: Dave Jennings, Don Maynard, Frank Ryan, Ken Riley, Jake Scott

14

Paul Brown's perfect quarterback: Under Graham the Browns played in 10 straight titles games and won four AAFC and three NFL Championships. He wore No. 14 from 1952 to 1956, leading the league in passing in ‘52 and ’53. Runner-up: Y.A. Tittle Worthy of consideration: Ken Anderson, Steve Grogan, Don Hutson, Ed Podolak

15

The great conductor of the Packers offense, Starr won NFL Championships in 1961, 1962, 1965, 1966 and 1967. He was named MVP of the first two Super Bowls. Runner-up: Steve Van Buren Worthy of consideration: Jack Kemp, Earl Morrall, Jim Turner

16

Joe Cool was at his best when the money was on the line. He quarterbacked the Niners to four Super Bowl wins and was named Super Bowl MVP on three occasions. Runner-up: Len Dawson Worthy of consideration: George Blanda, Frank Gifford, Vinny Testaverde

17

The long and lean Carmichael (he was 6-foot-8) played 13 seasons for the Eagles and one for the Cowboys. A sure-handed receiver, Carmichael finished his career with 590 receptions for 8,985 yards and 79 touchdowns. Runner-up: Turk Edwards Worthy of consideration: Red Badgro, Jim Hart, Cecil Isbell, Billy Kilmer, Dave Krieg, Don Meredith

18

When his career concludes sometime this decade, Manning will likely hold every major NFL passing record. He's a four-time MVP who completed 4,682 of 7,210 passes for 54,828 yards in 13 seasons with the Colts. Runner-up: Charlie Joiner Worthy of consideration: Roman Gabriel, Emmitt Thomas, Gene Washington

19

He's on the short list for the game's greatest quarterbacks. Unitas was the first passer to throw for 40,000 yards and was the quarterback selected for the NFL's All-Time team as voted by the Pro Football Hall of Fame voters in 2000. Runner-up: Lance Alworth Worthy of consideration: Bernie Kosar

20

An electrifying runner whose uncanny ability to cut back often made defenders feel like Wile E. Coyote, Sanders was the first player to rush for 1,000 yards in his first 10 seasons. He led the NFL in rushing four times. Runner-up: Ed Reed Worthy of consideration: Lem Barney, Ronde Barber, Cliff Battles, Gino Cappelletti, Joe Cribbs, Brian Dawkins, Mel Renfro, Louis Wright

21

A shutdown corner with track star speed, Sanders was a perennial Pro Bowl selection and a two-time Super Bowl champion. He was named Defensive Player of the Year in 1994 and selected to the NFL’s 1990 All-Decade Team. Runner-up: LaDainian Tomlinson Worthy of consideration: Eric Allen, Tiki Barber, Cliff Branch, James Brooks, Nolan Cromwell, Jim Kiick,  Bob Sanders, Charles Woodson

22

The NFL's alltime rushing leader won three Super Bowls as a member of the Cowboys. In 1993 he won the league's MVP, rushing crown (1,486 yards) and Super Bowl MVP, the only player to hit that triple in NFL history. Runner-up: Bobby Layne Worthy of consideration: Dave Brown, Frank Gatski, Bob Hayes, Mike Haynes, Paul Krause, Bobby Layne, Asante Samuel, Buddy Young

23

A five-time Pro Bowl cornerback over his 14 seasons, Vincent was a major player in the Eagles’ dominant defense of the late ‘90s. He played for four teams (Dolphins, Eagles, Bills and Redskins) and finished with 47 career interceptions. Runner-up: Mel Gray Worthy of consideration: Blaine Bishop, Devin Hester

24

The Hall of Fame flanker and running back was All-NFL five times and the NFL Player of the Year in 1964. He starred for the Colts for 12 seasons (1956-67). Runner-up: Willie Wood Worthy of consideration: Champ Bailey, Willie Brown, Ty Law, Freeman McNeil, Everson Walls, Charles Woodson.

