Search By First Name of HOFers
Dan Dierdorf
Inducted:
1996
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
275 lb (125 kg)
Born:
June 29, 1949
Canton, Ohio, U.S.
Position:
Offensive tackle
College:
Michigan (1968–1970)
Dan Dierdorf was a dominant force on the offensive line and a cornerstone of the St. Louis Cardinals during the 1970s. Known for his intelligence, power, and consistency, Dierdorf was one of the league’s most respected linemen. He played 13 seasons, mostly at right tackle, where he earned a reputation for being nearly impossible to beat in pass protection.
In 1976, he anchored a Cardinals offensive line that allowed just 8 sacks in 14 games — a record at the time. Dierdorf was a six-time Pro Bowler and earned All-Pro honors five times. He was named to the NFL 1970s All-Decade Team and inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1996. After retiring, he became a popular broadcaster, bringing his football IQ to millions of fans. Dierdorf’s legacy lives on as one of the game’s most technically sound and reliable linemen.
Dierdorf's Awards and Honors
- 5× First-team All-Pro (1975–1978, 1980)
- Second-team All-Pro (1974)
- 6× Pro Bowl (1974–1978, 1980)
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- Arizona Cardinals Ring of Honor
- Consensus All-America (1970)
- Second-team All-America (1969)
- 2× First-team All-Big Ten (1969, 1970)
- Second-team All-Big Ten (1968)
NFL Records
- Named NFLPA Offensive Lineman of the Year three straight times (1976, 1977, 1978)
- Selected to the NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- First-Team All-Pro at both Tackle and Center
- Member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1996
NFL Teams
St. Louis Cardinals (1971–1983)
NFL Draft:
1971: 2nd round, 43rd pick
St. Louis Cardinals
Number Worn:
72
NFL Stats
Seasons:
13 (1971–1983)
Games Played:
160
Games Started:
150+
Fumble Recoveries:
7
Dan Fortmann
Inducted:
1965
Player Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
210 lb (95 kg)
Born:
April 11, 1916
Pearl River, New York, U.S.
Died:
May 23, 1995
Los Alamitos, California, U.S.
Position:
Guard
Linebacker
Tackle
College:
Colgate (1933–1935)
Dan Fortmann starred as a guard and linebacker for the Chicago Bears from 1936 to 1943. At just 20, he became the youngest NFL starter, helping anchor both the offensive and defensive lines. His high football IQ and fierce blocking earned him six straight First-team All‑Pro honors (1938–1943) and a place on the 1930s NFL All‑Decade Team. He was a key contributor to three NFL Championships (1940, 1941, 1943) and helped Chicago dominate the division five times.
Over eight seasons, he played in 86 games (starting 79), recorded eight interceptions for 54 yards, and returned one fumble for a touchdown. Off the field, Fortmann was equally exceptional—graduating Phi Beta Kappa from Colgate while earning his medical degree. After football, he practiced medicine and became a respected surgeon. In 1965, his remarkable career was recognized with induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Fortmann's Awards and Honors
- 3× NFL champion (1940, 1941, 1943)
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1938–1943)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1936, 1937)
- 3× NFL All-Star (1940–1942)
- NFL 1930s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- 100 Greatest Bears of All-Time
NFL Records
- Member of the NFL 1930s All-Decade Team
- Youngest NFL starter at the time (age 20 in 1936)
- Helped Chicago Bears win 5 division titles during his career
- Only player in NFL history to be a practicing surgeon while playing
- Named to the NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
NFL Teams
Chicago Bears (1936–1943)
NFL Draft:
1936: 9th round, 78th pick
Chicago Bears
Number Worn:
21
NFL Stats
Seasons played:
8 (1936–1943)
Games played:
86
Games started:
79
Interceptions:
8
Interception yards:
54
Touchdowns:
1
Dan Fouts
Inducted:
1993
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
204 lb (93 kg)
Born:
June 10, 1951
San Francisco, California, U.S.
