Top American Football Players: Best NFL Players of All Time

The Best American Football Players

Introduction 

American football enjoys widespread popularity as a sport that originated in the late 1800s. Over its extensive duration, numerous exceptional players have risen to prominence, leaving an indelible mark on the field. Here, we delve into the notable figures of NFL history, highlighting their remarkable achievements and undeniable contributions that solidify their status among the elite.

Criteria for Selection

It’s important to note that individual opinions may vary, and different experts or selectors might prioritize these criteria differently. Additionally, statistical analysis, expert opinions, and personal observations should be considered when evaluating players for the title of “Best American Football Players.”

1. Skill Level: Evaluate players based on their technical proficiency, including passing accuracy, catching ability, tackling technique, speed, agility, and overall athleticism.
2. Performance: Consider the players’ consistent performance and impact on the field. Look at their statistics, such as touchdowns, yards gained, tackles made, interceptions, and other relevant metrics.
3. Leadership: Assess the players’ leadership qualities and their ability to motivate and inspire their teammates. Consider their on-field decision-making skills, communication, and overall presence as team leaders.
4. Versatility: Take into account the players’ versatility and their ability to excel in multiple positions or roles. This includes their adaptability to different game situations and their contributions in both offense and defense.
5. Consistency: Look for players who consistently perform at a high level throughout the season and over multiple seasons. Consider their ability to deliver under pressure and maintain a high standard of play.
6. Impact: Evaluate the players’ impact on the game beyond their individual performance. This includes their ability to influence the outcome of games, make game-changing plays, and contribute to team success.
7. Awards and Accolades: Consider the players’ recognition within the sport, such as Pro Bowl selections, All-Pro honors, MVP awards, and induction into the Hall of Fame. These accolades highlight their excellence and contributions to the sport.
8. Team Success: Take into account the players’ contributions to their team’s success, including playoff appearances, championship wins, and their ability to elevate the performance of those around them.
9. Character and Sportsmanship: Assess the players’ off-field conduct, sportsmanship, and overall character. Look for players who uphold the values of the sport and serve as positive role models.
10. Longevity: Consider the players’ durability and longevity in the sport. Take into account their ability to sustain a high level of performance over an extended period, demonstrating their commitment and dedication to the game.

Quarterbacks

Patrick Mahomes

Patrick Mahomes is a professional American football quarterback presently affiliated with the Kansas City Chiefs in the National Football League (NFL). Born on September 17, 1995, Mahomes swiftly gained recognition due to his extraordinary arm talent, enabling him to execute remarkable throws from diverse angles and positions. He was chosen as the 10th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft and promptly demonstrated his impact. In his inaugural season as a starter, Mahomes led the Chiefs to a Super Bowl triumph and received the distinguished title of Super Bowl MVP. His electrifying playing style, coupled with his adeptness at deciphering defensive strategies and delivering accurate passes, has garnered him numerous prestigious honors, notably including the NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in 2018.

Tom Brady

Tom Brady is an esteemed American football quarterback who is widely recognized as one of the most exceptional players in the history of the sport. Born on August 3, 1977, Brady has enjoyed a remarkable career that has spanned over two decades. While primarily associated with the New England Patriots, where he achieved the extraordinary feat of securing six Super Bowl championships, Brady’s leadership qualities, astute understanding of the game, and ability to excel in high-pressure situations have propelled him to unparalleled success. Throughout his journey, he has established numerous records and garnered multiple MVP accolades. Notably, in 2020, Brady joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, leading them to a Super Bowl triumph and solidifying his esteemed status as one of the all-time greats in football.

Aaron Rodgers

Aaron Rodgers is an American football quarterback who currently plays for the Green Bay Packers in the NFL. Born on December 2, 1983, Rodgers is known for his exceptional arm talent, pinpoint accuracy, and ability to make difficult throws. He has consistently been one of the top quarterbacks in the league, earning numerous accolades, including three NFL MVP awards. Rodgers has led the Packers to multiple playoff appearances and a Super Bowl victory in the 2010 season. His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions has made him a formidable force in the NFL.

