Will Einfalt
4th & 32 Social Media Manager
This article is inspired by The Ringer and Bill Simmons.
I was listening to an episode where they drafted a basketball team with all number one overall picks and decided to do something similar for football. The problem with the NFL Draft is some positions aren’t drafted first overall or even top five. I decided to break up the draft into five sections and draft a full team based off of where they were drafted with some help from 4th & 32’s host Cole Smithson and this is how it played out. If we missed anyone please let me know and make sure to check us out on our social media pages and our episodes anywhere you get your podcasts.
Early Round 1 Team (Picks 1- 16)
Offense
Quarterback
1st String: Peyton Manning. A 5-time MVP and the only starting quarterback to win the Super Bowl with two different teams. Let me repeat that. FIVE. TIME. MVP. First overall pick in the 1998 draft from Tennessee, the Indianapolis Colts drafted him.
2nd String: Michael Vick. Probably some bias here because I never watched the old heads Bradshaw, Elway or Aikman, but I did grow up watching Michael Vick. His arm combined with his athleticism gives him the edge for me because he also helped revolutionize the position and broke ground for all the mobile quarterbacks of today. First overall pick in the 2001 draft from Virginia, the Atlanta Falcons drafted him.
Honorable Mention- Terry Bradshaw, John Elway, Steve Young, Troy Aikman, Patrick Mahomes, Eli Manning, Ben Roethlisberger
Half Back
1st: Barry Sanders. The rushing GOAT. Hall of Fame running back who rushed for over 15,000 yards in 10 seasons and added a dynamic pass-catching option to his offense, enough said. Third overall pick in the 1989 draft by the Detroit Lions out of Oklahoma State.
2nd: LaDainian Tomlinson. The San Diego Chargers drafted Tomlinson with the fifth pick in the 2001 draft out of TCU. “LT” could do it all as he rushed, caught and even threw touchdowns. One of the most gifted athletes to ever play the game.
Honorable Mention- Walter Peyton, Eric Dickerson, Adrian Peterson, Marshall Faulk, Edgerrin James, Reggie Bush, Marshawn "Beastmode" Lynch
Full Back
Jerome “The Bus” Bettis. Nicknamed for his size and style of running, Bettis was actually a running back in the NFL, but because of his 5’11, 255 lb frame he would've made an amazing full back. “The Bus” was drafted 10th overall out of Notre Dame by the Los Angeles Rams in the 1993 NFL Draft.
Wide Receiver
1st: Jerry Rice. Widely considered the greatest wide receiver ever, Rice has many records that still hold to this day and may last for another 30 years. His performances in Super Bowls also helped elevate his status as the unquestioned receiving GOAT. Rice was picked with the 16th overall pick in the 1985 draft by the San Francisco 49ers out of Mississippi Valley State University.
2nd: Calvin “Megatron” Johnson. Johnson was drafted number two overall in 2007 by the Detroit Lions out of Georgia Tech and always required opposing defenses to double or even triple team him and even then he still got his. He is the ultimate master of the jump ball and a terror to every corner and safety duo he faced.
Slot: Julio Jones. I'm personally gonna go with Julio because I watched him torch so many greats with his size and speed. He even played great on defense when his team turned the ball over. Julio was drafted with the sixth pick in the 2011 draft by the Atlanta Falcons out of Alabama.
Honorable Mention- Larry Fitzgerald, Michael Irvin, Tim Brown, Andre Johnson
Tight End
1st: Tony Gonzalez. One of the best tight ends of all time, Gonzalez was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs with the 13th pick of the 1997 draft after the Chiefs traded up to draft him out of Cal. He went on to make 14 pro bowls, six all-pros and hold the records for most receiving yards and receptions by a tight end.
2nd: Vernon Davis. Davis was drafted with the seventh pick in the 2006 NFL draft by the San Francisco 49ers out of Maryland. Davis went on to play for 14 seasons and was a huge red zone threat for any team that had him. His most memorable catch has to be in the Divisional round against the Saints from Alex Smith to win the game as the clock expired.
Offensive Tackle
1st: Anthony Munoz. The third overall pick in the 1980 NFL draft by the Cincinnati Bengals out of USC, Munoz is considered the greatest offensive lineman in NFL history. He started for 13 seasons, winning multiple awards and catching several touchdown passes.
2nd: Jonathan Ogdan. Drafted with the fourth overall pick in the 1996 draft out of UCLA, the Ravens drafted Ogden to lock up the offensive tackle position for a decade and they did just that. He went on to get 11 pro bowl selections and is now in the hall of fame.
Honorable Mention- Tony Boselli, Trent Williams, Joe Thomas, Leo Nomellini
Guard
1st: John Hannah. Widely considered to be one of the best guards in the history of football, Hannah was a nine time pro bowler and was a first team all-pro seven times. Drafted by the New England Patriots in 1973 at fourth overall out of Alabama, he never missed a game and was enshrined in the hall of fame after a successful 12-year career.
2nd: Bruce Matthews. Drafted by the Oilers at ninth overall in 1983 out of USC and played for 18 years. He only missed 3 games in his entire career and made the pro bowl 14 times and made the all-pro team 7 times.
Honorable Mention- Zach Martin, Quinton Nelson
Center
“Concrete” Chuck Bednarik. The first overall draft pick in 1949, the Eagles selected Bednarik as a two-way player to play center and linebacker for them. During his 13 year career he won two Championships and was voted to 8 pro bowls and 5 first team all-pros. He also made the 1950’s all decade team and was enshrined in the hall of fame.
