Search By First Name of HOFers
Brett Favre
Inducted:
2016
Player Stats
6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
222 lb (101 kg)
Born:
October 10, 1969
Gulfport, Mississippi, U.S.
Position:
Quarterback
College:
Southern Miss (1987–1990)
Brett Favre was one of the most iconic quarterbacks in NFL history, known for his toughness, rocket arm, and fearless playmaking. Over a 20-year career, primarily with the Green Bay Packers, Favre revolutionized the quarterback position with his aggressive style and unmatched durability. He became the first player in NFL history to win three consecutive MVP awards (1995–1997) and led the Packers to victory in Super Bowl XXXI.
Favre retired holding every major passing record at the time—including touchdowns, yards, and wins—and started a record 297 consecutive regular-season games (321 including playoffs), a testament to his resilience. A leader on and off the field, Favre also made Pro Bowl appearances with the Jets and Vikings, nearly returning to the Super Bowl in 2009. His career wasn’t without mistakes, but his passion and grit defined an era of NFL football.
Favre's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (XXXI)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (1995–1997)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (2001, 2002, 2007)
- 11× Pro Bowl (1992, 1993, 1995–1997, 2001–2003, 2007–2009)
- 4× NFL passing touchdowns leader (1995–1997, 2003)
- 2× NFL passing yards leader (1995, 1998)
NFL Records
- Longest touchdown pass: 99 yards (tied)
- Most consecutive starts: 297 (321 including playoffs)
- NFL completion percentage leader (1998)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- 3× NFL Most Valuable Player (1995–1997)
- NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1995)
NFL Teams
As a player:
Atlanta Falcons (1991)
Green Bay Packers (1992–2007)
New York Jets (2008)
Minnesota Vikings (2009–2010)
As a coach:
Oak Grove HS (MS) (2012–2013)
NFL Draft:
1991: 2nd round, 33rd pick
Atlanta Falcons
Number Worn:
4
NFL Stats
Season Played:
20
Games Played:
302
Passing Yards:
71,838
Passing TDs:
508
Interceptions:
336
Completion %:
62.0%
Passer Rating:
86.0
Rushing TDs:
14
Brian Dawkins
Inducted:
2018
Player Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
209 lb (95 kg)
Born:
October 13, 1973
Jacksonville, Florida, U.S.
Position:
Safety
College:
Clemson (1992–1995)
Brian Dawkins brought passion, intensity, and elite play to the safety position for 16 NFL seasons. Drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in 1996, Dawkins became the emotional leader of the defense and one of the most feared hitters in the league.
Known as “Weapon X” for his relentless energy and Wolverine-like alter ego on the field, Dawkins combined hard-hitting tackles with exceptional coverage skills. He was the first player in NFL history to record a sack, interception, fumble recovery, and touchdown in a single game. Dawkins finished his career with the Denver Broncos, retiring with over 1,100 tackles and 37 interceptions.
He helped lead the Eagles to four NFC Championship appearances and one Super Bowl. Beyond the stats, his leadership and work ethic left a lasting legacy in Philadelphia and across the league. His Hall of Fame induction in 2018 was a celebration of grit, emotion, and unmatched defensive excellence.
Dawkins' Awards and Honors
- 4× First-team All-Pro (2001, 2002, 2004, 2006)
- Second-team All-Pro (2009)
- 9× Pro Bowl (1999, 2001, 2002, 2004–2006, 2008, 2009, 2011)
- PFWA NFL All-Rookie Team (1996)
- Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame
- Philadelphia Eagles 75th Anniversary Team
- Philadelphia Eagles No. 20 retired
- Second-team All-American (1995)
- First-team All-ACC (1995)
- 2× Second-team All-ACC (1993, 1994)
NFL Records
- Most forced fumbles by a defensive back (36)
- One of only three players in NFL history with 25+ sacks and 35+ interceptions
- Named to the NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
NFL Teams
Philadelphia Eagles (1996–2008)
Denver Broncos (2009–2011)
NHL Draft:
1996: 2nd round, 61st pick
Philadelphia Eagles
Number Worn:
20
Career Stats
Seasons:
16 (1996–2011)
Games Played:
224
Tackles:
1,131
Interceptions:
37
Sacks:
26
Forced Fumbles:
36
Fumble Recoveries:
19
Defensive Touchdowns:
4
Brian Urlacher
Inducted:
2018
Player Stats
6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
258 lb (117 kg)
Born:
May 25, 1978
Pasco, Washington, U.S.