Position:
Quarterback
College:
Oregon (1969–1972)
Daniel Francis Fouts was the electric quarterback of the San Diego Chargers from 1973 through 1987. He became the face of the innovative “Air Coryell” offense under coach Don Coryell, guiding one of football’s first high-powered aerial attacks. Fouts led the NFL in passing yards four straight seasons (1979–1982), breaking the 4,000‑yard barrier in three consecutive years—unprecedented at the time.
His sharp arm and leadership lifted the Chargers to three AFC West titles and two AFC Championship Game appearances, though a Super Bowl remained elusive. Over 15 seasons spanning 181 games, he threw for 43,040 yards and 254 touchdowns, while rushing for 476 yards and 13 scores.
Fouts was a six‑time Pro Bowler, earned two First‑team All‑Pro selections, and was named NFL Offensive Player of the Year in 1982. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility (1993)
Fouts' Awards and Honors
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1979, 1982)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1980, 1985)
- 6× Pro Bowl (1979–1983, 1985)
- 4× NFL passing yards leader (1979–1982)
- 2× NFL passing touchdowns leader (1981, 1982)
- San Diego Chargers 50th Anniversary Team
- Los Angeles Chargers Hall of Fame
- First-team All-Pac-8 (1972)
NFL Records
- NFL completion percentage leader (1979)
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1982)
- First QB to throw for 4,000+ yards in 3 straight seasons (1979–1981)
- NFL Offensive Player of the Year
NFL Teams
San Diego Chargers (1973–1987)
NFL Draft:
1973: 3rd round, 64th pick
San Diego Chargers
Number Worn:
21
NFL Stats
Seasons:
15 (1973–1987)
Games played:
181
Passing attempts:
5,604
Passing completions:
3,297
Completion percentage:
58.8%
TD–INT:
254–242
Passing yards:
43,040
Passer rating:
80.2
Rushing yards:
476
Rushing touchdowns:
13
Dan Hampton
Inducted:
2002
Player Stats
6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)
264 lb (120 kg)
Born:
September 19, 1957
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, U.S.
Position:
Defensive tackle
College:
Arkansas (1975–1978)
Dan Hampton was a cornerstone of the Chicago Bears’ feared defense of the 1980s, renowned for his strength, toughness, and relentless play on the defensive line. Nicknamed “Danimal” for his aggressive style, Hampton was equally effective against the run and as a pass rusher, making him one of the most versatile linemen of his era. Drafted by the Bears in the first round of the 1979 NFL Draft, he spent his entire 12-year career in Chicago, helping to define the identity of the team’s dominant defense.
A key member of the legendary 1985 Bears squad, Hampton played a vital role in their Super Bowl XX victory, where Chicago’s defense is still remembered as one of the greatest of all time. Despite battling numerous injuries throughout his career, he earned four Pro Bowl selections and was consistently respected for his leadership and determination. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002, Hampton’s legacy remains central to Bears history.
Hampton's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (XX)
- First-team All-Pro (1984)
- 4× Second-team All-Pro (1982, 1985, 1986, 1988)
- 4× Pro Bowl (1980, 1982, 1984, 1985)
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1979)
- George Halas Award (1991)
- 100 Greatest Bears of All-Time
NFL Records
- Integral member of the 1985 Bears defense, ranked as one of the greatest single-season defenses in NFL history
- One of the few defensive linemen to be named All-Pro at both defensive tackle and defensive end
NFL Teams
Chicago Bears (1979–1990)
NFL Draft:
1979: 1st round, 4th pick
Chicago Bears
Number Worn:
99
NFL Stats
Seasons:
12 (1979–1990)
Games Played:
157
Sacks:
57
Fumble Recoveries:
10
Safeties:
1
Dan M. Rooney
Inducted:
2000
Stats
Born:
July 20, 1932
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Died:
April 13, 2017
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Position:
Team owner
Team administrator
College:
Duquesne
Dan M. Rooney carried forward his father Art Rooney’s legacy with integrity, intelligence, and vision, transforming the Pittsburgh Steelers into one of the NFL’s model franchises. Born in 1932, he began working for the team in the 1950s, in 1969, Rooney was appointed by his father to be the team's general manager and became president in 1975, overseeing an era of sustained excellence that included six Super Bowl championships. Rooney was instrumental in shaping the organization’s culture, emphasizing family values, teamwork, and continuity.