Russell Wilson

Russell Wilson is an American football quarterback who currently plays for the Seattle Seahawks in the NFL. Born on November 29, 1988, Wilson is recognized for his dual-threat capabilities, combining his accurate passing with his ability to scramble and make plays with his legs. Since entering the league in 2012, Wilson has consistently led the Seahawks to success, including multiple playoff appearances and a Super Bowl victory in the 2013 season. His leadership, poise, and ability to extend plays have made him one of the most exciting quarterbacks to watch.

Lamar Jackson

Lamar Jackson is an American football quarterback who currently plays for the Baltimore Ravens in the NFL. Born on January 7, 1997, Jackson is known for his exceptional speed, agility, and elusiveness as a runner. He became the youngest quarterback in NFL history to win the MVP award in 2019, showcasing his ability to make explosive plays both with his arm and his legs. Jackson’s ability to evade defenders and extend plays has made him a dynamic and exciting player to watch.

Josh Allen

Josh Allen is an American football quarterback who currently plays for the Buffalo Bills in the NFL. Born on May 21, 1996, Allen is recognized for his strong arm, athleticism, and ability to make plays outside the pocket. Since entering the league in 2018, Allen has shown steady improvement and has become a key leader for the Bills. His ability to make deep throws and his toughness as a runner have made him a dynamic quarterback in the league.

Deshaun Watson

Deshaun Watson is an American football quarterback who currently plays for the Houston Texans in the NFL. Born on September 14, 1995, Watson is known for his athleticism, playmaking ability, and strong arm. He has showcased his talent since entering the league in 2017, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and establishing himself as one of the most exciting quarterbacks to watch. Watson has displayed great poise under pressure, often making clutch plays to lead his team. His ability to extend plays and make accurate throws on the run has made him a dual-threat quarterback capable of impacting games with both his arm and his legs.

Dak Prescott

Dak Prescott is an American football quarterback who currently plays for the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL. Born on July 29, 1993, Prescott has been a consistent performer and leader for the Cowboys since he entered the league in 2016. Known for his strong arm and ability to make accurate throws, Prescott has guided the Cowboys to multiple playoff appearances. His toughness, decision-making, and leadership qualities have made him a respected figure both on and off the field.

Kyler Murray

Kyler Murray is an American football quarterback who currently plays for the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL. Born on August 7, 1997, Murray is renowned for his exceptional speed, agility, and ability to extend plays with his legs. His dual-threat capabilities, combined with his accurate passing, have made him a dynamic quarterback in the league. Murray’s quickness and elusiveness in the pocket, along with his ability to make accurate throws on the move, pose challenges for opposing defenses.

Justin Herbert

Justin Herbert is an American football quarterback who currently plays for the Los Angeles Chargers in the NFL. Born on March 10, 1998, Herbert burst onto the scene in his rookie season in 2020 and quickly established himself as a promising young quarterback. He possesses a strong arm and the ability to make tight-window throws, impressing fans and analysts with his poise and decision-making. Herbert’s leadership qualities and ability to deliver in critical moments have earned him accolades and recognition as one of the rising stars at the quarterback position.

Running Backs

Derrick Henry

Derrick Henry is an American football running back who currently plays for the Tennessee Titans in the National Football League (NFL). Born on January 4, 1994, Henry is known for his imposing size, exceptional strength, and ability to break tackles. He has emerged as one of the most dominant running backs in the league, consistently leading the NFL in rushing yards and touchdowns. Henry’s combination of power and speed makes him a force to be reckoned with, as he bulldozes through defenses and delivers big plays on a regular basis.

Christian McCaffrey

Christian McCaffrey is an American football running back who currently plays for the Carolina Panthers in the NFL. Born on June 7, 1996, McCaffrey is a versatile and dynamic player who excels both as a rusher and as a receiver out of the backfield. Known for his exceptional agility, quickness, and ability to make defenders miss, McCaffrey has consistently produced impressive numbers. He holds the distinction of being the only running back in NFL history to record over 1,000 rushing yards and 1,000 receiving yards in a single season. McCaffrey’s versatility and playmaking ability make him a valuable asset to the Panthers’ offense.

