In the rough-and-tumble world of professional football, the 1970s marked a golden era for legendary players whose talent and tenacity forever etched their names in the annals of the NFL. From the gridiron’s trenches to the open field, these exceptional athletes showcased an unparalleled blend of physical prowess, unwavering determination, and an unyielding desire for victory. Prepare to embark on a nostalgic journey as we unveil the extraordinary talents of the best NFL players of the decade, whose iconic performances continue to inspire generations of gridiron enthusiasts.
When it came to dominating the defensive side of the ball, no player embodied the essence of fearlessness and relentless pursuit more than the legendary Jack Lambert. Donning the black and gold of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Lambert’s bone-jarring tackles and intimidating presence were the cornerstone of one of the most formidable defenses in NFL history. With his signature flat-top haircut and a mean streak that matched his imposing physicality, Lambert terrorized opposing offenses, earning him the fitting nickname of “Lambert Lunatic.” His tenacity extended beyond the gridiron as he became a symbol of the Steelers’ “Steel Curtain” defense, a unit that propelled the team to two Super Bowl victories in the 1970s.
Transitioning from the defensive realm to the offensive side of the ball, we encounter the spectacular talents of running back O.J. Simpson, the undisputed king of speed and agility during the decade. Clad in the blue and white of the Buffalo Bills, Simpson ignited the imaginations of fans with his electrifying bursts of acceleration and uncanny ability to weave through defenders with ease. Dubbed “The Juice” for his explosive playstyle, Simpson shattered numerous NFL records, including becoming the first player to gain more than 2,000 rushing yards in a single season. His dazzling runs and elusive moves captivated audiences, solidifying his place among the most iconic running backs in NFL history.
The Legendary Fran Tarkenton
Francis Asbury Tarkenton Sr., better known as Fran Tarkenton, is widely regarded as one of the most iconic and influential quarterbacks in NFL history. Born on February 3, 1940, in Richmond, Virginia, Tarkenton’s exceptional talent and unwavering determination made him a legend on the gridiron.
Tarkenton’s journey began at the University of Georgia, where he became the Bulldogs’ starting quarterback in 1960. Under his leadership, Georgia won multiple SEC championships and appeared in two Rose Bowls. In 1961, Tarkenton led the Bulldogs to an undefeated season and a berth in the Sugar Bowl, earning him All-American honors.
After graduating from Georgia, Tarkenton was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings with the third overall pick in the 1961 NFL Draft. He made an immediate impact on the team, becoming the starting quarterback in his first season and leading the Vikings to their first playoff appearance in franchise history.
Tarkenton spent 13 seasons with the Vikings, establishing himself as one of the most prolific passers in the NFL. He led the league in passing yards four times, passing touchdowns six times, and was named to nine Pro Bowls. In 1971, he led the Vikings to their first Super Bowl appearance, a historic moment in franchise history.
After a brief stint with the New York Giants, Tarkenton returned to the Vikings in 1975 and remained with the team until his retirement in 1978. He finished his NFL career with an impressive 47,003 passing yards, 342 passing touchdowns, and 196 interceptions. Tarkenton’s legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements; he is also known as a pioneer for his involvement in the NFL Players Association and his advocacy for player rights.
In recognition of his exceptional career, Tarkenton was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1986 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 1994. He remains one of the most celebrated and revered figures in the history of American football.
The Unstoppable Chuck Howley
Chuck Howley was a linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys from 1961 to 1973. He was a five-time Pro Bowler and a two-time All-Pro selection. Howley was also named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1969. He was a key member of the Cowboys’ “Doomsday Defense,” which was one of the most dominant defenses in NFL history.
Howley’s Stats
Howley was a tackling machine. He led the NFL in tackles in 1963 and 1966. He also had 21 interceptions in his career, which is a remarkable number for a linebacker. Howley was also a great pass rusher. He had 16.5 sacks in his career, which is impressive for a player who played before sacks were an official statistic.
| Year | Tackles | Interceptions | Sacks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1963 | 163 | 3 | — |
| 1966 | 145 | 5 | — |
| 1969 | 123 | 5 | — |
| Career | 955 | 21 | 16.5 |
The Incomparable Jim Brown
Jim Brown, the legendary running back for the Cleveland Browns, epitomized athleticism and dominance in the 1960s. During his illustrious career, which spanned from 1957 to 1965, Brown rewrote the NFL record books and left an enduring legacy on the sport.
