Sporting News 140: Ranking NFL's 140 greatest players of all time

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Sporting News 140: Ranking NFL's 140 greatest players of all time

Vinnie Iyer · The Sporting News

Tue, Sep 1, 2026 ·

41 min read

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Sporting News 140: Ranking NFL's 140 greatest players of all time originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here .

The NFL has had so many outstanding players over its 106-year history. That makes coming up with 140 best Hall of Famers and active legends and then ranking them a near-impossible task.

Sporting News has been around for the league's entire existence with a chance to cover most of the all-time greats, in turn with many gracing SN's past magazine covers, some multiple times.

From quarterback to kicker, these players have defined NFL history, earning much of the top individual accolades and ultimate team glory. Here's the break down of SN's selections by position:

Quarterbacks: 14
Running backs: 18
Wide receivers: 14
Tight ends: 8
Offensive tackles: 19
Guards: 7
Centers: 6
Edge rushers: 14
Defensive tackles: 11
Linebackers: 19
Cornerbacks: 12
Safeties: 10
Kicker: 1

Starting with the most clutch kicker of all time and ending with the consensus GOAT quarterback, here's our ranking in reverse order.

MORE: The Sporting News' 140 Greatest Sports Moments of All Time

SN COVERS: Check out all the classics from Ty Cobb to Kobe Bryant

SN ARCHIVE: Relive sports history through the pages of The Sporting News

Ranking the 140 best NFL players of all time

Mandatory Credit: Imagn Images

140. Adam Vinatieri, K

The Sporting News list would not be complete without the best clutch kicker in the game, backed up his all-time record of 2,673 points and four Super Bowl rings combined with the Patriots and Colts .

139. Red Grange, RB

"The Galloping Ghost" went from University of Illinois superstar to a dynamic big Bears playmaker in the 20s and 30s. On top of his gamebreaking running, he also was a two-way star with a knack for big-time tackling. His speed and toughness defined the early NFL.

138. Mike Haynes, CB

Part shutdown specialist with his lanky frame (6-2, 192 pounds), part ballhawk with his nose for interceptions, set the high standard for tall cornerbacks during his seven seasons each with the Patriots and Raiders .

137. Elroy "Crazylegs" Hirsch, RB/WR

Hirsch got his nickname for the ages by an unusual running style that made him so effective flying by defenders. Hirsch used his speed and quickness to set early single-season marks with 1,495 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns for the Rams in 1951. He was another versatile trend-setter who set the stage for the game's future.

136. Sam Huff, LB

Huff was one of the first star linebackers thriving for the Giants and Washington in the 1950s and '60s. He was a classic hard-nosed leader in the middle, often taking on tough tackling assignments such as Jim Brown. Huff's personality playing in New York also gave him a lot of off-field appeal.

135. Michael Irvin, WR

Dubbed "The Playmaker" among the Cowboys ' "triplets" that also included Troy Aikman and Emmitt Smith, Irvin made five Pro Bowls as the league's premier field-stretching receiver between 1991 and '95, consistently making game-changing big plays.

134. Paul Krause, S

The 8-time Pro Bowl defensive back for Washington and the Vikings remains the NFL's best-ever ballhawk with a record 81 career interceptions.

133. Brian Urlacher, LB

Urlacher played all 13 seasons with the Bears and was able to live up to legacy set up by Dick Butkus and Mike Singletary before him. He racked up every accolade as a tackler, blitzer and cover man with ideal range and toughness at 6-4, 258 pounds.

Malcolm Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

132. Mike Ditka, TE

Before being known as the larger than life "SNL"-spoofed Super Bowl winning coach of the 1985 Bears, Ditka was a groundbreaking tight end for Chicago, Philadelphia and Dallas. As a rookie in 1961, he was the first at the position to post 1,000-plus receiving yards. Before injuries hit him later with the Eagles and Cowboys, Ditka was an elite target all over the field for five Pro Bowl seasons to begin his career.

131. Doug Atkins, EDGE

An 8-time Pro Bowler with the Bears who also played for the Saints and Browns , Atkins was a top pass rusher in the late 1950s and early '60s. He's credited with 94.5 sacks in his productive 17 seasons.

130. Jack Christiansen, S

In his eight NFL seasons with the Lions in the 1950s, Christiansen was a six-time first-team All-Pro leading the league in interceptions twice and posting 46 total in 89 career games. He was one of the NFL's first such big-play safeties.

129. Willie Davis, EDGE

Davis was a five-time first-team All-Pro with the Packers' dynasty under Vince Lombardi in the 1960s, recording five unofficial double-digit sack seasons as their primary pass rusher.

128. Ray Nitschke, LB

This "Wildman" linebacker played his entire NFL career from 1958-'72 with the Packers as the do-everything leader and playmaker for a team that won four NFL championships and the first two Super Bowls under Lombardi. Nitschke showed off his versatility with 25 interceptions and 16 sacks in 15 seasons.

127. Willie Brown, CB

Brown was a five-time first-team All-Pro who played for the Broncos and Raiders, transitioning well from the AFL to the NFL with 54 interceptions in his 16 seasons.

126. Lenny Moore, RB

Moore ran for the Baltimore Colts for the duration of his 12-season career starting in 1956. He was an explosive two-time NFL champion back who led the league in yards per attempt four times and posted a league-high 16 TDs in his stellar '64 campaign.

125. Willie Wood, S

Wood teamed with Herb Adderley to rack up big plays vs. quarterbacks in coverage, recording 48 interceptions in 12 seasons with the Packers, helping their defense dominate for Lombardi on every level.

