Pick By Pick, A Countdown of the NFL’s Greatest Draft Picks: Pick #72

The highest ranked offensive player chosen 72nd overall was only ranked 4th on this list. The even stranger part of this one was there were only two offensive players that even made it in the top 10. There were only five championship wins among the players on this list, but one of them won five more as an assistant coach. The only skill position player to make the list set a then Super Bowl record with an 80 yard touchdown.

Active players drafted 72nd overall: former New York Jets G Brian Winters, Kent State, 2013; former St. Louis Rams G Jamon Brown, Louisville, 2015; Minnesota Vikings DE Jonathan Bullard, Florida, (drafted by Chicago Bears) 2016; New Orleans Breakers (USFL) WR Taywan Taylor, Western Kentucky, (drafted by Tennessee Titans) 2017; New York Jets DT Nathan Shepherd, Fort Hays State, 2018; Cincinnati Bengals LB Jermaine Pratt, North Carolina State, 2019; Arizona Cardinals OT Josh Jones, Houston, 2020; Detroit Lions DT Alim McNeil, NC State, 2021; Seattle Seahawks OT Abraham Lucas, Washington State, 2022

10. Los Angeles Raiders. James Trapp, CB, Clemson, 1993

He played 11 seasons with the Los Angeles/Oakland Raiders (1993-1998), Baltimore Ravens (1999-2002), and Jacksonville Jaguars (2003). He played in all 16 games and started one for the Super Bowl XXXV champion Baltimore Ravens. In 11 seasons he started 32 of 149 games, and had 349 tackles (271 solo), 21 passes defensed, nine interceptions for 99 yards, six tackles for loss, six sacks, and three fumble recoveries.

9. Pittsburgh Steelers-Kendrick Clancy, NT, Mississippi, 2000

He played 10 years with the Pittsburgh Steelers (2000-2004), New York Giants (2005), Arizona Cardinals (2006), and New Orleans Saints (2007-2009). He was only healthy for two games in his final season, but the Saints won Super Bowl XLIV that year. In 10 seasons he started 46 of 109 games, and had 159 tackles (126 solo), six QB hits, 5.5 sacks, four passes defensed, three forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, and one interception for three yards.

8. St. Louis Cardinals-Lance Smith, G, Louisiana State, 1985

He played 12 years with the St. Louis/Phoenix Cardinals (1985-1993), and the New York Giants (1994-1996). In 12 seasons he started 165 of 182 games played. He started all 16 games six times in his career, from 1988-1993.

7. Jacksonville Jaguars-Terrance Knighton, DT, Temple, 2009

He played seven years with the Jacksonville Jaguars (2009-2012), Denver Broncos (2013-2014), and the Washington Redskins (2015). He was named to three different All Rookie teams: The Sporting News, PFWA, and Pro Football Weekly. In seven seasons he started 96 of 108 games played, and had 230 tackles (148 solo), 38 QB hits, 34 tackles for loss, 14 sacks, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries for 20 yards, and two interceptions for -1 yards.

6. Cleveland Browns-Cliff Odom, LB, Texas-Arlington, 1980

He played 13 years with the Cleveland Browns (1980), Baltimore/Indianapolis Colts (1982-1989), and Miami Dolphins (1990-1993). In 13 years he started 104 of 167 games played, and had 12 sacks, 11 fumble recoveries for nine yards and a touchdown, and one interception.

5. Miami Dolphins-Olivier Vernon, DE, Miami (FL), 2012

He has played nine years with the Miami Dolphins (2012-2015), New York Giants (2016-2018), and Cleveland Browns (2019-2020). He was named to the Pro Bowl in 2018, and was a Second-team All-Pro in 2016. He became an unrestricted free agent after the 2020 season, but never signed with a team in 2021. In nine seasons he’s started 108 of 127 games, and has recorded 389 tackles (279 solo), 157 QB hits, 87 tackles for loss, 63.5 sacks, nine forced fumbles, five passes defensed, three fumble recoveries for 43 yards, and one interception.

4. Houston Oilers-Kenny King, FB, Oklahoma, 1979

He played seven seasons with the Houston Oilers (1979), the Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders (1980-1985), and one season with the CFL’s Hamilton Tiger Cats (1987). He was named to the Pro Bowl in 1980, when he had 172 carries for 761 yards and four touchdowns. He earned two Super Bowl rings with the Raiders wins in Super Bowls XV & XVIII, and set a record with an 80 yard touchdown in Super Bowl XV. In seven years he started 67 of 97 games, and had 579 carries for 2,477 yards and seven touchdowns, and 89 catches for 715 yards and a touchdown.

3. L.A. Rams-Norb Hecker, DB, Baldwin-Wallace, 1951

He played pro football for eight years, split between the Los Angeles Rams (1951-1953), Toronto Argonauts (1954), Washington Redskins (1955-1957), and the Hamilton Tiger-Cats (1958). He started 10 games and had three interceptions for 74 yards in 1951 when the Rams won the NFL Championship. In six NFL seasons he started 52 of 64 games played, and had 28 interceptions for 332 yards, and four fumble recoveries for 17 yards and a touchdown. After retiring, he spent the the next 27 years coaching in the NFL, mainly as an assistant, but he was the head coach for the Atlanta Falcons (1966-1968). He won three NFL championships while an assistant with the Packers, and two more with the 49ers.

2. Philadelphia Eagles-Jeremiah Trotter, LB, Stephen F. Austin St., 1998

He played 11 years with three stints with the Philadelphia Eagles (1998-2001, 2004-2006, 2009), interrupted by stints with the Washington Redskins (2002-2003), & Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2007). He was selected to the Pro Bowl four times: in 2000, 2001, 2004 & 2005. He was a First-team All-Pro in 2000, and a Second-team All-Pro in 2001. In 11 seasons he started 124 of 147 games played, and had 914 tackles (723 solo), 69 tackles for loss, 51 passes defensed, 12.5 sacks, nine interceptions for 163 yards and two touchdowns, nine forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, and one QB hit. He was inducted into the Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame in 2016.

1. Minnesota Vikings-Henry Thomas, DT, Louisiana State, 1987

He played 14 years with the Minnesota Vikings (1987-1994), Detroit Lions (1995-1996), and New England Patriots (1997-2000). He led the league with four forced fumbles in his second season. Don’t let his two Pro Bowl selections in 1991 & 1992 fool you, as a fan of a division rival, I can tell you, he should’ve been selected to five. He was also a Second-team All-Pro in 1993. He was named to the 50 Greatest Vikings. In 14 seasons he started 199 of 213 games, and had 1,006 tackles (reaching triple digits in a season twice), 93.5 sacks, 19 forced fumbles, 14 tackles for loss, 14 fumble recoveries for 39 yards and two touchdowns, four interceptions for 47 yards and a touchdown, and three passes defensed. He’s not in the Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor yet, but maybe enough Vikings fans could see this & give them a little reminder?