Dalvin Cook

Dalvin Cook is an American football running back who currently plays for the Minnesota Vikings in the NFL. Born on August 10, 1995, Cook possesses a combination of speed, agility, and vision that allows him to be a highly effective runner. He has established himself as a premier back, showcasing his ability to break tackles and make explosive plays. Cook’s exceptional balance and burst make him a consistent threat to break long runs and contribute both in the rushing and passing game.

Alvin Kamara

Alvin Kamara is an American football running back who currently plays for the New Orleans Saints in the NFL. Born on July 25, 1995, Kamara is known for his versatility, elusiveness, and receiving skills. He is a dynamic playmaker who can impact the game as both a runner and a receiver. Kamara’s ability to make defenders miss in open space and his knack for finding the end zone have made him one of the most electrifying running backs in the league.

Saquon Barkley

Saquon Barkley is an American football running back who currently plays for the New York Giants in the NFL. Born on February 9, 1997, Barkley burst onto the scene as a rookie, displaying a rare combination of power, speed, and agility. He possesses the ability to break tackles and make explosive plays, showcasing his versatility as a runner and receiver. Despite dealing with injuries in recent seasons, Barkley’s potential and playmaking ability make him one of the most exciting young running backs in the league.

Nick Chubb

Nick Chubb is an American football running back who currently plays for the Cleveland Browns in the NFL. Born on December 27, 1995, Chubb is known for his powerful running style and ability to gain yards after contact. He has established himself as a workhorse back, consistently delivering strong performances and showing exceptional vision to find running lanes. Chubb’s combination of strength and agility allows him to be a consistent threat in the Browns’ rushing attack.

Ezekiel Elliott

Ezekiel Elliott is an American football running back who currently plays for the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL. Born on July 22, 1995, Elliott is a physical runner with excellent balance and vision. He has been a key component of the Cowboys’ offense, consistently putting up impressive rushing numbers and demonstrating his ability to break tackles. Elliott’s toughness and ability to wear down defenses make him a highly valuable asset for his team.

Jonathan Taylor

Jonathan Taylor is an American football running back who currently plays for the Indianapolis Colts in the NFL. Born on January 19, 1999, Taylor is known for his exceptional speed, power, and work ethic. He had a highly successful collegiate career at the University of Wisconsin, where he amassed impressive rushing yards and touchdowns. Taylor quickly made an impact in the NFL, showcasing his ability to break tackles and make explosive runs. His combination of size, speed, and durability makes him a formidable threat in the Colts’ rushing attack.

Aaron Jones

Aaron Jones is an American football running back who currently plays for the Green Bay Packers in the NFL. Born on December 2, 1994, Jones is known for his versatility and explosiveness as a runner. He has demonstrated his ability to make big plays both on the ground and as a receiver out of the backfield. Jones’ agility, vision, and elusiveness have allowed him to consistently produce solid rushing numbers and contribute to the Packers’ offensive success.

Joe Mixon

Joe Mixon is an American football running back who currently plays for the Cincinnati Bengals in the NFL. Born on July 24, 1996, Mixon possesses a combination of power, speed, and agility that makes him a dangerous threat in the backfield. He has shown his ability to break tackles, make defenders miss, and contribute as a receiver. Mixon’s versatility and explosiveness have earned him recognition as one of the top running backs in the league when healthy.

Wide Receivers

DeAndre Hopkins

DeAndre Hopkins is an American football wide receiver who currently plays for the Arizona Cardinals in the National Football League (NFL). Born on June 6, 1992, Hopkins is known for his exceptional hands, route-running ability, and acrobatic catches. He has consistently been one of the top wide receivers in the league, using his size, athleticism, and body control to make contested catches and produce big plays. Hopkins’ consistent production and ability to come through in clutch situations have earned him a reputation as one of the most reliable and dominant receivers in the game.