124. Chris Doleman, EDGE

Doleman, was equally great for the Vikings, Falcons and 49ers and went to eight Pro Bowls in his 15 seasons. He totaled 150.5 sacks, including a league-leading 21 for Minnesota in 1989.

123. Tony Dorsett, RB

Setting the precedent for Emmitt Smith to do some tough big-play running of own for Cowboys Super Bowl winners, Dorsett amassed 12,739 yards rushing in 12 seasons, 11 with Dallas. He was a versatile, reliable and often explosive workhorse.

122. Kevin Greene, EDGE

Going to a total of five Pro Bowls with three of his four teams (Rams, Steelers, Panthers), the late outside linebacker posted 160 sacks, leading the league twice and remains underrated as a pass-rush force.

121. Darrell Green, CB

Green played corner much bigger than his 5-9, 184-pound frame. He was able to stay with the opponents' top receivers with his speedy reputation as the "fastest man in the NFL". He also was ageless and durable, playing his entire 20-year career in Washington while earning eight Pro Bowl trips.

120. Dermontti Dawson, C

Playing all 13 seasons dominating for the Steelers, Dawson was named first-team All-Pro six consecutive times from 1993 to 1998.

119. Ronde Barber, CB

Barber joins Warren Sapp and Derrick Brooks as an integral part of the Bucs' 2002 Super Bowl-winning defense to make SN's list. Tiki's twin was underrated in making only five Pro Bowls given his versatility as a defensive back with 47 interceptions and 28 sacks in 16 uber-durable seasons all in Tampa Bay.

118. Steve Van Buren, RB

While playing eight seasons with the Eagles from 1944-1951, Van Buren was named first-team All-Pro five times and led the NFL in both rushing yards and touchdowns in four of those seasons.

117. Andre Johnson, WR

Johnson was the first true Texans superstar, spending 12 seasons in Houston and making seven Pro Bowls before ending his career with division rivals Indianapolis and Tennessee. He topped 1,000 yards seven times, leading the league twice. He also ended up with 1,062 career receptions for 14,185 yards and 70 TDs.

116. Bill George, LB

George made first-team All-Pro eight times in his 14 seasons with the Bears. He started out as a two-way player, also playing interior offensive line, before making his biggest mark at middle linebacker. George was one of the early coverage aces at the position in the 1950s and '60s.

115. Raymond Berry, WR

Berry played with the Baltimore Colts for all 13 seasons of his career between 1955 and '67 and stood out as an early big-play wide receiver while catching plenty of Johnny Unitas passes. Berry made six Pro Bowls, leading the league in receptions and receiving yards three times each and twice in receiving TDs.

114. Jim Thorpe, RB

Thorpe would be much higher on a list of just best athletes of all time thanks to dominating Olympic track and field being a successful baseball player. He entered pro football late with only eight seasons after age 33, playing for six teams in the 1920s starting with the Canton Bulldogs. He left a taste of how dominant a runner he could have been had he played in his 20s.

113. Marion Motley, RB/LB

Motley had nine impactful seasons playing both ways in the NFL, getting four All-Pro nods with the Browns as the team made the transition from the All-America Football Conference at the end of the 1940s. He dominated as a big-play runner, receiver and return man while also contributing real impact on defense.

112. Cris Carter, WR

Carter did more than catch touchdowns spending, 12 of his 16 seasons as a Viking. He did end up with 130 TDs, hitting double digits for Minnesota every year from 1995 to 1999. The eight-time Pro Bowler ranks sixth all-time with his 1,101 receptions.

111. Steve Young, QB

Young, making the transition from the USFL and then a disappointing starting stint in Tampa Bay, waited until his 30s to become the full-time starter for San Francisco. From age 31 in 1991 through the 1998 season, Young went to seven straight Pro Bowls for the 49ers, winning two regular-season MVPs and Super Bowl 29 MVP.. The NFL's best-ever lefthanded passer was known for big arm, accuracy and efficiency with rare running ability when needed.

110. Lem Barney, CB

The seven-time Pro Bowl cover man spent all 11 seasons with the Lions from 1967-'77, returning 7 of his career 56 interceptions for touchdowns.

109. Jack Youngblood, EDGE

Youngblood was known for his great toughness in his big, agile frame (6-4, 247 pounds), playing the entire 1979 playoffs with a broken fibula. In 14 seasons all with the Rams starting in 1971, was a five-time first-team All-Pro with eight double-digit sack seasons.

108. Dwight Stephenson, C

As the Dolphins' starting stout center from 1980-'87, was a four-time first-team All-Pro often snapping to Dan Marino and run blocking well for coach Don Shula.

107. Derrick Thomas, EDGE

During 11 NFL seasons with the Chiefs, the late great pass rusher posted 126.5 sacks, leading the league with 20 in his second year of 1999. He also was a tackling and fumble-forcing menace in making nine straight Pro Bowls to begin his career.

106. Jason Witten, TE

Witten ended his career No. 4 all-time with his 1,228 receptions, behind only Rice, Fitzgerald and Gonzalez, racking up 13,046 yards. Playing for the Cowboys for 16 of his 17 seasons, Witten made 11 Pro Bowls.

105. Alan Faneca, G

Faneca was one of the steadiest, fiercest interior blockers in his 13 seasons from 1998-2010, going to seven Pro Bowls with the Steelers and two more with the Jets before finishing well with the Cardinals. Faneca was durable and devastating, missing only two games, both early in his NFL career.

104. Bobby Bell, LB

Bell was a six-time first-team All-Pro for the Chiefs over 12 seasons starting in 1963, anchoring the defense with a ton of big plays that helped the team get to Super Bowl 1 and win Super Bowl 4.