Position:
Linebacker
College:
New Mexico (1996–1999)
Brian Urlacher was one of the most complete and impactful linebackers of his era, known for his speed, power, and outstanding field awareness. Drafted by the Chicago Bears in 2000, he became the centerpiece of a defense that consistently ranked among the league’s best. Urlacher’s rare athletic ability allowed him to excel in coverage, stop the run, and rush the passer, making him a true every-down force.
He won NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2000 and Defensive Player of the Year in 2005, helping lead the Bears to an NFC Championship and a Super Bowl appearance after the 2006 season. Urlacher was respected for his leadership, toughness, and reliability, spending his entire 13-year career in Chicago. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018, he remains one of the defining linebackers of the modern NFL and a symbol of Bears defensive tradition.
Urlacher's Awards and Honors
- 4× First-team All-Pro (2001, 2002, 2005, 2006)
- Second-team All-Pro (2010)
- 8× Pro Bowl (2000–2003, 2005, 2006, 2010, 2011)
- One of the few linebackers with 40+ sacks and 20+ interceptions
- Anchored Bears defense that reached Super Bowl XLI
- Known for unmatched range and versatility in modern defensive schemes
NFL Records
- NFL solo tackles leader (2002)
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2005)
- NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (2000)
NFL Teams
Chicago Bears (2000–2012)
NFL Draft:
2000: 1st round, 9th overall pick
Chicago Bears
Number Worn:
54
NFL Stats
Seasons:
13 (2000-2012)
Games Played:
182
Games Started:
180
Total tackles:
1,361
Sacks:
41.5
Forced fumbles:
11
Pass deflections:
90
Interceptions:
22
Defensive touchdowns:
4
Bronko Nagurski
Inducted:
1963
Player Stats
6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
226 lb (103 kg)
Born:
November 3, 1908
Rainy River, Ontario, Canada
Died:
January 7, 1990
International Falls, Minnesota, U.S.
Position:
Fullback
Offensive tackle
Defensive tackle
College:
Minnesota (1927–1929)
Bronko Nagurski was one of the most powerful and feared players in the early history of professional football. Playing for the Chicago Bears (1930–1937, 1943), he became a symbol of strength, grit, and determination. Standing 6'2" and weighing 226 pounds, Nagurski dominated as both a fullback and defensive lineman, known for his bulldozing runs that left defenders scattered in his path. He helped lead the Bears to three NFL Championships (1932, 1933, 1943) and became the foundation of George Halas’s legendary teams.
Nagurski’s two-way play and unmatched toughness defined football’s rugged early era, where he was equally feared for his blocking, tackling, and running ability. After retiring, he even returned to help the Bears win the 1943 title during World War II. Bronko Nagurski was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963, part of its inaugural class, forever remembered as one of the toughest and most iconic players in NFL history.
Nagurski's Awards and Records
- 3× NFL champion (1932, 1933, 1943)
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1932–1934, 1936)
- NFL rushing touchdowns leader (1932)
- NFL 1930s All-Decade Team
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
Notable Achievements
- One of the NFL’s first true two-way stars
- Known for his punishing running and tackling
- Helped define the Bears’ “Monsters of the Midway” toughness
NFL Teams
Chicago Bears (1930–1937; 1943)
Number Worn:
3
NFL Stats
Seasons:
8 (1930–1937, 1943)
Games Played:
97
Games started:
75
Rushing yards:
2,778
Rushing average:
4.4
Rushing touchdowns:
25
Receptions:
11
Receiving yards:
134
Points scored:
154
Bruce Matthews
Inducted:
2007
Player Stats
6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)
305 lb (138 kg)
Born:
August 8, 1961
Raleigh, North Carolina, U.S.
Position:
Guard
Center
Tackle
College:
USC (1979–1982)
Bruce Matthews is one of the most versatile and durable offensive linemen in NFL history, known for his longevity, consistency, and technical mastery. Drafted by the Houston Oilers (later Tennessee Titans) in 1983, Matthews played 19 seasons, starting every offensive line position during his career. His ability to adapt and excel at tackle, guard, and center made him a cornerstone of the franchise for nearly two decades.