Physical Prowess and Athleticism
Brown was an extraordinary physical specimen, blessed with exceptional size, speed, and agility. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 230 pounds, he possessed a combination of power and speed that made him almost unstoppable. Brown’s 4.6-second 40-yard dash time was astonishing for a player of his size, and his exceptional agility allowed him to elude defenders with ease.
Early Career Highlights
Drafted first overall by the Browns in 1957, Brown made an immediate impact. In his rookie season, he rushed for 942 yards, setting a record for the most rushing yards by a rookie in NFL history. Brown’s dominance continued in subsequent seasons, as he rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of his first seven years in the NFL.
Records and Recognition
Over the course of his eight-season career, Brown shattered numerous records, including becoming the first player in NFL history to rush for over 100 touchdowns. He also led the league in rushing yards eight times and was named to the NFL All-Pro team nine times. In 1971, Brown was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as one of the most dominant players to ever grace the gridiron.
| Season | Rushing Yards | Touchdowns | All-Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1957 | 942 | 12 | Yes |
| 1958 | 1,036 | 13 | Yes |
| 1959 | 1,329 | 16 | Yes |
| 1960 | 1,257 | 14 | Yes |
| 1961 | 1,408 | 17 | Yes |
| 1962 | 1,863 | 20 | Yes |
| 1963 | 1,446 | 12 | Yes |
| 1964 | 1,442 | 17 | Yes |
The Fearsome Deacon Jones
Deacon Jones was a legendary defensive end who terrorized NFL quarterbacks throughout the 1960s and 70s. Known as “The Secretary of Defense,” Jones’s unparalleled speed, power, and agility made him one of the most dominant players in football history.
Early Career
Born in Eatonville, Florida, Jones began his football career at Mississippi Valley State University. After graduating, he was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in the first round of the 1961 NFL Draft.
NFL Dominance
Jones quickly established himself as a force on the Rams’ defense, earning Pro Bowl honors in his rookie season. He played for the Rams from 1961 to 1971, leading the team to two NFL championships (1963, 1971) and earning eight Pro Bowl selections.
The Rams’ Fearsome Foursome
Jones was an integral part of the Rams’ “Fearsome Foursome,” a legendary defensive line that revolutionized the game of football. Along with Merlin Olsen, Rosey Grier, and Lamar Lundy, Jones harassed quarterbacks with relentless pressure, setting the standard for all future defensive lines.
The Deacon’s Impact
The Fearsome Foursome’s success was largely attributed to Jones’s exceptional skills. His ability to create chaos in the opposing backfield with his bull rush and quickness made him the focal point of every offense he faced. Jones’s relentless pursuit of the quarterback forced teams to adjust their game plans and develop new ways to protect their passers.
| Year | Pro Bowl | NFL Championship |
|---|---|---|
| 1961 | Yes | No |
| 1963 | Yes | Yes |
| 1967 | Yes | No |
| 1968 | Yes | No |
| 1969 | Yes | No |
| 1970 | Yes | No |
| 1971 | Yes | Yes |
The Unforgettable Joe Montana
Joe Montana is widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. Known for his exceptional accuracy, leadership, and clutch performances, he led the San Francisco 49ers to four Super Bowl victories in the 1980s.
Montana possessed an uncanny ability to read defenses and make quick decisions. His pinpoint passes and signature “West Coast Offense” flummoxed opponents, who often found themselves unable to predict his next move.
Montana’s Defining Moments
Beyond his statistics, Montana’s legacy is defined by his unforgettable moments on the field:
- **”The Catch”:** In the 1981 NFC Championship Game, Montana’s iconic pass to Dwight Clark secured a thrilling victory over the Dallas Cowboys. The catch is widely considered one of the most legendary plays in NFL history.
