Top 10 Best Wide Receivers Ever in NFL History
In the pantheon of NFL greats, wide receivers hold a special place. They are the playmakers, the game-changers, and the ones who electrify stadiums with their acrobatic catches and breathtaking runs. Join us as we explore the top 10 best wide receivers ever in NFL history, taking a closer look at their skills, impact on the game, and the records they shattered.
Top 10 Best Wide Receivers Ever in NFL History – Honorable Mention Antonio Brown
Honorable Mention – Antonio Brown
Antonio Brown, known for his exceptional talent, incredible accomplishments, and game-changing impact, has established himself as one of the best wide receivers ever speaking strictly in terms of talent. His route-running precision, speed, agility, and ability to create separation have made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Brown’s consistency and ability to make big plays in critical moments have set him apart.
Throughout his career, Brown has amassed impressive statistics, including numerous 1,000-yard seasons and multiple receptions and touchdowns records. His remarkable hands and body control have resulted in countless highlight-reel catches, solidifying his reputation as a masterful receiver.
Off the field, Brown’s journey has been marked by challenges and controversies, but his on-field performances cannot be denied. When focused and at his best, he has proven to be one of the most unstoppable receivers in the game.
| Career NFL statistics | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|||||||||||
- Super Bowl champion (LV)
- 4× First-team All-Pro (2014–2017)
- Second-team All-Pro (2013)
- 7× Pro Bowl (2011, 2013–2018)
- 2× NFL receptions leader (2014, 2015)
- 2× NFL receiving yards leader (2014, 2017)
- NFL receiving touchdowns leader (2018)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- Pittsburgh Steelers (2010–2018)
- Oakland Raiders (2019)*
- New England Patriots (2019)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2020–2021)
Top 10 Best Wide Receivers Ever in NFL History – #10 Julio Jones
#10 – Julio Jones
Julio Jones, a dominant force on the field, is the perfect player to start off this list. It was poetic to include him right after Antonio Brown as they played in the same era with similar statlines. Except one was actually a good teammate.
Known for his exceptional talent, physicality, and big-play ability, Jones has consistently showcased his elite skills throughout his career. His combination of size, speed, and athleticism makes him a nightmare matchup for any defense.
Jones’ impact on the game goes beyond his eye-popping statistics, as he has consistently shown the ability to make game-changing plays. His leaping ability and body control allow him to make acrobatic catches in contested situations, while his breakaway speed enables him to turn short receptions into long gains.
| Career NFL statistics | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|||||||
- 2× First-team All-Pro (2015, 2016)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (2017–2019)
- 7× Pro Bowl (2012, 2014–2019)
- 2× NFL receiving yards leader (2015, 2018)
- NFL receptions co-leader (2015)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- Atlanta Falcons (2011–2020)
- Tennessee Titans (2021)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2022)
Top 10 Best Wide Receivers Ever in NFL History – #9 Tim Brown
#9 – Tim Brown
Tim Brown, an iconic figure in NFL history, left an indelible mark on the game as one of the most electrifying wide receivers to ever step onto the gridiron. Known for his precise route-running, incredible hands, and game-breaking speed, Brown consistently torched opposing defenses and provided endless highlights for fans.
Throughout his illustrious career with the Oakland Raiders, Brown showcased his exceptional talent and playmaking ability. His ability to create separation, make tough catches in traffic, and turn short receptions into long gains was a testament to his elite skills and football IQ. Whether it was streaking down the sideline for a deep touchdown or making a crucial third-down catch in traffic, Brown was a game-changer.
Brown’s impact on the game extended far beyond his individual accomplishments. He was a key factor in the Raiders’ success during his tenure, contributing to their Super Bowl victory and numerous playoff appearances. His ability to come up big in important moments made him a reliable and trusted target for his quarterbacks.
| Career NFL statistics | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|||||||||
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1996, 1997)
- 9× Pro Bowl (1988, 1991, 1993–1997, 1999, 2001)
- NFL receptions co-leader (1997)
- NFL kickoff return yards leader (1988)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1988)
- Los Angeles / Oakland Raiders (1988–2003)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2004)
Top 10 Best Wide Receivers Ever in NFL History – #8 Cris Carter
#8 – Cris Carter
Cris Carter, a legendary wide receiver, made an indelible impact on the NFL with his remarkable skills, reliable hands, and knack for making spectacular catches. Known for his precise route-running, impeccable timing, and ability to create separation, Carter consistently found ways to get open and make big plays.
Throughout his career, Carter displayed exceptional concentration and body control, making acrobatic catches and hauling in touchdowns in the most difficult situations. His ability to excel in the red zone and make contested catches made him a go-to target for his quarterbacks.
