10 Greatest Draft Picks in NFL History
The NFL Draft is a unique blend of excitement, anticipation, and hope for fans across America. While every team dreams of snagging that “once-in-a-generation” talent, drafting well is an art form that combines science, luck, and an eye for untapped potential.
Many Hall of Famers were top picks, but some of the best players in NFL history were diamonds in the rough, chosen in later rounds yet rising to make an indelible impact on the game. Without further ado, here’s our list of the ten greatest draft picks in NFL history.
1. Tom Brady, 199th Overall, 2000 Draft – New England Patriots
It’s difficult to discuss great draft picks without immediately thinking of Tom Brady. The “sixth-round wonder” was the 199th overall pick by the New England Patriots in 2000. Since then, he’s rewritten the history books, winning seven Super Bowl titles and earning five Super Bowl MVP awards. His transformation from a draft afterthought to arguably the greatest quarterback of all time makes him the undisputed king of draft steals.
2. Jerry Rice, 16th Overall, 1985 Draft – San Francisco 49ers
Jerry Rice is often mentioned in the conversation for the greatest football player of all time. Picked 16th overall by the San Francisco 49ers, Rice would go on to set virtually every receiving record imaginable, including receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns. His 13 Pro Bowl selections and three Super Bowl rings with the 49ers only cement his place as a draft-day jackpot.
3. Lawrence Taylor, 2nd Overall, 1981 Draft – New York Giants
Lawrence Taylor changed the way the linebacker position was viewed. He was a force of nature on the field and single-handedly transformed games. Drafted 2nd overall by the New York Giants in 1981, Taylor won two Super Bowl titles and was a 10-time Pro Bowler. His fierce play disrupted offensive schemes and made him one of the most feared defenders in the league.
4. Peyton Manning, 1st Overall, 1998 Draft – Indianapolis Colts
While being a first overall pick often comes with high expectations, Peyton Manning exceeded them. During his 18-year career, Manning collected five MVP awards and two Super Bowl titles. With his unparalleled football IQ and arm strength, he set numerous passing records and revolutionized the quarterback position.
5. Joe Montana, 82nd Overall, 1979 Draft – San Francisco 49ers
Drafted in the third round, 82nd overall, Joe Montana became one of the most successful quarterbacks in NFL history. With four Super Bowl championships and three Super Bowl MVP awards, Montana’s legendary poise in clutch situations gave him the nickname “Joe Cool.”
6. Brett Favre, 33rd Overall, 1991 Draft – Atlanta Falcons
Though initially drafted by the Atlanta Falcons, Brett Favre made his mark with the Green Bay Packers. A three-time MVP and Super Bowl champion, Favre’s iron-man streak of consecutive starts and aggressive style of play endeared him to fans and frustrated opponents.
7. Walter Payton, 4th Overall, 1975 Draft – Chicago Bears
Walter Payton, affectionately known as “Sweetness,” was the cornerstone of the Chicago Bears for over a decade. The 4th overall pick in 1975, Payton was a nine-time Pro Bowler and won the NFL MVP in 1977. His ability to both run and catch made him a dual-threat that few could contain.
8. Deacon Jones, 186th Overall, 1961 Draft – Los Angeles Rams
Arguably the best pass rusher of his era, Deacon Jones was selected 186th overall by the Los Angeles Rams in 1961. Credited with coining the term “sack,” Jones was an eight-time Pro Bowler and two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
9. Reggie White, 4th Overall, Supplemental 1984 Draft – Philadelphia Eagles
Known as the “Minister of Defense,” Reggie White was a force to be reckoned with on the defensive line. With 13 Pro Bowl selections and two NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards, White’s impact was immediate and long-lasting.
10. Ray Lewis, 26th Overall, 1996 Draft – Baltimore Ravens
Ray Lewis was more than just a linebacker; he was the heart and soul of the Baltimore Ravens. The 26th overall pick in 1996, Lewis’ fiery leadership and dominant play led him to 13 Pro Bowl selections and two Super Bowl titles.
The NFL Draft can be a gold mine or a graveyard, depending on a team’s ability to identify talent. While some players are projected to be stars from the get-go, others rise from obscurity to etch their names in NFL history. These ten players are testaments to the unpredictable, yet rewarding nature of the NFL Draft—a process that keeps fans hooked, year after year.
So, the next time Draft Day rolls around, remember: today’s afterthought could be tomorrow’s legend.