103. Marcus Allen, RB

Playing his first 11 seasons for Raiders and his last five for the rival Chiefs, Allen showed age-defying explosiveness. A tall back at 6-2, 210 pounds, he found quickness and power in his long legs, totaling 12,243 rushing yards and 123 TDs. He could take over games with either big plays or efficient volume through the red zone.

102. Lee Roy Selmon, EDGE

Selmon was the initial Buccaneers defensive superstar in his nine seasons with Tampa Bay from 1976-'84. Known for his pass rush and 78.5 career sacks, Selmon, smart and relentless in blowing up plays upfield, and also was nasty against the run.

101. Mike Webster, C

Webster was an NFL blocking fixture in his 15 seasons with the Steelers, six times getting All-Pro recognition mostly in front of Terry Bradshaw and made nine Pro Bowls as part of his interior dominance.

100. Joe Schmidt, LB

Schmidt played his entire stellar 13-season career with the Lions from 1953-1965 making a ton of plays vs. pass and run to dictate the action in the middle of the field. He was underrated in relation to Dick Butkus in Chicago and Ray Nitschke in Green Bay.

99. Cliff Harris, S

Harris was a consistent ballhawk in his 10 seasons as the Cowboys' starting free safety with 29 career interceptions and six Pro Bowl trips as the game's best extra linebacker in the 1970s.

98. Roosevelt Brown, OT

"Rosey" looked awesome in the Giants' Big Blue during 13 seasons from 1953-'65. The consistent rock at left tackle was rewarded for that smashing play with six first-team All-Pro nods.

97. Paul Warfield, WR

The Dolphins were known as being run-heavy and defense-stamped under Don Shula in the 1970s, but the five years in Miami after eight years in Cleveland established new goals for all big-play scoring receivers to come. Warfield averaged 20.1 yards per reception in his career with 85 TDs.

96. Buck Buchanan, DT

Buchanan was destructive in setting the tone up front for Chiefs' defenses that also were powered by linebacker Bobby Bell to transition from AFL to NFL glory. The durable inside pass rusher had runs of four straight All-Pros and eight consecutive Pro Bowls in the middle prime for a 13-year career in Kansas City starting in 1963.

95. Bruce Matthews, G

Matthews played 296 games over 19 seasons for the Houston Oilers turned Tennessee Titans, playing each starting line position at least once. Missing real time only in 1987 while in the league from 1983-2001, Matthews was a seven-time first-team All-Pro blocker with an amazing 14 Pro Bowl berths.

94. Jim Otto, C

Otto, spending his entire 15 seasons with the AFL-to-NFL Raiders, never missed a game, making 210 consecutive starts. The palindromic performer's consistent domination is seen in 14 Pro Bowl selections and 10 first-team All-Pros, including as a rookie in 1960.

93. Ted Hendricks, LB

"The Mad Stork" was a lanky, speedy second-level mismatch for most blockers at 6-7, 220 pounds. Hendricks was known for wreaking havoc on quarterbacks with his 26 interceptions and 61 sacks in 15 seasons with the Colts, Packers and most famously, the Raiders.

Rod Hanna-USA TODAY Sports

92. Kellen Winslow, TE

Winslow was the game's most dominant receiving tight end in his nine seasons with the Chargers from 1979-1987. He led the league in receptions twice with great efficiency and field-stretching ability that sent him to five Pro Bowls.

91. Julius Peppers, EDGE

Peppers put up 159.5 career sacks in his 17 seasons playing both end and outside linebacker with the Panthers, Bears and Packers. The nine-time Pro Bowler was an exceptionally quick athlete for his size (6-7, 295 pounds) having also played basketball at North Carolina. Peppers had 10 double-digit sack seasons and also had a nose for creating takeaways with 11 interceptions and 51 forced fumbles.

90. Mel Hein, C/LB

Hein is the only offensive lineman in NFL history to win league MVP, which he did in 1938, in the middle of his 15-year career all with the Giants. He also played linebacker at a high level in the two-way era. Hein was named All-Pro first- or second-team nine times and was part of the 11-player first class enshrined in the Hall of Fame in 1963.

89. Herb Adderley, CB

Adderley, in his 12 NFL seasons with the Packers and Cowboys, was a smooth cover man at 6-0, 205 pounds with 48 interceptions, seven of which he returned for touchdowns. He was a big part of Green Bay's 1960s five-championship dynasty under Vince Lombardi, joined by end Willie Davis, linebacker Ray Nitschke and safety Willie Wood, who all make this list.

88. Brian Dawkins, S

Dawkins was worthy of joining the past safety greats on this list with his stellar 15 combined seasons with the Eagles and Broncos. He was well-rounded as an aggressive free safety playmaker with 37 interceptions, 26 sacks and 39 forced fumbles in his career. He made the Pro Bowl eight times and remains a beloved defensive team leader in both Philadelphia and Denver.

87. Ken Houston, S

Houston was a huge defensive back at 6-3, 197 pounds over his combined 14 seasons with the Houston Oilers and Washington. He turned 9 of his career 49 interceptions for touchdowns and added 21 fumble recoveries in making the Pro Bowl 12 times as a coverage and upfield force at free safety.

86. Art Shell, OT

Shell flanked Gene Upshaw at left tackle in his 15 seasons with the Raiders from 1968-'82. Packed with power at 6-5, 265 pounds, Shell won many of his battles with his quick feet and hands. Like Upshaw he was durable with eight Pro Bowls to show for it in front of many great Silver and Black offenses.

