Who Wore It Best? The Greatest NFL Players by Jersey Number, 25-49

National Football League: Who Wore It Best? The Greatest NFL Players by Jersey Number, 25-49

Some jersey numbers will forever be linked to the legendary players who wore them. In this extensive task, we selected the greatest NFL player for each jersey number, ranging from No. 0 (or 00) to No. 99. This involved sifting through approximately 30,000 players who have graced the NFL field over the past 105 years. Our selections were based on the players’ overall statistics, awards (like MVP and Offensive/Defensive Player of the Year), and recognitions such as All-Pro and Pro Bowl selections. Super Bowl victories and the impact players had during their eras also played a crucial role in our rankings. Historical significance was paramount, hence the inclusion of numerous Pro Football Hall of Fame members on our list.

We have already highlighted Nos. 0-24, so now let’s dive into the greatest NFL players to wear Nos. 25-49. Note that many renowned players changed numbers throughout their careers; hence, this list reflects the numbers they are best recognized for.

No. 25: Fred Biletnikoff

Considered one of the most reliable receivers of his time, Biletnikoff caught 589 passes for 8,974 yards and 76 touchdowns while playing for the Raiders from 1965 to 1978. He retired holding several Oakland receiving records and set an NFL record with 10 consecutive seasons of 40 or more catches. Furthermore, Biletnikoff excelled in the playoffs, tallying 70 catches for 1,167 yards and 10 touchdowns across 19 games. He earned six Pro Bowl selections, was an All-Pro twice, and won a Super Bowl MVP.

Honorable Mentions: Richard Sherman, LeSean McCoy

No. 26: Rod Woodson

Woodson dominated as a cornerback for the Steelers from 1987 to 1996 and later reinvented himself as a safety with the Ravens and Raiders in the later stages of his career. Over 17 seasons, he recorded 71 interceptions, 12 of which were returned for touchdowns. An 11-time Pro Bowler and eight-time All-Pro player, Woodson proved to be a standout at two positions.

Honorable Mentions: Herb Adderley, Antoine Winfield Jr.

No. 27: Steve Atwater

Renowned for his hard-hitting style, Atwater was instrumental in transforming Denver’s defense into a championship-caliber unit during the 1990s. He reached the Super Bowl in his rookie year (1989) and won back-to-back titles towards the end of his career. With eight Pro Bowl selections and three All-Pro nods, he solidified his legacy, narrowly edging out fellow Hall of Famer Ken Houston.

Honorable Mentions: Eddie George, Malcolm Jenkins

No. 28: Marshall Faulk

Faulk stands out among a strong group, including CB Darrell Green and RBs Curtis Martin and Adrian Peterson, as potentially the best two-way running back in NFL history. As a six-time All-Pro, he was the driving force behind the St. Louis Rams’ “Greatest Show on Turf” Super Bowl-winning offense. In 1999, he became just the second player in NFL history to rush for 1,000 yards and receive for 1,000 yards in the same season, ultimately leading to three consecutive Offensive Player of the Year awards and an MVP title.

Honorable Mentions: Darrell Green, Curtis Martin

No. 29: Eric Dickerson

One of the most notable achievements of this former Rams and Colts running back is setting the NFL single-season rushing record with 2,105 yards in 1984. Even after 40 years, that record remains unbroken despite changes in offensive production and an extended season luka doncic fiba 2023. Dickerson led the NFL in rushing four times during his career and remains ninth on the all-time rushing list with 13,259 yards money bundle peso.

Honorable Mentions: Earl Thomas, Harold Jackson

No. 30: Terrell Davis

Davis’ career with the Broncos was unfortunately cut short, but in four full seasons, he rushed for 6,413 yards and 56 touchdowns. His accolades include three All-Pro first-team selections, two Offensive Player of the Year awards, and a Super Bowl MVP. His impressive tenure earned him a place in the Hall of Fame.

Honorable Mentions: Clarke Hinkle, Bill Willis

No. 31: Jim Taylor

A tough decision arose when selecting Taylor, a running back from the Packers’ 1960s dynasty, over safety Donnie Shell of the Steelers. Taylor was often compared to the great Jim Brown, showcasing five consecutive 1,000-yard seasons and earning an NFL MVP. He played a crucial role in the Packers’ success, including four NFL titles and a Super Bowl win, while Shell set a record with 51 career interceptions.

Honorable Mentions: Donnie Shell, Priest Holmes

No. 32: Jim Brown

The legendary Cleveland Browns player is frequently hailed as one of the greatest in NFL history, if not the greatest. Brown averaged an astonishing 104.3 rushing yards per game in his nine seasons, holding the league records for rushing yards (12,312) and touchdowns (106) at retirement, both still ranked in the top 11. Brown was a three-time MVP and nine-time All-Pro.

Honorable Mentions: Marcus Allen, O.J. Simpson

No. 33: Sammy Baugh

With all due respect to Cowboys RB Tony Dorsett, Baugh’s impact on football in the 1930s cannot be ignored. He combined an impressive career as a quarterback and a defensive back, accumulating 12 seasons with over 1,000 passing yards and leading the NFL in various categories multiple times. Baugh was a seven-time All-Pro and also excelled as a punter.