Pick By Pick, A Countdown of the NFL’s Greatest Draft Picks: Pick #71

Part of what makes these lists so fun is the difference from one list to another. In this case, the top two players are running backs, and one actually led the league in rushing once. The player in third place gave Joe Namath the nickname Broadway Joe. Three of the top four have gone into coaching, that’s another unique trait for the list of the best NFL players drafted 71st overall.

Active players drafted 71st overall: Houston Texans LB Christian Kirksey, Iowa, (drafted by Cleveland Browns) 2014; Las Vegas Raiders C Hroniss Grasu, Oregon, (drafted by Chicago Bears) 2015; former Dallas Cowboys S Darian Thompson, Boise State, (drafted by New York Giants) 2016; New York Jets G Dan Feeney, Indiana, (Drafted by San Diego Chargers) 2017; Houston Texans RB Royce Freeman, Oregon, (drafted by Denver Broncos) 2018; Denver Broncos DT Dre’Mont Jones, Ohio State, 2019, Baltimore Ravens DT Justin Madubuike, Texas A & M, 2020; New York Giants CB Aaron Robinson, UCF, 2021; Chicago Bears WR Velus Jones jr, Tennessee, 2022

10. Green Bay Packers-Alex Agase, LB-G, Illinois, 1944

His military service delayed the start of his pro career, which started with the Los Angeles Dons (1947), then he was traded to the Chicago Rockets (1947), who traded him to the Cleveland Browns (1948-1951). The Browns traded him to the Houston Texans in 1952, but he retired & became an assistant coach with the team. When the Texans folded after a 1-11 season, he joined the Baltimore Colts to play one last season in 1953. In six seasons as a player he started 45 of 70 games. The Browns won championships from 1948-1950 while he was there.

9. Minnesota Vikings-Nate Burleson, WR, Nevada-Reno, 2003

He played 11 years for the Minnesota Vikings (2003-2005), Seattle Seahawks (2006-2009), and Detroit Lions (2010-2013). He had career highs of 1,006 yards and nine touchdowns in 2004, and 73 catches in 2011. In 11 seasons he started 103 of 135 games played, and had 457 catches for 5,630 yards and 39 touchdowns, 156 punt returns for 1,523 yards and three touchdowns, and 57 kickoffs returned for 1,286 yards and one touchdown.
8. Green Bay Packers-Morgan Burnett, SS, Georgia Tech, 2010

He played 10 years with the Green Bay Packers (2010-2017), Pittsburgh Steelers (2018), and Cleveland Browns (2019). He suffered a torn ACL in week four of his rookie year & missed the rest of the season, but the Packers won Super Bowl XLV that season. In 10 seasons he started 112 of 121 games played, and had 769 tackles (540 solo), 52 passes defensed, 27 tackles for loss, 20 QB hits, 10 interceptions for 95 yards, 9.5 sacks, nine fumble recoveries for 93 yards and a touchdown, and eight forced fumbles.

7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Donnie Abraham, CB, E. Tennessee State,1996

He played nine years with Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1996-2001), and the New York Jets (2002-2004). He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 1996, when he started 12 of 16 games and had 58 tackles (50 solo), five interceptions for 27 yards, and two fumble recoveries for three yards. He was the NFL’s co-leader in interceptions in 1999, when he had seven interceptions for 115 yards and two touchdowns. He was named to the Pro Bowl in 2000, when he had seven interceptions for 82 yards. In nine seasons he started 112 of 132 games played, and had 442 tackles (362 solo), 38 interceptions for 462 yards and three touchdowns, 92 passes defensed, eight fumble recoveries for 44 yards and a touchdown, eight tackles for loss, two sacks, and two forced fumbles.

6. New Orleans Saints-Hoby Brenner, TE, USC, 1981

He spent his entire 13 year career with the New Orleans Saints (1981-1993). He was named to the Pro Bowl during the strike shortened 1987 season, when he started 10 of 12 games and had 20 catches for 280 yards and two touchdowns. In 13 seasons he started 157 of 175 games and had 267 catches for 3,849 yards and 21 touchdowns. He was inducted into the New Orleans Saints Hall of Fame in 2001.

5. Los Angeles Rams-Keith Lyle, S, Virginia, 1994

He played nine years with the Los Angeles/St. Louis Rams (1994-2000), Washington Redskins (2001), and San Diego Chargers (2001). He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 1994, when he played in all 16 games and had 15 tackles and two interceptions for one yard. He led the NFL with nine interceptions for 152 yards in 1996. He missed seven games due to injury in 1999, but was the Rams starting free safety when they beat the Titans 23-16 in Super Bowl XXXIV. In nine seasons he started 95 of 136 games, and had 520 tackles (412 solo), 31 interceptions for 362 yards, 10 passes defensed, six forced fumbles, five sacks, three tackles for loss, and two fumble recoveries for 94 yards and a touchdown. He was named to the St. Louis Rams 10th Anniversary Team.

4. Houston Oilers-Steve Jackson, CB, Purdue, 1991

He spent his entire nine year career (1991-1999) with the same organization, though they started as the Houston Oilers, moved to Tennessee, & then became the Tennessee Titans. He started 26 of 114 games played, and had 317 tackles, 13 interceptions for 74 yards and a touchdown, nine sacks, five fumble recoveries, four forced fumbles, two passes defensed, and one safety. He spent the next 11 seasons as an assistant coach with the Buffalo Bills (2001-2003), and the Washington Redskins (2004-2011). He then spent 2013 as an assistant with the Detroit Lions, then later re-joined the Tennessee Titans (2016-2017), then the New York Jets (2018-2019), Cincinnati Bengals (2020-2021), and is now in Atlanta as a senior offensive assistant.

3. Cleveland Browns-Sherman Plunkett, T, Maryland-Eastern Shore, 1956

His career was delayed two years by his service in the Army, but he played 10 years with the Baltimore Colts (1958-1960), San Diego Chargers (1961-1962), and New York Jets (1963-1967). He was with the Colts for back-to-back NFL championships, including the game now called “The Greatest Game Ever Played”. He was an AFL All-Star in 1964 & 1966, and an All-Pro in 1966. He was also known for giving Joe Namath the nickname “Broadway Joe”. In 10 years he started 85 of 132 games played.