Honorable Mention- Clyde “Bulldog” Turner
Defense
Edge
1st: Reggie White. White was one of the most dominant and awarded defensive players in the history of the game. Playing 15 seasons, he made two all-decade teams with two defensive player of the years and 13 pro bowls and all-pro selections. White was drafted in the 1989 supplemental draft after playing 2 seasons for the United States Football League (USFL). He is a member of the Hall of Fame and second all-time in total sacks with 198, only behind Bruce Smith.
2nd: Aaron Donald. When opposing offenses have to double or triple team you and you still have success stopping the run and rushing the passer it shows you have perfected your craft. Donald has been one of the most dominant defensive players of our generation and maybe ever. The scary thing is he’s still peaking in his greatness and is fresh off of his first Super Bowl ring. The St Louis Rams drafted him with the 13th pick in 2014 out of Pittsburgh.
Honorable Mention- JJ Watt, Myles Garrett, Bruce Smith, Von Miller, Demarcus Ware, Julius Peppers, Ed “Too Tall” Jones, Gino Marchetti
Defensive Tackle
1st: “Mean” Joe Greene. Greene is widely considered to be one of the greatest defensive linemen to ever play in the NFL. He was noted for his leadership, fierce competitiveness, and intimidating style of play for which he earned his nickname. He was drafted with the fourth pick of the 1969 NFL draft by the Steelers and went on to have a Hall of Fame career.
2nd: Warren Sapp. Sapp ran the fastest time in the 40-yard dash for a defensive tackle (4.69 sec). Sapp was considered a potential top five or ten pick, but due to reports of multiple failed cocaine and marijuana tests released the night before the draft, many teams passed on him. He was ultimately selected 12th overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 1995 NFL draft. Sapp was dominant on the field and went on to help his team win a Super Bowl and won many awards over his Hall of Fame career.
Honorable Mention- Tommie Harris, Cortez Kennedy, Alan Page
Linebacker
1st: Lawrence Taylor. Taylor is considered by many, including Bill Belichick, to be the most dominant defensive player of all time. Taylor’s list of awards is one of the longest I have seen while researching these players. He is only one of two defensive players to ever win an NFL MVP award and he was drafted by the NY Giants in the 1981 draft with the 2nd overall pick.
2nd: Dick Butkus. The third overall pick in 1965 by the Bears. Butkus played 9 seasons in which he was selected to 8 pro bowls, 6 first team all-pros and is one of few two time defensive players of the year. Butkus has gone down as one of the most intimidating linebackers and his fierce play and relentless effort gives him the edge here.
Honorable Mention- Luke Kuechly, Patrick Willis, Derrick Thomas, Brian Urlacher, Junior Seau, Clay Matthews Jr, Dave Robinson, Derrick Johnson
Cornerback
1st: Ronnie Lott. Lott was selected in the first round of the 1981 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers with the eighth overall pick. In his rookie season in 1981, he recorded seven interceptions, helped the 49ers to win Super Bowl XVI, and also became only the second rookie in NFL history to return three interceptions for touchdowns. He went on to win four Super Bowls and many more awards.
2nd: Darrelle Revis. Revis Island was a term that many receivers around the NFL became familiar with during his time in the league. It meant his team could task him with blanketing the best receiver on the other team and he would easily be able to cover an entire side of the field that way. Revis was one of the best lockdown corners the NFL has ever seen and “Revis Island” became synonymous with good coverage. He was drafted with the 14th pick in the 2007 NFL draft by the New York Jets.
Honorable Mention- Jalen Ramsey, Charles Woodson, Leon Hall, Champ Bailey, Mike Haynes, Stephon Gilmore
Safety
1st: Troy “Tasmanian Devil” Polamalu. I still remember watching Polamalu jump over the line to block a field goal and it was called back for a hold before he did it again the very next play. One of the greatest hustle players to ever play. Known for his wide array of abilities to unlock a great Steelers defense playing in the box and covering the back end of the field with similar ease. The Steelers picked him 16th overall in the 2003 draft.
2nd: Sean Taylor. RIP Sean Taylor needs to be mentioned first because we only got a glimpse of what he could’ve been after he was gunned down in his home protecting his family. The tape we do have shows him to be a rangy coverage safety as well as one of the hardest hitters to ever put on pads. Everybody knows the famous Pro Bowl clip where he absolutely wrecks the punter. The Redskins (at the time even though we don’t say that anymore) drafted him with the 5th overall pick in 2004.
Special Teams
Deion Sanders CB/KR/PR. “Primetime” would, could and should be the starting corner on this team as well. He is known as one of the fastest players to ever play in the league and he could truly do it all on the field. He was a true lockdown corner and made it look like a show each time he stepped on the field. He also was one of the greatest returners ever and showed flashes when the Cowboys let him play receiver. Sanders was drafted with the fifth pick in the 1989 draft by the Atlanta Falcons.
Late Rd 1 Team (Picks 17-32)
Offense
Quarterback
1st String: Aaron Rodgers. I put Rodgers as the starter here because of his ability to effortlessly flick the ball 60+ yards on an absolute dime. I also never personally watched Marino as he was before my time. Rodgers was drafted in the 2005 draft which is best known for him being one of the top prospects and falling all the way to 24th where the Green Bay Packers drafted him.
2nd String: Dan Marino. The 27th overall pick in the 1983 draft, Marino fell after a weak senior season and recreational drug use “rumors”. Marino went on to be recognized as one of the greatest quarterbacks in history even though he never won a Super Bowl.
Honorable Mention- Lamar Jackson
Running Back
1st: Emmitt Smith. After being drafted in the 1990 draft by the Dallas Cowboys with the 17th pick. He went on to play for 15 seasons and is the league's all time leading rusher (yards and touchdowns). He also is the only running back to win the MVP, NFL rushing triple crown, a Super Bowl and a Super Bowl MVP all in the same season (1993).