Beyond team success, he played a pivotal role in league matters, including the development of the “Rooney Rule,” which promoted diversity in NFL coaching and executive positions. His leadership extended beyond football — he served as the U.S. Ambassador to Ireland from 2009 to 2012, representing his country with grace and humility. Widely respected as one of the NFL’s most influential and ethical figures, Dan Rooney was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000.
Rooney's Awards and Honors
- 6× Super Bowl champion (IX, X, XIII, XIV, XL, XLIII)
- Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor
- Pittsburgh Pro Football Hall of Fame
- Created the NFL’s “Rooney Rule” for minority hiring
- S. Ambassador to Ireland (2009–2012)
NFL Records
- Guided Steelers to six Super Bowl victories across four decades
- Advocated for equality and diversity in NFL leadership
- Established the Steelers’ reputation for loyalty and long-term success
- Recognized as one of the most respected executives in league history
NFL Teams
As General Manager-
Pittsburgh Steelers (1969–1970)
As President-
Pittsburgh Steelers (1975–2002)
As Owner-
Pittsburgh Steelers (1988–2016)
NFL Stats
NFL tenure:
1969-2016
Super Bowl Championships:
6 (IX, X, XIII, XIV, XL, XLIII)
Division championships:
15
AFC Championships:
8
Dan Marino
Inducted:
2005
Player Stats
6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
224 lb (102 kg)
Born:
September 15, 1961
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Position:
Quarterback
College:
Pittsburgh (1979–1982)
Dan Marino is one of the most gifted passers in NFL history, renowned for his lightning-quick release, pinpoint accuracy, and unmatched competitiveness. Playing his entire 17-season career with the Miami Dolphins (1983–1999), Marino revolutionized the passing game, setting records that stood for decades. In just his second season, he threw for an unprecedented 5,084 yards and 48 touchdowns, earning NFL MVP honors in 1984 and leading Miami to Super Bowl XIX.
Though a championship eluded him, Marino’s consistency, leadership, and arm talent made him a legend of the modern era. He retired as the NFL’s all-time leader in passing yards, touchdowns, completions, and attempts — redefining what was possible for a quarterback. His style influenced generations that followed, from Manning to Brees.
Known for his poise and fiery competitiveness, Marino remains a symbol of excellence and loyalty in Miami. Dan Marino was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2005, honoring his transformative impact on the game.
Marino's Awards and Honors
- NFL Most Valuable Player (1984)
- NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1984)
- NFL Comeback Player of the Year (1994)
- NFL Man of the Year (1998)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (1984–1986)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1983, 1994, 1995)
- 9× Pro Bowl (1983–1987, 1991, 1992, 1994, 1995)
NFL Records
- Lowest sack percentage, season: 1.0% (1988)
- Most seasons leading league, completions: 6
- Most seasons leading league, pass attempts: 5
- First QB to pass for over 5,000 yards in a season (1984)
- Retired as all-time leader in passing yards and touchdowns
- Known for fastest release and elite field vision
NFL Teams
Miami Dolphins (1983–1999)
NFL Draft:
1983: 1st round, 27th overall pick
Miami Dolphins
Number Worn:
13
NFL Stats
Seasons:
17 (1983–1999)
Games Played:
242
Game Started:
240
Passing attempts:
8,358
Passing completions:
4,967
Completion percentage:
59.4
TD–INT:
420–252
Passing yards:
61,361
Passer rating:
86.4
Dan Reeves
Inducted:
1967
Stats
Born:
June 30, 1912
New York City, U.S.
Died:
April 15, 1971
New York City, U.S.
Position:
Team owner
College:
NA
Dan Reeves was a pioneering NFL executive whose vision and leadership helped guide the league through its formative years. Born in 1912, Reeves became the youngest owner in professional football history when he purchased the Cleveland Rams in 1941. Under his ownership, the Rams achieved rapid success, winning the 1945 NFL Championship before relocating to Los Angeles — a move that transformed the league by bringing professional football to the West Coast.