2. Philadelphia Eagles-Duce Staley, RB, South Carolina, 1997

He played 10 years with the Philadelphia Eagles (1997-2003) and the Pittsburgh Steelers (2004-2006). He was a three time 1,000 yard rusher with the Eagles, and had three 50+ catch seasons. In 10 seasons he started 75 of 114 games played, and had 1,430 carries for 5,785 yards and 24 touchdowns, 287 catches for 2,587 yards and 10 touchdowns, and 48 kickoff returns for 1,158 yards. He became an assistant coach with the Eagles in 2011, and stuck around for a decade, spending 2018-2020 with the title Assistant Head Coach. He joined the Detroit Lions as Assistant Head Coach in 2021.

1. Dallas Cowboys-DeMarco Murray, RB, Oklahoma, 2011

He played seven years for the Dallas Cowboys (2011-2014), Philadelphia Eagles (2015), and Tennessee Titans (2016-2017). He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2011, when he started seven of 13 games and had 164 carries for 897 yards and two touchdowns. He led the NFL with 392 carries for 1,845 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2014. He was named to the Pro Bowl three times: in 2013, 2014, & 2016, he was a First-team All-Pro in 2014, and he was the NFL Offensive Player of the Year in 2014. In seven seasons he started 86 of 99 games played, and had 1,604 carries for 7,174 yards and 49 touchdowns, and 307 catches for 2,165 yards and six touchdowns. In 2020 he became the running backs coach for his alma mater, the Oklahoma Sooners.

Pick By Pick, A Countdown of the NFL’s Greatest Draft Picks: Pick #70

I managed to achieve another first: we have a kicker in the #1 spot! There’s two Cowboys greats that made the top 10, one of them got one ring, the other got three. There was only six rings among the 10 players this time, and that kicker got the other two. Two active players made the list this time, with one ranked as high as third.

Active players drafted 70th overall: free agent CB Blidi Wreh-Wilson, Connecticut, (drafted by Tennessee Titans) 2013; Carolina Panthers C/G Pat Elflein, Ohio State, (drafted by Minnesota Vikings) 2017; San Francisco 49ers LB Fred Warner, BYU, 2018; Los Angeles Rams-Darrell Henderson, RB, Memphis, 2019; Miami Dolphins S Brandon Jones, Texas, 2020; Carolina Panthers OT Brady Christensen, BYU, 2021; Jacksonville Jaguars LB Chad Muma, Wyoming, 2022

10. Pittsburgh Steelers-Neil O’Donnell, QB, Maryland, 1990

He spent 14 years in the NFL with the Pittsburgh Steelers (1990-1995), New York Jets (1996-1997), Cincinnati Bengals (1998), and Tennessee Titans (1999-2003). He was named to the Pro Bowl in 1992, and led the Steelers to Super Bowl XXX in 1995, but they lost to the Cowboys. He signed with the Jets in free agency, but they released him after two seasons, leading to him spending his last five seasons backing up Steve McNair in Tennessee. In 14 seasons he started 100 of 125 games played, going 55-45 as a starter, completing 1,865 of 3,229 pass attempts for 21,690 yards, 120 touchdowns, & 68 interceptions, with a passer rating of 81.8.

9. Dallas Cowboys P Bryan Anger, California, (drafted by Jacksonville Jaguars) 2012

He has played 10 years with the Jacksonville Jaguars (2012-2015), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2016-2018), Houston Texans (2019-2020), and the Dallas Cowboys (2021). He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2012, when he had 91 punts for 4,353 yards, averaging 47.84 yards per punt, which was an NFL record for a rookie . He led the NFL in punting yards in 2013 with 4,338. He was named to his first Pro Bowl in 2021, and was a Second-team All-Pro, when he had 65 punts for 3,143 yards, averaging a career high 48.4 yards per punt. In 10 seasons he’s played in 159 games and had 716 punts for 33,236 yards, averaging 46.4 yards per punt, with a long of 73, and five blocked, though his last one was in 2018.

8. L.A. Rams-Lawrence McCutcheon, RB, Colorado State, 1972

He played 10 years with the Los Angeles Rams (1972-1979), Denver Broncos (1980), Seattle Seahawks (1980), and Buffalo Bills (1981). He was named to five straight Pro Bowls (1973-1977) while with the Rams, and was a Second-team All-Pro in 1974. In 10 seasons he started 82 of 109 games and had 1,521 carries for 6,578 yards and 48 touchdowns, along with 198 catches for 1,799 yards and 13 touchdowns. He was named to The Los Angeles Rams 40th Anniversary Team.

7. Houston Oilers-Jimmie Giles, TE, Alcorn State, 1977

He played 13 years for the Houston Oilers (1977), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1978-1986), Detroit Lions (1986-1987), and Philadelphia Eagles (1987-1989). He became a four time Pro Bowler (1980-1982, 1985) after joining the Buccaneers. In 13 years he started 131 of 188 games played, and had 350 catches for 5,084 yards and 41 touchdowns, averaging 14.5 yards per catch. He was inducted into the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Ring of Honor in 2011.

6. Pittsburgh Steelers-Mike Merriweather, LB, U. of Pacific, 1982

He played 11 seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers (1982-1987), Minnesota Vikings (1989-1992), Green Bay Packers (1993), and the New York Jets (1993). He was named to the Pro Bowl three years straight (1984-1986), and a Second-team All-Pro in 1984, 1985 & 1987. He sat out the 1988 season in a salary dispute, and was traded to the Vikings for a first round pick in 1989. In 11 seasons he started 139 of 149 games played, and had 41 sacks, 18 interceptions for 299 yards and four touchdowns, 16 fumble recoveries for 69 yards and a safety. His one safety recorded in 1989 was the first time a safety became the game winning score in an overtime game.

5. L. A. Rams-LeRoy Irvin, CB, Kansas, 1980

He played 11 years with the Los Angeles Rams (1980-1989) and Detroit Lions (1990). He was named to the Pro Bowl twice (1985, 1986), he was a First-team All-Pro in 1981, 1982, & 1986, and a Second-team All-Pro in 1985. In 11 seasons he started 120 of 159 games, and had 35 interceptions for 676 yards and five touchdowns, 13 fumble recoveries for 69 yards and a touchdown, and 2.5 sacks. He was named to the Los Angeles Rams 40th Anniversary Team.

4. Dallas Cowboys-Bob Breunig, MLB, Arizona State, 1975

He spent his entire 10 year career with the Dallas Cowboys (1975-1984). He was named to the Pro Bowl three times (1979, 1980, 1982), four time First-team All-NFC, and a Second-team All-Pro in 1980. He helped the Cowboys go 12-2 in 1977 & win Super Bowl XII. In 10 seasons he started 125 of 135 games, and had nine interceptions for 60 yards, eight fumble recoveries, and 8.5 sacks.

