15 of the Top Wide Receivers in NFL History

Source: Michael Owens / Getty

The wide receiver position in football has evolved from an insignificant role to one of the most glamorous positions in sports. At the beginning of the sport, the forward pass was officially legalized in 1906 to reduce injuries and open the game. However, in the 1930s and 1940s, teams started incorporating more passing plays into their offensive strategies. By the 1950s and 1960s, with the rise of the passing game, the wide receiver position became more specialized and prominent.

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Players like Don Hutson of the Green Bay Packers, who played in the 1930s and 1940s, are often credited with pioneering the role of the wide receiver, showcasing the potential of the position with his route-running and catching abilities. In the 1970s, stars like Pittsburgh Steelers icons Lynn Swann and John Stallworth combined with Quarterback Terry Bradshaw for an air attack to go along with their stout running game.

As the NFL continued to evolve, the wide receiver position became a critical component of offensive play, leading to the dynamic and high-scoring games we see today. Jerry Rice’s route running and Randy Moss’s speed and high jumping ability made them a QB’s best friend. Terrell Owens and Cris Carter could catch anything in their radius. Marvin Harrison joined with Hall of Famer Peyton Manning for one of the best QR-WR tandems in NFL history.

Here’s a look at the most defining moments from 15 of the greatest receivers of all time, showcasing the brilliance that made each of them unforgettable.