2nd: Chris Johnson. Drafted by the Titans with the 24th pick in the 2006 NFL draft after breaking the then record with a 4.24 second 40-yard dash. He ran for more than 1000 yards in each of his 6 seasons with the Titans and was a pro bowl selection in his first 3 years in the league. In 2009, he won the rushing title with over 2000 yards and earned him the nickname “CJ2K” and the 2009 rushing title.
Full Back
Steven Jackson. Jackson played running back after being drafted by the St Louis Rams in the 2004 draft with the 24th overall pick. His 6’2 240lb frame would have made him a tough man to bring down and was the early version of Derrick Henry back when Henry was just a six ft tall seven year old.
Wide Receiver
1st: Randy Moss. One of the greatest single game performances ever, Moss was unstoppable and even had a coined term for his ability to make opposing players look like children. The term “Moss” means to go up and get the ball and “poster” the defensive back like in basketball. Drafted in the 1998 draft by the Vikings with the 21st overall pick.
2nd: DeAndre Hopkins. Drafted by the Texans with the 27th pick in the 2013 draft. “Nuk” as he is also known, is one of the best receivers in the game and constantly embarresses anyone who lines up against him.
Slot: Percy Harvin. Drafted by the Vikings with the 22nd overall pick in 2009, Harvin slid because he tested positive for marijuana at the combine. He went on to have a great career and his speed and versatility as a runner and a receiver helped teams really open up their offenses.
Honorable Mention- Marvin Harrison
Tight End
1st: Greg Olsen. One of the most reliable players in the NFL, Olsen was a three time pro bowler with the Panthers. He was drafted by the Bears in 2007 with the 31st pick. Olsen was one of the best blocking and receiving tight ends in the league for many seasons.
2nd: Dallas Clark. Drafted by the Colts with the 24th overall pick in 2003. Although Clark had several injuries throughout his career, he was one of Manning's favorite targets and always gave his all.
Offensive Tackle
1st: Joe Staley. In the 2007 draft, the 49ers drafted Staley with the 28th overall pick. Staley played for 13 seasons and was named to 6 pro bowls and hardly ever committed fouls or allowed sacks.
2nd: Duane Brown. All-pro left tackle drafted by the Texans with the 26th pick in the 2008 draft. Brown had several seasons where he never gave up a sack or had a holding penalty and remained healthy until the back half of his career.
Honorable Mention- Bryan Bulaga
Guard
1st: Gene Upshaw. drafted by the Raiders in 1967 at 17th overall, Upshaw played for 14 years and only missed 10 games and also made seven pro bowls and was a first team all-pro 5 times.
2nd: Randall McDaniel. was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings at 17th overall in 1988. McDaniel made 12 bowls and 7 first team all-pros, and only missed 2 games.
Center
Frank Gatski. considered one of the best Browns players of all time, Gatski was drafted number 22 overall and was a four time nfl champion and is enshrined in the NFL as another great two way player as he also played linebacker.
Honorable mention- Alex Mack
Defense
Edge
1st: Jack Youngblood. A Hall of Famer who was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1971 with the 20th pick. Youngblood went on to play in 201 consecutive games including a Super Bowl run in 1979 where he had a fractured fibula, and finishing with over 150 career sacks.
2nd: Chandler Jones. The 21st pick in the 2012 draft by the New England Patriots, Jones has been a sack machine since he entered the league. With over 100 sacks and close to 500 tackles he has been a powerhouse and has propelled his team to many playoff wins.
Defensive Tackle
1st: Vince Wilfork. drafted with the 21st pick in the 2004 NFL draft by the Patriots. Wilfork was a force to be reckoned with and made 5 pro bowls during his all star career. His tremendous size and strength separates him from the pack.
2nd: Cameron Jordan. The Saints selected Jordan with the 24th overall pick in the 2011 NFL draft. Single handedly leading their defense to winning seasons and playoff wins. Jordan is a force of nature and has the stats to prove it.
Honorable Mention- William "Fridge" Perry, Ernie Stautner, Cameron Heyward
Linebacker
1st: Ray Lewis. The Ravens drafted Lewis with the 26th pick in 1996 and he played all 17 of his seasons with them and finished his career as the NFL leader in solo and combined tackles ever. One of the strongest and scariest to ever play linebacker in the NFL.
2nd: Bill George. The first true middle linebacker in the history of the game. Drafted by the Bears in 1951 with the 23rd pick. George went on to achieve 9 pro bowls and the Hall of Famer is known as, "the meanest Bear ever."
Honorable Mention- Derrick Brooks, Clay Matthews III
Cornerback
1st: Aquib Talib. The Buccaneers selected Talib with the 20th pick in the 2008 draft. His fire and passion led to him getting in several fights on and off the field and he ultimately became one of the scrapiest players at his position.
2nd: Desmond Trufant. Drafted by the Falcons in 2013 with the 22nd pick. Trufants speed and length helped him excel at his job and although he only recorded 14 interceptions during his whole career he was known for breaking up passes and making crucial tackles everywhere on the field.
Honorable Mention- Jonathan Joseph
Safety
1st: Ed Reed. Drafted 24th overall by the Baltimore Ravens in 2002. Reed and Ray Lewis made the Ravens defense a feared unit all around. Reed was selected to 9 pro bowls and holds the record for the 2 longest pick- sixes in history and the most interception return yards ever. The “ball hawk” is widely considered as one of the best safeties to ever play football.
