By Darin Introduction
The jersey number 66 in football often goes unnoticed, belonging primarily to the hardworking, often anonymous, giants of the offensive line. Yet, while names like quarterback or star receiver dominate the headlines, the number 66 football jersey has been graced by some of the most dominant and respected players in NFL history. From anchoring Super Bowl-winning lines to setting the standard for their position, the players who wore number 66 defined excellence in the trenches. The legacy of NFL player number 66 is one of grit, durability, and sheer power. If you’re curious about the true legends who donned the 66 jersey number in football, prepare to be surprised. This is the definitive countdown of the greatest players who have ever worn number 66, celebrating the excellence associated with the jersey number.
The Most Significant Jersey Number 66’s in NFL History
- Ray Nitschke was an iconic linebacker for the Green Bay Packers dynasty, earning Pro Bowl and First-team All-Pro honors multiple times, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1978. Nitschke helped the Packers secure five NFL Championships and the first two Super Bowl titles.
- Bulldog Turner was a versatile center and linebacker for the Chicago Bears who was named to eight Pro Bowls and earned four NFL Championships before his Hall of Fame induction in 1966. He holds the unique distinction of having his jersey number, 66, retired by the franchise.
- Kevin Gogan was a powerful offensive guard, Gogan was a three-time Super Bowl champion (twice with the Cowboys, once with the Raiders) and was selected to four Pro Bowls during his 14-season career. His physicality made him a dominant force on three different teams.
- Bill Bergey was a dominant middle linebacker for the Cincinnati Bengals and Philadelphia Eagles, where he made four Pro Bowls and was named First-team All-Pro in 1974. He finished his career as the Eagles’ all-time leading tackler and was named to the Eagles’ 75th Anniversary Team.
- Alan Faneca was one of the most decorated offensive guards in modern history, earning nine consecutive Pro Bowl selections, six First-team All-Pro honors, and a Super Bowl ring with the Steelers. He was deservedly inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2021.
- Billy Shaw was a key offensive guard for the Buffalo Bills of the American Football League (AFL), Shaw was a four-time AFL All-Star and won two AFL Championships before becoming the only player to spend his entire career in the AFL and be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
- Gene Hickerson was a foundational offensive guard for the Cleveland Browns, named to six consecutive Pro Bowls and five First-team All-Pro teams from 1965 to 1970. He helped the Browns win the 1964 NFL Championship and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2007.
- Larry Little anchored the legendary Miami Dolphins offensive line that achieved the only perfect season in NFL history, earning five Pro Bowls and two Super Bowl rings. He was named First-team All-Pro five times and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1993.
- Joe Jacoby was a crucial member of the Washington Redskins’ “Hogs” offensive line, Jacoby won three Super Bowl championships and was selected to four Pro Bowls and two First-team All-Pro teams. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023.
- Tom Nalen was a durable and highly decorated center for the Denver Broncos, winning two Super Bowl championships and earning five Pro Bowl selections and two First-team All-Pro honors. He was the anchor of the Broncos’ offense for 14 seasons.
Other Top Jersey Number 66 Players
- Nick Buonaconti
- Randy Rasmussen
- Conrad Dobler
- Harley Sewell
- Jack Stroud
- Pete Kendall
- David Diehl
- George Andrie
- David DeCastro
- Tom Newberry
- Bob Kowalkowski
- Myron Pottios
- Don Shinnick
- Billy Shields
- William Roberts
- Ben Grubbs
- Elmer Collett
- Tony Jones
Conclusion
The history of the 66 jersey number is a testament to the importance of the offensive line. While their work is often unglamorous, the careers built by these elite athletes wearing nfl number 66 speak volumes about dedication and dominance. From Hall of Famers to multi-time Pro Bowlers, the legacy of the best 66 football player remains strong. Which of these trench warriors do you think deserves the title of the all-time great? Let us know your favorite 66 jersey legend in the comments below!