85. Larry Wilson, S

Wilson was the St. Louis Cardinals best-ever player, starring as their free safety for 13 seasons from 1960-'72. He was a hard-hitting attacker and flat-out playmaker, making first-team All-Pro five times on the strength of 54 career interceptions and 14 fumble recoveries. He also posted 7 defensive touchdowns on returns and added 21 sacks as a blitzer.

84. Mike Singletary, LB

Singletary was part of the Bears' great middle linebacker tradition between Dick Butkus and Brian Urlacher. Knowing for his glaring eyes and intensity, Singletary was a ferocious playmaker. He was an exceptional tackler and blitzer in making first-team All-Pro seven times in his 12 seasons with the Bears. Singletary stamped his career by earning Defensive Player of the Year twice, including on the loaded Super Bowl 20-winning defense in 1985.

83. Randall McDaniel, G

File McDaniel under the many all-time great left guards. McDaniel dominated the position for his 14 seasons with the Vikings and Buccaneers from 1988 to 2001, with seven first-team All-Pro honors and 12 Pro Bowls to his credit.

82. Willie Lanier, LB

Lanier was an outstanding middle linebacker for the Chiefs' defense in 11 seasons between 1967 and 1977. He produced 27 interceptions and recovered 18 fumbles as a turnover machine. Lanier went to eight Pro Bowls and was a three-time first-team All-Pro.

81. Michael Strahan, EDGE

Strahan comes in at No. 6 with his official career sack total of 141.5. He was a consistent force from left defensive end for his 15 seasons all with the Giants from 1993-'07. He ended his prolific career by being part of the New York pass rush that sparked the massive upset of Tom Brady and the Patriots in Super Bowl 42.

80. Roger Staubach, QB

"Captain Comeback" was known for his clutch play in the biggest moments for the Cowboys and fearless downfield passing. From 1969-1979, Staubach went 85-29 as Dallas' starter, going to six Pro Bowls. He led the Cowboys to two rings as the MVP of Super Bowl 6 and also leading a rout in Super Bowl 8.

79. Lance Alworth, WR

Alworth was a great big-play receiver for the Chargers for nine seasons for when the team made the transition from the AFL to the NFL in the 1960s. The six-time first-team All-Pro lead his league in receptions, receiving yards and receiving TDs thrice each. He ended up with 542 catches for 10,266 yards for his career, averaging 18.9 yards per catch.

78. Marvin Harrison, WR

Harrison was spectacular in his 13 seasons with the Colts as Peyton Manning's go-to guy in the late 90s through the late aughts. He earned eight straight Pro Bowls and All-Pro recognition from 1999-2006. Harrison is No. 5 all-time in both receptions (1,102) and receiving TDs (128) and No. 9 in receiving yards (14,580),

77. Gene Upshaw, G

During his 15 seasons all with the Raiders from 1967-'81, Upshaw was a often dominant run-blocking force at left guard. He earned first- or second-team All-Pro nods eight times while playing in Oakland to spark some top rushing attacks. He also has the ironman record for most consecutive games started from the beginning of a career, 231 including playoffs.

76. Emlen Tunnell, S

Tunnell played 14 total seasons with the Giants and Packers and posted 79 interceptions, the second-highest total in NFL history behind Paul Krause. He was a big and durable tough cover man at 6-1, 187 pounds and earned nine Pro Bowl trips for his efforts.

75. Steve Largent, WR

Largent amassed 819 receptions for 13,089 yards and 100 touchdowns in his 14 seasons all with the Seahawks from 1976-1989. He led the league in receiving yards twice and averaged a robust 16.0 yards per catch over his career, during which he made seven Pro Bowls.

74. John Mackey, TE

Mackey was the pioneering big-play receiving tight end, starring in nine seasons with the Baltimore Colts. He splashed on the scene averaging 20.7 yards per catch as a rookie Pro Bowler in 1963. Mackey ended up averaging 15.8 yards per catch while also being a dominant blocker for some prolific rushing teams.

73. Jason Kelce, C

Jason joins his brother Travis in the top 140 with his terrific play as the Eagles' starting center for 13 seasons, retiring in 2023 as a surefire Hall of Famer. He got better as he got older, with all six of his first-team All-Pro nods coming after age 30, ushering in the era of two Super Bowl rings and the famous "Tush Push".

72. Myles Garrett, EDGE

The 6-4, 272-pounder is working to finish his career with flourish and a Rams Super Bowl ring after a spectacular nine seasons with the Browns. Garrett is the reigning two-time Sporting News Defensive Player of the Year. Coming off a single-season record 23 sacks, he's up to 125.5 for his career. Garrett also remains an elite run-stopper with a chance to shoot up this list soon.

71. Antonio Gates, TE

Gates ranks fourth all-time among tight ends with his 11,841 receiving yards and is No. 8 overall with his 116 receiving TDs. Converting from a star basketball player at Kent State, Gates was an undrafted steal, giving the Chargers 16 great seasons from 2003-'18. His special route-running and soft hands through the red zone working with a lot with quarterback Philip Rivers got him eight Pro Bowl nods.

70. Chuck Bednarik, C/LB

Bednarik is known as the most impressive two-way player in NFL history, packing pure toughness in all of his 6-3, 233-pound frame. In 14 seasons with the Eagles from 1949-'62, Bednarik punished opponents in the middle on both sides of the ball, making first-team All-Pro six times.

Bob Breidenbach-The Providence Journal-Imagn Images

69. Rob Gronkowski, TE

For Gronk, the only thing bigger than his mismatch-creating 6-6, 265-pound frame remains his huge fun-loving personality. Gronkowki had a rare combination of power and athleticism, making him a unique downfield threat for Tom Brady, both on the Patriots and Buccaneers. He also doesn't get enough credit for his smarts and passion for the game. Gronk ended up with 621 receptions for 9,286 yards and 92 TDs while averaging 15 yards per catch.