25

A sure-handed receiver for the Raiders, Biletnikoff had 589 career receptions for 8,974 yards and 76 touchdowns. He was the MVP In Super Bowl XI. Runner-up: Tommy McDonald Worthy of consideration: Eric Davis, Haven Moses, Louis Oliver

26

Woodson was the premier cornerback of his era and was named to the NFL's 75th Anniversary team, the only active player on the list when it was selected in 1994. He played 17 seasons (1987-2003) for four teams (Steelers, Niners, Raiders and Ravens). Runner-up: Herb Adderley Worthy of consideration: Raymond Clayborn, Lydell Mitchell, Clinton Portis

27

After winning a Heisman Trophy at Ohio State, George put up big numbers for both Houston and Tennessee as a member of the Oilers/Titans franchise. He was a workhorse running back, routinely amassing more than 300 carries per season. Over nine seasons he rushed for 10,441 yards and 68 touchdowns. Runner-up: Steve Atwater Worthy of consideration: Terrell Buckley, Rodney Hampton, Ken Houston

28

A key cog of the Rams' "Greatest Show On Turf," Faulk played his last game in 2005, ending a career in which he produced 19,154 combined yards from scrimmage. His 6,875 yards receiving are the most by any running back. Runner-up: Darrell Green Worthy of consideration: Warrick Dunn, Abner Haynes, Chris Johnson. Curtis Martin, Adrian Peterson, Ahmad Rashad, Curt Warner, Darren Woodson

29

An electrifying open-field runner, Dickerson ran for an NFL-record 2,105 yards in 1984 and gained 1,800 or more rushing yards in three of his first four seasons. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999. Runner-up: Alex Webster Worthy of consideration: Joseph Addai, Hanford Dixon, Albert Lewis, Sam Madison

30

The initials (T.D.) fit: Davis ran for a franchise-best 7,607 rushing yards and 60 touchdowns during his eight seasons in Denver. He was the NFL MVP in 1998 and helped lead the Broncos to a pair of Super Bowl titles. Runner-up: Bill Willis Worthy of consideration: Ahman Green, Lawrence McCutcheon, Brian Mitchell, Mark Van Eeghen

31

As one of the offensive pillars of Vince Lombardi’s Green Bay attack, Taylor rushed for 8,597 yards, caught 225 passes and scored 558 points. He had 19 rushing touchdowns in 1962. Runner-up: Donnie Shell Worthy of consideration: William Andrews, Priest Holmes, Wilbert Montgomery

32

Many consider him the NFL’s greatest player. Brown led the NFL in rushing for eight seasons and was the Most Valuable Player three times. He retired at 30 at the peak of his career. Runner-up: O.J. Simpson Worthy of consideration: Marcus Allen, Ottis Anderson, Jamal Anderson, Mike Curtis, Franco Harris, Jack Tatum, Ricky Watters, John L. Williams

33

One of the game’s great passers, "Slingin" Sammy was a record six-time NFL passing leader and finished his career with 21,886 passing yards and 187 touchdowns. He also led the NFL in punting four straight years, beginning in 1940. Runner-up: Tony Dorsett Worthy of consideration: Roger Craig, David Fulcher, Ollie Matson, Mike Rozier

34

Sweet in disposition -- and talent. Payton retired as the NFL's alltime leading rusher (16,726) and is considered by many to be the NFL's greatest modern-day running back. Runner-up: Earl Campbell Worthy of consideration: Dale Carter, Cookie Gilchrist, Don Chandler, Bo Jackson, Andy Russell, Thurman Thomas

35

A two-way star for the Eagles' championship teams in 1948 and 1949, Pihos made all-NFL six times in nine seasons. He led the NFL in receiving for three straight seasons and had 373 career catches . Runner-up: John Henry Johnson Worthy of consideration: Alan Ameche, Neal Anderson, Marion Butts, Calvin Hill, Jim Nance, Christian Okoye, Riley Smith

36

The Bus, at 5-11 and 255 pounds, powered his way to 13,662 rushing yards over 13 seasons with the Rams and Steelers. Runner-up: Brian Westbrook Worthy of consideration: Merton Hanks, Lawyer Milloy, Marion Motley, Ken Reaves

37

How the Lions could use him today. Walker was a five-time Pro Bowl selection for Detroit and led the NFL in scoring in 1950 and 1955. Runner-up: Lester Hayes Worthy of consideration: Shaun Alexander, Tommy Casanova, Larry Centers, Rodney Harrison, Carnell Lake