Renowned for his intelligence, leadership, and reliability, he played 296 games without missing a start for the majority of his career, a testament to his remarkable durability. Matthews earned 14 Pro Bowl selections and 9 First-Team All-Pro honors, reflecting his elite performance. He helped Houston reach the 1999 Super Bowl (XXXIV) and anchored one of the league’s most respected offensive lines.
Celebrated for redefining versatility and excellence on the line, Bruce Matthews was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2007, securing his place among football’s all-time greats.
Matthews' Awards and Honors
- 7× First-team All-Pro (1988–1990, 1992, 1998–2000)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1991, 1993, 1996)
- 14× Pro Bowl (1988–2001)
- Bart Starr Award (2001)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
NFL Records
- layed every offensive line position at a Pro Bowl level
- One of the most durable players in NFL history
- Anchored Oilers/Titans for 19 seasons with elite performance
NFL Teams
Houston / Tennessee Oilers / Titans (1983–2001)
NFL Draft:
1983: 1st round, 9th overall pick
Houston Oilers
Number Worn:
74
NFL Stats
Seasons:
19 (1983–2001)
Games Played:
296
Games Started:
293
Forced fumbles:
5
Fumble recoveries:
10
Bruce Smith
Inducted:
2009
Player Stats
6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
262 lb (119 kg)
Born:
June 18, 1963
Norfolk, Virginia, U.S.
Position:
Defensive End
College:
Virginia Tech (1981–1984)
Bruce Smith stands as one of the most dominant defensive players in NFL history and the league’s all-time sack leader. Drafted first overall by the Buffalo Bills in 1985, he quickly became a cornerstone of their defense with unmatched quickness, power, and technique. Smith anchored the Bills teams that reached four straight Super Bowls in the early 1990s, consistently disrupting offenses and commanding double teams.
His ability to pressure quarterbacks, stop the run, and deliver in big moments made him the league’s most complete edge rusher of his era. Across 19 seasons with Buffalo and Washington, he earned widespread respect for his work ethic and longevity. Smith finished his career with 200 sacks, a record that still stands.
His sustained excellence led to 11 Pro Bowls, multiple Defensive Player of the Year awards, and recognition as a true defensive icon. Bruce Smith was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009.
Smith's Awards and Honors
- 2× NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1990, 1996)
- 8× First-team All-Pro (1987, 1988, 1990, 1993–1997)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1989, 1992, 1998)
- 11× Pro Bowl (1987–1990, 1992–1998)
- 2× NFL forced fumbles co-leader (1994, 1996)
NFL Records
- NFL’s all-time sack leader (200)
- Only player with 13 seasons of 10+ sacks
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
NFL Teams
Buffalo Bills (1985–1999)
Washington Redskins (2000–2003)
NFL Draft:
1985: 1st round, 1st overall pick
Buffalo Bills
Number Worn:
78
NFL Stats
Seasons:
19 (1985–2003)
Games Played:
279
Game Started:
267
Total tackles:
1,224
Sacks:
200
Safeties:
2
Forced fumbles:
43
Fumble recoveries:
15
Interceptions:
2
Defensive touchdowns:
1
Bruiser Kinard
Inducted:
1971
Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
216 lb (98 kg)
Born:
October 23, 1914
Pelahatchie, Mississippi, U.S.
Died:
September 7, 1985
Jackson, Mississippi, U.S.
Position:
Offensive tackle
College:
Ole Miss
Bruiser Kinard was one of the most dominant offensive tackles of the 1940s, renowned for his strength, agility, and leadership on the line. Born on February 10, 1914, Kinard played the majority of his professional career with the Brooklyn Dodgers (NFL) from 1937 to 1945 and later with the New York Yankees (AAFC).
A six-time All-Pro selection, he was widely regarded as a cornerstone of his teams’ offensive success, combining power blocking with intelligent play recognition. Kinard also served as a player-coach, showcasing his deep understanding of the game.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971, he is remembered as one of the early NFL greats who helped set the standard for modern offensive linemen.