3. Baltimore Ravens OLB Justin Houston, Georgia, (drafted by Kansas City Chiefs) 2011

He has played 11 years with the Kansas City Chiefs (2011-2018), Indianapolis Colts (2019-2020), and Baltimore Ravens (2021), and has re-signed with the Ravens for the 2022 season. He was named to the Pro Bowl four years in a row (2012-2015), and was a First-team All-Pro in 2014. He won the Deacon Jones Award in 2014, when he had 22 sacks, a half sack shy of the record at the time. He hold the NFL record for most safeties in a season (2), and most safeties in a career (4). In 11 seasons he’s started 143 of 149 games, and has 485 tackles (390 solo), 165 QB hits, 123 tackles for loss, 102 sacks, 33 passes defensed, 18 forced fumbles, 14 fumble recoveries for 17 yards and a touchdown, and four interceptions for 52 yards and a touchdown.

2. Dallas Cowboys-Erik Williams, T, Central State (Ohio), 1991

He played 11 years with the Dallas Cowboys (1991-2000) and Baltimore Ravens (2001). He was named to the Pro Bowl four times (1993, 1996, 1997, 1999), and was a three time First-team All-Pro (1993, 1995, 1996). He was a member of the Cowboys teams that won three Super Bowls in four years: Super Bowls XXVII, XXVIII, & XXX. In 11 seasons he started 133 of 146 games played.

1. Denver Broncos-Jason Elam, K, Hawaii, 1993

He played 17 years with the Denver Broncos (1993-2007) and Atlanta Falcons (2008-2009). He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 1993, when he was 41 of 42 on extra points, and 26 of 35 on field goals for 119 points. He was named to the Pro Bowl three times (1995, 1998, 2001), and was a Second-team All-Pro those same three years. He won two Super Bowls (XXXII & XXXIII) while with the Broncos. His claim to fame was becoming only the second kicker in NFL history to hit a 63 yard field goal in a game against the Jaguars in 1998, tying Tom Dempsey’s record for the longest field goal (now broken by Justin Tucker). In 17 seasons he played in 263 games, went 675 of 679 on extra points, and 436 of 540 (80.7%) on field goals, for a total of 1,983 points. He was inducted into the Denver Broncos Ring of Fame in 2016, and was named to the Denver Broncos 50th Anniversary Team.

Pick By Pick, A Countdown of the NFL’s Greatest Draft Picks: Pick #69

Just when I started pondering if i’ll need to skim this down to a top five in the near future, I get a third round pick that has three Hall of Fame players, and three great active players that are gonna keep climbing up the list! Also, if you look below, you’ll notice Yannick Ngakoue is also among the active players drafted 69th overall, I bet he’ll eventually crack the top 10. There’s three different players with three rings, I think that might be a first. The #1 player on the list just retired after the 2020 season, but when you see who it is, you’ll probably agree he’s a first ballot Hall of Famer.

Active players drafted 69th overall: Indianapolis Colts DE Yannick Ngakoue, Maryland, (drafted by Jacksonville Jaguars) 2016; Cincinnati Bengals DT B.J. Hill, DT, NC State, (drafted by New York Giants) 2018; Baltimore Ravens TE Josh Oliver, San Jose State, (Jacksonville Jaguars) 2019; Seattle Seahawks G Damien Lewis, LSU, 2020; Cincinnati Bengals DE Joseph Ossai, Texas, 2021; Tennessee Titans OT Nicholas Petit-Frere, Ohio State, 2022

10. Green Bay Packers-Steve Wright, T, Alabama, 1964

He played nine years with the Green Bay Packers (1964-1967), New York Giants (1968-1969), Washington Redskins (1970), Chicago Bears (1971), and St. Louis Cardinals (1972). He played in all 14 games each year, with a total of 13 starts (12 in 1965) as the Packers won three straight Championships from 1965-1967, including Super Bowls I & II. In nine seasons he started 43 of 101 games played.

9. San Diego Chargers-Steve Heiden, TE, South Dakota State, 1999

He played 11 years for the San Diego Chargers (1999-2001), and the Cleveland Browns (2002-2009). He started 83 of 148 games played, and had 201 catches for 1,689 yards and 14 touchdowns. In 2013 he joined Bruce Arians staff with the Arizona Cardinals as an assistant special teams/assistant tight ends coach. He switched to assistant offensive line coach under Steve Wilkes in 2018, and then became the tight ends coach under Kliff Kingsbury in 2019.

8. Seattle Seahawks-Tyler Lockett, WR/KR, Kansas State, 2015

He has spent his entire seven year career with the Seahawks (2015-2021). As a rookie he was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team, earned his only Pro Bowl selection, and was a First-team All-Pro. He was also a Second-team All-Pro in 2016 & 2017. In seven seasons he has started 87 of 111 games played, and has 449 catches for 6,067 yards and 36 touchdowns, 40 carries for 265 yards and a touchdown, 144 punts returned for 1,071 yards and a touchdown, and 127 kickoffs returned for 3,188 yards and two touchdowns.

7. Cleveland Browns-Mike Lucci, LB,Pittsburgh, 1961

He played 12 years for the Cleveland Browns (1962-1964), and the Detroit Lions (1965-1973). He played in all 14 games & started three when the Browns won the 1964 NFL Championship. He was traded to the Lions in 1965, and was named to the Pro Bowl in 1971, All-NFC four years in a row (1970-1973), and All-NFL in 1969. In 12 seasons he started 123 of 154 games played, and had 21 interceptions for 308 yards and four touchdowns, 13.5 sacks, and nine fumble recoveries for two yards. He was named to the Detroit Lions All-Time Team.

6. Los Angeles Rams-Cooper Kupp, WR, Eastern Washington, 2017

He has spent his entire five year career with the Los Angeles Rams (2017-2021). He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2017, when he started six of 15 games, and had 62 catches for 869 yards and five touchdowns. He missed the second half of 2018 with a torn ACL, but then followed that with two 90+ catch seasons. He achieved a rare “triple crown” of receiving in 2021: leading the league in receptions (145), yards (1,947), and touchdowns (16), and only Crazy Legs Hirsch (17) has ever had more receiving touchdowns in a season. He wound up setting seven records in 2021, including most receptions in a postseason (33), and yards from scrimmage by a wide receiver (1,965). He was named to his first Pro Bowl, he was First-team All-Pro, and NFL Offensive Player of the Year. He concluded the season with eight catches for 92 yards and two touchdowns & the Super Bowl LVI award. In five seasons he has started 57 of 71 games, and has 433 catches for 5,517 yards and 40 touchdowns.