Carter’s exceptional career statistics speak for themselves, as he retired with over 1,000 receptions, over 13,000 receiving yards, and over 130 touchdown catches. His consistent production and ability to perform at a high level throughout his career solidify his place among the greatest wide receivers of all time.
| Career NFL statistics | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|||||||
- Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (1999)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1994, 1999)
- Second-team All-Pro (1995)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1993–2000)
- NFL receptions leader (1994)
- 3× NFL receiving touchdowns leader (1995, 1997, 1999)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- 50 Greatest Vikings
- Minnesota Vikings 40th Anniversary Team
- Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
- Minnesota Vikings No. 80 retired
- Bart Starr Award (1995)
- Philadelphia Eagles (1987–1989)
- Minnesota Vikings (1990–2001)
- Miami Dolphins (2002)
Top 10 Best Wide Receivers Ever in NFL History – Honorable Mention Michael Irvin
Honorable Mention – Michael Irvin
Michael Irvin, also known as “The Playmaker,” was a dominant force at the wide receiver position and played a pivotal role in the success of the Dallas Cowboys during their dynasty in the 1990s. Known for his explosive speed, physicality, and unparalleled competitiveness, Irvin left an indelible mark on the game.
Irvin’s ability to stretch the field, make contested catches, and come up with clutch plays in crucial moments was a testament to his exceptional talent and mental toughness. He thrived under pressure, rising to the occasion in big games and consistently delivering for his team. Irvin’s chemistry with his quarterback Troy Aikman was evident, as they formed one of the best tandems in NFL history.
It was very tough to leave him off this list, and I would not fault anyone for disagreeing. I do enjoy pissing off Cowboys fans though.
| Career NFL statistics | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|||||||
- 3× Super Bowl champion (XXVII, XXVIII, XXX)
- First-team All-Pro (1991)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1992, 1993)
- 5× Pro Bowl (1991–1995)
- NFL receiving yards leader (1991)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor
- Dallas Cowboys (1988–1999)
Top 10 Best Wide Receivers Ever in NFL History – #7 Steve Largent
#7 – Steve Largent
Steve Largent, a true icon of the game, established himself as one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history through his exceptional skills, consistent excellence, and record-breaking performances. Known for his precise route-running, reliable hands, and football intelligence, Largent consistently outmaneuvered defenders and made clutch plays for the Seattle Seahawks.
Despite lacking elite speed and size, Largent’s exceptional technique and ability to read defenses allowed him to consistently get open and make crucial catches. He possessed remarkable body control and concentration, often making acrobatic grabs while maintaining possession. His reliable hands and precise route-running made him a favorite target of his quarterbacks and a model of consistency.
Throughout his career, Largent amassed impressive statistics, including over 13,000 receiving yards and 100 touchdown catches. He held numerous receiving records at the time of his retirement, further highlighting his impact on the game.
| Career NFL statistics | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|||||||
- NFL Man of the Year (1988)
- First-team All-Pro (1985)
- 4× Second-team All-Pro (1978, 1979, 1984, 1987)
- 7× Pro Bowl (1978, 1979, 1981, 1984–1987)
- 2× NFL receiving yards leader (1979, 1985)
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1976)
- Seattle Seahawks Ring of Honor
- Seattle Seahawks No. 80 retired
- Seattle Seahawks (1976–1989)
Top 10 Best Wide Receivers Ever in NFL History – #6 Marvin Harrison
#6 – Marvin Harrison
Marvin Harrison, an elite wide receiver, etched his name among the greatest to have ever played the game with his exceptional skills, remarkable consistency, and record-breaking performances. Known for his precise route-running, reliable hands, and ability to create separation, Harrison was a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Throughout his career, Harrison showcased incredible chemistry with his quarterback Peyton Manning, forming one of the most lethal duos in NFL history. His ability to read defenses, find openings in coverage, and make tough catches in traffic made him a reliable target in crucial moments. Harrison’s impeccable route-running and precise timing allowed him to accumulate impressive statistics year after year.
Harrison’s impact on the game extended beyond his individual accomplishments. He played a crucial role in the Indianapolis Colts’ success, helping lead them to victory in Super Bowl XLI. His ability to make clutch catches in critical moments and his consistency as a top performer made him an invaluable asset to his team.
Throughout his career, Harrison earned numerous accolades, including multiple Pro Bowl selections, All-Pro honors, and the prestigious NFL receiving yards and receptions records. His remarkable consistency and longevity are testaments to his greatness.
| Career NFL statistics | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|||||||
- Super Bowl champion (XLI)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (1999, 2002, 2006)
- 5× Second-team All-Pro (2000, 2001, 2003–2005)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1999–2006)
- 2× NFL receiving yards leader (1999, 2002)
- 2× NFL receptions leader (2000, 2002)
- NFL receiving touchdowns co-leader (2005)
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- Indianapolis Colts Ring of Honor
- Indianapolis Colts (1996–2008)
Top 10 Best Wide Receivers Ever in NFL History – Honorable Mention Don Hutson
Honorable Mention – Don Hutson
Don Hutson, a true pioneer of the wide receiver position, left an indelible mark on the NFL with his exceptional skills, remarkable achievements, and enduring records. As one of the early stars of the league, Hutson’s records stood the test of time and remained untouched for decades.