Kinard's Awards and Records
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1938, 1940–1944)
- 5× NFL All-Star (1938–1942)
- First-team All-AAFC (1946)
- 2× First-team All-American (1936, 1937)
- 2× First-team All-SEC (1936, 1937)
Notable Achivement
- Recognized for pioneering intelligent, agile offensive line play
- One of the few linemen of his era to also serve as player-coach
- Key contributor to Brooklyn Dodgers’ competitive teams in the 1940s
NFL Teams
As Player-
Brooklyn Dodgers / Tigers (1938–1944)
New York Yankees (1946–1947)
As Coach-
New York Yankees (1947)
As Operator-
Ole Miss (1948–1970)
NFL Draft:
1938: 3rd round, 18th overall pick
Brooklyn Dodgers
Number Worn:
25, 44
NFL Stats
Seasons:
7 (1938–1944)
Games played:
101
Games started:
89
Receiving Yards:
62
Receiving Touchdowns:
1
Bryant Young
Inducted:
2022
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
291 lb (132 kg)
Born:
January 27, 1972
Chicago Heights, Illinois, U.S.
Position:
Defensive tackle
Defensive end
College:
Notre Dame (1989–1993)
Bryant Young was one of the most dominant defensive linemen of his era, anchoring the San Francisco 49ers’ defensive front with power, technique, and relentless effort. Drafted in 1994, Young quickly established himself as a premier defensive tackle, known for his ability to collapse the pocket, stop the run, and make plays behind the line of scrimmage. Over his 14-season career—all with the 49ers—he was a consistent force against elite offensive lines.
Young’s leadership, durability, and professionalism made him the emotional core of San Francisco’s defense, earning respect across the league. Despite suffering major injuries, he returned to perform at an elite level, exemplifying resilience and toughness. His remarkable career and lasting impact on defensive line play earned him induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2022.
Young's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (XXIX)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1996, 1998)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1999, 2001)
- 4× Pro Bowl (1996, 1999, 2001, 2002)
- Most safeties in a season: 2 (1996; tied)
- Key leader of 49ers’ defensive line for over a decade
NFL Records
- NFL Comeback Player of the Year (1999)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- One of the most dominant defensive tackles of the 1990s and 2000s
NFL Teams
San Francisco 49ers (1994–2007)
NFL Draft:
1994: 1st round, 7th overall pick
San Francisco 49ers
Number Worn:
97
NFL Stats
Seasons:
14 (1994–2007)
Games Played:
208
Starts:
208
Total tackles:
627
Sacks:
89.5
Forced fumbles:
12
Fumble recoveries:
7
Passes defended:
20
Buck Buchanan
Inducted:
1990
Player Stats
6 ft 7 in (2.01 m)
270 lb (122 kg)
Born:
September 10, 1940
Gainesville, Alabama, U.S.
Died:
July 16, 1992
Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.
Position:
Defensive tackle
College:
Grambling (1959–1962)
Buck Buchanan was a dominant defensive force and one of the most physically imposing players of his time. Selected first overall in the 1963 AFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs, he became a cornerstone of their defense for 13 seasons.
At 6'7" and over 270 pounds, Buchanan combined rare size, strength, and speed to disrupt offenses from the defensive tackle position. He helped lead the Chiefs to two Super Bowl appearances, including a victory in Super Bowl IV.
Buchanan was a model of consistency, playing in 182 consecutive games and earning six AFL All-Star selections. A true pioneer, he was the first Black player ever taken first overall in a professional football draft.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990, Buchanan left behind a legacy as one of the AFL's greatest defenders and a trailblazer in pro football history.
Buchanan's Awards and Honors
- Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame
- Kansas City Chiefs No. 86 retired
- First-team Little All-American (1962)
- Pro Football Hall of Fame (1990)
NFL Records
- Super Bowl champion (IV)
- Second-team All-Pro (1971)
- 2× Pro Bowl (1970, 1971)
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- AFL champion (1966)
- 6× AFL All-Star (1964–1969)
- 6× First-team All-AFL (1964–1969)
- AFL All-Time Team
NFL/AFL Teams
Kansas City Chiefs (1963–1975)
NFL draft:
1963: 19th round, 265th pick
Kansas City Chiefs
Numbers Worn:
86
NFL Stats
Seasons Played:
13 (1963–1975)
Games Played:
182
Fumble Recoveries:
7
Sacks:
68
Interceptions:
3
Super Bowl Appearances:
2 (I, IV)
Super Bowl Champion:
1× (IV)
Bud Grant
Inducted:
1994
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
199 lb (90 kg)
Born:
Harry Peter Grant Jr.