2nd: Steve Atwater. The Broncos selected Atwater with the 20th pick in the 1989 draft. He was selected to 7 straight pro bowls, 8 total and helped his team win a super bowl with maybe the best game ever by a safety. He had 6 solo tackles, 1 sack, 2 passes broken up and a forced fumble and he even had a hit that knocked out 3 players, including himself.
Honorable Mention- Harrison Smith, Devin McCourty, Paul Krause
Special Teams
Sebastian Janowski. Kicker who was drafted by the Raiders with the 17th pick in the 2000 NFL draft. The Raiders all time leading scorer and appeared in more games with the franchise than any other player. He also tied the then record of the longest field goal in history at 63 yards.
ROUNDS 2-3
Offense
Quarterback
1st String: Brett Favre. Drafted in the 2nd round of the 1991 NFL draft by the Falcons. Farve spent one season on the bench before being traded to the Packers where he revitalized the franchise. The gunslinger spent 16 seasons with the Packers where he led the team to 11 playoff runs, 7 division titles, 4 NFC Championships and 2 consecutive Super Bowls (3 total). At the time of his retirement, nearly 20 seasons later, Favre was the NFL leader in passing yards, touchdowns and QB wins. He was named MVP 3 times consecutively and made 11 pro bowls and 3 all-pro teams and was inducted into the Hall of Fame as the first QB to have 70,000 yards, 10,000 passes, 6,000 completions, 500 touchdowns and 200 wins as well as wins over every NFL team.
2nd String: Drew Brees. Brees was drafted by the San Diego Chargers with the first pick of the 2nd round in 2001. He went on to break several all time passing records and won a Superbowl for the city of New Orleans after Katrina. He won 2 offensive player of the year awards and was selected to 13 pro bowls.
Honorable Mention- Russell Wilson, Joe Montana, Fran Tarkenton
Half Back
1st: LeSean “Shady” Mccoy. A 2nd round pick in the 2009 draft by the Eagles, Shady was known for his elusiveness and ability to turn on a dime. He avoided a lot of big hits which prolonged his career and allowed him to win 2 Superbowls with the Chiefs and Buccaneers to end his career. He finished with over 11,000 yards and 73 touchdowns and over 3,500 receiving yards and another 16 touchdowns. He played like his childhood hero, Barry Sanders, and helped every team he was on in huge ways.
2nd: Derrick Henry. Just now entering his prime, Henry already has two rushing titles and over 2,000 yards in a single season. “King Henry '' as he is also known, is a force to be reckoned with as his size of 6’3 and 250 lb frame makes him nearly impossible to bring down with one tackler. Teams often try to stack the box, usually unsuccessfully, when playing the Titans who drafted him in the 2nd round in 2016.
Honorable Mention- Alvin Kamara, Frank Gore, Jim Taylor, Jamaal Charles, Roger Craig
Full Back
Mike “A-Train” Alstott. Drafted in the 2nd round of the 1996 draft by the Buccaneers. Alstott rushed for over 5000 yards and made 6 straight pro bowls and helped his team to win the Super Bowl.
Wide Receiver
1st: Terrell Owens. “T.O.” as he was referred to, played 16 seasons in the NFL and finished his career with 6 pro bowl selections, 5 time first team all-pro, and ranked 3rd overall in career yards and touchdowns. One of the best players of his era and a hall of famer, TO still plays football to this day catching touchdowns from Johnny Manzel. He was drafted by the 49ers in the 3rd round of the 1996 draft and played for 5 teams.
2nd: Anquan Boldin. A Cardinals 2nd round pick in 2003, Boldin played for 14 seasons and won rookie of the year, made 3 pro bowls, won a superbowl and was even named Walter Peyton man of the year in 2015 for his community service. Boldin broke several single game receiving records and finished with 14,000 yards and 80 touchdowns.
Slot: Steve Smith. Drafted by the Panthers in the 3rd round of the 2001 draft, Smith played 16 seasons in the NFL and was phenomenal in nearly every one. He was one of the most productive players of the 21st century, even with a revolving door of Qbs during his time. Smith won 1 Super Bowl and won the receiving triple crown during his time and is ranked as the 7th best receiver in NFL history.
Honorable Mention- Fred Biletnikoff, Davante Adams, Jordy Nelson, Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson, Hines Ward, Tommy McDonald
Tight End
1st: Rob Gronkowski. Highest ranking TE in postseason history and one of the best options for Brady during their career tenure. Widely considered the best TE ever, Gronk was drafted in the 2nd round by the Patriots in the 2010 draft.
2nd: Travis Kelce. 2nd highest ranking TE in postseason history, Kelce has never been the blocker that Gronk was but was far less injury prone and remains a safety net for his QB during big moments. Was known as the “poor man's gronk” for the longest time and is starting to surpass Gronk because of his ability to stay on the field. Kelce was drafted by the Chiefs in the 3rd round of the 2013 draft.
Honorable Mention- Jason Witten, Dave Casper, Jimmy Graham, Dave Casper
Offensive Tackle
1st: Forrest Gregg. Drafted in 1956 by the Green Bay Packers, Gregg started on 8 NFL Championship teams and was voted to 9 pro bowls and 7 first team all-pros.
2nd: Jackie Slater. First player to play 20 seasons with one team, Slater was drafted by the LA Rams in 1976 and was enshrined in the Hall of Fame.
Honorable Mention- Andrew Whitworth, Orlando Brown Jr, Art Shell
Guard
1st: Larry Allen. Drafted in the 2nd round in 1994 by the Dallas Cowboys, the Hall of Famer made 11 pro bowls and made 6 first team all-pros. He only missed 6 games in his career and only allowed 1 sack.
