Football History

Football fans, have you ever wondered who wore number 82 best? Prepare to embark on a captivating journey through NFL history as we explore the legendary players who donned this iconic number!

Number 82 has adorned the backs of some of the league's most electrifying talents. From record-breaking wide receivers who stretched defenses to the limit, to tenacious tight ends who dominated the middle of the field, this number carries a legacy of offensive prowess and strategic versatility.

Over the next few posts, we'll be dissecting the careers of these gridiron greats. We'll delve into their signature plays, analyze their contributions to their respective teams, and understand how they etched their names into the fabric of NFL history. So, get ready to be inspired by the remarkable athletes who wore number 82 with distinction!

Few honors are as coveted in professional sports as having one's jersey number retired. It's a testament to a player's extraordinary impact on the game, a symbol of their enduring legacy, and a mark of respect from the franchise they represented. This series will delve into the rich history of retired jerseys in football.

From the gridiron's earliest days to the modern era of superstar athletes, we will explore the stories behind the numbers that have been permanently shelved. We'll examine the criteria that teams use to determine which jerseys are worthy of retirement, the significance of specific numbers in football culture, and the impact these retired jerseys have on fans and the sport.

Join us as we pay tribute to the legendary players whose contributions to the game have earned them this ultimate honor. We'll uncover the fascinating tales of how these jerseys came to be retired, the controversies that sometimes surround these decisions, and the enduring legacies of the athletes they represent.

As of the start of the 2024 season there are 163 people that have a number set aside in their honor on 26 of the 32 teams.

-The Legends By the Retired Numbers

Here is a look at the people for each number retired in the NFL:

-Jersey Number 1
Ray Flaherty 1928–1935 - Giants
Warren Moon 1984–1993 - Oilers/Titans

-Jersey Number 3
Tony Canadeo 1941–1952 - Green Bay
Jan Stenerud 1967–1979 - Chiefs
Bronko Nagurski 1930–1937, 1943 - Bears

-Jersey Number 4
Brett Favre 1992–2007 - Green Bay
Tuffy Leemans 1936–1943 - Giants

-Jersey Number 5
George McAfee 1940–1941, 1945–1950 - Bears
Donovan McNabb 1999–2009 - Eagles

-Jersey Number 7
John Elway - Denver
Dutch Clark - Detroit
George Halas 1920- 1928 - Bears
Bob Waterfield 1945–1952 - Rams
Mel Hein 1931–1945 - Giants

-Jersey Number 8
Larry Wilson - Cardinals
Steve Young 1987–1999 - 49ers

-Jersey Number 9
Steve McNair 1995–2005 Oiler/Titans
Sonny Jurgensen 1964–1974 - Washington

-Jersey Number 10
Fran Tarkenton 1961–1966, 1972–1978 - Vikings
Eli Manning 2004–2019 - Giants

-Jersey Number 11
Phil Simms 1979–1993 - Giants

-Jersey Number 12
Jim Kelly - Buffalo
Bob Griese 1967–1980 - Dolphins
Tom Brady 2000-2019 - Patriots
Joe Namath 1965–1976 - Jets
John Brodie 1957–1973 -49ers
FAN (12s) The fans or 12th man of the Seahawks

-Jersey Number 13
Dan Marino 1983–1999 - Dolphins
Don Maynard 1963–1972 - Jets

-Jersey Number 14
Don Hutson 1935–1945 Green Bay
Otto Graham - Cleveland
Dan Fouts 1973–1987 - Chargers
Ward Cuff 1937–1945 - Giants
Y. A. Tittle 1961–1964 - Giants

-Jersey Number 15
Bart Starr 1956–1971 - Green Bay
Steve Van Buren 1944–1951 - Eagles

-Jersey Number 16
Len Dawson 1962–1975 - Chiefs
Frank Gifford 1952–1964 - Giants
Joe Montana 1979–1992 - 49ers

-Jersey Number 18
Frank Tripuka - Denver
Peyton Manning 1998–2011 Colts
Emmitt Thomas 1966–1978 - Chiefs
Charlie Joiner 1976–1986 - Chargers

-Jersey Number 19
Johnny Unitas 1956–1972 - Colts
Lance Alworth 1962–1970 - Chargers