Many of his records remained intact for over 50 years, a testament to his unparalleled skill and unmatched productivity. His impact on the game extended beyond his playing days, as his records inspired future generations of wide receivers to strive for greatness.
It’s tough to rank these the old timer players. The competition was horrible, but being the best at the position for decades warrants nothing but respect and the acknowledgement as one of the best wide receivers ever.
| Career NFL statistics | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|||||||||
- 3× NFL champion (1936, 1939, 1944)
- 2× NFL Most Valuable Player (1941, 1942)
- 8× First-team All-Pro (1938–1945)
- 4× NFL All-Star (1939–1942)
- 8× NFL receptions leader (1936, 1937, 1939, 1941–1945)
- 7× NFL receiving yards leader (1936, 1938, 1939, 1941–1944)
- 9× NFL receiving touchdowns leader (1935–1938, 1940–1944)
- 5× NFL scoring leader (1940–1944)
- NFL interceptions leader (1940)
- NFL 1930s All-Decade Team
- NFL 50th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame
- Green Bay Packers No. 14 retired
- Green Bay Packers (1935–1945)
Top 10 Best Wide Receivers Ever in NFL History – #5 Terrell Owens
#5 – Terrell Owens
Terrell Owens, a dynamic and electrifying wide receiver, left an indelible mark on the game with his exceptional talent, athleticism, and game-changing performances. Known for his imposing size, speed, and physicality, Owens posed a significant challenge for opposing defenses.
Throughout his career, Owens showcased his ability to make big plays, whether it was his incredible leaping ability, strong hands, or his knack for breaking tackles after the catch. His combination of size, speed, and route-running prowess made him a nightmare to defend, as he could excel both in stretching the field and making tough catches in traffic.
Owens’ impact on the game extended beyond his individual accomplishments. He was a key factor in leading his teams to the playoffs and even made a remarkable comeback from injury to help propel the Philadelphia Eagles to the Super Bowl. His ability to perform under pressure and deliver in crucial moments earned him a reputation as a clutch performer.
| Career NFL statistics | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|||||||||
- 5× First-team All-Pro (2000–2002, 2004, 2007)
- 6× Pro Bowl (2000–2004, 2007)
- 3× NFL receiving touchdowns leader (2001, 2002, 2006)
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
- San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame
- San Francisco 49ers (1996–2003)
- Philadelphia Eagles (2004–2005)
- Dallas Cowboys (2006–2008)
- Buffalo Bills (2009)
- Cincinnati Bengals (2010)
Top 10 Best Wide Receivers Ever in NFL History – #4 Larry Fitzgerald
#4 – Larry Fitzgerald
Larry Fitzgerald, a true legend of the game, has solidified his place among the greatest wide receivers in NFL history with his exceptional talent, consistent excellence, and remarkable impact on the field. Known for his precise route-running, reliable hands, and ability to make clutch plays, Fitzgerald has been a model of consistency throughout his illustrious career.
Fitzgerald’s ability to read defenses, find openings in coverage, and make contested catches has made him a favorite target of his quarterbacks. His strong work ethic, football IQ, and attention to detail have allowed him to consistently excel, even as he transitioned through different stages of his career.
Throughout his career, Fitzgerald has earned numerous accolades, including Pro Bowl selections, All-Pro honors, and the prestigious Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award. His remarkable statistics, which include over 1,400 receptions, over 17,000 receiving yards, and numerous touchdown catches, further highlight his impact on the game.
| Career NFL statistics | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|||||||||
- Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (2016)
- First-team All-Pro (2008)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (2009, 2011)
- 11× Pro Bowl (2005, 2007–2013, 2015–2017)
- 2× NFL receptions leader (2005, 2016)
- 2× NFL receiving touchdowns leader (2008, 2009)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- Art Rooney Award (2014)
- Arizona Cardinals (2004–2020)
Top 10 Best Wide Receivers Ever in NFL History – #3 Calvin Johnson
#3 – Calvin Johnson
Calvin Johnson, widely known by his nickname “Megatron,” is undoubtedly one of the most dominant wide receivers to ever grace the NFL. With his exceptional size, speed, and athleticism, Johnson redefined what it meant to be an elite receiver.
Throughout his career, Johnson consistently showcased his ability to make jaw-dropping catches, outmuscle defenders, and stretch the field with his remarkable speed. His combination of size and agility made him virtually unstoppable, as he could outleap defenders and win contested catches with ease. Johnson’s impact on the game was felt on every play, as defenses had to game-plan specifically to contain him.