- **Super Bowl XVI:** Montana led the 49ers to their first Super Bowl title in 1981, etching his name in NFL history. He orchestrated a 92-yard drive in the fourth quarter, culminating in a game-winning touchdown pass.
- **Super Bowl XIX:** Montana earned the nickname “Joe Cool” in this 1984 championship game against the Miami Dolphins. Despite the Dolphins’ relentless pressure, he remained poised and delivered key passes that ultimately led to a 38-16 victory.
- **Super Bowl XXIII:** In the 1989 championship game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Montana connected with John Taylor for a 54-yard touchdown pass in the closing minutes to seal a 20-16 victory. The play is often hailed as one of the greatest clutch plays in Super Bowl history.
- **Four Super Bowl MVPs:** Montana holds the record for the most Super Bowl MVP awards, with four. His performances in these championship games solidified his status as one of the most dominant quarterbacks of all time.
| Super Bowl | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
| XVI | Cincinnati Bengals | 26-21 |
| XIX | Miami Dolphins | 38-16 |
| XXIII | Cincinnati Bengals | 20-16 |
| XXIV | Denver Broncos | 55-10 |
The Elusive Walter Payton
Walter Payton, affectionately known as “Sweetness,” was a legendary running back who revolutionized the position during the 1970s. Known for his elusive running style, exceptional balance, and uncanny ability to break tackles, Payton became the NFL’s all-time leading rusher in 1984, a record he held for over 40 years.
Early Career
Payton was drafted by the Chicago Bears with the fourth overall pick in the 1975 NFL Draft. He quickly established himself as a dynamic playmaker, breaking records and earning numerous accolades.
Regular Season Success
Payton’s most notable achievements came during the regular season. He led the NFL in rushing nine times, including a remarkable six consecutive seasons from 1977 to 1982. In 1977, he set a single-season rushing record with 1,852 yards, a feat that stood for almost 20 years.
Postseason Prowess
While Payton excelled in the regular season, he also had his moments to shine in the postseason. He played in nine playoff games, rushing for 1,054 yards and scoring nine touchdowns.
1985 Super Bowl XX
Payton’s most memorable postseason performance came in Super Bowl XX against the New England Patriots. Despite being limited by a hamstring injury, he rushed for 61 yards, including a crucial 12-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. The Bears went on to win 46-10, giving Payton his first and only Super Bowl championship.
Awards and Accolades
Payton’s exceptional career was recognized with numerous awards and accolades. He was named to ten Pro Bowls, nine All-Pro teams, and the NFL MVP in 1977. He also holds the league record for most career rushing yards (16,726), rushing touchdowns (110), and 100-yard rushing games (77).
| Season | Rushing Yards |
|---|---|
| 1977 | 1,852 |
| 1979 | 1,622 |
| 1980 | 1,455 |
| 1981 | 1,322 |
| 1982 | 1,416 |
| 1984 | 1,680 |
The Record-Breaking John Hadl
Passing Records
John Hadl set numerous NFL passing records during his illustrious career. In 1975, he became the first player in league history to throw for over 4,000 yards in a single season. He also held the record for most completions in a game (49) and most touchdown passes in a game (7) until 2018.
| Season | Yards |
|---|---|
| 1975 | 4,064 |
| 1976 | 3,914 |
| 1977 | 3,725 |
7 TD Performance
On September 19, 1972, Hadl etched his name in the record books with a legendary 7-touchdown performance against the Cleveland Browns. He became the first quarterback in NFL history to achieve this feat. The game was a testament to Hadl’s exceptional arm strength, accuracy, and ability to read the defense.
Leadership and Legacy
Hadl was not only a gifted passer but also a respected leader on and off the field. He led the San Diego Chargers to two AFC West titles and was a four-time Pro Bowl selection. His grit, determination, and unwavering optimism inspired his teammates and coaches. Hadl’s exceptional skills and leadership qualities left an enduring legacy in the NFL.
The Intimidating Mean Joe Greene
Joe Greene’s presence on the Pittsburgh Steelers’ defensive line was both reassuring and terrifying. Known as “Mean Joe,” he held his own against much taller and heavier opponents. Greene was born on September 24, 1946, in Temple, Texas, and his size and athleticism were apparent at an early age.
