In the early days of the NFL, the game was defined by raw talent and fierce competition. Over the decades, the league has seen incredible athletes rise to fame, each leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
- The list honors players who have excelled individually, significantly impacted the game, and achieved team success.
- It includes players from various eras, showcasing the evolution of the NFL and the enduring greatness of these athletes.
- Each player is celebrated for their unique contributions, including record-breaking performances and trailblazing achievements.
Ranking the Greatest 20 Players in NFL History
When compiling this list of the greatest 20 players in NFL history, several key criteria were considered:
- Individual Success and Accolades: Achievements such as MVP awards and Pro Bowl selections.
- Dominance During Their Era: How these players compared to their contemporaries.
- Longevity and Career Milestones: The duration and consistency of their careers.
- Enduring Impact and Legacy: Their influence on the game and its history.
- Team Success and Championships: Contributions to team achievements and championships.
- Ranking Relative to Their Position: How they compare to other players in their specific roles.
Top 20 Greatest NFL Players
Let’s have a look at the best NFL players of all time, including the best wide receivers, quarterbacks, and more.
1. Tom Brady (2000-2022)
Position: Quarterback
Teams: New England Patriots, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Achievements:
- 7-time Super Bowl champion
- 5-time Super Bowl MVP
- 3-time NFL MVP
2. Jerry Rice (1985-2004)
Position: Wide Receiver
Teams: San Francisco 49ers, Oakland Raiders, Seattle Seahawks
Achievements:
- 3-time Super Bowl champion
- 13-time Pro Bowl selection
- NFL career leader in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdown receptions
3. Jim Brown (1957-1965)
Position: Running Back
Teams: Cleveland Browns
Achievements:
- 8-time NFL rushing leader
- NFL MVP
- Highest career rushing yards per game
4. Walter Payton (1975-1987)
Position: Running Back
Teams: Chicago Bears
Achievements:
- Super Bowl champion
- 9-time Pro Bowl selection
- NFL career leader in rushing yards at retirement
5. Peyton Manning (1998-2015)
Position: Quarterback
Teams: Indianapolis Colts, Denver Broncos
Achievements:
- 2-time Super Bowl champion
- 5-time NFL MVP
- NFL career leader in touchdown passes at retirement
6. Lawrence Taylor (1981-1993)
Position: Linebacker
Teams: New York Giants
Achievements:
- 2-time Super Bowl champion
- NFL MVP
- 10-time Pro Bowl selection
7. Reggie White (1985-1998, 2000)
Position: Defensive End
Teams: Philadelphia Eagles, Green Bay Packers, Carolina Panthers
Achievements:
- Super Bowl champion
- 2-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year
- 13-time Pro Bowl selection
8. Barry Sanders (1989-1998)
Position: Running Back
Teams: Detroit Lions
Achievements:
- 4-time NFL rushing leader
- NFL MVP
- 10-time Pro Bowl selection
9. Dick Butkus (1965-1973)
Position: Linebacker
Teams: Chicago Bears
Achievements:
- 8-time Pro Bowl selection
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year
- Hall of Fame inductee
10. Joe Montana (1979-1994)
Position: Quarterback
Teams: San Francisco 49ers, Kansas City Chiefs
Achievements:
- 4-time Super Bowl champion
- 3-time Super Bowl MVP
- 8-time Pro Bowl selection
11. Johnny Unitas (1956-1973)
Position: Quarterback
Teams: Baltimore Colts, San Diego Chargers
Achievements:
- 3-time NFL champion
- NFL MVP
- 10-time Pro Bowl selection
12. Dan Marino (1983-1999)
Position: Quarterback
Teams: Miami Dolphins
Achievements:
- NFL MVP
- 9-time Pro Bowl selection
- NFL career leader in passing yards at retirement
13. Ray Lewis (1996-2012)
Position: Linebacker
Teams: Baltimore Ravens
Achievements:
- 2-time Super Bowl champion
- Super Bowl MVP
- 13-time Pro Bowl selection
14. Aaron Donald (2014-present)
Position: Defensive Tackle
Teams: Los Angeles Rams
Achievements:
- Super Bowl champion
- 3-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year
- 9-time Pro Bowl selection
15. Joe Greene (1969-1981)
Position: Defensive Tackle
Teams: Pittsburgh Steelers
Achievements:
- 4-time Super Bowl champion
- 2-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year
- 10-time Pro Bowl selection
16. Randy Moss (1998-2010, 2012)
Position: Wide Receiver
Teams: Minnesota Vikings, Oakland Raiders, New England Patriots, Tennessee Titans, San Francisco 49ers
Achievements:
- NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year
- 6-time Pro Bowl selection
- Second all-time in touchdown receptions
17. John Elway (1983-1998)
Position: Quarterback
Teams: Denver Broncos
Achievements:
- 2-time Super Bowl champion
- Super Bowl MVP
- 9-time Pro Bowl selection
18. Emmitt Smith (1990-2004)
Position: Running Back
Teams: Dallas Cowboys, Arizona Cardinals
Achievements:
- 3-time Super Bowl champion
- NFL MVP
- NFL career leader in rushing yards and touchdowns
19. Anthony Munoz (1980-1992)
Position: Left Tackle
Teams: Cincinnati Bengals
Achievements:
- 11-time Pro Bowl selection
- 9-time All-Pro selection
- Hall of Fame inductee
20. Alan Page (1967-1981)
Position: Defensive Tackle
Teams: Minnesota Vikings, Chicago Bears
Achievements:
- NFL MVP
- 9-time Pro Bowl selection
- 148.5 career sacks
Celebrating the Legends Who Defined the NFL
The players on this list have shaped the NFL into what it is today. Their outstanding achievements, game-changing skills, and leadership have left a lasting legacy.
From Tom Brady’s unmatched success to Jerry Rice’s record-breaking career and Jim Brown’s dominance, these players have set the standard for excellence in football.
Each player brought something unique to the game, and together, they tell the story of the NFL’s rich history.
Celebrating these greats reminds us of the thrilling moments and incredible talents that make football so special.