38

Over a seven-year career with the Redskins and Saints, Rogers rushed for 7,176 yards with 54 touchdowns. He led the league as a rookie in 1981 with 1,647 yards and was selected as the league’s Rookie of the Year . Runner-up: Arnie Herber Worthy of consideration: Mike Anderson, Kimble Anders

39

He defined punishing running for the great Miami teams of the 1970s. Csonka was a three-time All-Pro and the MVP in Super Bowl VIII. His career totals: 8,081 yards rushing, 106 receptions and 68 touchdowns. Runner-up: Hugh McElhenny Worthy of consideration: Sam Cunningham, Steven Jackson

40

Has anyone looked more graceful on a football field? Sayers's career was cut short by injuries but he still managed to finish with 9,435 combined net yards. Runner-up: Elroy (Crazy Legs) Hirsch Worthy of consideration: Mike Alstott, Dick Anderson, Tom Brookshier, Mike Haynes, Wayne Millner

41

A fullback with soft hands and precise route-running, Byars had 610 career receptions for 5,661 yards and 54 touchdowns during his 13-year career. Runner-up: Lorenzo Neal Worthy of consideration: Tom Matte, Terence Newman, Matt Snell, Eugene Robinson, Charlie Waters

42

An All-Pro free safety who intimidated wide receivers with his bone-crushing hits, Lott won four Super Bowls with the San Francisco 49ers. He earned All-Pro honors at three positions (cornerback, free safety, strong safety). Runner-up: Sid Luckman Worthy of consideration: Ricky Bell, Charlie Conerly, Dick Hoak, Chuck Muncie, Gerald Riggs, Charley Taylor, Paul Warfield, Chris Warren

43

In the spirit of great Steeler defenders, Polamalu is a game-changing safety, a hard-hitting force with speed and great anticipation. He is a seven-time Pro Bowl selection, including a four-time First-Team All-Pro, through nine seasons. Runner-up: Larry Brown Worthy of consideration: Steve Foley, Cliff Harris, Don Perkins, Roynell Young, Jim Norton

44

Forever known (thanks to NFL Films) for his 43-yard touchdown run in Super Bowl XVII – he was the MVP  with a then-record 38 carries for 166 yards -- the iconoclastic back had 11,352 rushing yards over 14 seasons. Runner-up: Chuck Foreman Worthy of consideration: John David Crow, Elbert Dubenion, Floyd Little, Leroy Kelly, Dick LeBeau, Kyle Rote, Pete Retzlaff

45

The Pro Bowl strong safety – and we mean strong – was selected to five Pro Bowls during his seven seasons in Seattle. In a seven-year career, Easley picked off 32 passes, including 10 in 1984 to earn NFL Defensive Player of the Year honors. Runner-up: Gary Fencik Worthy of consideration: Homer Jones, Emlen Tunnell

46

A fullback-turned pass-catching tight end, Christensen was a five-time Pro Bowl selection. He led the NFL with 95 catches in 1986 and finished his 10-year career with 461 receptions. Runner-up: Chuck Muncie Worthy of consideration: Pete Johnson, Tim McDonald, Doug Plank

47

Blount was the best cornerback of his era and a four-time champion with the Steelers. He was the NFL's defensive MVP in 1975 and played in five Pro Bowls. Runner-up: Joey Browner Worthy of consideration: Glenn Blackwood, LeRoy Irvin, John Lynch

48

Not as famed as his Triplet colleagues (Troy Aikman, Michael Irvin and Emmitt Smith), "Moose" played 11 seasons in Dallas (he was a three-time Pro Bowl selection at fullback) and won three Super Bowl titles. Runner-up: Beattie Feathers Worthy of consideration: Stephen Davis, Ken Ellis, Tim Fox, Wes Hopkins

49

The dynamic Mitchell, a daring halfback and wide receiver, had 14,078 combined yards (and 91 touchdowns) in his 11 seasons with the Browns and Redskins. Runner-up: Dennis Smith Worthy of consideration: Ernie Barnes, Tony Richardson

50

A ferocious presence in the middle of the Bears' defense, Singletary had a team-record 10 Pro Bowl selections at middle linebacker, and his career 172 starts were second only to Walter Payton's. Runner-up: Dave Dalby Worthy of consideration: Jeff Siemon, Ken Strong, Mike Vrabel, Alex Wojciechowicz

51

Butkus remains the standard by which all middle linebackers are judged. He was named to eight straight Pro Bowls. Runner-up: Sam Mills Worthy of consideration: Randy Cross, Kevin Hardy, Jim Ringo, Jim Ritcher.