Davante Adams

Davante Adams is an American football wide receiver who currently plays for the Green Bay Packers in the NFL. Born on December 24, 1992, Adams has established himself as one of the premier wide receivers in the league. He possesses excellent route-running skills, body control, and strong hands, allowing him to consistently create separation and make tough catches. Adams’ chemistry with his quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, has resulted in numerous big plays and touchdowns. His ability to win one-on-one matchups and find the end zone has made him a go-to target for the Packers’ offense.

Tyreek Hill

Tyreek Hill is an American football wide receiver who currently plays for the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL. Born on March 1, 1994, Hill is known for his incredible speed and explosiveness, earning him the nickname “Cheetah.” He is a versatile playmaker who excels as a deep threat, using his speed to outrun defenders and make big plays down the field. Hill’s agility and elusiveness also make him dangerous after the catch. His ability to stretch the field and create mismatches presents a constant challenge for opposing defenses.

Julio Jones

Julio Jones is an American football wide receiver who currently plays for the Tennessee Titans in the NFL. Born on February 8, 1989, Jones is widely regarded as one of the most physically gifted wide receivers in the game. Standing at 6’3″ with exceptional athleticism, he possesses a rare combination of size, speed, and strength. Jones has consistently dominated defenses with his route-running precision, contested catch ability, and yards-after-catch prowess. His consistent production and ability to make spectacular plays have established him as one of the elite wide receivers in the league.

Stefon Diggs

Stefon Diggs is an American football wide receiver who currently plays for the Buffalo Bills in the NFL. Born on November 29, 1993, Diggs is known for his precise route-running, reliable hands, and ability to create separation. He has become a favorite target for quarterbacks due to his consistent production and ability to make tough catches in traffic. Diggs’ route-running precision allows him to exploit defensive coverages and consistently get open. His contributions to the Bills’ offense played a key role in their success, making him one of the top wide receivers in the league.

Michael Thomas

Michael Thomas is an American football wide receiver who currently plays for the New Orleans Saints in the NFL. Born on March 3, 1993, Thomas is recognized for his exceptional route-running, strong hands, and physicality. He has established himself as one of the most productive receivers in the league, consistently leading in receptions and receiving yards. Thomas’ ability to make contested catches and gain yards after the catch has made him a reliable target for the Saints’ quarterbacks. His consistency and ability to move the chains have solidified his reputation as a top-tier wide receiver.

Keenan Allen

Keenan Allen is an American football wide receiver who currently plays for the Los Angeles Chargers in the NFL. Born on April 27, 1992, Allen is known for his precise route-running, exceptional hands, and ability to make tough catches in traffic. He has a natural ability to create separation from defenders, utilizing his route-running skills and football IQ. Allen’s reliable hands and body control enable him to make acrobatic catches and consistently move the chains for the Chargers’ offense. His chemistry with his quarterbacks and knack for finding open spaces in coverage have made him a go-to target and a vital component of the Chargers’ passing attack.

Allen Robinson

Allen Robinson is an American football wide receiver who currently plays for the Chicago Bears in the NFL. Born on August 24, 1993, Robinson is recognized for his size, physicality, and ability to make contested catches. He possesses excellent body control and uses his strength to outmuscle defenders for the ball. Robinson’s route-running precision and reliable hands have made him a reliable target for quarterbacks, especially in crucial situations. His ability to make tough catches in traffic and create big plays have established him as one of the top wide receivers in the league.

Amari Cooper

Amari Cooper is an American football wide receiver who currently plays for the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL. Born on June 17, 1994, Cooper is known for his smooth route-running, quickness, and ability to create separation. He possesses excellent footwork and agility, allowing him to deceive defenders and gain separation on his routes. Cooper’s reliable hands and route-running precision make him a reliable target for quarterbacks, consistently producing solid receiving numbers. His ability to make big plays and stretch the field has contributed to the success of the Cowboys’ offense.

