Charley Taylor
Inducted:
1984
Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
210 lb (95 kg)
Born:
September 28, 1941
Grand Prairie, Texas, U.S.
Died:
February 19, 2022
Ashburn, Virginia, U.S.
Position:
Wide receiver
College:
Arizona State (1961–1963)
Charley Taylor was one of the most versatile and reliable offensive stars of his era, spending his entire career with Washington. Beginning as a running back before transitioning to wide receiver, Taylor showcased rare adaptability and became one of the league’s most dependable playmakers. His precise route running, strong hands, and ability to gain yards after the catch helped redefine how receivers were used in modern offenses.
Taylor retired as the NFL’s all-time leader in receptions, setting a standard for consistency and longevity. He earned the trust of multiple quarterbacks and was a key part of Washington’s NFC championship teams in the early 1970s. Beyond statistics, he was respected for his work ethic, toughness, and leadership. After retiring as a player, Taylor continued contributing as a longtime assistant coach.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1984, he remains one of the franchise’s most celebrated offensive pillars.
Taylor's Awards and Honors
- First-team All-Pro (1967)
- 5× Second-team All-Pro (1964, 1966, 1968, 1969, 1974)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1964–1967, 1972–1975)
- Only Washington player with 10+ TDs rushing and 75+ TDs receiving
- 2× NFL receptions leader (1966, 1967)
- NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
NFL Records
- NFL Rookie of the Year (1964)
- Retired as the NFL’s all-time leader in receptions
- First player with three straight 70+ reception seasons
NFL Teams
Washington Redskins (1964–1975, 1977)
NFL Draft:
1964: 1st round, 3rd overall pick
Washington Redskins
Number Worn:
42
NFL Stats
Seasons:
13 (1964–1975, 1977)
Games Played:
165
Game Started:
157
Receptions:
649
Receiving yards:
9,110
Yards per reception:
14.0
Receiving touchdowns:
79
Rushing yards:
1,488
Rushing touchdowns:
11