52

The Ravens inspirational leader is a two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2000 & '03) and Super Bowl MVP. In 16 seasons with Baltimore, Lewis has made 13 Pro Bowls, including First-Team All-Pro seven times. Runner-up: Mike Webster Worthy of consideration: Robert Brazile, Frank Gatski, Ted Johnson

53

While Lawrence Taylor patrolled the outside for the Giants, Carson clogged up the run at middle linebacker. He was a nine-time Pro Bowl selection and earned Hall of Fame honors in 2006. Runner-up: Randy Gradishar Worthy of consideration: Jeff Bostic, Ray Donaldson, Mick Tingelhoff, Alex Wojciechowicz, Jim Youngblood

54

A tough pick over Brian Urlacher. White was one of the best linemen of his era. He missed one game in 14 years. Runner-up: Brian Urlacher Worthy of consideration: Tedy Bruschi, Chuck Howley, Bob Johnson, EJ Junior, Chris Spielman, Zack Thomas

55

One of the great linebackers of the 1990s, starring at outside linebacker for the Chargers, Seau was a 12-time Pro Bowl selection and the 1992 NFL Defensive player of the year. He also played for the Miami Dolphins and New England Patriots. Runner-up: Derrick Brooks Worthy of consideration: Chris Hanburger, Lee Roy Jordan, Willie McGinest, Matt Millen, Joey Porter

56

Might be the easiest choice of them all: The league's greatest outside linebacker. Runner-up: Chris Doleman Worthy of consideration: Bill Hewitt, Shawne Merriman, Hardy Nickerson, Jerry Robinson, Joe Schmidt, Pat Swilling, Andre Tippett

57

He's why Dan Marino still looks good on television. The Dolphins center was elected to five consecutive Pro Bowls during the 1980s and started in 80 consecutive games until the 1987 season. Runner-up: Clay Matthews Worthy of consideration: Tom Jackson, Rickey Jackson, Olin Kreutz, Mike Merriweather, Steven Nelson, Bart Scott, Jeff Van Note

58

A vicious tackler and two-time Defensive Player of the Year for the Steelers, Lambert played in nine straight Pro Bowls (1976-84). Runner-up: Derrick Thomas Worthy of consideration: Carl Banks, Kim Bokamper, Peter Boulware, Wilber Marshall, Jesse Tuggle, Keena Turner

59

Played his outside linebacker position for the Steelers with surgical precision: 25 sacks, 21 opponents' fumbles recovered and 32 interceptions. Runner-up: Seth Joyner Worthy of consideration: Matt Blair

60

Yes, it’s Otto again. Graham wore No. 60 from 1946 to 1951 before rules changes prompted him to switch to No. 14., a number deemed for quarterbacks. He was the AAFC MVP in 1947 and co-MVP in 1948. Runner-up: Chuck Bednarik Worthy of consideration: Tommy Nobis, Otis Sistrunk

61

Culp was a forerunner of the ''nose guard'' position, and starred on the Chiefs and Oilers lines in the '70s. Runner-up: Bill George Worthy of consideration: Tim Ruddy, Nick Hardwick, Nate Newton, Blaine Nye, Jesse Sapolu

62

One of the finest centers in NFL history, he anchored the Dolphins line during the 1970s. Langer was named All-Pro six straight years, from 1973 to 1978. Runner-up: Guy McIntyre Worthy of consideration: Charley Trippi, Ed White

63

Sporting News Archives/Zuma Press/Icon SMI

Lanier, an All-Pro every year from 1968 through 1977, was the first African-American star at middle linebacker. He played his entire 11-year career for the Chiefs. Runner-up: Lee Roy Selmon Worthy of consideration: Dermontti Dawson, Mike Munchak, Fuzzy Thurston, Gene Upshaw