Chris Godwin

Chris Godwin is an American football wide receiver who currently plays for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFL. Born on February 27, 1996, Godwin is recognized for his versatility, strong hands, and ability to make contested catches. He has the size and physicality to outmuscle defenders and come down with the ball in traffic. Godwin’s route-running ability and football IQ allow him to find open spaces in coverage and create separation. His reliable hands and ability to make tough catches have made him a reliable target for Buccaneers’ quarterbacks, playing a significant role in their Super Bowl-winning season.

Defensive Players

Aaron Donald

Aaron Donald is an American football player who currently plays as a defensive tackle for the Los Angeles Rams in the National Football League (NFL). Born on May 23, 1991, Donald is widely regarded as one of the most dominant defensive players in the league. With his exceptional strength, quickness, and technique, he consistently disrupts opposing offenses. Donald has an impressive ability to penetrate the offensive line, generate quarterback pressures, and stuff the run. His exceptional performance has earned him multiple Defensive Player of the Year awards and solidified his status as one of the premier defensive players in the NFL.

Jalen Ramsey

Jalen Ramsey is an American football player who currently plays as a cornerback for the Los Angeles Rams in the NFL. Born on October 24, 1994, Ramsey is known for his exceptional coverage skills, athleticism, and physicality. He possesses the versatility to cover a wide range of receiving threats, using his speed, agility, and instincts to excel in man-to-man coverage. Ramsey’s ability to shut down opposing wide receivers and make game-changing plays has made him one of the top cornerbacks in the league. His competitive nature and leadership qualities further enhance his impact on the field.

Khalil Mack

Khalil Mack is an American football player who currently plays as a linebacker for the Chicago Bears in the NFL. Born on February 22, 1991, Mack is widely regarded as one of the premier pass rushers in the league. He combines strength, speed, and technique to consistently wreak havoc on opposing offenses. Mack’s ability to generate pressure on quarterbacks, set the edge in the run game, and even drop into coverage showcases his versatility as a defensive player. His disruptive playmaking ability and knack for forcing turnovers have earned him multiple Pro Bowl selections and widespread recognition as one of the most dominant defenders in the NFL.

Myles Garrett

Myles Garrett is an American football player who currently plays as a defensive end for the Cleveland Browns in the NFL. Born on December 29, 1995, Garrett is known for his exceptional athleticism, explosiveness, and pass-rushing prowess. He possesses a rare combination of size, strength, and speed that allows him to overpower offensive linemen and disrupt the backfield. Garrett’s ability to generate quarterback pressures, accumulate sacks, and force fumbles makes him a game-changing player. His impact on the field and his ability to consistently disrupt opposing offenses have solidified his status as one of the premier defensive ends in the NFL.

Stephon Gilmore

Stephon Gilmore is an American football player who currently plays as a cornerback for the Carolina Panthers in the NFL. Born on September 19, 1990, Gilmore is recognized for his excellent coverage skills, athleticism, and ball-hawking ability. He combines physicality with precise technique to effectively shut down opposing wide receivers. Gilmore’s instincts, speed, and ball skills have resulted in numerous interceptions and pass breakups throughout his career. His consistent performance and ability to neutralize top receivers have earned him multiple Pro Bowl selections and the distinction of being one of the top cornerbacks in the league.

Bobby Wagner

Bobby Wagner is an American football player who currently plays as a linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks in the NFL. Born on June 27, 1990, Wagner is known for his exceptional instincts, football IQ, and tackling ability. He serves as the anchor of the Seahawks’ defense, providing leadership and making impactful plays. Wagner’s speed, agility, and ability to diagnose plays quickly allow him to be effective in pass coverage and run defense. His consistent production, multiple All-Pro selections, and contributions to the Seahawks’ success have established him as one of the premier linebackers in the NFL.

T.J. Watt

T.J. Watt is an American football player who currently plays as an outside linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL. Born on October 11, 1994, Watt has quickly emerged as one of the most dominant defensive players in the league. He possesses a rare combination of athleticism, strength, and technique that allows him to excel in various aspects of the game. Watt is a disruptive force as a pass rusher, using his speed, agility, and relentless motor to generate sacks, quarterback pressures, and forced fumbles. Additionally, he is highly effective in pass coverage, displaying excellent instincts and ball skills. Watt’s versatility, consistency, and impact on the field have resulted in multiple Pro Bowl selections and recognition as one of the premier defensive players in the NFL.