2nd: Marshall Yanda. Drafted in 2007 in the third round by the Baltimore Ravens and was voted to the pro bowl 6 times and was a first team all-pro twice.
Center
Jim Otto. Widely considered the best center in the history of the game. Otto was drafted by the Raiders in 1960 and played 14 seasons where he won a championship and was voted to 12 pro bowls and 10 first team all-pros.
Honorable Mention- Kevin Mawae, Dwight Stephenson
Defense
Edge
1st: Michael Strahan. Drafted by the New York Giants in 1993 in the 2nd round. He played all 15 seasons with the Giants where he broke the single season sack record and is now in the Hall of Fame.
2nd: Jason Taylor. A third round pick for the Dolphins in 1997, Taylor holds the record for fumbles returned for touchdowns and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2017.
Honorable Mention- Calais Campbell, Justin Houston, Howie Long
Defensive Tackle
1st: Chris Jones. Drafted in the 2nd round of the 2016 draft by the Chiefs, Jones had a wardrobe malfunction running the 40 yard dash during the combine. Since then has been a consistent tackler and plays with a high motor and has already been voted to an all-pro team and helped his team win a Super Bowl and he is only 27 years old.
2nd: Brandon Williams. A 3rd round pick in the 2013 draft by the Ravens, Williams is one of the better run stoppers of the 2010’s and helped his team in many other ways as he blocked field goals and also rushed the passer very successfully.
Linebacker
1st: Mike Singletary. A first ballot Hall of Famer, two time defensive player of the year and the leader of the Bears legendary “46 defense.” Singletary was drafted in the 2nd round of the 1981 draft to the Bears.
2nd: Jack Lambert. One of the greatest linebackers of his era, this linebacker squad was difficult to choose from but puting Lambert here shows how dominant he was. He won 4 Superbowls during his 11 year career and 9 straight pro bowls and Defensive rookie of year and defensive player of the year awards as well. Drafted by the Steelers in the 2nd round of the 1974 NFL draft.
Honorable Mention- Jack Ham, Ted Hendricks, Navarro Bowman, Pat Swilling, Bobby Wagner, Lance Briggs, Ricky Jackson, Willie Lanier
Cornerback
1st: Mel Blount. The Steelers drafted Blount in the 3rd round of the 1970 draft and he was so dominant the NFL banned “bump and run” pass defense and it became known as the “Mel Blount Rule.” The Hall of Famer made the pro bowl 3 times and won 2 superbowls after that rule went into effect.
2nd: Ronde Barber. A 3rd round pick in the 1997 draft, the Buccaneers picked Ronde Barber who started 224 consecutive games and is the only player in NFL history with more than 45 interceptions and 25 sacks.
Honorable Mention- Charles “Peanut” Tillman, Dick LeBeau, Aeneas Williams
Safety
1st: Brian Dawkins. Nicknamed “Weapon X”, and the Eagles 2nd round draft pick in 1996 out of Clemson. Dawkins was a beast on the field and used his athleticism and complete lack of fear to fly through the air and hit opposing players as hard as he could.
2nd: Tyrann Matheiu. The Arizona Cardinals selected Mathieu in the third round of the 2013 NFL draft. He fell after he was dismissed from LSU due to a violation of team rules after being a heisman finalist the year before. Mathieu was the sixth safety drafted and has been known as the “Honey Badger.” A super bowl winner and three time pro bowler and all-pro, Matheiu has done anything asked of him and often goes above and beyond.
Honorable Mention- Eric Weddle, Bob "Sandman" Sanders
Special Teams
Devin Hester PR/KR. The NFL career leader in kick and punt returns for touchdowns with 20. He made teams fear kicking the ball to him and they did everything in their power to keep it out of his hands. The Bears drafted Hester in the 2nd round of the 2006 draft.
Rounds 4-7+ Team
Offense
Quarterback
1st String: Tom Brady. The GOAT, also the biggest steal of any draft ever, Brady is and will be the best QB ever. He was drafted in the 6th round by the Patriots in the 2000 draft and has made every other team that passed on him pay for their mistake.
2nd String: Ryan Fitzpatrick. The most accurately labeled journeyman, “Fitzmagic'' as many refer to him, has played for 16 seasons now and has started for 9 different teams. Drafted in the 7th round of the 2005 draft by the St Louis Rams.
Honorable Mention- Bart Starr, Matt Hasselbeck, Mark Rypien, Roger Staubach, Johnny Unitas, Joe Thiesmann
Halfback
1st: Bo Jackson. The only professional athlete to be named an all star in 2 different sports. Jackson also ran an unofficial 40 time of 4.13 and if he had avoided injury would have set records that may never be broken. Widely considered the best athlete of the 20th century. Bo was drafted in the 7th round of the 1986 draft after being drafted first overall the year before but refused to play for the Buccaneers and went on to play professional baseball, the Raiders allowed him to do both and miss some games and he made it worth their time with his level of play until a hip injury ended his career early.
2nd: Terrell Davis. The Denver Broncos picked Davis in the 6th round of the 1995 draft. The 3 time pro bowler finished with a Super Bowl MVP after carrying his team through the playoffs and in the big game and he was selected to the 1990 all decade team.
