By Darin Hayes 
Number 16: The Ultimate List of NFL Legends Who Wore the Jersey
When you think of the NFL’s greatest quarterbacks and most versatile offensive threats, a single jersey number stands out as a symbol of excellence: 16. This number has been graced by some of the most clutch players and dominant winners in football history, becoming synonymous with Super Bowl rings and unforgettable plays.
Who are the best players in pro football history who wore the jersey number 16? Ready to settle the debate? From the undisputed GOATs who defined an era to the rugged, two-way legends who pioneered positions, we’re counting down the absolute best NFL players to ever wear No. 16. Discover the Hall of Famers and superstars who made this jersey number legendary and explore why it remains one of the most decorated in the sport’s annals.
List of Number 16 Legends
Here is a list of prominent NFL players who wore jersey number 16, along with a brief description:
- Joe Montana: Nicknamed “Joe Cool,” this legendary Hall of Fame quarterback led the San Francisco 49ers to four Super Bowl victories and was named Super Bowl MVP three times.
- Frank Gifford: A versatile Hall of Famer for the New York Giants, he was a two-way star who excelled as a running back, defensive back, and flanker, winning the NFL MVP award in 1956.
- Len Dawson: This Hall of Fame quarterback wore No. 16 for the Kansas City Chiefs, leading the team to a Super Bowl IV victory and earning MVP honors in that game.
- George Musso: A Hall of Fame guard and tackle who played for the Chicago Bears, he was one of the first great linemen in NFL history and played on four championship teams.
- Duke Slater: An early African-American pioneer in the NFL and a Hall of Fame tackle, he wore No. 16 for the Chicago Cardinals and was known for his durability and consistent All-Pro play.
- George Blanda: The ultimate football ironman and Hall of Famer, he played 26 professional seasons as a dual-threat quarterback and prolific kicker, wearing No. 16 with the Raiders and others.
- Arnie Herber: A Hall of Fame quarterback and punter for the Green Bay Packers, he was one of the NFL’s first great passers and a key figure in the pre-WWII championship teams.
- Ken Stabler: Known as “The Snake,” this Hall of Fame quarterback wore No. 12 but also No. 16 for the Oakland Raiders and led them to a victory in Super Bowl XI.
- Ed Healey: An early Hall of Fame lineman, he wore No. 16 with the Chicago Bears and was regarded as one of the best tackles of the 1920s.
- Norm Snead: A four-time Pro Bowl quarterback, he wore No. 16 for several teams, including the Washington Redskins and the New York Giants, passing for over 30,000 career yards.
- Jim Plunkett: This Super Bowl-winning quarterback wore No. 16 for the Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders, famously leading them to two Super Bowl victories, including a win as a Wild Card team.
- Walt Kiesling: A rugged Hall of Fame guard and tackle, he played and coached during the formative years of the NFL, winning multiple championships, and wore No. 16 with the Chicago Bears.