Honorable Mentions: Tony Dorsett, Roger Craig

No. 34: Walter Payton

Another number rich in history, “Sweetness,” the Bears’ legendary running back, recorded 16,726 rushing yards and added 4,538 receiving yards over his 13-season career. Payton was an NFL MVP, nine-time Pro Bowler, and a Super Bowl champion, widely respected not only for his on-field achievements but also for his off-field contributions.

Honorable Mentions: Earl Campbell, Thurman Thomas

No. 35: Aeneas Williams

Williams, a former college walk-on, gained recognition as a Hall of Fame defensive back primarily with the Cardinals. He was a Pro Bowl selection as both a cornerback and safety during his 55-interception career, marking him as one of the most underrated defensive backs of all time.

Honorable Mentions: Neal Anderson, Calvin Hill

No. 36: Jerome Bettis

Known as “The Bus,” Bettis had a dominant 13-year career, primarily with the Steelers, where he amassed 13,664 rushing yards and 91 touchdowns. He exceeded 1,000 yards in eight out of his first nine seasons, culminating in a Super Bowl victory in his final game.

Honorable Mentions: LeRoy Butler, Lawyer Milloy

No. 37: Jimmy Johnson

Playing for 16 seasons with the 49ers, Johnson was a standout defensive back, earning five All-Pro selections throughout his career. He consistently registered at least one interception each season, concluding with 47 interceptions, showcasing his reliability and skill.

Honorable Mentions: Lester Hayes, Doak Walker

No. 38: George Rogers

Rogers may not be as famous as others, but he was recognized for being the first overall pick in 1981, one position ahead of Lawrence Taylor. He ran for 1,674 yards in his rookie season and had several productive years, earning All-Pro honors.

Honorable Mentions: Eugene Daniel, Tramon Williams

No. 39: Larry Csonka

A powerful fullback for the Dolphins, Csonka achieved three 1,000-yard seasons and gained accolades for his role in the NFL’s only undefeated team’s offense in 1972. He was named Super Bowl MVP for his performance in Super Bowl VIII, solidifying his legacy.

Honorable Mentions: Hugh McElhenny, Stephen Jackson

No tnt vs meralco game 3. 40: Gale Sayers

Despite a career marred by injuries, Sayers showcased extraordinary talent during his seven seasons, earning All-Pro status five times in his first five years. He ended with impressive rushing and combined yardage totals, demonstrating his explosive capabilities.

Honorable Mentions: Elroy Hirsch, Mike Alstott

No. 41: Eugene Robinson

Robinson, a longtime cornerback for the Seahawks, excelled in longevity and production, with 57 interceptions across 16 seasons. His resilience and consistency helped secure his spot among the all-time greats.

Honorable Mentions: Lorenzo Neal, Phil Villapiano

No. 42: Ronnie Lott

Regarded as one of the hardest-hitting defensive backs, Lott had a remarkable career with the 49ers, where he accumulated 63 interceptions. His prowess on defense was vital to San Francisco’s success in four Super Bowl victories during the 1980s and ’90s.

Honorable Mentions: Sid Luckman, Charley Taylor

No. 43: Troy Polamalu

As one of the most intelligent and instinctive safeties in NFL history, Polamalu proved invaluable to the Steelers. A six-time All-Pro and NFL Defensive Player of the Year, his impact is evident in the 32 career interceptions he amassed while winning two Super Bowls. pba schedule tomorrow

Honorable Mentions: Cliff Harris, Larry Brown

No. 44: John Riggins

With several Hall of Famers wearing this number, Riggins stands out for his ability to gain tough yards as a powerful running back for Washington. A Super Bowl MVP, he excelled when it mattered most, particularly in high-stakes situations.

Honorable Mentions: Floyd Little, Dick LeBeau

No. 45: Emlen Tunnell

Tunnell, a key component of the Giants’ “Umbrella Defense,” made history as the first African-American player inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His impressive 79 career interceptions solidify his place in history.

Honorable Mentions: Kenny Easley, Gary Fencik

No. 46: Tim McDonald

McDonald excelled as a safety for over a decade, making numerous Pro Bowls and All-Pro selections. His remarkable durability and consistent performance helped him secure a memorable career.

Honorable Mentions: Todd Christensen, Herm Edwards

No. 47: Mel Blount

Known for his contributions to Pittsburgh’s defensive success during the 1970s, Blount recorded 57 interceptions and was named Defensive Player of the Year in 1975. His legacy remains strong in the Hall of Fame.

Honorable Mentions: John Lynch, Joey Browner

No. 48: Les Richter

Richter, the only Hall of Famer to don this number, enjoyed a stellar career with the Rams. Noted for his toughness, he played through injuries and achieved significant recognition as an All-Pro linebacker and offensive lineman.

Honorable Mentions: Stephen Davis, Ken Ellis

No. pba blackwater 49: Bobby Mitchell

Mitchell made history as Washington’s first African-American player, thriving after leaving the shadow of Jim Brown in Cleveland. Over 11 seasons, he established himself as a premier running back, leading the NFL in rushing during his early years.

Honorable Mentions: Dennis Smith, Tony Richardson

Our four-part series will continue on Wednesday, July 30, with the greatest players in NFL history to wear Nos. 50-74. What do you think about the players featured in this list?