64

The Packer guard might have thrown the most famous block in NFL history, opening a hole for Bart Starr's game-winning sneak in the famed Ice Bowl (the 1967 NFL championship). Runner-up: Randall McDaniel Worthy of consideration: Jim Burt, Ken Gray, Jack Reynolds

65

Bethea heads a number that's light on stars. An eight-time Pro Bowl selection at defensive end for the Oilers, he recorded (unofficially) 105 career sacks. Runner-up: Gary Zimmerman Worthy of consideration: Dave Butz, Joe Fields, Max Montoya, Bart Oates

66

The NFL’s Hall of Fame Web site calls him a savage defender on defense – an apt description. Nitschke patrolled the middle of Lombardi’s defense with speed and anger. He had 25 interceptions and was the MVP of the 1962 NFL Championship. Runner-up: Bill Bergey Worthy of consideration: Conrad Dobler, Alan Faneca, Joe Jacoby, Larry Little, Bulldog Turner

67

Part of Buffalo's famed "Electric Company" line that blocked for O.J. Simpson, McKenzie was a standout offensive lineman for 13 seasons for the Bills and Seahawks. Runner-up: Bob Kuechenberg Worthy of consideration: Stan Brock, Kent Hull, Russell Maryland, Les Richter, Art Still, Ed White

68

A ferocious pillar of the Steel Curtain, Greenwood teamed with Joe Greene on the left-side to form one of the league’s greatest defensive lines. He had 73.5 career sacks and was All-AFC five times. Runner-up: Russ Grimm Worthy of consideration: Rubin Carter, Joe DeLamielleure, Kevin Mawae, Will Shields, Kyle Turley

69

Krumrie was an underrated force on the defensive line for the Bengals during the `80s. He played in two Pro Bowls (1987, 1988). Runner-up: Will Wolford Worthy of consideration: Jared Allen, Woody Peoples, Mark Schlereth

70

Time Magazine once described Huff, who starred at linebacker for the Giants in the `50s, as a "smiling fighter fired with a devout desire to sink a thick shoulder into every ball carrier in the National Football League." He played in six title games and five Pro Bowls. Runner-up: Art Donovan Worthy of consideration: Leon Gray, Henry Lawrence, Jim Marshall, Ernie Stautner, Bob Whitfield, Rayfield Wright, Al Wistert

71

The fiesty lineman played 12 seasons for the Lions and was an All-Pro selection three times before retiring for a career in Hollywood and the immortal line, "Mongo only pawn in game of life." Runner-up: Walter Jones Worthy of consideration: Tony Boselli, Fred Dean, Walter Jones, Charles Mann

72

The Hall of Fame right tackle anchored the Cardinals line over his 13 years with the club. He played in six Pro Bowls and following his retirement, he became an announcer with ABC and CBS Sports. Runner-up: Ed (Too Tall) Jones Worthy of consideration: Earl Dotson, Brad Hopkins, Dexter Manley, Joe Nash

73

SI proclaimed him "The Best Offensive Lineman of All Time" on the cover of the Aug. 3, 1981 issue. Believe the hype. Hannah played 13 seasons for the Patriots and was named All-Pro 10 straight years from 1976 through 1985. Runner-up: Ron Yary Worthy of consideration: Larry Allen, Bob Baumhower, Doug Dieken, Joe Klecko, Mark May, Leo Nomellini

74

Before he became an actor and commercial pitchman, Olsen terrorized quarterbacks during his 15-year-career with the Rams and played in 14 straight Pro Bowls. Runner-up: Bob Lilly Worthy of consideration: Bruce Matthews, Fred Dean, Henry Jordan, Louie Kelcher, Bob Lilly, Ron Mix, Mike Reid

75

A sack-master before it became cool, the 6-foot-5 defensive end teamed with tackle Merlin Olsen to give the Rams a "Fearsome" left side of the defensive line. Runner-up: Mean Joe Greene Worthy of consideration: Lomas Brown, Manny Fernandez, Forrest Gregg, George Kunz, Howie Long, Jonathan Ogden, Jethro Pugh, Stan Walters

76

You have to love a kicker who is nicknamed The Toe and wears a lineman's number (he was an all-NFL tackle before a back injury forced him to become a full-time kicker). Groza played 21 seasons, mostly with the Browns, and led the NFL in field goals five times. Runner-up: Marion Motley Worthy of consideration: Bob Brown, Roger Brown, Lou Creekmur, Rosey Grier, Steve Hutchinson Steve McMichael, Orlando Pace