Chandler Jones

Chandler Jones is an American football player who currently plays as a defensive end for the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL. Born on February 27, 1990, Jones is known for his exceptional pass-rushing skills and disruptive presence on the field. He combines size, strength, and technique to consistently pressure quarterbacks and disrupt plays in the backfield. Jones has an impressive ability to accumulate sacks, tackles for loss, and forced fumbles, making him a constant threat to opposing offenses. His impact on the field and consistent production have earned him multiple Pro Bowl selections and recognition as one of the top defensive ends in the NFL.

Derwin James

Derwin James is an American football player who currently plays as a safety for the Los Angeles Chargers in the NFL. Born on August 3, 1996, James is known for his versatility, athleticism, and playmaking ability. He possesses the size and speed to cover receivers in the passing game, the instincts to make plays on the ball, and the physicality to excel in run defense. James is an impactful defender who can line up at various positions on the field, making him a valuable asset for the Chargers’ defense. His ability to make open-field tackles, break up passes, and create turnovers has established him as one of the most dynamic young safeties in the NFL.

Jamal Adams

Jamal Adams is an American football player who currently plays as a safety for the Seattle Seahawks in the NFL. Born on October 17, 1995, Adams is known for his intensity, physicality, and playmaking ability. He is a relentless defender who excels in both run support and pass coverage. Adams has a knack for making impactful plays, whether it’s delivering bone-crushing hits, recording sacks as a blitzer, or creating turnovers. His versatility, leadership, and impact on the field have made him one of the premier safeties in the NFL. Adams’ consistent performance and ability to change the outcome of games have earned him multiple Pro Bowl selections and recognition as one of the top defensive players in the league.

Conclusion

American football is a physical and demanding sport that requires a unique blend of skills and attributes to be successful. The players discussed in this article are some of the best NFL players of all time, illustrating how their impact on the field can transcend any era. From Lawrence Taylor’s ferocity as a pass rusher to Derwin James’ dynamic playmaking ability, these athletes have set the standard for excellence in American football. Their commitment to their craft and dedication to winning have earned them recognition as some of the top American football players ever. Ultimately, they serve as an example for future generations of what it takes to reach greatness in the NFL.

Frequently Asked Questions

Best NFL Running Backs of All-Time

Some of the best NFL running backs of all-time include Walter Payton, Barry Sanders, Emmitt Smith, Curtis Martin, and Jim Brown.

Oldest NFL Player of All-Time

The oldest NFL player of all-time is George Blanda, who played quarterback and kicker for 26 seasons in the league from 1949 to 1975. He was 48 years old when he retired after the 1975 season.

Best Defensive Players In the NFL

Some of the best defensive players in the NFL today include Aaron Donald, Khalil Mack, Bobby Wagner, Deion Sanders, and Stephon Gilmore.

Best NFL Kickers of All-Time

Some of the best NFL kickers of all-time include Adam Vinatieri, George Blanda, Gary Anderson, Jason Elam, and Morten Andersen.

Who is the GOAT of the NFL?

The GOAT of the NFL is widely regarded as Tom Brady, who has won six Super Bowls and been selected to fourteen Pro Bowls throughout his career. His longevity and success make him one of the most accomplished players in league history.

Best Offensive Lineman Ever

Some of the best offensive linemen ever include Anthony Munoz, Jonathan Ogden, Bruce Matthews, Larry Allen, and Walter Jones.

Most NFL Championships For a Player

The most NFL championships for a player is five, won by Tom Brady during his time with the New England Patriots.

Best NFL Defensive Players of All-Time

Some of the best NFL defensive players of all-time include Reggie White, Lawrence Taylor, Ray Lewis, Dick Butkus, and Deion Sanders.