Reeves’ decision expanded the NFL’s national presence and laid the foundation for its future growth. A forward-thinking businessman, he emphasized innovation, fan engagement, and media partnerships long before they became common in the sport. His influence shaped the modern structure of team ownership and operations. Reeves’ bold decisions and lasting contributions to the league’s evolution earned him induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967.
Reeves' Awards and Honors
- Inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame (1967)
- Youngest Owner in NFL History at Purchase (age 29)
- First to Relocate an NFL Team to the West Coast
NFL Records
- Moved the Rams from Cleveland to Los Angeles in 1946, expanding the NFL’s national footprint and establishing its West Coast presence
NFL Teams
Cleveland/Los Angeles Rams (1941–1971)
Owner
NFL Stats
NFL team ownership tenure:
1941-1971
NFL Championships:
1 (1945)
Years Active:
30
Dante Lavelli
Inducted:
1975
Player Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
191 lb (87 kg)
Born:
February 23, 1923
Hudson, Ohio, U.S.
Died:
January 20, 2009
Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.
Position:
Offensive End
College:
Ohio State (1942)
Dante “Gluefingers” Lavelli was one of the most dependable and clutch wide receivers of pro football’s early modern era. Playing his entire career with the Cleveland Browns, Lavelli became a key weapon in coach Paul Brown’s innovative passing attack alongside quarterback Otto Graham. Known for his precise route running and sure hands, he earned the nickname “Gluefingers” for his ability to catch anything near him — often in crucial moments.
Lavelli helped lead the Browns to seven league championships across the AAFC and NFL, becoming one of the sport’s first true possession receivers. Despite missing time early in his career due to military service in World War II, he quickly became a model of consistency and reliability. Lavelli finished with 386 receptions, 6,488 yards, and 62 touchdowns.
He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1975, cementing his legacy as one of the Browns’ all-time greats.
Lavelli's Awards and Honors
- National champion (1942)
- 3× NFL champion (1950, 1954, 1955)
- 4× AAFC champion (1946–1949)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (1946, 1947, 1953)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1948, 1949)
- 3× Pro Bowl (1951, 1953, 1954)
- NFL 1940s All-Decade Team
NFL Records
- Key receiver in Browns’ seven championship seasons
- Nicknamed “Gluefingers” for unmatched catching reliability
- Among the first modern route-running specialists in pro football
NFL Teams
Cleveland Browns (1946–1956)
NFL Draft:
1947: 12th round, 103rd overall pick
Cleveland Browns
Number Worn:
56, 86
NFL Stats
Seasons:
11 (1946–1956)
Games Played:
123
Game Started:
104
Receptions:
386
Receiving yards:
6,488
Receiving touchdowns:
62
Yards per Reception:
16.8
Darrell Green
Inducted:
2008
Darrell Green was the model of speed, consistency, and longevity in the NFL. Playing all 20 of his seasons with the Washington Redskins, Green was a shutdown cornerback who matched up against the league’s best receivers well into his 40s. Known as one of the fastest players in NFL history, he won multiple “NFL’s Fastest Man” competitions and often used that speed to make game-saving plays. Green played in more games than any other defensive back in league history at the time of his retirement.
A two-time Super Bowl champion and seven-time Pro Bowler, he combined elite athleticism with unmatched discipline and football IQ. Off the field, Green was widely respected for his leadership and community work. He entered the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2008, a rare combination of greatness, loyalty, and longevity that made him one of the most beloved figures in NFL history.