-Jersey Number 20
Lem Barney - Detroit
Barry Sanders - Detroit
Billy Simms - Detroit
Gino Cappelletti 1960–1970 - Patriots
Brian Dawkins 1996–2008 - Eagles

-Jersey Number 21
LaDainian Tomlinson 2001–2009 -Chargers
Sean Taylor 2004–2007 - Washington

-Jersey Number 22
Buddy Young 1953–1955 - Colts
Bobby Layne - Detroit

-Jersey Number 24
Lenny Moore 1956–1967 - Colts

-Jersey Number 27
Eddie George 1996–2003 - Oilers/Titans

-Jersey Number 28
Willie Galimore 1957 -1963 - Bears
Abner Haynes 1960–1964 - Chiefs
Marshall Faulk 1999–2006 - Rams
Curtis Martin 1998–2005 - Jets
Darrell Green 1983–2002 - Washington

-Jersey Number 29
Eric Dickerson 1983–1987 - Rams

-Jersey Number 32
Jim Brown - Cleveland
Al Blozis 1942–1944 - Giants
Franco Harris 1972–1983 - Pittsburgh

-Jersey Number 33
Stone Johnson 1963 - Chiefs
Sammy Baugh 1937–1952 - Washington

-Jersey Number 34
Walter Payton 1975–1987 - Bears
Thurmon Thomas - Buffalo
Joe Perry 1948–1960 - 49ers
Earl Campbell 1978–1984 - Oilers/Titans

-Jersey Number 36
Mack Lee Hill 1964–1965 - Chiefs

-Jersey Number 37
Doak Walker - Detroit
Jimmy Johnson 1961–1976 - 49ers

-Jersey Number 39
Larry Csonka 1968–1974 - Dolphins
Hugh McElhenny 1952–1960 - 49ers

-Jersey Number 40
Pat Tillman - Cardinals
Gale Sayers 1965–1971 - Bears
Mike Haynes 1976–1982 - Patriots
Joe Morrison 1959–1972 - Giants
Tom Brookshier 1953–1961 - Eagles

-Jersey Number 41
Brian Piccolo 1965–1969 - Bears

-Jersey Number 42
Sid Luckman 1939–1950 - Bears
Charlie Conerly 1948–1961 - Giants
Ronnie Lott 1981–1990 - 49ers

-Jersey Number 43
Jim Norton 1960–1968 Oiler/Titans

-Jersey Number 44
Floyd Little - Denver
Pete Retzlaff 1956–1966 - Eagles

-Jersey Number 45
Ernie Davis - Cleveland
Kenny Easley 1981–1987 - Seahawks

-JerseybNumber 46
Don Fleming - Cleveland

-Jersey Number 49
Bobby Mitchell 1962–1968

-Jersey Number 50
Ken Strong 1936–1947 - Giants

-Jersey Number 51
Dick Butkus 1965–1973 - Bears
Sam Mills - Panthers

-Jersey Number 53
Mick Tingelhoff 1962–1978 - Vikings

-Jersey Number 54
Bob Johnson - Bengals

-Jersey Number 55
Junior Seau 1990–2002 - Chargers
Derrick Brooks 1995–2008 - Bucanneers

-Jersey Number 56
Bill Hewitt 1932–1936 - Bears
Joe Schmidt - Detroit
Lawrence Taylor 1981–1993 - Giants

-Jersey Number 57
Steve Nelson 1974–1987

-Jersey Number 58
Derrick Thomas 1989–1999 - Chiefs

-Jersey Number 60
Chuck Bednarik 1949–1962 - Eagles

-Jersey Number 61
Bill George 1952–1965 - Bears

-Jersey Number 63
Willie Lanier 1967–1977 - Chiefs
Lee Roy Selmon 1976–1984 - Bucanneers
Mike Munchak 1982–1993 - Oilers/Titans

-Jersey Number 65
Elvin Bethea 1968–1983 - Oiler/Titans

-Jersey Number 66
Bulldog Turner 1940–1952 - Bears
Ray Nitschke 1958–1972 - Green Bay