Despite facing constant double teams and defensive schemes designed to limit his production, Johnson still managed to accumulate incredible statistics. He holds numerous records, including the most receiving yards in a single season, further solidifying his status as one of the all-time greats.
| Career NFL statistics | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|||||||||
- 3× First-team All-Pro (2011–2013)
- Second-team All-Pro (2010)
- 6× Pro Bowl (2010–2015)
- 2× NFL receiving yards leader (2011, 2012)
- NFL receptions leader (2012)
- NFL receiving touchdowns co-leader (2008)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)
- Detroit Lions All-Time Team
- Detroit Lions (2007–2015)
Top 10 Best Wide Receivers Ever in NFL History – #2 Randy Moss
#2 – Randy Moss
Randy Moss, widely considered one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history, revolutionized the deep threat position with his exceptional speed, mesmerizing athleticism, and record-breaking performances. His ability to stretch the field and make explosive plays made him the most feared deep threat of his era.
In 2007, Moss had a season for the ages. As a member of the New England Patriots, he shattered the single-season record for touchdown receptions, hauling in an incredible 23 touchdowns. It was a remarkable feat that showcased his unmatched ability to find the end zone. Moss’ combination of speed, size, and ball skills made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, as he consistently burned them deep with his remarkable deep route-running and sheer athleticism.
Not only did Moss break records, but he also left an indelible mark on the game with his jaw-dropping catches and highlight-reel plays. His uncanny ability to track the ball in flight, make acrobatic receptions in traffic, and outleap defenders made him a human highlight machine. Moss’ deep receptions were often nothing short of spectacular, leaving fans and even fellow players in awe of his extraordinary skills.
| Career NFL statistics | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|||||||||
- NFL records
- Most receiving touchdowns in a season: 23
- Most receiving touchdowns in a rookie season: 17
- NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1998)
- NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2007)
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1998, 2000, 2003, 2007)
- 6× Pro Bowl (1998–2000, 2002, 2003, 2007)
- 5× NFL receiving touchdowns leader (1998, 2000, 2003, 2007, 2009)
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
- 50 Greatest Vikings
- New England Patriots All-2000s Team
- New England Patriots All-Dynasty Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1998)
- Minnesota Vikings (1998–2004)
- Oakland Raiders (2005–2006)
- New England Patriots (2007–2010)
- Minnesota Vikings (2010)
- Tennessee Titans (2010)
- San Francisco 49ers (2012)
Top 10 Best Wide Receivers Ever in NFL History – #1 Jerry Rice
#1 – Jerry Rice
Jerry Rice, without a shadow of a doubt, stands atop the list as the greatest wide receiver in the history of the NFL. His combination of exceptional skills, unmatched work ethic, and unparalleled production sets him apart from all others who have played the position.
Rice’s precise route-running, lightning-fast speed, and incredible hands made him nearly unstoppable on the field. His ability to create separation, make acrobatic catches, and turn routine plays into game-changing moments was simply unparalleled. Rice consistently elevated his game in critical situations, delivering clutch performances when it mattered most.
When examining Rice’s accomplishments, his records speak volumes. He holds the all-time records for career receptions, receiving yards, and touchdown catches, numbers that may never be surpassed. He redefined what it meant to be a dominant wide receiver, setting a standard of excellence that future generations can only aspire to reach.
Furthermore, Rice’s impact on the game extends far beyond the record books. He played a crucial role in the San Francisco 49ers’ dynasty, helping the team capture three Super Bowl titles. His work ethic, leadership, and professionalism set a shining example for his teammates and inspired a generation of players.
| Career NFL statistics | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|||||||||
- NFL records
- Most career receptions: 1,549
- Most career receiving yards: 22,895
- Most career receiving touchdowns: 197
- Most career total touchdowns: 208
- Most career all-purpose yards: 23,546
- 3× Super Bowl champion (XXIII, XXIV, XXIX)
- Super Bowl MVP (XXIII)
- 2× NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1987, 1993)
- 10× First-team All-Pro (1986–1990, 1992–1996)
- Second-team All-Pro (2002)
- 13× Pro Bowl (1986–1996, 1998, 2002)
- 6× NFL receiving yards leader (1986, 1989, 1990, 1993–1995)
- 2× NFL receptions leader (1990, 1996)
- 6× NFL receiving touchdowns leader (1986, 1987, 1989–1991, 1993)
- NFL scoring leader (1987)
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1985)
- San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame
- San Francisco 49ers No. 80 retired
- San Francisco 49ers (1985–2000)
- Oakland Raiders (2001–2004)
- Seattle Seahawks (2004)
For the most up-to-date NFL content, follow me on Instagram @sogfootball! I’m always open for debate.