5. Arizona Cardinals-Tyrann Mathieu, S, LSU, 2013

He has played nine years with the Arizona Cardinals (2013-2017), Houston Texans (2018), Kansas City Chiefs (2019-2021), and signed with the New Orleans Saints for the 2022 season. He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2013, when he started 11of 13 games & had 68 tackles, nine passes defensed, two interceptions for seven yards, one forced fumble & one sack. He’s been named to the Pro Bowl three times: 2015, 2020, and 2021. He was a First-team All-Pro in 2015, 2019, & 2020, and a Second-team All-Pro in 2019 (he was listed at two positions). He was part of the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl LIV winning team. In nine seasons he’s started 120 of 129 games played, and has recorded 610 tackles (524 solo), 76 passes defensed, 41 tackles for loss, 26 interceptions for 335 yards and three touchdowns, 25 QB hits, 10 sacks, six fumble recoveries for 29 yards, and four fumble recoveries.

4. Philadelphia Eagles-Bill Bradley, S, Texas, 1969

He played nine years with the Philadelphia Eagles (1969-1976) and St. Louis Cardinals (1977). He was a very versatile player, also serving as their punter in 1969, 1970, & 1972, and the punt returner in 1969, 1971, 1972, & 1974. He became the first player to lead the NFL in interceptions two years in a row, with 11 in 1971, and nine in 1972. He was named to the Pro Bowl three years in a row (1971-1973), and was a First-team All-Pro in 1971 & 1972. In nine seasons he started 80 of 114 games played, and had 34 interceptions for 536 yards and a touchdown, nine fumble recoveries for 32 yards, and two sacks. He was inducted into the Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame in 1993.

3. Detroit Lions-Jack Christiansen, CB/PR, Colorado State, 1951

He spent his entire eight year NFL career with the Detroit Lions (1951-1958). He was named First-team All-Pro six years in a row (1952-1957), and a Pro Bowler five of those years (1953-1957). He led the NFL in interceptions twice in his career: first in 1953 with 12 for 238 and a touchdown, and again in 1957 with 10 for 137 yards and a touchdown. The Lions won the NFL Championship three times in his career: in 1952, 1953, and 1957. In eight seasons he started 88 of 89 games played, and had 46 interceptions for 717 yards and three touchdowns, and seven fumble recoveries for 88 yards. He was named to The Pride of the Lions, The Detroit Lions All-Time Team, The NFL 1950’s All-Decade Team, and The NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team. He was inducted into The Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1970.

2. Washington Redskins-Russ Grimm, G, Pittsburgh, 1981

He spent his entire 11 year career with the Washington Redskins (1981-1991). He was selected to the Pro Bowl four years in a row (1983-1986), and was a First-team All-Pro those same four years. He helped the Redskins win three Super Bowls: Super Bowl XVII, XXII, & XXVI. In 11 seasons he started 114 of 140 games played. He was named to the NFL 1980’s All-Decade Team, and the 80 Greatest Redskins. After retiring, he went straight into coaching, first as the Washington Redskins tight ends coach (1992-1996), then became the offensive line coach (1997-2000). He spent the next six years as the Steelers offensive line coach (2001-2006), then moved on to Arizona as offensive line coach (2007-2012), taking a few years off before spending two years as the Titans offensive line coach (2016-2017). He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010.

1. Dallas Cowboys-Jason Witten, TE, Tennessee, 2003

He played 17 years with the Dallas Cowboys (2003-2017, 2019), and the Las Vegas Raiders (2020). He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2003, when he started seven of 15 games and had 35 catches for 347 yards and one touchdown. He broke out in his second year, with 87 catches for 980 yards and six touchdowns. That season earned him the first of 11 Pro Bowl selections (2004-2010, 2012-2014, & 2017). He was a First-team All-Pro in 2007 & 2010, and a Second-team All-Pro in 2008 & 2012. He won the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award in 2012, and the Bart Starr Award in 2013. In 17 seasons he started 252 of 271 games played (a record for a tight end), and had 1,228 catches for 13,046 yards and 74 touchdowns.

Pick By Pick, A Countdown of the NFL’s Greatest Draft Picks: Pick #68

It’s so awesome to crank out two of these in one day! Bears fans will be happy to see alot of representation again, there’s two members of the 100 Greatest Bears of All Time in this list. I can at least say i’ve heard of all but two of them this time, being a football card nerd helps. There’s only five Super Bowl rings among them this time, and that’s if you count one won from an assistant coach after retiring as a player.

Active players drafted 68th overall: Indianapolis Colts S Will Redmond, Mississippi State, (drafted by San Francisco 49ers) 2016; Jacksonville Jaguars DE Dawuane Smoot, Ilinois, 2017; Kansas City Chiefs S Justin Reid, Stanford, (drafted by Houston Texans) 2018; Toronto Argonauts OLB Jachai Polite, Florida, (drafted by New York Jets) 2019; New York Jets S Ashtyn Davis, California, 2020; Atlanta Falcons T Jalen Mayfield, Michigan, 2021; Cleveland Browns CB Martin Emerson, Mississippi State, 2022

10. Denver Broncos-Claudie Minor, T, San Diego State, 1974

He played his entire nine year career (1974-1982) with the Denver Broncos. He started all 14 games as a rookie at left tackle, and was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team. In nine seasons he started 123 of 125 games played.

9. New York Jets-Richard Wood, LB, USC, 1975

He played 11 years for the New York Jets (1975), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1976-1984), and the Jacksonville Bulls of the USFL (1985). He was a regular starter at RILB for the Buccaneers from 1976-1981. In 10 years in the NFL he started 94 of 146 games played, and had nine interceptions for 199 yards and two touchdowns, six fumble recoveries for 44 yards and a touchdown, and 2.5 sacks.

8. Boston Patriots-Len St. Jean, G, Northern Michigan, 1964

He spent his entire 10 year career (1964-1973) with the Boston/New England Patriots. He was a defensive end in his first couple of seasons, then moved to offensive guard & was named an AFL All-Star in 1966. In 10 seasons he started 112 of 140 games played. He was named to the Boston Patriots All 1960’s Team.

7. Minnesota Vikings-Jake Reed, WR, Grambling State, 1991

He played 12 years with Minnesota Vikings (1991-1999), New Orleans Saints (2000), back to the Minnesota Vikings (2001), and back to the New Orleans Saints (2002). Although never a Pro Bowler, he was what you’d consider a high end #2 wide receiver, with either Cris Carter or Randy Moss on the opposite side of him. In 1995 he & Carter combined for 207 catches, then an NFL record for a team’s top two receivers. They were also the first teammates with four straight 1,000+ yards seasons. In 12 seasons he started 91 of 155 games played, and had 450 catches for 6,999 yards and 36 touchdowns.