68. Earl Campbell, RB

Campbell was an all-time great power runner with his 5-11, 232-pound frame and low center of gravity. In his nine seasons with the Oilers, Campbell led the league in rushing in his first three to earn first-team All-Pro. In eight years overall, ending with the Saints, Campbell rushed for 9,407 yards and 74 TDs.

67. Calvin Johnson, WR

"Megatron", standing at an apt 6-5, 237 pounds, was the most feared coverage assignment in the NFL in his nine spectacular seasons as the Lions' top wide receiver from 2007-'15. With his 731 career receptions for 11,619 yards, he averaged 15.9 yards per catch to make him an elite big-play wide receiver. He also scored 12 or more TDs four times, including 16 in '11.

66. O.J. Simpson, RB

Simpson, before all the unfortunate circumstances that came later in retirement, enjoyed nine electric seasons for the Bills starting as a rookie in 1969. He won four rushing titles with Buffalo as part of being named first-team All-Pro five straight times from 1972-76.

65. Jack Ham, LB

With Jack Lambert controlling the middle of the "Steel Curtain", the Steelers had him flanked by Ham on the left side. Ham complemented Lambert's pounding ways with his great upfield and lateral quickness, recording 32 career interceptions and 25.5 sacks. Ham made first-team All-Pro six consecutive seasons from 1974-79.

64. Trent Williams, OT

Williams was a great left tackle for Washington in the first nine seasons of his career starting as the No. 4 overall draft pick in 2010. But the big 6-5, 320-pound athlete transcended to all-time elite with both his pass protecting and run blocking for the 49ers in six terrific seasons and counting.

63. Terrell Owens, WR

Owens was known for being a bit mercurial on the field, which led to him playing for five teams — 49ers, Cowboys, Eagles, Bills and Bengals — in 15 seasons. He led the league in receiving TDs three times and ranks third behind only Rice and Moss with his 153 TDs overall. He also is No. 3 in receiving yards (15,934) behind Rice and Fitzgerald and No. 9 with 1,078 receptions.

62. Forrest Gregg, OT

Gregg, in his 14 seasons with the Packers in the late 50s through late 60s, was a reliably strong right tackle making nine Pro Bowls and seven first-team All-Pros. He was the offensive line foundation of Green Bay's five-championship dynasty with Vince Lombardi.

61. Larry Fitzgerald, WR

Fitzgerald is second only to Rice in both receptions (1,432) and receiving yardage (17,492). His 121 career receiving TDs in 17 seasons with the Cardinals from 2004-'20 puts him at No. 6. Fitzgerald was known for his strong hands, crisp routes and positioning his 6-3, 218-pound well to beat defenders. Because of his non-flashy style he was still a bit underrated despite 10 Pro Bowl nods.

60. Eric Dickerson, RB

Dickerson is No. 9 all-time with his 13,259 rushing yards and also scored 90 rushing TDs to put him just outside the top 10. Playing for the Rams, Colts, Raiders and Falcons over 11 seasons, Dickerson won four rushing and scrimmage yardage titles and also was named first-team All-Pro four times. He was known for his pure running with his 6-3, 220-pound frame.

59. Mel Blount, CB

Blount stood out on the back end of the "Steel Curtain" with his 6-3, 205-pound presence in coverage. He tallied 57 interceptions in his 14 seasons with the Steelers, reaching his prime in their mid-to-late 70s Super Bowl dynasty. Blount's best season was 1975, when he beat out some Hall of Fame teammates to earn Defensive Player of the Year on the strength of a league-high 11 interceptions.

58. Joe Thomas, OT

Thomas was one of the true ironmen in NFL history, once taking 10,363 consecutive snaps starting at left tackle. He made the Pro Bowl in 10 of his 11 seasons with the Browns and his consistent top play also made him the easy first-team All-Pro six times.

57. Derrick Brooks, LB

Brooks, a career-long Buccaneer from 1995 to 2008, was named to 11 Pro Bowls with first- or second-team All-Pro recognition nine times in 14 seasons. Although Brooks was a sure, rangy and prolific tackler, his signature was making takeaways with both 25 interceptions and 25 forced fumbles.

56. Jim Parker, G

Parker, in his 11 seasons with the Baltimore Colts from 1957 to 1967, had a streak in his prime of making first-team All-Pro eight times. Playing guard and tackle, he was a devastating inside-outside run blocker with his 6-3, 273-pound frame.

55. Junior Seau, LB

The late great Seau lasted 20 seasons in the league at a most demanding outside linebacker position, finishing his prolific tackling career with the Dolphins and Patriots after going 12-for-13 in making Pro Bowls as the heart and soul of the Chargers' defense. Seau was fueled by emotion and showed his relentless passion in how he made big plays all over the field.

54. Jack Lambert, LB

Lambert was the cleanup man in the middle of the "Steel Curtain", cleaning the clock of anybody coming in his purview with hard hits. He also looked scary looming for the Steelers, known as "Dracula in Cleats" for playing without four front teeth. For all his hard-hitting and sure tackling, the nine-time Pro Bowler from 11 years in Pittsburgh also was a modern linebacker with sharp coverage instincts and blitzing acumen.

53. Walter Jones, OT

Jones was dominant in his own right as a contemporary left tackle to Orlando Pace. The 6-5, 325-pound rock was a terrific athlete for the position with his footwork and technique. Jones also was durable in starting 180 games all with the Seahawks over 12 seasons, with 9 Pro Bowl trips and four first-team All-Pro nods.

