By Darin The Pillars of 77: Ranking the NFL’s Most Dominant Linemen and Trailblazers
In the hard-hitting history of the NFL, jersey number 77 has long been the hallmark of the league’s most immovable objects and its most explosive early superstars. While modern fans might associate the number with the massive offensive tackles who protect today’s multi-million dollar quarterbacks, the legacy of 77 actually began with the “Galloping Ghost” himself, Red Grange, who used the number to help legitimize professional football in the 1920s. From the technical perfection of Jim Parker and Willie Roaf to the ferocious defensive intensity of Lyle Alzado, the players who wore this number represented the foundational strength of championship dynasties. Join us as we count down the ten greatest legends to ever don the 77 jersey.
Football Bio: The Legends of 77
- Red Grange (RB): The legendary “Galloping Ghost” of the Chicago Bears made #77 iconic during the NFL’s infancy, using his elusive speed to turn professional football into a national obsession.
- Willie Roaf (T): A dominant force at left tackle for the Saints and Chiefs, “Nasty” Roaf earned 11 Pro Bowl selections and a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame for his impeccable footwork and power.
- Jim Parker (OL): As Johnny Unitas‘s primary protector in Baltimore, Parker became the first offensive lineman ever inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame based on his versatile excellence at both tackle and guard.
- Lyle Alzado (DE): A feared and ferocious defensive end for the Broncos, Browns, and Raiders, Alzado’s high-intensity style and intimidating presence made him a two-time All-Pro and a Super Bowl XVIII champion.
- Dick Schafrath (T): The primary lead blocker for the legendary Jim Brown, Schafrath was a six-time Pro Bowler for the Cleveland Browns and remains one of the most respected offensive tackles of the 1960s.
- Jim Tyrer (T): An anchor of the Kansas City Chiefs’ offensive line during their AFL and Super Bowl IV glory years, Tyrer was a nine-time All-Pro recognized for his massive frame and technical skill.
- Karl Mecklenburg (LB/DL): Nicknamed the “Albino Rhino,” Mecklenburg was a versatile defensive threat for the Denver Broncos who could play all seven front-seven positions, earning six Pro Bowl nods.
- Andrew Whitworth (T): A cornerstone of longevity and leadership, Whitworth capped a brilliant career with a Super Bowl LVI title and was honored as the 2021 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year.
- Jim Jeffcoat (DE): A tireless pass rusher for the Cowboys and Bills, Jeffcoat recorded 102.5 career sacks and was a key defensive piece for Dallas during their early 1990s Super Bowl runs.
- Bruce Bosley (C/G): A standout center and guard for the San Francisco 49ers, Bosley was a four-time Pro Bowler whose durability and skill helped anchor the team’s line for over a decade.
More NFL Jersey 77 Legends
- Willie Davis
- Ron Mix
- Curley Culp
- Ernie Ladd
- Tom Neville
- Tyron Smith
- Jeff Bryant
- Gary Larsen
- Kris Jenkins
- Dick Modzelewski
- Ben Williams
- Randy Thomas
- Mike Wilson
- Tyson Clabo
- Mark Mullaney
- Mike Compton
- Jake Long
- Darryl Grant
- Bubba Paris
- Stew Barber
- A.J. Duhe
- Nate Solder
- Carl Nicks
- James Carpenter
- Charlie Getty
- Marvel Smith
- Luke Petitgout
- Bill Brundige
- Doug France
Conclusion
The history of jersey number 77 is a testament to the evolution of football’s physical identity. It is a number that bridges the gap between the era of the two-way superstar and the modern specialist, carried by men who were often the first to arrive and the last to leave the trenches. Whether it was the trailblazing stardom of Red Grange or the modern leadership of Andrew Whitworth, these ten icons ensured that number 77 would always signify a player who provided the stability and strength necessary to win at the highest level. They are the true anchors of NFL history.
