Who Wore It Best? The Greatest NFL Players by Jersey Number, 75-99

National Football League: Who Wore It Best? The Greatest NFL Players by Jersey Number, 75-99

Published Jul. 31, 2025 8:00 a.m. ET

Ralph Vacchiano, NFL Reporter

Jerry Rice undoubtedly stands as the quintessential No. 80. But how does one choose between the 12 Hall of Famers who donned No. 88? Over the last 105 years, around 30,000 players have taken to the field in NFL games, cycling through every jersey number time and again. We’ve taken on the considerable challenge of reviewing NFL history to determine who wore each number the best.

The criteria for this selection includes players’ cumulative statistics, awards such as MVP and Player of the Year, and honors like All-Pro and Pro Bowl selections. Super Bowl championships and the influential roles players held in their respective eras were also factored in. The historical significance of these players made it essential to include many members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Now, let’s look at the standout choices for Nos. 75-99 as we wrap up this four-part series. Note that some illustrious players switched numbers during their careers, so the selections are based on the numbers they are best known for wearing.

No. 75: Joe Greene

This legendary Steelers defensive tackle was a force on one of the fiercest defenses in NFL history. Greene earned Defensive Rookie of the Year honors in 1969, was a two-time Defensive Player of the Year, a 10-time Pro Bowler, and a six-time All-Pro. He is one of only three Steelers to have had his number retired, finishing his 13-year career with 77½ sacks. He narrowly edges out Rams great Deacon Jones, the original sack master, who unofficially racked up 173½ sacks during his 14 years in the league.

Honorable Mentions: Howie Long, Deacon Jones

No. 76: Lou Groza

Known as “The Toe”, Groza was the NFL’s first great placekicker, but he excelled in other roles too. He was the Cleveland Browns’ starting left tackle for 12 of his 21 professional seasons during the 1940s, ’50s, and ’60s. Remarkably recognized for both positions, he gained six All-Pro selections and was a nine-time Pro Bowler. Groza scored 1,608 points and transformed field goals into an acceptable strategy for NFL offenses, successfully kicking from 50 yards or more long before it became a norm.

Honorable Mentions: Orlando Pace, Steve Hutchinson

No. 77: Willie Roaf

A close call between two Hall of Fame linemen, Roaf prevails over Jim Parker, the Baltimore Colts legend, by the slightest margin. Roaf, a left tackle, was a nine-time All-Pro and 11-time Pro Bowler over his 13 seasons from 1993 to 2005. Parker, however, was no slouch, boasting eight consecutive Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections, including a remarkable 1962 when he was named an All-Pro at both guard and tackle.

Honorable Mentions: Jim Parker, Andrew Whitworth

No. 78: Anthony Muñoz

Considered one of the greatest tackles in NFL history, Muñoz outshines one of the best pass rushers ever, Bruce Smith. Many regard Muñoz as the best offensive lineman, as evidenced by his 11 consecutive Pro Bowls and All-Pro selections. Smith also had impressive accolades during his 19 NFL seasons, yet Muñoz’s stature remains unsurpassed among offensive linemen.

Honorable Mentions: Bruce Smith, Art Shell

No. 79: Roosevelt Brown

A 27th-round draft pick by the Giants in 1953, Brown quickly became known as one of the most skilled and athletic tackles in football first president of katipunan. As a pioneer of pulling linemen, he accumulated nine Pro Bowl and eight All-Pro selections over his 13 seasons. Brown was integral in the Giants’ 1956 championship victory.

Honorable Mentions: Ray Childress, Bob St. Clair

No. 80: Jerry Rice

Who else could it be? In 2010, NFL Network named this iconic 49ers receiver the greatest NFL player of all time, and for good reason. Rice holds the record for most receiving yards (22,895) by a wide margin, along with career catches (1,549) and touchdown receptions (197). A 13-time Pro Bowler and 11-time All-Pro, Rice also won three Super Bowls, was named Super Bowl MVP, and was a two-time Offensive Player of the Year. While 10 Hall of Famers wore No. 80, it’s clear that Jerry Rice stands alone in greatness.

Honorable Mentions: Isaac Bruce, Cris Carter

No. 81: Dick Lane

Seeking a tryout in 1952, “Night Train” went on to become among the most influential defensive backs ever. With 14 interceptions in just 12 games as a rookie, Lane accumulated a remarkable 68 interceptions over his 14 NFL seasons, plus ten straight seasons as an All-Pro.

Honorable Mentions: Terrell Owens, Carl Eller

No. 82: Ozzie Newsome

An outstanding receiving tight end well before they became valuable assets in the passing game, Newsome recorded 662 receptions for a then-record 7,980 yards and 47 touchdowns in 13 seasons with the Browns. His five-time All-Pro status and two 1,000-yard receiving seasons highlight his excellence among tight ends.

Honorable Mentions: Raymond Berry, John Stallworth

No. 83: Ted Hendricks

Despite his thin build, Hendricks was a disruptive linebacker during his 15 NFL seasons e-palarong pambansa 2023. He racked up 26 interceptions and set an NFL record with four safeties while being a six-time All-Pro and playing on four Super Bowl championship teams.