52. Sammy Baugh, QB

"Slinging Sammy" makes the list as one of the game's most important quarterbacking pioneers. In his 16 seasons with Washington from 1935-'52, he led the league in completion percentage eight times with his fearless flinging of the ball downfield. The four-time All-Pro opened the door for the passing game to become a primary part of the offense.

51. Marshall Faulk, RB

With his 12 seasons playing for the Colts and Rams, Faulk was the ultimate rushing and receiving dual threat. He ranks No. 5 in all-time scrimmage yards with 19,154 and scored and is No. 7 in combined touchdowns with 136. Faulk also won NFL MVP in 2000 and was named Offensive Player of the Year three times.

50. Warren Sapp, DT

At 6-2, 303 pounds, Sapp was a scary presence looming over interior offensive lines in his 13 combined seasons with the Buccaneers and Raiders. He was named first-team All-Pro four times. Sapp posted 96.5 career sacks, hitting double digits from the inside four times.

49. Champ Bailey, CB

Bailey split his career with Washington and the Broncos over 15 seasons, moved in the blockbuster Clinton Portis trade. At 6-0, 192 he was the most consistent top cover corner of the 2000s, ending up with 52 interceptions and a record 203 passes defended.

48. Charles Woodson, CB/S

Woodson was the first true defensive player to win the Heisman Trophy while leading Michigan to a national championship. He started and ended his career with the Oakland Raiders, first as a rookie Pro Bowl corner and last as a Pro Bowl safety in his 18th season. In between, he became the versatile playmaking force in the Packers secondary for seven seasons, winning Defensive Player of the Year for his unique combination of interceptions and sacks under Dom Capers in 2009. Woodson got his Super Bowl ring in Green Bay and also was a nine-time Pro Bowler who got All-Pro recognition seven times.

47. Merlin Olsen, DT

Olsen was not far behind end Deacon Jones as the most famed member of the Rams' Fearsome Foursome from 1963-67, a dominant defensive front that also included end Lamar Lundy and tackle Rosey Grier. Olsen played all of his 15 seasons with the Rams, starting every game from '64 to '76. His consistent inside pass rush added up to 91 sacks, five first-team All-Pro nods and 14 Pro Bowls.

46. LaDainian Tomlinson, RB

Tomlinson was the top running back of the 2000s, playing 9 of his 11 seasons with the Chargers. Playing in San Diego, this LT won an MVP and got six All-Pro mentions while winning two rushing titles. Tomlinson ended up sixth all-time with 18,456 yards from scrimmage and is third behind Rice and Smith with his 162 combined rushing and receiving TDs.

45. Orlando Pace, OT

Pace was the blocking anchor of the Rams' "Greatest Show on Turf" teams. He helped protect Kurt Warner in order to throw downfield to Isaac Bruce and Torry Holt. Known for his pancake blocks at 6-7, 325 pounds, Pace also paved the way for Marshall Faulk's prolific running. In 12 seasons in St. Louis, Pace lived up to his No. 1 overall draft pick in 1997 with his seven Pro Bowl selections.

44. J.J. Watt, DT

Watt ripped off 114.5 sacks in his 12 total NFL seasons with the Texans and Colts. When he wasn't dropping QBs, he was swatting down their passes, forcing fumbles and making big interceptions. Watt led the league in sacks twice, won Defensive Player of the Year honors thrice and was named first-team All-Pro five times.

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43. Otto Graham, QB

Graham has been passed up by some modern quarterbacks but he was a trend-setter with his accurate downfield passing and clutch athleticism. In 10 seasons with the Browns from 1946-'55 with the team transitioning from the All-America Football Conference to the NFL, Graham won seven total championships in his short career.

42. Gino Marchetti, EDGE/OT

Marchetti's primary position was defensive end playing 13 of his 14 seasons for the Baltimore Colts from 1953-'66. Marchetti's official sack total was an early record of 56 while making first-team All-Pro seven times. Before sacks were recorded starting in 1960, he had six dominant seasons getting to the quarterback and blowing up plays in the backfield.

41. Dick "Night Train" Lane, CB

Lane got his best-ever nickname from a popular song to which he loved to dance every time his early Rams teammate Tom Fears played. During his rookie season in Los Angeles in 1952, Lane set a still-standing record with 14 interceptions. Through playing 13 more seasons with the Rams, Cardinals and Lions, the elite star cover corner would total 68 INTs with 5 returned for TDs to earn All-Pro recognition six times.

40. Don Hutson, WR

Hutson's speed, route-running and hands would have made him capable of playing any era but he dominated his 11 seasons playing for Green Bay from 1935-'45. He was first- or second-team All-Pro every year, leading the league in receptions and receiving TDs eight times, and receiving yards seven times. Hutson was a dynamic big playmaker, making him a unique passing game asset for his era.

39. Randy White, DT

"The Manster" (half man, half monster) was the NFC's top inside pass rusher of the mid 70s and early 80s, playing 14 seasons for the Cowboys. He also was a seven-time first-team All-Pro who hit 111 career sacks.

38. John Hannah, G

Hannah was a powerful ironman playing left guard in 13 seasons for the Patriots from 1973 to '85. The seven-time first-team All-Pro was a stout all-around interior blocker packing all punch at 6-2, 265 pounds.

37. Brett Favre, QB

Favre was a throwback gunslinger who started 321 consecutive games for the Packers on top of winning three straight NFL MVP awards from 1995-1997. He was the best and most durable QB in the league in his prime through his early 30s. Favre stamped his career with his one ring from Super Bowl 31.

