Football History

The Miami Dolphins are one of the most iconic franchises in the history of the National Football League. With a rich tradition of success and a passionate fan base, the Dolphins have produced some of the greatest players of all time. As a testament to their legendary status, the Dolphins have retired several jersey numbers to honor those who have made an indelible mark on the franchise.

In this series, we will delve into the stories behind each of the retired jersey numbers, exploring the careers of the players who earned this prestigious honor. From the glory days of the undefeated 1972 Dolphins to the modern era of dominance, we will examine the impact these players had on the team and the game of football as a whole.

Join us as we celebrate the legacy of the Miami Dolphins and the remarkable individuals whose numbers will forever be enshrined in team history.

Here are the honored players and their numbers that are not issued in Miami anymore:

-Jersey Number 12
Bob Griese 1967–1980

-Jersey Number 13
Dan Marino 1983–1999

-Jersey Number 39
Larry Csonka 1968–1974


If you love football jersey designs and evolution, wait until you check out the History of American Football Jersey.

-Football Jersey Frequently Asked Questions

-What are American football jerseys made of? Modern jerseys are made of synthetic fibers such as polyester or a blend of different materials such as spandex. For more, check out our in-depth study of The Makeup and Materials of Football Jerseys.

-What NFL franchise(s) has/have the most retired jersey numbers? The Chicago Bears and the New York Giants each lead the league with 14 different numbers retired. They have to duplicate when 90-man rosters are in effect.

-When did football jerseys start having numbers on them? Though there was documented talk of it since 1894, players only wore digits in a 1905 Iowa State at Drake game. Check out more on this story The Origins Of Football Player Numbers.

-Whose college football jersey was the first to be retired? Red Grange's Number 77 Ilinois Illini jersey was the first college uni shelved in 1925. There were a couple more about the same time, and we chatted with a college football expert historian to help divulge College Football and its First Retired Jerseys.

The Buffalo Bills have a relatively small but highly revered group of retired jersey numbers.

This exclusive honor is reserved for players who have made indelible marks on the franchise. Jim Kelly, the Hall of Fame quarterback who led the Bills to four consecutive Super Bowl appearances, has his number 12 retired. Thurman Thomas, the dynamic running back who was a cornerstone of those same Super Bowl teams, is honored with the retired number 34. Finally, the dominant defensive end Bruce Smith, whose relentless pursuit of quarterbacks defined an era, has his number 78 retired. These three numbers are synonymous with Bills history and are a testament to the greatness of these players.

Here are the Numbers that the Bills Franchise no longer issues in respect for the players that made them famous:

-Jersey Number 12
Jim Kelly

-Jersey Number 34
Thurmon Thomas

-Jersey Number 78
Bruce Smith

If you love football jersey designs and evolution, wait until you check out the History of American Football Jersey.

-Football Jersey Frequently Asked Questions

-What are American football jerseys made of? Modern jerseys are made of synthetic fibers such as polyester or a blend of different materials such as spandex. For more, check out our in-depth study of The Makeup and Materials of Football Jerseys.

-What are some of the most unique football jerseys in history? Gridiron jerseys with logos on the front were once a fad. Check out this story titled Football Jerseys with Emblems.

-Whose college football jersey was the first to be retired? Red Grange's Number 77 Ilinois Illini jersey was the first college uni shelved in 1925. There were a couple more about the same time, and we chatted with a college football expert historian to help divulge College Football and its First Retired Jerseys.

-Who are some of the most famous NFL players at each jersey number? From Red Grange's jersey number 77 to Tom Brady's iconic number 12, several NFL players made their digits proud. Want to know more? You are in the right place, as we covered all 100 jersey numbers, and the best way to wear each is About Football By Numbers.

Born February 5, 1942, in Cincinnati, Ohio, was the Naval Academy’s legendary Quarterback Roger Staubach. Roger Staubach's journey to football greatness is a story of perseverance, leadership, and unwavering dedication.

From his decorated college career to his legendary status with the Dallas Cowboys, Staubach embodied the qualities of a true champion, earning the moniker "Captain America" and solidifying his place in NFL history.

-College Career

Roger Staubach's college career at the Naval Academy was marked by exceptional success despite a two-year service commitment.