-Jersey Number 70
Art Donovan 1953–1961 - Colts
Jim Marshall 1961–1979 - Vikings
Al Wistert 1944–1951 - Eagles
Ernie Stautner 1950–1963 - Pittsburgh
Charlie Krueger 1959–1973 - 49ers

-Jersey Number 71
Tony Boselli - Jacksonville
Walter Jones 1997–2009 - Seahawks

-Jersey Number 73
John Hannah 1973–1985 - Patriots
Joe Klecko 1977–1987 - Jets
Leo Nomellini 1950–1963 - 49ers

-Jersey Number 74
Merlin Olsen 1962–1976 - Rams

-Jersey Number 75
Deacon Jones 1961–1971 - Rams
Joe Greene 1969–1981 - Pittsburgh

-Jersey Number 76
Lou Groza - Cleveland

-Jersey Number 77
Stan Mauldin - Cardinals
Red Grange 1925–1934 - Bears
Jim Parker 1957–1967 - Colts
Korey Stringer 1995–2000 - Vikings

-Jersey Number 78
Bobby Bell 1963–1974 - Chiefs
Bruce Smith 1985-1999 - Buffalo
Jackie Slater 1976–1995 - Rams
Bruce Armstrong 1987–2000 - Patriots

-Jersey Number 79
Jim Lee Hunt 1960–1970 - Patriots
Bob St. Clair 1953–1963 - 49ers

-Jersey Number 80
Kellen Winslow 1979–1987 - Chargers
Isaac Bruce 1994–2007 - Rams
Cris Carter 1990–2001 - Vikings
Jerry Rice 1985–2000 - 49ers
Steve Largent 1976–1989 - Seahawks

-Jersey Number 82
Raymond Berry 1955–1967 - Colts

-Jersey Number 85
Chris Hughes - Detroit
Jack Youngblood 1971–1984 - Rams

-Jersey Number 86
Buck Buchanan 1963–1975 - Chiefs

-Jersey Number 87
Dwight Clark 1979–1987 - 49ers

-Jersey Number 88
J. V. Cain - Cardinals
Alan Page 1967–1978 - Vikings

-Jersey Number 89
Mike Ditka 1961-1966 - Bears
Gino Marchetti 1953–1966 - Colts
Bob Dee 1960–1967 - Patriots

-Jersey Number 90
Dennis Byrd 1989–1992 - Jets

-Jersey Number 92
Reggie White 1993–1998 - Green Bay and Eagles
Michael Strahan 1993–2007 - Giants

-Jersey Number 96
Cortez Kennedy 1990–2000 - Seahawks

-Jersey Number 99
Marshall Goldberg - Cardinals
Jerome Brown 1987–1991 - Eagles
Warren Sapp 1995–2003 - Bucanneers

-Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common retired NFL number? The number 12 has 5 legendary QBs, and one fan base represents what the teams have retired the number 12.

The number 25. It's a simple combination of digits, yet it carries a weight of history and a legacy of excellence across the NFL landscape. From electrifying running backs who sliced through defenses with unparalleled agility to hard-hitting cornerbacks who patrolled the sidelines with unwavering tenacity, the men who have donned the number 25 have consistently left an indelible mark on the game.

This series will delve into the stories of some of the most iconic players to have worn the number 25, exploring their unique journeys, their impact on the league, and the enduring legacies they have built. We'll examine the diverse range of talents that have flourished under this seemingly ordinary number, from explosive playmakers who ignited the crowd to unsung heroes who quietly contributed to team success.

Join us as we embark on this fascinating exploration of gridiron greatness, one player at a time, and discover the remarkable individuals who have made the number 25 a symbol of both individual brilliance and collective triumph in the NFL.

The number 81. Within the vast and storied history of the National Football League, certain numbers have become synonymous with greatness, instantly evoking images of legendary players and unforgettable moments. Among these iconic digits, 81 holds a special place, a numerical badge of honor worn by some of the most electrifying and impactful players ever to grace the gridiron. This series is a tribute to those athletes, a celebration of the skill, dedication, and sheer brilliance they brought to the game while proudly sporting the number 81.