36. John Randle, DT

Randle racked up 137 sacks as an interior defensive lineman over his 14 seasons with the Vikings and Seahawks, earning him six first-team All Pros and 7 Pro Bowl trips. He was tough and durable blowing up plays in the backfield with relentless pursuit.

35. Deion Sanders, CB

The premier Prime Time cover cornerback spent time with five teams (Falcons, 49ers, Cowboys, Washington, Ravens) while dancing to six first-team All-Pros and eight Pro Bowls over 14 non-consecutive seasons. He would have had more than 53 career interceptions had teams wanted to even attempt passes in his direction. Sanders also got his lone Defensive Player of the Year award in San Francisco, when he had 3 INT return TDs in 1994. Although not much of a tackler, Sanders was electric as they come for a shutdown corner.

34. Drew Brees, QB

Brees didn't win a regular-season MVP and had only one Super Bowl ring, but that came in an era where he had to compete with Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers and Peyton Manning for championships and major awards. What he did do in spending 15 years with the Saints after five with the Chargers was make 13 Pro Bowls and lead the league in passing yards seven times and passing touchdowns four times. In yards and TDs career-wise, he's looking up only at Brady.

33. Jonathan Ogden, OT

Ogden is the closest thing the league has had to Anthony Munoz, as the 11-time Ravens Pro Bowler with nine All-Pro nods was an incredible athlete moving defenders out of the way at a massive 6-9, 345 pounds.

32. Alan Page, DT

Page, playing for the Purple People Eaters Vikings defense for 12 seasons in the 1960s and 1970s, established a reputation as backfield disruptor, using all of his athletic 6-4, 245-pound frame to bring down quarterbacks and deflect passes.

31. Travis Kelce, TE

Kelce, as a lifelong Chief, build on Tony Gonzalez's transcendent work in passing game and stands out as the modern top tight end with his durability and top production. He also will go down as an elite playoff receiver. It's rare someone at his position becomes so popular and crossers over to become a top celebrity, a testament to his star power as Patrick Mahomes' long-time go-to guy.

30. Gale Sayers, RB

Sayers, aka "The Kansas Comet", rocketed to astronomical numbers in only seven seasons in which he was first-team All-Pro five times. He won two rushing titles and had 54 combined touchdowns in 68 career games, dazzling as a runner, receiver and explosive return man to build an open-field legacy ahead of his time.

29. Bruce Smith, DT

Smith dominated from 3-4 end for the Bills and was the worthy cover subject when Sporting News expanded to a glossy magazine format in 1997. Smith is the first and only member of the 200-sack club, earning eight first-team All-Pro nods and 13 double-digit sack seasons in 19 total years with Buffalo and Washington.

28. Deacon Jones, EDGE

Jones was the OG dominant sack artist, before quarterback tackles were named as a standalone statistic. Whether it was the patented "head slap" move that was so powerful the NFL had to outlaw it or devastating quickness, Jones was the most feared of the Rams' famed Fearsome Foursome. Unofficially, he would have the third-most sacks in NFL history behind Reggie White and Bruce Smith.

27. Dick Butkus, LB

Before Butkus became the lovable teddy bear actor in his post-NFL career, he was an absolute grizzly monster, ripping apart the souls of ball-carriers. His spirited play was seen in Ray Lewis and setting up a rich linebacker tradition in Chicago.

26. Bob Lilly, DT

"Mr. Cowboy" was a durable defender with rare blend of athleticism and power inside. The 11-time All-Pro played in 196 consecutive games in 16 seasons with Dallas, and he won one Super Bowl ring.

25. Rod Woodson, CB/S

No defensive back is responsible for more takeaways than Woodson with his 71 interceptions and 32 fumble recoveries. Woodson had a nose for the ball when not shutting down his assignments in 17 seasons with the Steelers, 49ers, Ravens and Raiders.

24. Ed Reed, S

Reed had 64 interceptions and 13 fumble recoveries as the premier turnover creator among defensive backs in the 2000s. He also scored 10 times on returns, including his mid-career role fielding punts. Between him and Ronnie Lott, the middle of the field would be on lock between our top two safeties.

23. Dan Marino, QB

Marino stands out as the best quarterback to never win a Super Bowl. He's up there with Aaron Rodgers and Patrick Mahomes with his cannon arm and changed the statistic limits of the position with his 48-TD MVP season in 1984. Marino was also a clutch passer on top of his downfield accuracy.

22. Ronnie Lott, S

Lott started out as a top cover corner for the 49ers before transitioning into his most notable role as a hard-hitting safety with the intensity and intimidation that also has become a big asset for the position. As good as an extra linebacker racking up tackles, he also was an elite ballhawk inside.

Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

21. Randy Moss, WR

Jerry Rice is the GOAT wide receiver for his hands, route-running and overall numbers. Moss is next as the best big-play threat the game has ever seen at wide receiver. From his early "Mossing" Vikings opponents with his size (6-4, 215 pounds) and speed to his record scoring heights with the Patriots, Moss was the ultimate coverage mismatch outside. Like Tony Gonzalez, he too used his basketball past to post up and outreach corners for the ball.

20. Tony Gonzalez, TE

Gonzalez, a former college basketball standout at Cal, was a slam dunk for the top tight end on his list with his smooth 6-5, 247-pound frame. He was trend-setting for tight ends having the quickness, hands and athleticism to produce like a prolific wide receiver. His longevity, durability and consistency through a combined 17 seasons with the Chiefs and Falcons redefined how long a modern NFL career could be, even at a most demanding position.

