By Darin 
Born on November 25, 1965, Cris Carter transformed from an Ohio State standout into one of the most prolific and durable wide receivers in NFL history. Known for his superior route running and legendary hands, Carter’s 16-season career—13 of which were complete 16-game schedules—defined receiving excellence for an entire era. His ability to consistently haul in passes led him to become a foundational player for the Minnesota Vikings and cemented his spot on the prestigious NFL 1990s All-Decade Team.
The Legend
When a wideout plays in the NFL for 16 seasons, you know they are a superior athlete. When you have an athlete who played 13 complete 16-game schedules and put up the numbers that Carter did in his 16 seasons, you have a Hall of Famer.
Carter amassed 1101 catches and 130 TDs. He had 10 seasons in which he caught at least 70 balls and added 8 straight seasons of 1,000 yards. Carter played in 8 Pro Bowls and was on the All-Decade team of the 1990s. Cris was picked in the 1987 supplemental draft by the Philadelphia Eagles and then joined the Minnesota Vikings in 1990. He played most of his career with the Vikings before retiring.
He came out of retirement in 2002 to play 5 games with the Miami Dolphins, who had many receivers injured. The Pro Football Hall of Fame inducted Cris Carter into its Gold Jacket club in 2013.
Conclusion
Cris Carter’s journey to the Pro Football Hall of Fame is a testament to longevity, consistency, and unparalleled production. Finishing his career with over 1,100 catches and 130 touchdowns, Carter set the benchmark for elite wide receiver play throughout the 1990s and beyond. From his supplemental draft pick status to his eight Pro Bowl selections and enshrinement in Canton in 2013, Carter remains a gold standard for sustained dominance at his position, making him one of the true legends of the Minnesota Vikings franchise.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
College Career (Ohio State)
- Standout wide receiver for the Ohio State University Buckeyes.
Professional Career (Philadelphia Eagles, Minnesota Vikings, Miami Dolphins)
- Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2013).
- NFL All-Decade Team (1990s).
- Pro Bowl Selections: 8.
- Career Receptions: 1,101.
- Career Touchdowns (Receiving): 130.
- Seasons with 70+ Catches: 10.
- Consecutive Seasons with 1,000+ Yards: 8.
- Played 16 NFL seasons, including 13 complete 16-game schedules.
- Selected in the 1987 NFL Supplemental Draft (Philadelphia Eagles).