NFL 2020 - Playoffs - Washington vs. Buccaneers courtesy of All-Pro Reels District of Columbia, USA via Wikimedia Commons

More than just a number on a jersey, 81 represents a legacy. It speaks to a lineage of players who have redefined their positions, shattered records, and inspired generations of fans. This series will delve into the stories of these exceptional individuals, exploring their journeys to the NFL, their defining moments on the field, and the lasting impact they've had on the sport. We'll examine the unique blend of talent, athleticism, and determination that made them stand out, the qualities that transformed them from promising prospects into gridiron icons.

From game-changing catches to bone-jarring blocks, the players who have worn 81 have consistently delivered highlight-reel moments. This series aims to capture the essence of their contributions, showcasing their remarkable achievements and celebrating their enduring legacy. We'll explore the various positions represented by these players, highlighting the versatility and adaptability required to excel in the NFL. Prepare to be reminded of the sheer artistry and power that these athletes displayed, the indelible mark they left on the game, and the reason why the number 81 resonates so deeply within the fabric of NFL history. This is more than just a countdown; it's a recognition of greatness, a tribute to the men who made the number 81 a symbol of excellence.

The number 33. A seemingly ordinary number, yet in the annals of NFL history, it resonates with a unique significance. It's a number worn by athletes who defied expectations, shattered records, and etched their names into the league's storied past. This series of posts celebrates the legacy of the number 33, exploring the careers of the exceptional players who donned this iconic jersey. These weren't just players; they were forces of nature, individuals who possessed a rare combination of talent, drive, and unwavering determination.

NFL 2021 - Week 7 - Washington vs. Packers courtesy of All-Pro Reels from the District of Columbia 10/24/2021 Lambeau Field via Wikimedia Commons

From bruising running backs who carved their way through opposing defenses to ball-hawking safeties who patrolled the secondary with unmatched prowess, the number 33 has been a symbol of versatility and excellence. These athletes weren't just wearing a number; they were carrying the torch of greatness, embodying the spirit of competition and the relentless pursuit of victory. Each post in this series will delve into the career of a different player who proudly wore the number 33, highlighting their achievements, their impact on their teams, and their lasting contribution to the game.

These are the stories of gridiron warriors, the men who battled in the trenches, made game-changing plays, and earned the respect of their peers. They represent a lineage of skill and athleticism, a testament to the enduring appeal of American football. Join us as we explore the rich history of the number 33 and celebrate the remarkable athletes who made it their own. This series is a tribute to their talent, their dedication, and their unwavering commitment to the game. Prepare to be inspired by the tales of these NFL legends, the men who wore the number 33 and left an indelible mark on the sport we love.

The number 84. In the realm of professional football, certain numbers become synonymous with greatness, instantly evoking images of spectacular plays, unwavering dedication, and legendary careers. The number 84 is undoubtedly one of those iconic figures. It represents more than just a digit on a jersey; it's a symbol of excellence, a testament to the remarkable athletes who have graced the gridiron while sporting this prestigious number. This series is a tribute to those individuals, a celebration of their contributions to the sport, and a recognition of the lasting impact they've had on the game we love.

Antonio Brown 2015, Steelers at Ravens 12/27/15 courtesy of Keith Allison via Wikimedia Commons

Over the years, the number 84 has been worn by some of the most electrifying and impactful players in NFL history. These individuals have captivated audiences with their exceptional talent, their unwavering commitment, and their sheer passion for the game. They've made game-changing plays, set records that have stood the test of time, and inspired generations of fans with their incredible performances. This series will delve into the stories of these remarkable athletes, exploring their careers, highlighting their achievements, and showcasing the unique qualities that made them stand out from the crowd.

From explosive wide receivers who could stretch the field to dominant tight ends who redefined the position, the number 84 has been a hallmark of versatility and excellence. These players have not only excelled on the field but have also demonstrated the leadership, sportsmanship, and dedication that define true professionals. Join us as we embark on this journey through NFL history, recognizing the top players who have donned the number 84 and left an indelible mark on the league. We'll explore their legacies, celebrate their accomplishments, and remember the moments that made them legends.