19. Johnny Unitas, QB

Much like Jim Brown, Unitas was ahead of his time as one of the NFL's first national offensive superstars. He changed the game that was predicated mostly on the running the ball with his big arm arm and fearless downfield passing. Without Johnny U. making his mark on the Colts, the quarterback position would not have accelerated toward the modern era.

18. John Elway, QB

Elway would have put some huge numbers in the modern pass-happier era. When he played his entire 16-career with the Broncos, he was the epitome of athleticism, clutch play and toughness coming together to make his cannon arm even more impressive. He is right up there with Tom Brady, Joe Montana and Patrick Mahomes as a comeback captain.

17. Aaron Rodgers, QB

Whatever one thinks of what's gone with Rodgers off the field in his breakup with the Packers and what's happened since with the Jets and Steelers, his four MVPs (one short of Manning's record) and Super Bowl ring during his 18 years in Green Bay puts him up here alone. Rodgers' pure arm strength to make any throw while on the move remains jaw-dropping.

16. Larry Allen, G

Allen joined the 90's dynasty Cowboys and started paving the way for Emmitt Smith. The late 6-3, 335-pound behemoth made it hard to get by him with his hands and feet. After a dozen years of consistent dominance with the Cowboys, he gave the 49ers one, too.

15. Emmitt Smith, RB

Smith combined the elements of Jim Brown, Barry Sanders and Walter Payton into his own style, turning block-following patience to sudden explosion and quickness. At 5-9, 221 pounds, he also brought compact power with his elusiveness in helping the Cowboys win three rings.

14. Walter Payton, RB

His name is Sweetness and he likes to dance. Payton was prophetic about his fleet feet and twinkle toes that made him such a prolific runner for the Bears. There was a grace to how he ground through opponents and that carried over to his kindness off the field. That legacy continues with his namesake's awards for top HBCU and NFL humanitarian honors.

13. Joe Greene, DT

"Mean" wasn't just an apt nickname for Greene, a reference to the nickname of his football alma mater, North Texas (State). At 6-4, 275 pounds, he was the man who most set the nasty tone for the "Steel Curtain" defense that defined the Steelers' 1970s' dynasty. Imagining him and Aaron Donald on the same front makes one shudder.

12. Barry Sanders, RB

Sanders, much like Jim Brown and future fellow Lions offensive star Calvin Johnson, left the game before the game left him. Sanders was well aware of his nimble feet and all-time elusiveness, capable of turning any run into a home-run by leaving defenders in the dust. For how much he jitterbugged, Sanders also packed a lot of power at 5-8, 203 pounds.

11. Ray Lewis, LB

From his squirrel dance before the game to the final snap of the game, Lewis was an intense leader. His ability to diagnose plays was only bested by his burst to finish off tackles. Built like a prizefighter at 6-1, 240 pounds, Lewis made opponents fear the Ravens and was the force behind two Super Bowl winners.

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10. Patrick Mahomes, QB

Mahomes is the only QB outside of the top five who has a shot to catch Tom Brady as the GOAT when it's all said and done. He's got the massive numbers with the Chiefs early and just turning 30, he still has plenty of time to rack up stats and add to his three rings. Mahomes has a wow factor with his arm and improv that Tom Brady and Joe Montana didn't have.

9. Peyton Manning, QB

Manning had two Super Bowl-winning careers, split up by a scary neck injury. In the first half, he showed off his arm, accuracy and intelligence in leading the Colts' prolific and explosive offense. Although getting his first ring was difficult, it was hard-earned in the Tom Brady era. Then Manning kicked into a higher productive gear with the Broncos before being lifted by the defense for his long-deserved second ring.

8. Aaron Donald, DT

Donald, the Sporting News' two-time defensive player of the year with the Rams, ascended to the best interior defensive lineman of all time, stamped by his making the clinching play in Super Bowl 56. He packed all wallop in his 6-1, 280-pound frame.

7. Anthony Munoz, OT

Munoz, at 6-6, 278 pounds was part immobile object, part irresistible force for the Bengals in displacing would-be edge rushers as the most devastating pass protector the game still has ever seen.

6. Joe Montana, QB

Montana went 4-0 in Super Bowls for the 49ers and also didn't throw an interception in any of them, showing his complete cool as the ideal clutch passer in Bill Walsh's early iteration of the West Coast offense. He used his accuracy, smarts and quick feet for unparalleled methodical execution. That continued later in his time lifting up the Chiefs.

5. Reggie White, EDGE

The Minister of Defense was revered for his relentless pass-rushing versatility, using all of his 6-5, 291 pounds to rip into and engulf quarterbacks. White was the linchpin of the Eagles' dominance under Buddy Ryan and then went on to spark the Packers to a ring.

4. Lawrence Taylor, EDGE

Taylor at 6-3, 237 pounds, was the premier pass-rushing force in the 1980s and helped the Giants win Super Bowl 21. His intimidating presence and fierce finishes still create nightmares. LT even deserves more credit for how he also punished running backs.

3. Jim Brown, RB

Brown was a menacing all-around athlete who bullied opponents with his special blend of power and quickness. He wasn't stopped much by contemporaries, running around and through them for performances ahead of his time. He also left the Browns and the league before any kind of real decline in his game.

2. Jerry Rice, WR

Rice is the most statistical dominant receiver of all time and also can boast being part of the 49ers' dynasty for three Super Bowl rings. He too gets extra credit for how he defied age with incredible work ethic and put up big numbers when most wideouts faded.

1. Tom Brady, QB

Brady has the seven Super Bowl rings combined with the Patriots and Buccaneers to make him the most decorated modern NFL champion, but he should get more credit for his durability, longevity and consistent production through the end of his career.

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