By Darin Introduction
The NFL jersey numbers often tell a story, but for the defensive and offensive linemen, the numbers 50 through 79—especially 64—are badges of honor reserved for the unsung heroes in the trenches. Number 64 represents the grit and power of the men who battle every Sunday, largely out of the spotlight but essential to every successful play. From bulldozing run blockers creating massive holes for Hall of Fame running backs to ferocious defensive tackles collapsing the pocket, the players who donned this number defined consistency and dominance at the line of scrimmage. While the flashiest wide receivers or quarterbacks might not wear number 64, it has been the chosen shield of some of the most formidable and successful linemen in NFL history. Get ready to explore the careers of the top giants who made the number 64 a symbol of pure gridiron force.
Best NFL Players Who Wore Number 64
- Randall McDaniel was an elite, dominant pulling guard whose athleticism revolutionized the position in the 1990s, earning him 12 Pro Bowl selections and a Hall of Fame induction.
- Jerry Kramer was a legendary, powerful guard for the Green Bay Packers dynasty under Vince Lombardi, famous for executing the crucial “Lombardi Sweep” block.
- Dave Wilcox was a fearsome, versatile linebacker known for his speed, hard-hitting tackles, and exceptional coverage skills throughout his seven-time Pro Bowl career with the 49ers.
- Jack Reynolds was a tenacious middle linebacker nicknamed “Hacksaw” for his intense, aggressive style, anchoring the Rams’ and 49ers’ defenses for two decades.
- Ed Newman was a stalwart, durable guard for the Miami Dolphins for 16 seasons, known for his consistency in pass protection and run blocking, earning four Pro Bowl nods.
- Ken Gray was a six-time Pro Bowl guard for the St. Louis Cardinals, recognized as one of the best blockers of his era and an indispensable part of their offensive line.
- Joe DeLamielleure was a Hall of Fame guard whose agility and technique made him a key component of the Buffalo Bills’ famous “Electric Company” offensive line.
- Jeff Hartings was a strong, versatile center who anchored the Pittsburgh Steelers’ line, evolving from a Pro Bowl guard to an All-Pro center and winning Super Bowl XL.
- Tom Rafferty was a rock-solid, consistent guard for the Dallas Cowboys, providing reliable protection and blocking during the team’s late 70s and 80s successes.
- Bud McFadin was a two-way star in the 1950s, excelling as both a defensive tackle and an offensive guard, embodying the toughness of early professional football.
More Number 64 Legends
- Y.A. Tittle
- George Blanda
- Richie Incognito
- Jim Burt
- Bill Bryan
- Bruce Kozerski
- George Buehler
- Zach Strief
- Dave Wohlabaugh
- Milt Sunde
- Samson Satele
- John Mendenhall
- Edwin Mulitalo
- Ron Saul
- Jim Ray Smith
- J.R. Sweezy
- Andy Heck
- Bob Young
- Kendyl Jacox
- Chuck Hinton
- Ben Utt
- David Baas
Conclusion
The story of the 64 jersey number in football is one of grit, dominance, and consistent excellence. The players with number 64 discussed here not only protected their quarterbacks and paved the way for running backs, but they also cemented their places in NFL history, often earning Hall of Fame induction for their efforts. While conversations about offensive linemen might occasionally brush past the importance of surrounding numbers like the number 65 football players, the sheer talent and legacy attached to the NFL number 64 is undeniable. These athletes ensured that the jersey 64 will forever symbolize strength and mastery in the trenches.
