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5 NFL Greats Who Made The Sports What It Is


5 NFL Greats Who Made The Sports What It Is


NFL Giants

You can't say you're a fan of the NFL if you're not familiar with these five greats who have changed the game as we speak. While teams and eras change throughout the years, these true legends have helped set the standards that fans and future stars still chase. Let's celebrate all of their amazing accomplishments today.

File:Tom Brady In 2019.jpgAll-Pro Reels on Wikimedia

1) Jim Brown

You can't call yourself an NFL fan if you don't know Jim Brown! After all, he's the one who set a high bar for running backs with a blend of power, speed, and consistent production. He helped make the ground game a centerpiece of winning football during his era. His dominance pushed defenses and coaching strategies to evolve in response.

File:Jim Brown Cleveland Browns New Uniform Unveiling (17128340116).jpgErik Drost on Wikimedia

2) Joe Montana

This quarterback is forever remembered for being calm and efficient in the most important plays. Joe Montana's legacy sits in the precision and discipline he brought to the passing game. His leadership became a model for the position, with many current players looking up to his example.

File:Joe Montana ESPN.jpgphoto taken by flickr user Phil Hull on Wikimedia

3) Jerry Rice

A player who truly changed the game, Jerry Rice raised expectations for wide receivers through route running, preparation, and long-term excellence. He made reliability and detail-oriented play a point of pride at a flashy position. His career totals still shape how greatness as a receiver is measured.

File:Jerry Rice 2014 Pro Bowl.pngSgt. Sabrina Black on Wikimedia

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4) Lawrence Taylor

With many considering this man to be the greatest defensive player in all of history, Lawrence Taylor changed how offenses account for elite edge rushers. His disruptive style forced teams to rethink protection schemes and prioritize tackle play. He also helped make defense a headline feature, not just a supporting act.

File:Lawrence Taylor WH 2025.jpgThe White House on Wikimedia

5) Tom Brady

There isn't an NFL fan alive today who doesn't recognize this name. Tom Brady helped set the modern standard for quarterback longevity, weekly consistency, and late-game execution. His success was so great, his name was repeatedly talked about throughout his career. He influenced how teams think about preparation, play-calling flexibility, and situational football. 

File:Tom Brady 2017.JPGJeffrey Beall on Wikimedia