May 20, 1927
Superior, Wisconsin, U.S.
Died:
March 11, 2023
Bloomington, Minnesota, U.S.
Position:
End
Coach
College:
Minnesota
Bud Grant was a legendary figure in pro football, known for his calm leadership and remarkable success as head coach of the Minnesota Vikings. After a brief playing career in both the NFL and CFL, Grant became a coaching icon, leading the Vikings from 1967 to 1985. Under his guidance, Minnesota won 11 division titles and appeared in four Super Bowls. Grant's teams were known for their discipline, strong defense, and cold-weather toughness.
His stoic presence on the sidelines—often in short sleeves despite freezing temperatures—became part of NFL folklore. He was also the first coach to take teams to both the Grey Cup and the Super Bowl, cementing his place in football history. Beyond wins and losses, Grant built a culture of consistency and class. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1994, leaving behind one of the most respected legacies in the sport.
Grant's Awards and Honors
- 4× Grey Cup champion (1958, 1959, 1961, 1962)
- NFL championship (1969)
- NFL Coach of the Year (1969)
- CFL Coach of the Year (1965)
- Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
NFL Records
- One of only a few coaches to win 100+ games in both the NFL and CFL
- First coach to lead teams to both a Grey Cup (CFL) and Super Bowl (NFL)
- One of the winningest coaches in Minnesota Vikings franchise history
NFL Teams
As a player:
Philadelphia Eagles (1951–1952)
Winnipeg Blue Bombers (1953–1956)
As a coach:
Winnipeg Blue Bombers (1957–1966)
Minnesota Vikings (1967–1983; 1985)
As a staff member/executive:
Minnesota Vikings (1986–2022)
NFL draft:
1950: 1st round, 14th pick
Philadelphia Eagles
Number Worn:
86
NFL Stats
Playing Seasons:
1951-1952
Game Played:
24
Receptions:
56
Receiving yards:
997
Receiving touchdowns:
7
Coaching Seasons:
1967–1983, 1985
Regular season:
NFL: 158–96–5 (.620)
Postseason:
NFL: 10–12 (.455)
Bulldog Turner
Inducted:
1966
Player Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
237 lb (108 kg)
Born:
March 10, 1919
Plains, Texas, U.S.
Died:
October 30, 1998
Gatesville, Texas, U.S.
Position:
Center
Linebacker
College:
Hardin–Simmons (1937–1939)
Clyde “Bulldog” Turner was one of the most dominant and reliable two-way players of the NFL’s early era. Joining the Chicago Bears in 1940, he immediately became a cornerstone at center and linebacker, combining toughness, intelligence, and rare athleticism for his size. Turner excelled in George Halas’ system, helping guide the Bears to four NFL Championships during the 1940s.
On offense, he was known for his precise snapping and strong blocking; on defense, he was a playmaker with excellent instincts, finishing his career with 17 interceptions—an impressive feat for a linebacker of that era. Turner’s leadership, durability, and consistency made him one of the Bears’ most trusted players throughout his 13 seasons.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1966, he remains a symbol of Chicago’s championship legacy and a standard for early NFL two-way excellence.
Turner's Awards and Honors
- 4× NFL champion (1940, 1941, 1943, 1946)
- 7× First-team All-Pro (1941–1944, 1946–1948)
- 4× Pro Bowl (1940, 1941, 1950, 1951)
- NFL interceptions leader (1942)
- NFL 1940s All-Decade Team
- Chicago Bears No. 66 retired
NFL Records
- One of the NFL’s most accomplished two-way players of the 1940s
- Anchored Bears teams that set early standards for dominance
- Among the few centers with double-digit career interceptions
- Key contributor to four championship-winning squads
NFL Teams
Chicago Bears (1940–1952)
NFL Draft:
1940: 1st round, 7th overall pick
Chicago Bears
Number Worn:
66
NFL Stats
Seasons:
13 (1940–2052)
Games Played:
138
Games Started:
127
Interceptions:
17
Interception yards:
298
Fumble recoveries:
5
Total touchdowns:
4
NFL Championships:
4
Cal Hubbard
Inducted:
1963
Player Stats
6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
253 lb (115 kg)
Born:
October 31, 1900
Keytesville, Missouri, U.S.