The number 40. In the realm of NFL lore, it's more than just a digit on a jersey; it's a symbol of grit, determination, and gridiron greatness. This series of posts delves into the rich history of players who proudly donned this iconic number, etching their names into the fabric of professional football. From electrifying running backs who bulldozed their way through defenses to defensive stalwarts who anchored their teams, the legacy of the number 40 is one of exceptional talent and unforgettable moments.

Buffalo Bills running back, Jonathan Williams, playing against the Washington Redskins on August 26, 2016 by Keith Allison
derivative: Diddykong1130 via Wikimedia Commons

These athletes weren't just wearing a number; they were carrying the weight of expectations, the hopes of their fans, and the drive to achieve greatness. They represent a lineage of skill and athleticism, a testament to the enduring spirit of the game. Each post will explore the career of a different player who wore the number 40, highlighting their accomplishments, their impact on their teams, and their place in NFL history.

From record-breaking performances to championship victories, these players have left an indelible mark on the sport. They embody the qualities that fans admire most: toughness, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Join us as we celebrate the legacy of the number 40 and the extraordinary athletes who made it their own. This series is a tribute to their contributions, a reminder of their brilliance, and a celebration of their enduring impact on the NFL. Prepare to be inspired by the stories of these gridiron legends, the men who wore the number 40 and made history.

The number 70. In the NFL, it adorns the jerseys of some of the most formidable athletes to ever grace the gridiron. From fearsome defensive linemen who anchored dominant defenses to offensive linemen who paved the way for legendary running backs, the story of number 70 is a tapestry woven with grit, power, and unwavering dedication.

The Image of Julien Davenport 2018 courtesy Keith Allison comes via Wikimedia Commons.

This series will delve into the legacies of the top NFL players who have worn the iconic number 70. We'll explore their journeys, from their humble beginnings to their triumphs on the grandest stages of professional football. We'll examine their impact on the game, their contributions to their teams, and their enduring legacies that continue to inspire generations of aspiring athletes.

Join us as we celebrate the grit, the glory, and the unforgettable moments etched into the history of the NFL by the men who proudly wore number 70. Discover the stories of these gridiron giants and understand why this number holds a special place in the hearts of football fans worldwide.

The number 28 in the NFL carries a weight of history and a legacy of excellence. From hard-hitting linebackers to elusive running backs, this digit has adorned the jerseys of some of the most impactful players in league history. This series will delve into the stories of these gridiron greats, exploring their contributions to the game, their impact on their teams, and their enduring legacies.

We'll examine the diverse range of players who have proudly worn the number 28, from Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honorees to unsung heroes who played pivotal roles in their team's success. Through in-depth analysis, captivating narratives, and insightful statistics, we will uncover the unique journeys of these athletes and celebrate the enduring legacy of the number 28 in the NFL.

This series will offer a unique perspective on the history of the NFL, highlighting the importance of individual players and their contributions to the league's rich tapestry. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or simply curious about the game's history, this exploration of the number 28 promises to be an engaging and informative journey.

The number 37. A seemingly ordinary number, yet in the realm of NFL history, it represents something extraordinary. This series will delve into the stories of the men who wore this number, the players who etched their names into the league's rich tapestry, transforming 37 into a symbol of talent, dedication, and gridiron greatness. These athletes, spanning various eras and positions, left an undeniable impact on the game, captivating fans with their skill, athleticism, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Reed Doughty at Washington Redskins Training Camp August 4, 2011 courtesy of Keith Allison from Owings Mills, USA via Wikimedia Commons

This series will not merely recount statistics or list accolades. It will explore the journeys of these individuals, the challenges they overcame, and the triumphs that defined their careers. We will delve into the stories behind the number, examining the impact these players had on their teams, their communities, and the sport itself. From game-changing plays to inspiring leadership, the players who donned the number 37 have contributed to some of the most memorable moments in NFL history.

These posts will celebrate the legacy of the number 37, recognizing the exceptional athletes who embodied the spirit of competition and exemplified the highest ideals of the game. Join us as we embark on this journey through NFL history, honoring the players who made the number 37 a symbol of distinction, a testament to the enduring power of talent, hard work, and the unwavering pursuit of victory. Prepare to be inspired by the stories of these gridiron legends, whose contributions to the sport will forever be remembered.