As quarterback, he led the Midshipmen to national prominence, winning the Heisman Trophy in 1963. His performance against Army that year, where he orchestrated a stunning comeback, cemented his reputation as a clutch performer. Beyond the accolades, Staubach's time at Navy instilled in him a strong sense of discipline, leadership, and teamwork, qualities that would serve him well in his professional career. His commitment to serving his country before pursuing his professional football dreams further enhanced his reputation as a man of character and integrity.

Staubach was befitting of the name “Roger the Dodger” as his elusive skill set kept defenses off guard, never knowing if he would run or throw a pass. The NFF states that During three varsity seasons, Staubach completed 292 of 463 pass attempts, for an incredible 63% completion rate. And of those 463 throws, only 19 were intercepted. In 1963 Roger was honored by receiving both the Heisman Trophy and Maxwell Award and being selected as an All-American. The College Football Hall of Fame voters came knocking on Roger Staubach’s door to induct him into their museum in 1981.

-Road to the Pro Game

Staubach's path to the NFL was unique. Drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the 10th round of the 1964 NFL Draft, he was still serving his commitment to the Navy.

He didn't join the Cowboys until 1969, four years after being drafted, and many questioned whether he could still perform at a high level after such a long layoff. However, Staubach quickly silenced his critics. He possessed a remarkable ability to process information quickly and make smart decisions under pressure, a skill honed during his time in the Navy. His athleticism, combined with his leadership and unwavering poise, made him the perfect fit for Tom Landry's sophisticated offensive system. He quickly became the leader of the Cowboys, transforming them into "America's Team" and leading them to consistent playoff appearances.

Staubach served his four-year commitment to the Navy and, at 27, joined the Dallas Cowboys as a rookie. He spent ten seasons under center with Dallas and, per ProfootballHOF.com, left with an impressive 83.4 passing rating, the best mark by an NFL player.

-Football Legacy

His career stats were officially at 1,685 completions in 2,958 passing attempts, which were good for 22,700 yards and 153 touchdowns. He was a two-time Super Bowl winner and MVP of Super Bowl VI. Roger Staubach in 1985 was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Roger Staubach's legacy is one of unparalleled success and enduring respect. He led the Dallas Cowboys to two Super Bowl victories (VI and XII) and four Super Bowl appearances. His ability to orchestrate game-winning drives, often in dramatic fashion, earned him the nickname "Captain Comeback."

Beyond the championships, Staubach's impact on the game extended beyond the scoreboard. He epitomized class and sportsmanship, earning the respect of his teammates and opponents alike. His leadership and poise under pressure set a new standard for quarterbacks in the NFL. Staubach's career demonstrated that success could be achieved through dedication, hard work, and unwavering belief in oneself. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985, solidifying his place among the game's greatest quarterbacks. Roger Staubach's legacy is not just about wins and losses; it's about the character he displayed, the leadership he provided, and the inspiration he gave to generations of football fans. He remains a symbol of excellence, both on and off the field.  

-Career highlights and awards

-2× Super Bowl champion (VI, XII)

-Super Bowl MVP (VI)

-NFL Man of the Year (1978)

-Second-team All-Pro (1971)

-6× Pro Bowl (1971, 1975–1979)

-NFL passing touchdowns leader (1973)

-4× NFL passer rating leader (1971, 1973, 1978, 1979)

-NFL 1970s All-Decade Team

-NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team

-Bert Bell Award (1971)

-George Halas Award (1980)

-Lamar Hunt Award (2012)

-Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor

-Heisman Trophy (1963)

-Maxwell Award (1963)

-Chic Harley Award (1963)

-UPI Player of the Year (1963)

-SN Player of the Year (1963)

-Walter Camp Memorial Trophy (1963)

-Unanimous All-American (1963)

-2× First-team All-East (1963, 1964)

-Second-team All-East (1962)

-Navy Midshipmen No. 12 retired

-Presidential Medal of Freedom (2018)

-Career NFL statistics

-Passing attempts: 2,958

-Passing completions: 1,685

-Completion percentage: 57.0%

-TD–INT: 153–109

-Passing yards: 22,700

-Passer rating: 83.4

-Rushing yards: 2,264

-Rushing touchdowns: 20

Roger Staubach. (2025, January 6). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roger_Staubach

Born February 3, 1945, in Evansville, Indiana was Purdue University’s famed Quarterback, Bob Griese.

Bob Griese's football journey, from his collegiate dominance to his professional triumphs, cemented his place as one of the game's most respected quarterbacks. His blend of intelligence, poise, and skill defined an era of Miami Dolphins football and left an enduring legacy on the sport.  