Died:
October 17, 1977
St. Petersburg, Florida, U.S.
Position:
Tackle
College:
Centenary (1922–1924)
Geneva (1925–1926)
Cal Hubbard, born in Keytesville, Missouri, in 1900, was one of football’s most remarkable pioneers. Standing over 6 feet tall and weighing more than 250 pounds, he played end and tackle in the early NFL from 1927 to 1936 with the Giants, Packers, and Pittsburgh franchise. Hubbard anchored dominant defenses and helped win four NFL championships—one with New York in 1927 and three consecutive titles with Green Bay from 1929 to 1931. He earned All-Pro honors multiple times and was later named to several all-time NFL teams.
Following his playing career, Hubbard transitioned to baseball officiating, becoming a respected umpire in the American League and eventually leading the league’s umpiring staff. Unique in his legacy, he remains the only person enshrined in both the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1963) and the Baseball Hall of Fame (1976). In both sports, he left an indelible mark as an exceptional athlete and official, bridging two professional arenas with distinction.
Hubbard's Awards and Honors
- 4× NFL champion (1927, 1929–1931)
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1927, 1931–1933)
- NFL 1920s All-Decade Team
- NFL 50th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
NFL Records
- Only individual inducted into both the Pro Football and Baseball Halls of Fame
- Dominated both offense and defense as a lineman in early pro football
- One of the key players behind three straight NFL titles with Green Bay
- Forged a groundbreaking career as a top-level MLB umpire and league supervisor
NFL Teams
New York Giants (1927–1928)
Green Bay Packers (1929–1933, 1935)
New York Giants (1936)
Pittsburgh Pirates (1936)
Number Worn:
41, 39, 40, 38, 27, 51, 35, 60
NFL Stats
Seasons:
1927–1936
Games played:
105
Games started:
77
NFL Championships:
4 (1927, 1929, 1930, 1931)
All-Pro Selections:
4
Calvin Johnson
Inducted:
2021
Player Stats
6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)
237 lb (108 kg)
Born:
September 29, 1985
Tyrone, Georgia, U.S.
Position:
Wide receiver
College:
Georgia Tech (2004–2006)
Calvin Johnson, known as “Megatron,” is regarded as one of the most dominant wide receivers in NFL history. Playing his entire career with the Detroit Lions from 2007 to 2015, he became a matchup nightmare with his size, speed, and athleticism. Johnson recorded 731 receptions for 11,619 yards and 83 touchdowns over just nine seasons.
In 2012, he set the NFL single-season receiving yards record with 1,964, a mark that still stands. He produced seven 1,000-yard seasons, including four with 1,400 or more yards, showcasing unmatched consistency and explosiveness. Johnson was selected to six Pro Bowls, earned three First-Team All-Pro honors, and led the league in receiving yards twice.
Despite retiring early, his impact was undeniable, and he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2021. His combination of power, agility, and production makes him one of the most iconic wide receivers ever to play the game.
Johnson's Awards and Honors
- NFL single-season receiving yards record: 1,964 (2012)
- Most consecutive 100-yard receiving games: 8 (tied)
- Detroit Lions all-time leader in receptions, yards, and touchdowns
- 2010s NFL All-Decade Team
- Inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame: 2021
NFL Records
- Most receiving yards in a single season: 1,964 yards
- Most consecutive 100-yard receiving games: 8 (2012;2018)
- Most consecutive games with 10+ receptions: 4 (2012)
- Most consecutive games with 150+ receiving yards: 4 (2012)
- Most receiving yards over a two-season span: 3,645 yards (2011–2012)
- Fastest player in NFL history to reach 10,000 receiving yards: 115 games
- Youngest player to reach 10,000 career receiving yards (29 years, 38 days)
NFL Teams
Detroit Lions (2007–2015)
NFL Draft:
2007: 1st round, 2nd overall pick
Detroit Lions
Number Worn:
81
NFL Stats
Seasons:
9 (2007–2015)
Games:
135
Receptions:
731
Receiving Yards:
11,619
Touchdowns:
83
Pro Bowls:
6
All-Pro Selections:
3
Carl Eller
Inducted:
2004
Player Stats
6 ft 6 in (1.98 m)
247 lb (112 kg)
Born:
January 25, 1942
Winston-Salem, North Carolina, U.S.