77

As a pro with the Bears, his fame rivaled Jack Dempsey and Babe Ruth. Runner-up: Jim Parker Worthy of consideration: Lyle Alzado, AJ Duhe, Ernie Ladd, Willie Roaf

78

The dominant offensive tackle of his era, Munoz played 13 seasons for the Bengals (1980-92) and was elected to the Pro Bowl 11 straight times. Runner-up: Art Shell Worthy of consideration: Bruce Armstrong, Bobby Bell, Stan Jones, Mike Kenn, Jackie Slater, Bruce Smith, Bubba Smith, Richmond Webb, Dwight White

79

Brown started 13 seasons for the Giants at tackle and was an All-NFL selection for eight straight years (1956-1963) Runner-up: Erik Williams Worthy of consideration: Harris Barton, Roosevelt Brown, Ross Browner, Jacob Green, Gary Johnson, Jim Lachey, Jim Hunt, Harvey Martin, Bob St. Claire

80

The NFL's career leader in receptions (1,549), yards (22,895) and touchdowns (208), Rice was a key member of three Super Bowl champions as a Niner. Runner-up: Steve Largent Worthy of consideration: Issac Bruce, Cris Carter, Cris Collinsworth, Henry Ellard, Irving Fryar, Andrew Johnson, James Lofton, Kellen Winslow 

81

The Heisman Trophy-winner (1987) out of Notre Dame led the NFL in kick return yardage as a rookie with the Raiders. Brown wrapped up his 17-year career in 2004, ranked second all-time in receiving yardage (14,934) and third in catches (1,094). Runner-up: Dick (Night Train) Lane Worthy of consideration: Doug Atkins, Roy Green, Art Monk, Randy Moss, Terrell Owens, Andy Robustelli

82

Elusive, precise Hall of Fame wideout was Colts quarterback John Unitas' favorite target from 1956-67, leading the NFL in receptions four times. Set NFL title game records with 12 catches for 178 yards in 1958. Runner-up: John Stallworth Worthy of consideration: Ozzie Newsome, Mike Quick, Jimmy Smith, John Stallworth, John Taylor, Jason Witten

83

Hall of Fame linebacker got the nickname Mad Stork for his gangly frame (6-7, 220-pounds). An eight-time Pro Bowl selection who blocked 25 field goals during his 15-season career with the Colts, Packers and Raiders, Hendricks played in 215 consecutive games and four Super Bowls. Runner-up: Andre Reed Worthy of consideration: Mark Clayton, John Jefferson, George Sauer, Bobby Watson

84

Motor-mouthed member of the Broncos (12 seasons) and Ravens (two), Sharpe earned first-team NFL All-Decade honors for the 1990s. The eight-time Pro Bowl pick finished with 815 receptions 10,060 yards and 62 TDs. Runner-up: Sterling Sharpe Worthy of consideration: Gary Clark, Herman Moore, Randy Moss, Jay Novacek, Jack Snow

85

Hall of Fame defensive end was a seven-time Pro Bowl pick in 14 seasons with the Los Angeles Rams (1971-84). Tough and durable, he played 201 straight games -- and all of Super Bowl XIV despite a broken left leg. Runner-up: Nick Buoniconti Worthy of consideration: Julius Adams, Mark Duper, Antonio Gates, Mel Gray, Chad Ochocinco, Wesley Walker

86

The first player drafted by the AFL -- he went to the K.C. Chiefs in 1963 out of Grambling -- the fast, ferocious 6' 7", 270-pound Hall of Fame defensive tackle swatted down 16 passes in 1967 and later played in two Super Bowls. Runner-up: Dante Lavelli Worthy of consideration: Gary Collins, Antonio Freeman, Stanley Morgan, Charley Young, Hines Ward

87

Two-time Pro Bowl wideout hauled in 506 passes during his nine-seasons with the 49ers, none more memorable than The Catch -- his leaping end-zone grab with 51 seconds left that beat Dallas in the 1981 NFC Championship Game. Runner-up: Dave Casper Worthy of consideration: Ben Coates, Willie Davis, Ed McCaffrey, Lionel Taylor