6. Detroit Lions-Mike Compton, C, West Virginia , 1993

He played 12 seasons with the Detroit Lions (1993-2000), New England Patriots (2001-2003), and Jacksonville Jaguars (2004). He was a member of two Super Bowl winning teams (XXXVI & XXXVIII) while with the New England Patriots. In 12 seasons he started 119 of 151 games played.

5. New Orleans Saints-Terry Hoage, S, Georgia, 1984

He played 13 years with the New Orleans Saints (1984-1985), Philadelphia Eagles (1986-1990), Washington Redskins (1991-1992), San Francisco 49ers (1993), Houston Oilers (1993), and Arizona Cardinals (1995-1996). He never made the Pro Bowl, but in 1988 he had eight interceptions for 116 yards despite not starting a game, with Andre Waters & Wes Hopkins ahead of him. He was a member of the Washington Redskins team that won Super Bowl XXVI. In 13 seasons he started 65 of 141 games, and had 578 tackles, 21 interceptions for 280 yards and a touchdown, 12 fumble recoveries for four yards, seven sacks, and one forced fumble.

4. Chicago Bears-Ed Brown, QB, San Francisco, 1952

He played 12 years for the Chicago Bears (1954-1961), Pittsburgh Steelers (1962-1985), and Baltimore Colts (1965). He was named to the Pro Bowl two years in a row (1955 & 1956), and led the NFL in completion percentage in 1956. He was replaced by Billy Wade in 1961, and then traded to the Steelers in 1962, where he backed up Bobby Layne. After Layne’s retirement, Brown won Comeback Player of the Year in 1963. He stuck with the Steelers until near the end of 1965, and played one game with the Colts, but was ruled ineligible to play in the playoffs since he signed so late in the season (the rules were different then). In 12 years he started 96 of 154 games played, he was 53-38-5 as a starter, completing 949 of 1,947 passes for 15,600 yards, 102 touchdowns, and 138 interceptions, with a passer rating of 62.8. He was named to the Top 100 Greatest Gears of All Time for the team’s 100th Anniversary in 2019.

3. Phoenix Cardinals-Tom Tupa, QB/P, Ohio State, 1988

He played 18 years with the Phoenix Cardinals (1988-1991), Indianapolis Colts (1992), Cleveland Browns (1993-1995), New England Patriots (1996-1998), New York Jets (1999-2001), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2002-2003), and Washington Redskins (2004-2005). He was originally drafted to be a quarterback, but after going 4-9 as a starter with the Cardinals, he switched to punter to stay in the league. He became one of the league’s best punters, he was named to the Pro Bowl in 1999, and was a First-team All-Pro in 1999. That season was also when he had the miracle game where he played emergency QB and went 6/11 for 165 yards & two touchdowns & nearly beat the Patriots despite not seeing significant time at QB since 1992. He was Tampa Bay’s punter when they won Super Bowl XXXVII. He was also selected as the punter on the New England Patriots All 1990’s Team. In 18 seasons he started 13 of 220 games played, going 4-9 as a starting quarterback, completing 259 of 504 pass attempts for 3,430 yards, 12 touchdowns and 25 interceptions with a passer rating of 60.5, as a punter he had 873 punts for 37,862 yards, averaging 43.4 yards per punt, with a long of 73 yards, and only two blocked punts.

2. New Orleans Saints-Jack Del Rio, LB, USC, 1985

He played 11 years for the New Orleans Saints (1985-1986), Kansas City Chiefs (1987-1988), Dallas Cowboys (1989-1991), and Minnesota Vikings (1992-1995). He was named to the PFWA All Rookie Team in 1985, when he started nine of 16 games and had 68 tackles, five fumble recoveries for 22 yards and a touchdown, three forced fumbles, and two interceptions for 13 yards. He was named to the Pro Bowl in 1994, when he had 129 tackles, three interceptions for five yards, two sacks, two fumble recoveries, and one forced fumble. In 11 seasons he started 128 of 160 games played, and had 1,005 tackles, 14 fumble recoveries for 79 yards and two touchdowns, 13 sacks, 13 interceptions for 128 yards and a touchdown, and 12 forced fumbles.

Shortly after his playing days ended, he decided to get into coaching in the NFL. He became an assistant coach with the Saints under Mike Ditka in 1997, then joined the Ravens in 1999 (winning a Super Bowl in 2000), became the Panthers defensive coordinator in 2002, then the Jaguars head coach in 2003, where he lasted until 2011. Another three year stint as defensive coordinator with Peyton Manning & the Broncos led to him becoming the Raiders head coach, where he lasted through 2017. He is now in his third season as the defensive coordinator of the Washington Commanders.

1. Chicago Bears-Lance Briggs, OLB, Arizona, 2003

He spent his entire 12 year career with the Chicago Bears (2003-2014). He was named to the Pro Bowl seven years in a row (2005-2011), was a First-team All-Pro in 2005, and a Second-team All-Pro in 2006 & 2009. It’s tough to single out one “best season for him: he ran back interceptions for touchdowns in each of his first three seasons, he had two interceptions for 110 yards & two touchdowns in 2012, & didn’t even make the Pro Bowl that year! He had a career high 134 tackles in 2006, the year they reached Super Bowl XLI. That season was one of eight years where he had 100 or more tackles. In 12 seasons he started 170 of 173 games, and had 1,181 tackles (944 solo), 97 tackles for loss, 84 passes defensed, 24 QB hits, 16 interceptions for 256 yards and five touchdowns, 16 forced fumbles, 15 sacks, & seven fumble recoveries for 32 yards and a touchdown. He was named to the 100 Greatest Bears of All-Time in 2019.

Pick By Pick, A Countdown of the NFL’s Greatest Draft Picks: Pick #67

I think we have the first freak occurrence in the countdown: this is the second pick in a row where a backup wide receiver from the 1985 Chicago Bears team wound up in the 10th spot! There were also two players that played on both back-to-back Super Bowl Champion Denver Broncos teams from 1997 & 1998. A Steelers legend I wasn’t even familiar with wound up in the #3 spot, & I love learning about greats I hadn’t heard of. There’s a great active player in the #2 spot, but there’s another great player with a highly decorated career ahead of him, so it’ll take awhile to catch him.