Green's Awards and Honors
- 2× Super Bowl champion (XXII, XXVI)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (1986, 1987, 1991)
- Second-team All-Pro (1990)
- 7× Pro Bowl (1984, 1986, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1996, 1997)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1983)
NFL Records
- NFL Man of the Year (1996)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- Most consecutive seasons with an interception: 19
NFL Teams
Washington Redskins (1983–2002)
NFL draft:
1983: 1st round, 28th pick
Washington Redskins
Number Worn:
28
NFL Stats
Seasons:
1983–2002
Games Played:
295
Interceptions:
54
Interception Return Yards:
621
Touchdowns:
6
Fumble Recoveries:
10
Total Tackles (approx.):
1,159
Darrelle Revis
Inducted:
2023
Player Stats
5 ft 11 in (1.80 m)
198 lb (90 kg)
Born:
July 14, 1985
Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Position:
Cornerback
College:
Pittsburgh (2004–2006)
Darrelle Revis was one of the most dominant cornerbacks in NFL history, renowned for his lockdown coverage and football intelligence. Born in 1985, he was drafted 14th overall by the New York Jets in 2007. Revis quickly earned a reputation for shutting down elite receivers, leading to the nickname “Revis Island,” where opposing wideouts were often left stranded without impact. His exceptional technique, agility, and anticipation made him nearly impossible to beat one-on-one.
Over an 11-season career with the Jets, Buccaneers, Patriots, and Chiefs, Revis recorded 29 interceptions, 139 pass deflections, and 497 tackles. His crowning achievement came with the New England Patriots, winning Super Bowl XLIX in 2015. A seven-time Pro Bowler and four-time First-Team All-Pro, Revis redefined the cornerback position in the modern era. His consistency and excellence earned him induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023.
Revis' Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (XLIX)
- 4× First-team All-Pro (2009–2011, 2014)
- 7× Pro Bowl (2008–2011, 2013–2015)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)
- New York Jets Ring of Honor
NFL records
- Nicknamed “Revis Island” for elite man-to-man coverage
- 29 career interceptions and 139 pass deflections
NFL Teams
New York Jets (2007–2012)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2013)
New England Patriots (2014)
New York Jets (2015–2016)
Kansas City Chiefs (2017)
NFL Draft:
2007: 1st round, 14th overall pick
New York Jets
Number Worn:
24
NFL Stats
Seasons:
11 (2007–2017)
Games Played:
145
Game Started:
142
Total tackles:
497
Forced fumbles:
6
Fumble recoveries:
10
Pass deflections:
139
Interceptions:
29
Defensive touchdowns:
3
Dave Casper
Inducted:
2002
Player Stats
6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
240 lb (109 kg)
Born:
February 2, 1952
Bemidji, Minnesota, U.S.
Position:
Tight end
College:
Notre Dame (1971–1973)
Dave Casper, nicknamed “The Ghost,” was one of the most dominant tight ends of the 1970s and a key offensive weapon for the Oakland Raiders. Known for his blocking ability and clutch receiving, Casper was a rare combination of toughness and athleticism. He played 11 NFL seasons (1974–1984) and earned five Pro Bowl selections.
Casper made his mark in playoff history with "The Ghost to the Post" catch in 1977 and a critical touchdown in the “Holy Roller” play in 1978. His ability to control the middle of the field helped revolutionize the tight end position. With over 5,000 receiving yards and 52 touchdowns, Casper was a vital part of the Raiders' Super Bowl XI championship team.
He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002, remembered for his reliability, intelligence, and big-game impact.
Casper's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (XI)
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1976–1979)
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- National champion (1973)
- Consensus All-American (1973)
- Super Bowl Champion (XI – 1976 season)
- 5× Pro Bowl Selection (1976–1980)
- 4× First-Team All-Pro (1976–1979)
- Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2002)
- Famous for “Ghost to the Post” catch (1977 playoff game)
- Scored game-winning TD in “Holy Roller” game (1978)
- Known as one of the best blocking and receiving tight ends of his era
NFL Teams
Oakland Raiders (1974–1980)
Houston Oilers (1980–1983)
Minnesota Vikings (1983)
Los Angeles Raiders (1984)
NFL draft:
1974: 2nd round, 45th pick
Oakland Raiders
Numbers Worn:
87, 44
NFL Stats
Seasons:
11 (1974–1984)
Games Played:
147
Game Started:
100
Receptions:
378
Receiving Yards:
5,216
Receiving Touchdowns:
52
Super Bowl Titles:
1 (Super Bowl XI)
Dave Robinson
Inducted:
2013
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
245 lb (111 kg)
Born:
May 3, 1941
Mount Holly, New Jersey, U.S.