88

Hall of Fame defensive tackle was a mainstay of the Vikings' feared "Purple People Eaters" defense. Page played in four Super Bowls and was the NFL MVP in 1971 as well the Defensive Player of Year in `71 and `73. Runner-up: John Mackey Worthy of consideration: Terry Glenn, Jimmy Giles, Tony Gonzalez, Marvin Harrison, Tory Holt, Michael Irvin, Keith Jackson, Ron Kramer, Drew Pearson, Charley Sanders, Lynn Swann, Al Toon

89

The hardnosed tight end helped revolutionize his position by making a then-record 75 receptions for the Bears in 1964. The five-time Pro Bowl pick was the first tight end inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Runner-up: Gino Marchetti Worthy of consideration: Mark Bavaro, Wes Chandler, Nat Moore, Otis Taylor, Steve Smith

90

He and Chiefs teammate Derrick Thomas combined to form one of the most devastating pass rushing duos in NFL history. (Smith famously swung a baseball bat after the sacking the quarterback, a tribute to fellow Kansas city icon George Brett.) Late in his career he left for rival Denver, where he went on to win a pair of Super Bowl titles. He finished with 86.6 career sacks. Runner-up: Jevon Kearse Worthy of consideration: Tony Brackens, Chad Eaton, Julius Peppers, Chuck Smith, George Webster

91

Wild man Greene played 15 seasons as an outside linebacker, racking up 160 sacks and five Pro Bowl selections. He ranked in the Top 10 in sacks ten times. Runner-up: Chester McGlockton Worthy of consideration: Robert Porcher

92

The Minister of Defense was an ordained man of the cloth but a merciless pass-rusher. A two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1987, '98), he played in a record 13 straight Pro Bowls and retired in 2000 as the NFL's all-time sacks leader (198), a mark since broken. Runner-up: Michael Strahan Worthy of consideration: Albert Haynsworth, Haloti Ngata, Michael Dean Perry, Ted Washington

93

Randle tortured offensive lineman during his 14 seasons as a Viking (1990-2000) and Seahawk (2001-03). He finished with 137.5 sacks and was a seven-time pro Bowl election. Runner-up: Dwight Freeney Worthy of consideration: Trace Armstrong, Jerry Ball, Gilbert Brown, Kevin Carter, Richard Seymour, Greg Townsend

94

The five-time Pro Bowl pick was a pass-rush force from the linebacker and defensive end spots from 1986-99 and is the only five-time Super Bowl-winner (three with Dallas, two with San Francisco). Runner-up: Dana Stubblefield Worthy of consideration: John Abraham, Chad Brown, Joe Johnson, DeMarcus Ware

95

Dent was a central figure on Chicago’s dominant "46" defense (he played defensive end) that ate the NFL whole in 1985. That year, he led the league with 17 sacks and earned Super Bowl XX MVP honors. Runner-up: Greg Lloyd Worthy of consideration: Bryce Paup

96

A mountain of a man (6-3, 306) who could really motor, the seven-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle spent his entire 11-year career with the Seattle Seahawks, winning 1992 NFL Defensive Player of the Year honors. Runner-up: Tom Harmon Worthy of consideration: Sean Jones, Clyde Simmons, Adalius Thomas

97

The speedy 6-5, 266-pound defensive end recorded 10 or more sacks in 12 seasons and had an MVP-caliber performance for the Buccaneers in Super Bowl XXXVII. Rice had 122 career sacks. Runner-up: Cornelius Bennett Worthy of consideration: LaRoi Glover, Henry Thomas, Bryant Young

98

A five-time Pro Bowl selection at outside linebacker, Peterson starred for the Niners (where he wore the number) and Seahawks. He last played with Detroit. Runner-up: Tony Siragusa Worthy of consideration: Jessie Armstead, John Henderson, Eric Swann

99

With a nonstop motor and a mouth to boot, Sapp was a seven-time Pro Bowl selection at defensive tackle. During a 12-year career with Tampa Bay and Oakland, which included being named the 1999 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Sapp had 96.5 sacks. Runner-up: Jerome Brown Worthy of consideration: Marshall Goldberg (Cardinals), Dan Hampton, Levon Kirkland, Jason Taylor

Published Oct 2, 2012

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