Fullback
Herschel Walker. Another running back who would have made a great full back because of his size and someone I couldn't leave out of this article. 6’2 and 222 lbs, Walker was a beast in College and wanted to leave as a junior. During that time, the United States Football League (USFL) was the only league that allowed players to play earlier. Walker broke the rushing record twice in the USFL and the Cowboys decided to take a chance on him in the 5th round of the 1985 draft. The Cowboys moved him to fullback during his first year making it the 2nd backfield with tandem Heisman winners. Walker complained after his first year as the Cowboys put him everywhere on the field and he wanted to be the starting running back and receive the most carries. The Cowboys moved him to starter and he went on to have an insane career and play everywhere on the field for any team that had him. Walker amassed the most all purpose yards in the NFL at the time of his retirement and is the only player to have over 4000 yards 3 different ways, rushing, receiving and kickoff returns.
Honorable Mention- Kyle Juszczyk
Wide Receiver
1st: Antonio Brown. Drafted by the Steelers in the 6th round of the 2010 draft. AB had the best 6 year stretch in the NFL with 7 pro bowls, 4 all-pros, a Super Bowl and 2010s HOF team. Brown's 6 year stretch will go down in history as he got at least 1200 yards and 8 touchdowns in each with over 8000 yards and 67 touchdowns total in those 6 years.
2nd: Cris Carter. A 4th round pick in 1987 by the Eagles, Carter was a touchdown machine. The Hall of Famer made 3 all-pro teams and played in 8 consecutive pro bowls. He broke many receiving records and still holds career receiving yards for the Vikings.
Slot: Tyreek Hill. Nicknamed the “Cheetah” because of his speed, Tyreek started out as a punt returner and was selected to the 2010s all decade team and has made it to 6 straight pro bowls in his first 6 years. He was drafted in the 5th round of the 2016 draft by the Chiefs.
Honorable Mention- Stefon Diggs, Andre Reed, Julian Edelman, Marques Colston, Donald Driver, David Tyree, Steve Largent, Cliff Branch
Tight End
1st: Shannon Sharpe. The Denver Broncos selected Sharp in the 7th round of the 1990 draft and retired 14 years later as the all time leader in catches, yards and touchdowns at his position.
2nd: George Kittle. One of the most aggressive players at the position, Kittle was drafted in the 5th round of the 2017 draft by the San Francisco 49ers.
Honorable Mention- Virgil Green, Delanie Walker
Offensive Tackle
1st: Rosey Brown. A true “sleeper pick”, the Giants selected Brown with the 321st pick in the 1953 draft. He missed only 4 games during his 13 year career and helped his team to 6 division championships and a title. He was selected to 8 straight first team All NFL and 9 pro bowls. After his retirement he remained with the organization as an assistant coach and was enshrined into the Hall of Fame.
2nd: Rayfield Wright. Enshrined in the Hall of Fame, Wright was drafted in 1967 in the 7th round by the Cowboys and became a 2 time Super Bowl champion with 6 pro bowls and 3 first team all-pros.
Honorable Mention- David Bakhtiari, Art "Fatso" Donovan, Winston Hill, Grady Alderman
Guard
1st: Jerry Kramer. 5 time NFL Champion and voted to 3 pro bowls and 5 first team all-pro teams. Kramers was drafted in 1958 by the Green Bay Packers and was the lead blocker on Vince Lombardi’s patented sweep play.
2nd: Jahri Evans. Hall of Fame player drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the 4th round of the 2006 draft. Evans quickly established himself as one of the best guards in the NFL and in 2010 the Saints made him the highest paid player at his position at the time.
Honorable Mention- Mark Bortz, Billy Shaw
Center
Mike Webster. Webster was a 5th round pick for the Steelers in 1974 and played 17 seasons with 9 pro bowl selections and a Hall of Fame selection.
Honorable Mention- Jason Kelce, Scott Wells, Tom Nalen, Tom Banks, Matt Birk
Defense
Edge
1st: Deacon Jones. The “Secretary of Defense” and inventor of the sack, Jones coined the head slap and is considered one of the greatest defenders of all time and Most Valuable Ram of all time. He was drafted in the 14th round of the 1961 draft by the Rams and part of the “Fearsome Foursome.”
2nd: Robert Mathis. Drafted by the Colts in the 5th round of the 2003 draft. Mathis played all 14 seasons with the Colts and the 5 time pro bowler is the all time leader in forced fumbles and strip sacks as he loved to get after guys and force turnovers. He won a Super Bowl in 2006 and after retiring he went on to become a defensive coordinator for the Colts.
Honorable Mention- Elvis Dumervil, L.C. Greenwood, Clyde Simmons, Andy Robustelli, Richard Dent, Willie Davis, Jared Allen, Dwight "Mad Dog" White
Defensive Tackle
1st: Geno Atkins. Atkins was picked with the 120th pick in 2010 and quickly became one of the best DTs during the 2010s and could line up anywhere on the defensive line.
2nd: La’Roi Glover. Drafted by the Raiders in the 5th round of the 1996 draft. Glover played only one game with the Raiders. He went on to play for the Barcelona Dragons and earned all league honors and helped them win a championship. The Raiders decided to waive him and the day after he signed with the Saints and went on to have a 13 year career where he made 6 straight pro bowls and was a 4 time all-pro.
Honorable Mention- Kyle Williams, Michael Carter
Linebacker
1st: Zach Thomas. A seven-time Pro Bowler and seven-time first or second team All-Pro, Thomas recorded more than 1,700 combined tackles in his career, was named the AFC Defensive Rookie of the Year in 1996, a two-time NFL Alumni Linebacker of the Year, and was selected to the NFL 2000s All-Decade Team.
2nd: Hardy Nickerson. A 5 time pro bowler drafted in the 5th round of the 1987 draft. Nickerson still holds the record for the most tackles in a season and is in the conversation for best middle linebackers of his era. He played for 16 seasons with the Steelers and Buccaneers.