College Career

Bob Griese's college career at Purdue University was nothing short of spectacular.

According to the footballfoundation.org Bob started as a Sophomore for the Boilermakers and in the second game of that 1965 season he led Purdue in an upset of top ranked Notre Dame by the score of 25-21. In the win over the Irish Griese completed 19 of 22 passes, including 13 straight completions at one point. He was a consensus All-America selection in both 1965 and 1966. The National Football Foundation selected Bob Griese for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1984.

He quarterbacked the Boilermakers to a Rose Bowl victory in 1967, defeating USC and solidifying his status as a national star. Griese's performance in that game, throwing for over 300 yards and two touchdowns, showcased his exceptional talent and leadership. He earned All-American honors twice and was a Heisman Trophy runner-up in his senior year. Beyond the accolades, Griese demonstrated a remarkable understanding of the game, displaying a preternatural ability to read defenses and make smart decisions under pressure. His time at Purdue established him as one of the most coveted prospects in the country, setting the stage for his professional success.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Griese was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the first round of the 1967 AFL-NFL Common Draft. He quickly became the face of the franchise, leading the Dolphins to their first playoff appearance in 1970. Griese's arrival in Miami marked a turning point for the team, transforming them from a fledgling franchise into a perennial contender. He possessed a rare combination of physical tools and mental acuity, allowing him to excel in the professional ranks. His accuracy, arm strength, and ability to make quick reads made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Griese's leadership qualities were also evident, as he commanded respect in the huddle and inspired his teammates to perform at their best. The Dolphins' rise to prominence in the early 1970s was directly linked to Griese's exceptional play and his ability to elevate the entire team.

-Football Legacy

Bob Griese's legacy extends far beyond his individual achievements. He quarterbacked the Miami Dolphins to consecutive Super Bowl victories in 1972 and 1973, including the legendary undefeated season of 1972, a feat that remains unmatched in NFL history. Griese's role in that historic season solidified his place among the game's immortals. His calm demeanor and unflappable presence under pressure were instrumental to the Dolphins' success. While his individual statistics were impressive, it was his ability to lead and inspire that truly defined his career. Griese was a master of the mental aspects of the game, possessing an uncanny ability to anticipate plays and exploit defensive weaknesses. He retired in 1980, leaving a legacy of excellence and sportsmanship. Bob Griese was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990, a testament to his extraordinary career and lasting impact on the game.

His name remains synonymous with Miami Dolphins football, and his achievements continue to inspire quarterbacks and fans alike.  

-Career history[/]b

Miami Dolphins (1967–1980)

[b]Career highlights and awards

-2× Super Bowl champion (VII, VIII)

-2× First-team All-Pro (1971, 1977)

-6× Pro Bowl (1970, 1971, 1973, 1974, 1977, 1978)

-NFL passing touchdowns leader (1977)

-NFL completion percentage leader (1978)

-2× AFL All-Star (1967, 1968)

-Jim Thorpe Trophy (1971)

-Bert Bell Award (1977)

-Miami Dolphins Honor Roll

-Miami Dolphins No. 12 retired

-Dolphins Walk of Fame (2011)

-Sammy Baugh Trophy (1966)

-Consensus All-American (1965)

-First-team All-American (1966)

-Chicago Tribune Silver Football (1966)

-2× First-team All-Big Ten (1965, 1966)

-Career NFL statistics

-Pass attempts: 3,429

-Pass completions: 1,926

-Completion percentage: 56.2

-Passing yards: 25,092

-TD–INT: 192–172

-Passer rating: 77.1

Stats at Pro Football Reference
Bob Griese. (2025, January 25). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob_Griese

Born February 14, 1960 - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - The outstanding quarterback from the Miami Hurciane’s program Jim Kelly was born. The Buffalo Bills selected Kelly in the first round of the 1983 NFL Draft but the signal caller decided to sign with the USFL’s Houston Gamblers franchise instead.

The 6’-4” 225 quarterback spent two seasons with the Gamblers and threw for 9,842 yards and a whopping 83 touchdowns per the ProFootballHOF.com website. When the USFL folded Jim signed on with the NFL team that originally drafted him, the Bills in 1986. It was a perfect fit for both parties as Kelly ran the famed “no Huddle” fast paced offense of Coach Marv Levy to a tee. Having offensive weapons like running back Thurmon Thomas and receivers Andre Reid and James Lofton didn’t hurt either.