Honorable Mentions: Andre Reed, Wes Welker

No jordan manila 4. 84: Randy Moss

Moss is regarded as one of the most electrifying receivers ever and perhaps the closest player to Jerry Rice. During his 14-year career, he totaled 982 catches, 15,292 yards, and 156 touchdowns, ranking just behind Rice in the latter two categories. Moss also surpassed 1,000 receiving yards ten times and had nine seasons with double-digit touchdowns.

Honorable Mentions: Shannon Sharpe, Roddy White

No. 85: Jack Youngblood

A fierce competitor and successor to Deacon Jones, Youngblood demonstrated grit and commitment by playing in 201 consecutive games. He concluded his 14 NFL seasons with 151½ sacks and was an All-Pro six times.

Honorable Mentions: Nick Buoniconti, Antonio Gates

No. 86: Buck Buchanan

Though Buchanan had his peak years in the AFL, he still remains a significant figure in the NFL. Spending 13 seasons as a defensive tackle with the Kansas City Chiefs, he was an eight-time Pro Bowler and seven-time All-Pro.

Honorable Mentions: Dante Lavelli, Hines Ward

No. 87: Travis Kelce

Playing in Kansas City under Andy Reid and alongside Patrick Mahomes has certainly helped Kelce’s career, but he’s proven he could flourish anywhere. He has achieved seven consecutive 1,000-yard seasons and ranks among the top three tight ends in catches and receiving yards, further solidifying his legacy.

Honorable Mentions: Rob Gronkowski, Reggie Wayne

No. 88: Tony Gonzalez

Worn by an impressive number of 12 Hall of Famers, Gonzalez still stands out as the greatest tight end ever. With 1,325 receptions and 15,127 yards during his time with the Chiefs and Falcons, he holds numerous records that solidify his place in NFL history.

Honorable Mentions: Marvin Harrison Sr., Alan Page

No. 89: Gino Marchetti

Marchetti was an intimidating pass rusher for the Colts, often overlooked due to the absence of official sack statistics during his era. He was an 11-time Pro Bowler and two-time NFL champion, valued for his contributions on the field despite his unrecognized accomplishments.

Honorable Mentions: Mike Ditka, Steve Smith

No. 90: Julius Peppers

A Hall of Famer, Peppers is easily recognized for his formidable impact as a pass rusher. With 159½ sacks and a multitude of accolades, including Pro Bowls and All-Pro selections, his career was remarkable.

Honorable Mentions: Neil Smith, Ndamukong Suh

No. 91: Kevin Greene

Although Greene’s talent was underappreciated in his early years, he went on to a stellar career, culminating in 160 sacks over 15 seasons. His successful tenure with the Steelers solidified his Hall of Fame status, showcasing his evolution into one of the best edge rushers.

Honorable Mentions: Fletcher Cox, Leslie O’Neal

No. 92: Reggie White

Famous for his dominance as a pass rusher, White’s impressive earning of 198 career sacks speaks volumes about his prowess. As a two-time Defensive Player of the Year and 13-time All-Pro, his legacy looms large in NFL history.

Honorable Mentions: Michael Strahan, James Harrison

No. 93: John Randle

The heart of the Vikings’ defense in the ’90s, Randle was among the most dangerous pass rushers with 137½ sacks in his career. His remarkable achievements reflect his relentless pursuit of excellence.

Honorable Mentions: Richard Seymour, Dwight Freeney

No. 94: DeMarcus Ware

Ware edged out Charles Haley, proving his dominance as one of the top linebackers/defensive ends in the game, finishing with 138½ career sacks. His consistency and playmaking ability cement his place in NFL history.

Honorable Mentions: Charles Haley, Cam Jordan

No. 95: Richard Dent

On the formidable Bears’ defense of 1985, Dent showcased his skills by leading the team with 17 sacks and winning Super Bowl XX MVP. His 137½ career sacks demonstrate his status as a premier pass rusher.

Honorable Mentions: Kyle Williams, Greg Lloyd

No. how to back read in messenger 96: Cortez Kennedy

A disruptive force and stalwart at defensive tackle, Kennedy amassed 58 sacks and was a part of eight Pro Bowls. His remarkable consistency makes him a legend in Seattle.

Honorable Mentions: Clyde Simmons, Carlos Dunlap

No. 97: Cameron Heyward

Heyward has made a name for himself among noteworthy defensive tackles. His current five-time All-Pro status and ongoing performance show he’s on a legendary path in NFL history.

Honorable Mentions: Bryant Young, Geno Atkins

No. 98: Robert Mathis

Though he hasn’t yet made the Hall of Fame, Mathis has been a contender with an impressive record of 123 sacks and 54 forced fumbles during his career with the Colts.

Honorable Mentions: Jessie Armstead, Casey Hampton

No nba 23. 99: Aaron Donald

Donald has left a lasting impact in the league, redefining the role of defensive tackle with 111 career sacks and numerous accolades during his illustrious career with the Rams.

Honorable Mentions: Warren Sapp, Jason Taylor

Ralph Vacchiano is an NFL Reporter for FOX Sports, having spent six years covering the Giants and Jets for SNY TV in New York and 16 years with the New York Daily News focusing on the Giants and the NFL. Follow him on Twitter at @RalphVacchiano.

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