Position:
Defensive End
College:
Minnesota (1961–1963)
Carl Eller was a relentless pass rusher and the cornerstone of the legendary “Purple People Eaters” defensive line for the Minnesota Vikings. Known for his strength, stamina, and technique, Eller recorded 133.5 unofficial sacks over his 16-season career, long before sacks were officially tracked. A six-time Pro Bowler and five-time First-Team All-Pro, Eller helped lead the Vikings to four Super Bowl appearances in the 1970s. He played in 225 games and was one of the most durable and disruptive forces of his era. His leadership and consistency on the field earned him a spot on the NFL 1970s All-Decade Team. After years of advocacy, Eller was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2004, honoring a career defined by dominance in the trenches.
Eller's Awards and Honors
- 5× First-team All-Pro (1968–1971, 1973)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1967, 1972)
- 6× Pro Bowl (1968–1971, 1973, 1974)
- Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
- 50 Greatest Vikings
- National champion (1960)
- Consensus All-American (1963)
- First-team All-Big Ten (1963)
- Second-team All-Big Ten (1962)
NFL Records
- NFL champion (1969)
- NEA NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1971)
- NFL sacks co-leader (1969)
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
NFL Teams
Minnesota Vikings (1964–1978)
Seattle Seahawks (1979)
NFL Draft:
1964: 1st round, 6th pick
Minnesota Vikings
Number Worn:
81, 71
NFL Stats
Seasons:
16 (1964–1979)
Games Played:
225
Sacks (unofficial):
133.5
Fumble Recoveries:
23
Touchdowns:
1
Champ Bailey
Inducted:
2019
Player Stats
Stats:
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
192 lb (87 kg)
Born:
June 22, 1978
Fort Campbell, Kentucky, U.S.
Position:
Cornerback
College:
Georgia (1996–1998)
Champ Bailey was one of the most technically sound and athletically gifted cornerbacks to ever play in the NFL. Drafted 7th overall in 1999 by the Washington Redskins, he spent most of his career with the Denver Broncos, where he became a cornerstone of their defense for over a decade.
Known for his incredible footwork, instincts, and ability to lock down the league’s best receivers, Bailey was a rare mix of durability and dominance.
Bailey’s 12 Pro Bowl selections are the most ever for a cornerback. In 2006, he led the NFL with 10 interceptions, showcasing his game-changing ability. His consistency in man-to-man coverage and leadership on and off the field made him one of the most respected defenders of his era.
He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2019, cementing his legacy as one of the all-time greats.
Bailey's Awards and Honors
- 3× First-team All-Pro (2004–2006)
- 4× Second-team All-Pro (2000, 2003, 2007, 2012)
- 12× Pro Bowl (2000–2007, 2009–2012)
- NFL interceptions leader (2006)
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1999)
- Washington Commanders 90 Greatest
- Denver Broncos 50th Anniversary Team
- Denver Broncos Ring of Fame
- Bronko Nagurski Trophy (1998)
- Consensus All-American (1998)
- 2× First-team All-SEC (1997, 1998)
NFL Records
- Most Pro Bowl selections by a cornerback (12)
- 203 career passes defended – among all-time leaders
- One of few players with 50+ career interceptions
- Only player in NFL history with 3 seasons of 20+ passes defended and 6+ INTs
- Intercepted at least one pass in 15 consecutive seasons
NFL Teams
Washington Redskins (1999–2003)
Denver Broncos (2004–2013)
New Orleans Saints (2014)
Numbers Worn:
24
NFL draft:
1999: 1st round, 7th pick
Washington Redskins
NFL Stats
Seasons:
15
Games Played:
215
Total tackles:
931
Interceptions:
52
Interception yards:
464
Pass deflections:
203
Forced fumbles:
7
Fumble recoveries:
6
Sacks:
3
Total touchdowns:
5
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. 🏈✨
