The NFL has always been an essential part of history, with the power to make or break careers. Throughout the timeline of the Super Bowl, players and coaches alike have made their way into headlines, record books, and become household names in some cases. These are eight NFL icons that we think will live on forever, because of their reputation, track record, and place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in some cases. For more information and accurate betting predictions, check out this week’s NFL lines.
Vince Lombardi
Firstly, Vince Lombardi is widely considered an iconic coach who made the Green Bay Packers the team that they are today. With 136 career wins, it’s no wonder why Lombardi has such an impressive reputation. A shining contribution to the NFL and working hard to continue to raise the bar for future players and coaches alike. Having left an impression, the NFL’s greatest trophy is actually named after Lombardi. This is definitely a member of the Super Bowl that will live on forever, known by many for his successes.
John Elway
With two Super Bowl wins under his belt, this quarterback has been an asset to the Denver Broncos throughout his professional career. In 1987, Elway was named the league MVP and continues to be a household name for the Broncos to strive towards. Elway was even immortalized through his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2004.
Jerry Rice
Jerry Rice is another icon within the NFL, holding three Super Bowl rings and numerous receiving records. The wide receiver has broken many records during his NFL career and is widely considered one of the greatest players in history.
Tim Tebow
This is a household name across the country because of his reputation and beliefs. Tebow was the first sophomore to win the Heisman trophy during his early career and was the primary starter for the Broncos in 2011. This led them to victory that year and saw the quarterback grow in popularity. The player is also known as a cultural phenomenon, known for his outspoken Christian faith. Tebow had a tradition of kneeling on fields as if in prayer. The ritual then became known as “Tebowing”.
Jerry Jones
One of the most outspoken and vocal owners within the NFL is Jerry Jones. Having made several TV appearances, Jones’ close association with the Dallas Cowboys is unique and unmatched. His reputation exceeds him, with the million-dollar enormous training ground in Texas, known by the Cowboys as “Jerry Land”.
William Perry
Nicknamed “The fridge” for his imposing size, this defensive lineman is considered an NFL icon for never letting anything stand in his way. Perry set the record for the heaviest player to score a touchdown in the Super Bowl and has made headlines for the Chicago Bears. Perry even has the largest Super Bowl ring at an impressive size 25.
Jim Brown
A glowing player and valuable addition to NFL records is Jim Brown who is considered one of the greatest players in NFL history. The fullback for the Cleveland Browns has been named MVP three times, not to mention the dedicated shrine in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. With many awards under his belt, Brown was honored at the 2020 College Football Playoff Championship as the greatest college football player of all time.
Joe Montana
Joe Montana played as a quarterback for 16 seasons, winning four Super Bowls. Holding multiple records, including the all-time highest passer rating, Montana was the first player to be named Super Bowl MVP three times. In 1999 ESPN named Montana the 25th greatest athlete of the 20th century. Sports Illustrated rated him the number one clutch quarterback of all-time in 2006. Montana has an impressive record with a glowing reputation.
To summarize, the NFL has made some impressive careers, with players continuing to break records and set new ones. Stay tuned to see more icons coming into their own in the next season.