Honorable Mention- Rod Martin, Joe Schmidt, Scott Studwell, Chris Hanburger, Andy Russell, Jessie Armstead
Cornerback
1st: Richard Sherman. One of the smartest and loudest corners to play the game and a member of the “Legion of Boom’ in Seattle which took the team to several Super Bowls and was the scariest secondary for opposing offenses. Sherman was drafted in the 5th round of the 2011 draft.
2nd: Lester Hayes. Drafted in the 5th round of 1977, Hayes played 10 seasons with the Raiders and won 2 Superbowls during that time. He was voted an all-pro corner for 5 straight years and won a defensive player of the year.
Honorable Mention- Cris Dishman, Josh Norman
Safety
1st: Kam Chancellor. One of the hardest hitting safeties to ever play the game and another member of the “Legion of Boom.” Known to put the fear of god into any receivers going over the middle of the field and could cover anyone. Drafted with the 133rd pick in 2010, the Seahawks were happy to select him when he fell.
2nd: Antoine Bethea. A 6th round draft pick out of Howard University, Bethea was drafted by the Colts in 2006. He was a 3 time pro bowler and helped his team win the Super Bowl.
Honorable Mention- Rodney Harrison, Micah Hyde, Eddie Jackson, Ken Houston, George Atkinson
Special Teams
Matthew Slater WR/ PR/ KR. A 5th round pick by the Patriots in 2008, Slater is considered the NFL’s best gunner and has helped his team win 3 Super Bowls and has made 10 pro bowls and 5 first team all-pro honors.
Roosevelt Taylor S/ KR/ PR. A key piece in the 1963 Bears championship run, during which, “Rosey” led the team in interceptions and kick returns. The Bears selected Taylor in the 5th round and he is now in the Hall of Fame.
Stephen Gostowski K. Drafted by the Patriots in the 4th round of the 2006 draft. Gostowski is the most accurate kicker in New England history and in the top 10 all time in accuracy. His league record of 523 consecutive extra points helps solidify him as the most reliable NFL players in history.
UNDRAFTED
Offense
Quarterback
1st String: Kurt Warner. The best Cinderella story in the NFL, Warner set the three best single best passing yardage games in Super Bowl history. Signed by the St Louis Rams in 1998 and a two time MVP and the only QB to win a Super Bowl in his first season as a starter. The Hall of Famer is widely considered as the best undrafted player ever.
2nd String: Warren Moon. The Houston Oilers signed him in 1984 from Washington after he played a few years in the Canadian Football League (CFL) after not gaining enough interest from NFL teams. In his 17 year NFL career, he made 9 pro bowls and a first team all-pro, also making it to the playoffs 7 times. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2006 becoming the first black quarterback and first undrafted quarterback to receive that honor.
Honorable Mention- Tony Romo
Running Back
1st: Priest Holmes. Signed by the Ravens in 1997, Holmes won a ring with the team although he didn't have a prominent role. He went on to sign with the Chiefs where he broke out as an offensive player of the year and 3 time all-pro and pro bowler. He and Emmitt Smith are the only running backs to have back to back 20 touchdown seasons and Holmes was inducted into the Chiefs Hall of Fame after becoming their career leader in rushing yards, touchdowns and total career touchdowns.
2nd: Fred Jackson. The Bills invited Jackson to training camp in 2006 after playing 3 seasons in Europe and leading their league in rushing. He went on to have a 9 year NFL career and is 3rd on the Bills for most rushing yards. He did it all as he returned kicks, and caught passes as well as rushing and had a season where he finished with 2500 combined yards which is 5th highest in a season in NFL history.
Honorable Mention- Joe Perry, Austin Ekeler, Legarrette Blount, Arian Foster
Full Back
Marion Motley. A fullback and linebacker for the Browns, Motley was a leading pass blocker and rusher in the late 40s and early 50s. Motley ended his career with an average of 5.7 yards per carry which is a record that still stands. Motley was a force on offense and defense and possessed size and quickness and Fellow Hall of Fame back Joe Perry called him, “the greatest all around football player there ever was.”
Wide Receiver
1st: Rod Smith. A 14 year veteran for the Broncos he is the fastest undrafted player to 10,000 career receiving yards and has the 2nd most receptions by an undrafted player behind Wes Welker. Smith holds the Broncos franchise record in receptions, receiving yards and touchdown catches and is only the 6th player in NFL history to have 100 receptions against at least 3 teams.
2nd: Drew Pearson. A Hall of Famer who signed with the Dallas Cowboys and was known as “Mr Clutch” after his game winning touchdown catch in the Super Bowl and several other crucial catches and plays in big moments. He helped his team to 2 other Super Bowls and was named to an all decade team.
Slot: Wes Welker. The San Diego Chargers signed him from Texas Tech in 2004. Welker went on to have a very successful career and had more all purpose yards in his first 3 seasons than every other player in history besides Gale Sayers. He still holds the Dolphins all time kickoff return yards, touchdowns and total punt returns . He also holds the most receptions by any undrafted player with close to 17,000 all purpose yards. Welker went on to play for the Patriots where he broke several more records and was selected to a pro bowl or all-pro team, or both, in every season he played with the Pats.
Honorable Mention- Victor Cruz, Doug Baldwin, Adam Thielen, Cole Beasley
Tight End
1st: Antonio Gates. Gates played his entire career with the San Diego Chargers and finished with 8 pro bowl selections and 5 first team all-pros. The Chargers career leader in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns and the 2nd tight end and 9th player to reach 100 career touchdowns. He leads all tight ends in the NFL and is considered as one of the best tight ends and undrafted free agents in the history of the game.