The Bills played in four straight Super Bowls in the 1990’s led by Kelly’s arm. In Jim’s 11 seasons with the Bills, he led the Bills to the AFC playoffs eight times. In those 17 playoff appearances, including four the Super Bowls, Kelly tossed the ball for 3,863 yards and 21 touchdowns! Jim Kelly was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002.

-Career History

-Houston Gamblers (1984–1985)

-Buffalo Bills (1986–1996)

-Career Highlights and Awards

-USFL Most Valuable Player (1984)

-USFL Rookie of the Year (1984)

-2× First-team All-USFL (1984, 1985)

-First-team All-Pro (1991)

-Second-team All-Pro (1992)

-5× Pro Bowl (1987, 1988, 1990–1992)

-NFL passing touchdowns leader (1991)

-NFL passer rating leader (1990)

-NFL completion percentage leader (1990)

-Second-team All-South Independent (1981)

-Buffalo Bills Wall of Fame

-Buffalo Bills 50th Anniversary Team

-Buffalo Bills No. 12 retired

-USFL All-Time Team

-University of Miami Sports Hall of Fame

-NCAA Inspiration Award (2018)

-Career NFL Statistics

-Passing attempts: 4,779

-Passing completions: 2,874

-Completion percentage: 60.1%

-TD–INT: 237–175

-Passing yards: 35,467

-Passer rating: 84.4

Stats at Pro Football Reference
Jim Kelly. (2025, February 1). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Kelly

March 14, 1943, Dayton, Ohio, marks the birthplace of Charlie Green, a quarterback whose name would become synonymous with excellence in Ohio collegiate football. His story is one of remarkable achievement, transitioning from a dominant college career to the professional ranks, and culminating in a well-deserved place among football's elite.

-College Career:

Charlie Green's time at Wittenberg University (1962-1964) was nothing short of legendary. As the starting quarterback, he orchestrated a period of unparalleled success, leading the Tigers to an astounding 25-0-1 record. This era was defined by three consecutive Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) championships, showcasing Green's ability to consistently deliver under pressure. Nicknamed "Chuckin' Charlie," his arm was a potent weapon, amassing 5,575 passing yards and 61 touchdowns throughout his collegiate tenure. His performance transformed Wittenberg into a football powerhouse.  

-Road to the Pro Game:

Charlie Green's exceptional college performance naturally garnered attention from professional scouts. After a successful College Career he then went on to play professionally. His professional career spanned four seasons, where he contributed to the Boston Patriots and the Oakland Raiders. Although precise professional statistics can require extensive archival research, his collegiate record demonstrably paved his way into the pros.  

-Football Legacy:

Charlie Green's legacy primarily rests on his transformative impact at Wittenberg University. He solidified Wittenberg's stature as a premier small-college football program. His phenomenal win-loss record, combined with his prolific passing statistics, set a standard of excellence that continues to inspire future generations of Wittenberg quarterbacks.

-Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats:

-College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2002 by the National Football Foundation.  

-Led Wittenberg University to a 25-0-1 record.

-Three Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) championships.  

-5,575 career passing yards.  

-61 career passing touchdowns.

-"Chuckin Charlie" Nickname.

His induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2002 serves as the ultimate testament to his enduring contributions to the sport.

The New England Patriots have a rich history filled with legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the franchise. As a testament to their greatness, the Patriots have retired certain jersey numbers, honoring those who have contributed significantly to the team's success. Let’s dive into the world of retired Patriots numbers and explore the traditions surrounding this esteemed recognition.

Here is a look at the jerseys that the franchise has taken out of circulation and the individuals honored:

-Jersey Number 12
Tom Brady 2000-2019

-Jersey Number 20
Gino Cappelletti 1960–1970

-Jersey Number 40
Mike Haynes 1976–1982

-Jersey Number 57
Steve Nelson 1974–1987

-Jersey Number 73
John Hannah 1973–1985

-Jersey Number 78
Bruce Armstrong 1987–2000

-Jersey Number 79
Jim Lee Hunt 1960–1970

-Jersey Number 89
Bob Dee 1960–1967

Born April 2, 1920, was Green Bay Packers legendary Quarterback Arnie Herber. Arnie Herber was an American football quarterback who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 13 seasons, primarily with the Green Bay Packers from 1930 to 1940. Herber led the Packers to four NFL championships and was named the NFL MVP in 1933. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1966.

