1976 NFL Draft

Relive the 1976 NFL Draft! April 8th saw legends like Leroy Selmon and Steve Largent enter the league. Discover the strategic picks that shaped NFL history. Dive into the stories behind these Hall of Famers and the impact of this pivotal draft!

The 1976 NFL Draft, held on April 8th, featured a talented class that would significantly impact the league. This draft is notable for producing two Hall of Fame players, Leroy Selmon, a dominant defensive force, and Steve Largent, a prolific wide receiver. Teams carefully evaluated college prospects, seeking to build their rosters for long-term success.

The National Football League held its annual player selection meeting, the 1976 NFL Draft, on April 8th and 9th, 1976, at the Roosevelt Hotel in New York City, New York.

This draft spanned seventeen rounds, with the league's newest additions, the expansion Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Seattle Seahawks, holding the coveted first two selections. A draw determined the order of these top picks, with the Buccaneers winning the right to select first overall.

The 1976 NFL Draft is a particularly fruitful year for future Pro Football Hall of Famers, yielding a remarkable five inductees who would leave an undeniable mark on the league. Leading the pack was defensive end Lee Roy Selmon from Oklahoma, selected first overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Selmon's dominant presence on the defensive line earned him a place in the Hall of Fame class of 1995.

Joining Selmon in the class of 1995 was wide receiver Steve Largent from Tulsa. Despite being a fourth-round pick (117th overall) by the Houston Oilers, Largent's exceptional route running and sure hands paved the way for a legendary career. The New England Patriots also struck gold in the first round, selecting cornerback Mike Haynes from Arizona State with the fifth overall pick. Haynes' shutdown coverage skills earned him Hall of Fame enshrinement in 1997.

The Los Angeles Rams found a cornerstone of their offensive line in the third round, drafting offensive tackle Jackie Slater from Jackson State (86th overall). Slater's longevity and consistent excellence secured his place in the Hall of Fame class of 2001. Rounding out this exceptional group was linebacker Harry Carson from South Carolina State, a fourth-round selection (105th overall) by the New York Giants. Carson's leadership and impactful play were recognized with his induction into the Hall of Fame in 2006. The 1976 draft is a testament to the unpredictable nature of player selection and the enduring impact of these five remarkable athletes.