Greatest Players Who Wore the NFL Jersey Number 11

Unveiling the Elite: The Greatest NFL Players to Wear Number 11

Think the number 11 is reserved only for backup quarterbacks and kickers? Think again. The history of the NFL’s No. 11 jersey is defined by a surprisingly diverse group of playmakers—from Super Bowl champions under center to perhaps the most consistent and beloved wide receiver of his generation. This number has evolved from a signal-caller’s badge to an emblem of elite receiving talent.

We’re diving deep into the archives to rank the absolute best to rock the iconic double-one. Get ready to settle the debate on which legendary player truly owns the legacy of the NFL’s number 11 jersey.

Top NFL Players to Wear Jersey Number 11 (GOAT List)

• Larry Fitzgerald (WR, Cardinals) – An 11-time Pro Bowler and future Hall of Famer who redefined the wide receiver position.
• Phil Simms (QB, Giants) – Super Bowl XXI MVP and a foundational quarterback for the New York Giants.
• Julio Jones (WR, Falcons/Titans/Buccaneers/Eagles) – A dominant, physically imposing receiver whose prime was one of the league’s best.
• Norm Van Brocklin (QB, Rams/Eagles) – Hall of Famer and one of the league’s first great passers, who still holds the record for most passing yards in a single game (554).
• Sebastian Janikowski (K, Raiders/Seahawks) – “Seabass” was one of the most powerful and reliable kickers in NFL history, and a first-round draft pick.
• Drew Bledsoe (QB, Patriots/Bills/Cowboys) – A four-time Pro Bowl quarterback and key figure in the Patriots’ return to relevance.
• Alex Smith (QB, 49ers/Chiefs/Redskins) – A No. 1 overall pick whose career was marked by resilience, great efficiency, and team success.
• Danny White
• Earl Morrall
• Greg Landry
• Daunte Culpepper
• Jim Everett
• Julian Edelman
• Riley Matheson
• Mark Rypien
• Sebastian Janikowski
• Carson Wentz
• Roy Williams
• Wade Wilson
• Cole Beasley
• Ernie Pinckert
• Tony Eason
• Danny Villanueva
• Pat Haden
• Marvin Jones
• Brandon LaFell
• DeSean Jackson
• Robby Anderson
• Lee Johnson
• DeVante Parker
• Steve Spurrier
• Billy Joe Tolliver
• Jim Turner
• Reggie Williams
• Tavon Austin
• Joe Kapp
• A.J. Brown
• Randy Johnson
• Virgil Carter
• Jack Concannon
• Jeff George
• Jim Jensen
• Bobby Anderson
• Rob Johnson
• Mike Eischeid
• Damon Huard
• Mike Wallace
• Cameron Dicker
• Jermaine Johnson II
• Jayden Reed
• Jaxon Smith-Njigba

Conclusion

Ultimately, the number 11 jersey represents a fascinating tapestry of NFL history, woven with thread from every era of the game. While the contributions of Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks like Phil Simms and franchise cornerstones like Drew Bledsoe are indelible, the modern legacy of the number clearly belongs to the elite wide receiver class. With his unparalleled consistency, staggering career yardage, and revered longevity, Larry Fitzgerald stands as the definitive greatest player ever to wear number 11. He elevated the position and the number itself, ensuring that the “11” on an NFL jersey will forever be associated with greatness, precision, and a Hall of Fame pedigree.

You might want to check out more of our jersey lists like this one: Top NFL Players Who Wore Number 8.