Active players drafted 67th overall: Denver Broncos G/T Billy Turner, North Dakota State, (drafted by Miami Dolphins) 2014; Houston Texans G A.J. Cann, South Carolina, (drafted by Jacksonville Jaguars) 2015; Houston Texans DT Maliek Collins, Nebraska, (Drafted by Dallas Cowboys) 2016; former San Francisco 49ers WR Jalen Hurd, Baylor, 2019; Detroit Lions OLB Julian Okwara, Notre Dame, 2020; Houston Texans QB Davis Mills, Stanford, 2021; New York Giants OG Joshua Ezeudu, North Carolina, 2022

10. Chicago Bears-Ken Margerum, WR, Stanford, 1981

He played seven years with the Chicago Bears (1981-1986) and San Francisco 49ers (1986-1987). He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 1981, when he started seven of 16 games and had a career high 39 catches for 584 yards and one touchdown. He was a member of the famed 1985 Bears team that went 15-1 & won Super Bowl XX. In seven seasons he started 28 of 64 games and had 94 catches for 1,336 yards and eight touchdowns.

9. Pittsburgh Steelers-Bubby Brister, QB, Louisiana-Monroe, 1986

He played 14 seasons in the NFL, split between the Pittsburgh Steelers (1986-1992), Philadelphia Eagles (1993-1994), New York Jets (1995), Denver Broncos (1997-1999), and Minnesota Vikings (2000). After going 28-29 as a starter in Pittsburgh, he became sort of a high end backup quarterback. He earned two Super Bowl rings (XXXII, XXXIII) with the Broncos, and even went 4-0 as a starter filling in for an injured John Elway in 1998. In 14 seasons he started 75 of 99 games played, going 37-38 as a starter, completing 1,207 of 2,212 passing attempts for 14,445 yards, 81 touchdowns & 78 interceptions, with a passer rating of 72.3.

8. Baltimore Colts-Herb Rich, CB, Vanderbilt, 1950

He played seven seasons with the Baltimore Colts (1950), Los Angeles Rams (1951-1953), and the New York Giants (1954-1956). He played on two NFL Championship teams: the 1951 Rams and the 1956 Giants. As a rookie, he set a record by averaging 23 yards per return on 12 punts, but since some stat leader listings require a minimum of 20 punt returns, his stats don’t show up on some of them. In seven seasons he started 45 of 64 games, and had 28 interceptions for 469 yards and three touchdowns, 14 fumble recoveries for eight yards, 14 punt returns for 281 yards and a touchdown, and 17 kickoff returns for 434 yards.

7. Atlanta Falcons-Mark Simoneau, LB, Kansas State, 2000

He played 11 seasons with the Atlanta Falcons (2000-2002), Philadelphia Eagles (2003-2005), New Orleans Saints (2006-2009), and Kansas City Chiefs (2010). He was a regular starter from 2003-2004, and 2006-2007. Although he was on injured reserve, he was with the Saints for Super Bowl XLIV. In 11 seasons he started 67 of 124 games, and had 435 tackles (319 solo), 18 tackles for loss, 16 passes defensed, seven sacks, seven forced fumbles, five QB hits, three fumble recoveries for seven yards, and one interception for zero yards.

6. Baltimore Colts-Robert Pratt, G, North Carolina, 1974

He played 12 years in the in the NFL with the Baltimore Colts (1974-1981) and Seattle Seahawks (1982-1985). He became a regular starter in 1975, and had a streak of 105 consecutive games played with the Colts. He was named the Seahawks Lineman of the Year in 1983. In 12 seasons he started 151 of 170 games played.

5. Denver Broncos-Dan Neil, G, Texas, 1997

He spent his entire eight year career (1997-2004) with the Denver Broncos. He played in three games as a rookie, and Denver won Super Bowl XXXII that year. He became a 16 game starter in 1998, and Denver back-to-back Super Bowl champs with a win in Super Bowl XXXIII. Neil wound up starting 104 of 108 games played in his career.

4. Detroit Lions-Mike Cofer, OLB, Tennessee, 1983

He spent his entire 11 year career (1983-1993) with the Detroit Lions. He was named to the Pro Bowl in 1988, when he had a career high 12 sacks. He reached double digits in sacks twice, recording 10 sacks in 1990. In 11 seasons he started 104 of 123 games, and had 62.5 sacks, 10 fumble recoveries, and one interception.

3. Pittsburgh Steelers-Dale Dodrill, NT/LB, Colorado State, 1951

He spent his entire nine year career (1951-1959) with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was a First-team All-Pro in 1954, and was named to the Pro Bowl four times: from 1954-1956, and 1958. He was named to the Pittsburgh Steelers Legends Team during their 75th Anniversary. In nine seasons he started 93 of 103 games played, and had 11 fumble recoveries for 85 yards and a touchdown, and 10 interceptions for 120 yards. In 2016 he was inducted into the Pittsburgh Pro Football Hall of Fame.

2. New Orleans Saints-Alvin Kamara, RB, Tennessee, 2017

He has spent his entire career (2017-2021) with the New Orleans Saints, and has been a standout from day one. He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2017, and was the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. He has been named to the Pro Bowl every year from 2017-2021, and was a Second-team All-Pro in 2017 & 2020. He tied the NFL record with six rushing touchdowns in a game against the Minnesota Vikings on Christmas 2020, becoming only the third player to do so (also achieved by Ernie Nevers & Gale Sayers). In five seasons, he’s started 45 of 73 games played, and had 912 carries for 4,238 yards and 47 touchdowns, along with 373 catches for 3,263 yards and 20 touchdowns, 17 kickoff returns for 517 yards and a touchdown, and 20 punt returns for 141 yards.

1. Cincinnati Bengals-Ken Anderson, QB, Augustana (Ill.), 1971

He spent his entire 16 year playing career (1971-1986) with the Cincinnati Bengals, then became an assistant coach with the Bengals (1993-2002), Jaguars (2003-2006), and Steelers (2007-2009). He is regarded as one of the greatest players in team history, and still hold 29 franchise records. He led the NFL in passing yards in 1974 & 1975, he led the NFL in completion percentage three times (1974, 1982, 1983), and led the NFL in passer rating four times (1974, 1975, 1982, 1983). He was a First-team All-Pro in 1981, a Second-team All-Pro in 1975, and was named to the Pro Bowl four times (1975, 1976, 1981, 1982). He was named NFL Man of the Year in 1975, and also won four separate awards in 1981: The NFL Comeback Player of the Year, NFL Offensive Player of the Year, NFL Most Valuable Player, and the Bert Bell Award. In 16 seasons he started 172 of 192 games played, going 91-81 as a starter, completing 2,654 of 4,475 attempts for 32,838 yards, 197 touchdowns, 160 interceptions, with a passer rating of 81.9. He was also a good scrambler, with 397 rushes for 2,220 yards and 20 touchdowns.