Position:
Linebacker
College:
Penn State
Dave Robinson was one of the most versatile and intelligent linebackers of the Green Bay Packers’ championship era. Born in 1941, he was selected in the first round of the 1963 NFL Draft and quickly became a key piece of Vince Lombardi’s legendary defense. Known for his speed, size, and football instincts, Robinson excelled in both coverage and run support, helping the Packers dominate throughout the 1960s.
Over a 12-season career with Green Bay and Washington, he earned three Pro Bowl selections and two First-Team All-Pro honors. Robinson played a crucial role in the Packers’ victories in Super Bowls I and II, including a game-changing interception in the 1966 NFL Championship Game that sent Green Bay to the first Super Bowl.
His leadership and consistency made him a cornerstone of one of football’s greatest dynasties. Dave Robinson’s outstanding career was honored with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2013.
Robinson's Awards and Honors
- 3× NFL champion (1965–1967)
- 2× Super Bowl champion (I, II)
- First-team All-Pro (1967)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1968, 1969)
- 3× Pro Bowl (1966, 1967, 1969)
- NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
NFL Records
- Key interception in 1966 NFL Championship Game to secure Packers’ first Super Bowl berth
- Integral part of Vince Lombardi’s dominant “Doomsday” Packers defense
- Among top linebackers of the 1960s All-Decade era
NFL Teams
Green Bay Packers (1963–1972)
Washington Redskins (1973–1974)
NFL Draft:
1963: 1st round, 14th overall pick
Green Bay Packers
Number Worn:
89
NFL Stats
Seasons:
12 (1963–1974)
Games Played:
155
Games Started:
133
Interceptions:
27
Fumble recoveries:
12
Touchdowns:
1
Sacks:
28.5
Dave Wilcox
Inducted:
2000
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
241 lb (109 kg)
Born:
September 29, 1942
Ontario, Oregon, U.S.
Died:
April 19, 2023
Position:
Linebacker
College:
Boise (1960–1961)
Oregon (1962–1963)
Dave Wilcox earned a reputation as one of the most complete and technically sound outside linebackers of his era, becoming a cornerstone of the San Francisco 49ers’ defense throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s. Known for his disciplined play, physical strength, and exceptional ability to neutralize tight ends, Wilcox brought a rare mix of toughness and intelligence to the position. His strong coverage skills and precise tackling made him a constant challenge for opposing offenses.
Wilcox played his entire career with the 49ers, helping the team reach multiple playoff appearances and serving as a consistent leader on and off the field. His dedication and high-level performance earned him widespread respect among coaches and teammates. In recognition of his outstanding career, Wilcox was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000, honoring his impact as one of the most reliable and effective linebackers of his generation.
Wilcox's Awards and Honors
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1971, 1972)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1967, 1973)
- 7× Pro Bowl (1966, 1968–1973)
- San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame
Notable Achievements
- One of the most consistent outside linebackers of his era
- Known league-wide for elite tight end coverage
- Key leader for the 49ers’ strong early 1970s defenses
NFL Teams
San Francisco 49ers (1964–1974)
NFL Draft:
1964: 3rd round, 29th overall pick
San Francisco 49ers
Number Worn:
64
NFL Stats
Seasons:
11 (1964-1974)
Games Played:
153
Games Started:
144
Sacks:
36.5
Interceptions:
14
Interception yards:
149
Fumble recoveries:
12
Defensive touchdowns:
2
Deacon Jones
Inducted:
1980
Player Stats
6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)
272 lb (123 kg)
Born:
December 9, 1938
Eatonville, Florida, U.S.
Died:
June 3, 2013
Anaheim Hills, California, U.S.
Position:
Defensive end
College:
South Carolina State (1958)
Mississippi Valley State (1960)
Deacon Jones redefined defensive dominance in the NFL, earning his place among the greatest pass rushers in football history. Known as the “Secretary of Defense,” he revolutionized the art of sacking the quarterback and coined the very term “sack” itself. A fierce competitor and relentless force on the line, Jones anchored the Los Angeles Rams’ legendary “Fearsome Foursome” defensive front.