2nd: Cameron Brate. Not a lot of options here but a solid contributor for the Buccaneers and a Super Bowl champion. Brate has been a backup for most of his time and would be a reliable option for anyone throwing him the ball.
Offensive Tackle
1st: Jason Peters. In College Peters was a 320lb “athletic” tight end and during his senior year he registered more knockdown blocks than catches and spent the offseason doing blocking drills. He was projected as a 4th round pick but went undrafted and signed with the Bills. Peters went on to have a great career being able to play both left and right tackle spots and played for 17 years earning several all-pro and pro bowl awards.
2nd: Lou “The Toe” Groza. 8 time championship winner, Groza doubled as an offensive tackle and a kicker for 14 years before becoming a kicking specialist for his last 3 seasons. He was signed by the Browns where he played the majority of his career.
Honorable Mention- Alejandro Villanueva, La’el Collins
Guard
1st: Larry Little. The Hall of Famer was signed by the San Diego Chargers in 1967, Little had a 13 year career and was a 2 time NFL Champ and made 5 pro bowls and 5 first team all-pros.
2nd: Brian Waters. Signed by the Cowboys in 1999 out of the University of North Texas, Waters was named to 6 pro bowls and 3 all-pros while helping his team win the Super Bowl.
Honorable Mention- Andrew Norwell
Center
Jim Langer. Signed with the Miami Dolphins in the 1970s, Langer was a two time Superbowl Champion and made the Hall of Fame after being voted to 6 pro bowls and 4 first team all-pros.
Honorable Mention- Jeff Saturday, Mike Tingelhoff, Frank Gatski
Defense
Edge
1st: Cameron Wake. Signed by the Giants in 2005, Wake played two seasons in the CFL earning Most Outstanding Defensive player in both seasons. He signed with the Dolphins in 2009 and established himself as one of the premier edge rushers in the NFL. He was selected to 5 pro bowls and his 98 sacks ranks him 2nd all time for the Dolphins behind Jason Taylor.
2nd: Bill Willis. Known for his speed and strength, despite his smaller stature, he was one of the most dominant players of the 40s and 50s. An all-pro in every year of his career and a true trailblazer for the linebacker position and his techniques and styles were emulated by other teams and players. Signed with the Browns and was a 4 time champion and Hall of Famer.
Defensive Tackle
1st: John Randle. One of the best defensive players at his position, Randle went undrafted and was told he was “too small” and weighed “too little” Randle weighed himself with a chain under his sweats and quickly became a Hall of Fame lineman and was named to the 1990s all decade team.
2nd: Michael Bennett. Signed by the Seahawks in 2009 after going undrafted, Bennett was waived by the Seahawks to make room for an offensive lineman and the Buccaneers signed him shortly after and moved him to defensive tackle where he thrived. He was a consistent contributor to every team he played for and helped the Seahawks win the Superbowl, on his second stint with the team.
Linebacker
1st: London Fletcher. Fletcher signed with the Rams after going undrafted in 1990 and was known for being one of five players to play 250 consecutive games and helped his team win a Super Bowl, putting up stats that rivaled Ray Lewis and making several all-pro and pro bowl teams.
2nd: James Harrison. Went undrafted in 2002 and signed with the Steelers and made 5 pro bowls and helped his team win 2 superbowls. One of which he made a 102 yard pick 6. Harrison is also known for his ridiculous workout videos as he always wears full sweats and lifts ungodly amounts.
Honorable Mention- Jesse Tuggle, Shaq Barrett, Sam Wills
Cornerback
1st: Dick “Night Train” Lane. The Los Angeles Rams signed him in 1952, and immediately Night Train was bigger, stronger and faster than anyone he played against. Known for his incredible instincts, he still holds the record for most interceptions in a season with 14 and that was back in the 1950s when they only played 12 games.
2nd: Emlen Tunnell. Nicknamed “ The Gremlin”, the first African American to play for the Giants and to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. He played 14 seasons as the teams tailback and safety and was selected to 9 pro bowls and 6 all-pro teams. He also won two championships and broke a ton of records.
Honorable Mention- Chris Harris Jr, JC Jackson, AJ Bouye, Donnie Shell, Jack Butler, Malcolm Butler, Emmitt Thomas, Willie Brown
Safety
1st: Cliff Harris. Signed by the Cowboys in 1970, the Hall of Famer helped his team to 5 Superbowls and 6 consecutive pro bowls. He was known as “Captain Crash” for his punishing hits and reckless pursuit of ball carriers, and he was described as a “rolling ball of butcher knives.”
2nd: Willie Wood. After going undrafted in 1960, Wood wrote head coach Vince Lombardi to request a tryout. The Packers signed him and he switched from quarterback to Free Safety and was the starter that season. Wood won All NFL honors for 9 straight years and made 8 pro bowls while helping his team to 6 NFL championships and winning all but the first one. Enshrined into the Hall of Fame he is one of the best undrafted players of his generation.
Special Teams
Adam Vinatieri. Kicker signed by the New England Patriots from South Dakota State in 1996. He is known as one of the best kickers of all time and leads the NFL with 2,673 points.
Justin Tucker. Tucker went undrafted out of Texas, signing with the Ravens in 2012. He has arguably become the league's best kicker over eight seasons, earning All-Pro four times and making 91 percent of his field-goal attempts.
Josh Cribbs KR/ PR. The Browns signed Cribbs in 2005 and his receiving numbers are nothing to write home about, his return numbers are phenomenal. He returned 387 kickoffs for 10,000 yards and 8 touchdowns as well as 2100 punt return yards and another 3 scores and he ranks sixth overall in league history.