Pick By Pick, A Countdown of the NFL’s Greatest Draft Picks: Pick #66

I had the unusual luck of ending up with two starters from the Buccaneers Super Bowl XXXVII winning team land in the top 10 for pick #66. There were a total of six Super Bowl rings between five players in the top 10 on this list. The player with two rings played for the Cowboys in Super Bowls VI & XII. As you’ll see just below, there’s some pretty good talent coming up the pipeline in the active players list, including Steelers receiver Diontae Johnson, and Washington running back Antonio Gibson.

Active players drafted 66th overall: Baltimore Ravens T Morgan Moses, Virginia, (drafted by Washington Redskins) 2014; free agent G Jeremiah Poutasi, Utah, (drafted by Tennessee Titans) 2015; Pittsburgh Steelers CB Ahkello Witherspoon, Colorado, (drafted by San Francisco 49ers) 2017; Atlanta Falcons DE/LB Lorenzo Carter, Georgia, (Drafted by New York Giants) 2018; Pittsburgh Steelers-Diontae Johnson, WR/KR, Toledo, 2019; Washington Redskins RB Antonio Gibson, Memphis, 2020; Minnesota Vikings QB Kellen Mond, Texas A & M, 2021; Minnesota Vikings LB Brian Asamoah, Oklahoma, 2022

10. Chicago Bears-Brian Baschnagel, WR, Ohio State, 1976

He spent his entire 10 year career (1976-1985) with the Chicago Bears. He started 71 of 129 games played in his career, and had 134 catches for 2,024 yards and nine touchdowns, along with 89 kickoff returns for 2,102 yards and one touchdown. He was with the team for their Super Bowl XX victory, though he was on injured reserve, and wound up retiring after the season.

9. Detroit Lions-Cory Redding, DE, Texas, 2003

He played 13 years with the Detroit Lions (2003-2008), Seattle Seahawks (2009), Baltimore Ravens (2010-2011), Indianapolis Colts (2012-2014), and Arizona Cardinals (2015). His best season was 2006, when he started all 16 games & had 48 tackles, 10 QB hits, eight sacks, two forced fumbles & one fumble recovery for two yards. In 13 seasons he started 147 of 188 games played, and had 420 tackles (309 solo), 89 QB hits, 35.5 sacks, 84 tackles for loss, 21 passes defensed, 13 fumble recoveries for 94 yards and a touchdown, four forced fumbles, and two interceptions for 30 yards.

8. San Diego Chargers-Nick Hardwick, C, Purdue, 2004

He spent his entire 11 year career (2004-2014) with the San Diego Chargers. He was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2006. In 11 years he started all 136 games played, but had to retire after a neck injury in 2014. He was named to the San Diego Chargers 50th Anniversary Team.

7. New York Giants-Roman Oben, T, Louisville, 1996

He played 12 years for the New York Giants (1996-1999), Cleveland Browns (2000-2001), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2002-2003), and San Diego Chargers (2004-2007). He spent his whole career at left tackle, and was the Buccaneers starter when they won Super Bowl XXXVII. In 12 years he started 130 of 143 games played.

6. Los Angeles Rams-Diron Talbert, DT, Texas, 1967

He played 14 years with the Los Angeles Rams (1967-1970), and the Washington Redskins (1971-1980). He was named to the Pro Bowl in 1974, when he had 10 sacks, one of four double digit sack seasons in his career. He had a career high 12.5 sacks in 1976. In 14 seasons he started 157 of 186 games played, and had 84.5 sacks, and 10 fumble recoveries for 15 yards. He was named to the 70 Greatest Redskins for their 70th anniversary in 2002.

5. Washington Redskins-Dick Lynch, CB, Notre Dame, 1958

He played nine years with the Washington Redskins (1958) & New York Giants (1959-1966). He was named to the Pro Bowl in 1963, was a First-Team All-Pro in 1963, and a Second-Team All-Pro in 1961. He led the NFL in interceptions in 1961 & 1963, with nine interceptions each season, and also led the NFL with 251 yards & three touchdowns in 1963. In nine seasons he started 101 of 109 games played, and had 37 interceptions for 592 yards and four touchdowns, 11 fumble recoveries for 89 yards and a touchdown, and two sacks.

4. Green Bay Packers-William Henderson, FB, North Carolina, 1995

He spent his entire 12 year career (1995-2006) with the Green Bay Packers. He was named to the Pro Bowl in 2004, and was a First-Team All-Pro in 2004. He started 14 of 16 games in 1997 when Green Bay won Super Bowl XXXI. In 12 seasons he started 112 of 188 games played, and had 320 catches for 2,409 yards and 14 touchdowns, and 123 carries for 426 yards and five touchdowns.

3. Los Angeles Rams-Duane Putnam, G, Pacific, 1952

He played 11 seasons for the Los Angeles Rams (1952-1959), Dallas Cowboys (1960), Cleveland Browns (1961), and back to the Los Angeles Rams (1962). He was named to the Pro Bowl five years in a row (1954-1958), and was an All-Pro in 1955, 1957, & 1958. In 11 seasons he started 92 of 121 games played.

2. Dallas Cowboys-Charlie Waters, S, Clemson, 1970

He spent his entire 12 year career playing career (1970-1981) with the Dallas Cowboys. He was named to the NFL All Rookie Team in 1970, when he had five interceptions for 45 yards, and a fumble recovery. He was named to the Pro Bowl three years in a row (1976-1978), and was a Second-team All-Pro in 1977 & 1978. He was with the Cowboys for two Super Bowl wins: Super Bowl VI & Super Bowl XII. In 12 seasons he started 128 of 160 games played, and had 41 interceptions for 584 yards and two touchdowns, seven sacks, and seven fumble recoveries for 15 yards. After his playing days were over, he spent the 1988-1994 seasons on the Denver Broncos coaching staff, including spending the last two seasons as their defensive coordinator.

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Ronde Barber, CB, Virginia , 1997

He spent his entire 16 year career (1997-2012) with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He was named to the Pro Bowl five times (2001, 2004-2006, 2008), he was a three time First-team All-Pro (2001, 2004, 2005), and a two time Second-team All-Pro (2002, 2006). He tied for the NFL lead with 10 interceptions in 2001. He had five tackles in the Buccaneers 48-21 win over the Raiders in Super Bowl XXXVII. In 16 seasons he started 232 of 241 played, setting the NFL record for consecutive starts by a defensive back (215) and cornerback (200). He recorded 1,251 tackles (1,044 solo), 197 passes defensed, 88 tackles for loss, 47 interceptions for 923 yards and eight touchdowns, 28 sacks, 18 QB hits, 15 forced fumbles, and 12 fumble recoveries for 90 yards and four touchdowns. He was named to the NFL 2000’s All Decade Team. He was inducted into the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Ring of Honor in 2019. He is the only player in NFL history with more than 45 interceptions and more than 25 sacks in his career.