His explosive speed, power, and technique made him virtually unstoppable, terrorizing opposing offenses throughout the 1960s. Though sacks were not officially recorded during his career, modern research credits him with over 170 — a total that would rank among the all-time best. A two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year and eight-time Pro Bowler, Jones combined skill, intelligence, and intimidation like few others.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1980, Deacon Jones remains a symbol of defensive excellence and the ultimate standard for pass rushers across generations.
Jones' Awards and Honors
- 2× NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1967, 1968)
- 5× First-team All-Pro (1965–1969)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1964, 1970, 1972)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1964–1970, 1972)
- 5× NFL sacks leader (1964, 1965, 1967–1969)
Notable Achievements
- Coined the term “sack” for tackling the quarterback behind the line of scrimmage
- Estimated 21+ sacks in three separate seasons
- Leader of the Rams’ “Fearsome Foursome,” one of football’s greatest defensive lines
NFL Teams
Los Angeles Rams (1961–1971)
San Diego Chargers (1972–1973)
Washington Redskins (1974)
Number Worn:
75
NFL Stats
Seasons:
14 (1961–1974)
Games Played:
191
Game Started:
168
Interceptions:
2
Receiving Yards:
50
Sacks:
173.5
Fumble Recoveries:
15
Deion Sanders
Inducted:
2011
Player Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
198 lb (90 kg)
Born:
August 9, 1967
Fort Myers, Florida, U.S.
Position:
Cornerback
College:
Florida State (1985–1988)
Deion Sanders, nicknamed “Prime Time,” was one of the most dynamic and gifted athletes in NFL history. Born in 1967, Sanders redefined the cornerback and return specialist positions with his unmatched speed, flair, and confidence. Over 14 seasons, he played for five teams — including the Falcons, 49ers, Cowboys, Redskins, and Ravens — leaving a lasting legacy everywhere he went.
Known for his shutdown coverage, explosive returns, and game-changing plays, Sanders recorded 53 interceptions, 22 total touchdowns, and two Super Bowl victories. He was a two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year and an eight-time Pro Bowler. Beyond his athletic brilliance, Sanders was a showman who brought energy and excitement to every field he stepped on.
His rare ability to dominate both defense and special teams made him one of football’s true icons. Deion Sanders was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011.
Sanders' Awards and Honors
- 2× Super Bowl champion (XXIX, XXX)
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1994)
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1992–1994, 1996–1998)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1991, 1999)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1991–1994, 1996–1999)
- Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor
- First-team AP All-Time All-American (2025)
NFL Records
- NFL kickoff return yards leader (1992)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- Only player to score an NFL touchdown six different ways
- Played both professional football and baseball at elite levels
NFL Teams
Atlanta Falcons (1989–1993)
San Francisco 49ers (1994)
Dallas Cowboys (1995–1999)
Washington Redskins (2000)
Baltimore Ravens (2004–2005)
NFL Draft:
1989: 1st round, 5th overall pick
Atlanta Falcons
Number Worn:
21, 37
NFL Stats
Seasons:
14 (1989–2005)
Games Played:
188
Tackles:
512
Interceptions:
53
Interception yards:
1,331
Forced fumbles:
10
Fumble recoveries:
13
Punt return yards:
2,199
Kickoff return yards:
3,523
Receptions:
60
Receiving yards:
784
Touchdowns:
22
Sports Fan Products
NFL Hall of Fame
The NFL Hall of Fame, also known as the Pro Football Hall of Fame, is where the legacies of NFL legends and their contributions to football history are celebrated. Located in Canton, Ohio, this iconic institution honors the greatest players, coaches, and contributors through its annual Hall of Fame enshrinement and NFL Hall of Fame ceremony. From the NFL Hall of Fame Class of 2025 and its nominees to the unforgettable Hall of Fame speeches, each year brings new highlights and moments that capture the spirit of the game. Featuring Hall of Fame players, coaches, and even legendary quarterbacks, the Hall showcases the rich history of football with exhibits, stories of remarkable careers, and events like the NFL Hall of Fame game. A visit to the Hall is a journey through the most iconic NFL greats, their achievements, and the unforgettable Hall of Fame moments that define the sport we love. 🏈✨