Herber was born in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and attended Green Bay West High School, where he was a star quarterback and punter. After high school, Herber attended Regis College in Denver, Colorado. He played football for Regis for one season before transferring to the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Arnie played two seasons of college football at Wisconsin. He was the starting quarterback for both seasons and led the Badgers to a 10-2 record in 1930. Herber was named the All-Big Ten Conference quarterback in 1930.

After college, Herber was signed by hometown Green Bay Packers. He was the Packers' starting quarterback for 11 seasons, from 1930 to 1940. Herber led the Packers to four NFL championships in 1930, 1931, 1936, and 1939. He was named the NFL MVP in 1933.

Herber was a pioneer of the passing game in the NFL. He was one of the first quarterbacks to use the forward pass effectively, and he was a master of the long pass. Herber was also a very accurate passer, and he was known for his ability to hit receivers in stride. Herber was a prolific passer for his era. He led the NFL in passing yards in 1932, 1933, and 1936. He was also a good runner, and he led the NFL in rushing touchdowns in 1934.

Randall Wade Cunningham Sr. was born on March 27, 1963, in Santa Barbara, California. A dynamic and electrifying quarterback, Cunningham left an indelible mark on the NFL with his exceptional athleticism and playmaking ability, primarily during his tenures with the Philadelphia Eagles and Minnesota Vikings.  

College Career

Cunningham attended the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where he showcased his versatility. While primarily known for his quarterbacking prowess later in his career, Cunningham earned national recognition as a punter for the UNLV Rebels. He was a first-team College Football All-America selection as a punter in both 1983 and 1984. His strong leg and overall athletic talent were evident early in his collegiate career, setting the stage for his transition to quarterback at the professional level. In 2016, his achievements at UNLV were recognized with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame.  

Road to the Pro Game

Cunningham's exceptional athleticism and potential as a quarterback led the Philadelphia Eagles to select him in the second round (37th overall) of the 1985 NFL Draft. Notably, he was the first quarterback chosen in that draft. Initially serving as a backup to veteran Ron Jaworski, Cunningham provided glimpses of his unique scrambling ability. In 1986, under new head coach Buddy Ryan, Cunningham gradually took over the starting role, despite playing behind a struggling offensive line that subjected him to a then-NFL record 72 sacks. By the 1987 season, Cunningham had firmly established himself as the Eagles' starting quarterback, captivating fans with his exciting dual-threat style of play.  

After 11 seasons in Philadelphia, marked by Pro Bowl selections and highlight-reel plays, Cunningham retired after the 1995 season. However, his passion for the game drew him back, and he joined the Minnesota Vikings in 1997. There, he reunited with former Eagles receiver Cris Carter. In 1998, Cunningham enjoyed a career resurgence, leading the Vikings to a remarkable 15-1 regular-season record. His stellar performance included 34 touchdown passes and a league-leading 106.0 passer rating, making him the first black quarterback to lead the league in that category. The Vikings set an NFL record for most points scored in a season that year, but ultimately fell short in the NFC Championship Game. After a decline in performance and losing his starting job in 1999, he was released. Cunningham spent his final two seasons in backup roles with the Dallas Cowboys and Baltimore Ravens before retiring for good.  

Football Legacy

Randall Cunningham revolutionized the quarterback position with his exceptional athleticism and improvisational skills. His ability to extend plays with his legs and deliver accurate passes made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. He was a four-time Pro Bowl selection and consistently ranked among the league's most exciting players. At the time of his final retirement, Cunningham held the NFL record for quarterback rushing yards. His electrifying playing style inspired a generation of quarterbacks who embraced mobility as a key component of their game. Beyond his on-field achievements, Cunningham became an ordained minister, demonstrating a significant personal transformation. His induction into the College Football Hall of Fame and his place in Eagles' franchise history solidify his lasting legacy as a true NFL icon.  

Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

College:

-2x First-team All-American (Punter, 1983, 1984)

-College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2016)

Professional:

-4x Pro Bowl Selection (1988, 1990, 1992, 1998)  

-NFL Passer Rating Leader (1998)

-Minnesota Vikings Single-Season Record for Passing Touchdowns (34 in 1998)

Career Stats:

2,429 Completions
4,289 Attempts
29,979 Passing Yards
207 Passing Touchdowns
134 Interceptions
4,928 Rushing Yards
775 Rushing Attempts
35 Rushing Touchdowns

Stats courtesy of Pro-Football-Reference.com
Other info from NFL.com, Pro Football Researchers Association, and Wikipedia