College Accolades
Greene attended North Texas College, which is now known as North Texas State University. He quickly became a standout defensive end for the Eagles, garnering recognition as both a first-team All-Southland and All-American selection. In 1968, he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers, who had long struggled on the defensive front.
Professional Dominance
Greene spent his entire 13-year career with the Steelers and became a pivotal figure in the team’s rise to prominence. He was a four-time Super Bowl winner and played in 10 Pro Bowls. His intimidating presence and relentless tenacity transformed Pittsburgh’s defense into one of the most formidable units in the NFL.
Stats and Awards
Greene’s impact on the Steelers can be seen in his impressive statistical record and the numerous awards he earned throughout his career.
| Stat/Award | Total |
|---|---|
| Pro Bowl Selections | 10 |
| First-Team All-Pro | 5 |
| Super Bowl Wins | 4 |
| Hall of Fame Selection | 1987 |
The Agile Mean Gene Upshaw
Gene Upshaw, the Oakland Raiders’ formidable guard, was a towering figure of a man. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing 250 pounds, Upshaw possessed an astonishing combination of size and agility. His nickname, “Mean Gene,” aptly reflected his tough and uncompromising nature on the field.
Upshaw was drafted by the Raiders in the first round of the 1967 NFL Draft, and he quickly established himself as an elite lineman. His quick footwork, exceptional blocking skills, and ability to open holes for running backs made him one of the most feared guards in the league.
9. Accolades and Legacy
Upshaw’s illustrious career was punctuated by numerous accolades. He was a five-time Pro Bowl selection, a two-time All-Pro selection, and a member of the Raiders’ Super Bowl XI championship team in 1977. In 1987, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
| Accolade | Year |
|---|---|
| Pro Bowl | 1969, 1970, 1972, 1973, 1974 |
| All-Pro | 1970, 1973 |
| Super Bowl Champion | 1977 |
| Pro Football Hall of Fame | 1987 |
Upshaw’s legacy as one of the greatest guards in NFL history is undeniable. His contributions to the Raiders’ success and his unwavering commitment to excellence on and off the field have secured his place among the legends of the game.
The Versatile Larry Csonka
Larry Csonka was a fullback for the Miami Dolphins from 1968 to 1974. He was a key member of the Dolphins’ undefeated 1972 season, and he was named the NFL’s Most Valuable Player that year. Csonka was a powerful runner and a good blocker, and he was also a skilled receiver out of the backfield.
Csonka was born in Stow, Ohio, in 1946. He played college football at the University of Syracuse, where he was a two-time All-American. He was drafted by the Dolphins in the first round of the 1968 NFL Draft.
Csonka quickly became a star for the Dolphins. He was a key member of the team’s running game, and he also caught passes out of the backfield. Csonka was a powerful runner, and he was also a good blocker. He was a key member of the Dolphins’ undefeated 1972 season, and he was named the NFL’s Most Valuable Player that year.
Csonka retired from the NFL after the 1974 season. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987.
Csonka’s Stats
| Year | Att | Yds | TD |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1968 | 142 | 544 | 3 |
| 1969 | 205 | 873 | 7 |
| 1970 | 189 | 806 | 7 |
| 1971 | 199 | 1,019 | 7 |
| 1972 | 193 | 1,117 | 11 |
| 1973 | 183 | 843 | 6 |
| 1974 | 176 | 764 | 7 |
| Total | 1,287 | 6,066 | 48 |
The Greatest NFL Players of the 1970s
The 1970s was a golden era for the National Football League (NFL), with many of the greatest players in NFL history taking the field. These players helped to define the game and left a lasting impact on the league.
Some of the best NFL players of the 1970s include:
- Terry Bradshaw, quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers
- Joe Namath, quarterback for the New York Jets
- Roger Staubach, quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys
- Walter Payton, running back for the Chicago Bears
- Jim Brown, running back for the Cleveland Browns
- Lawrence Taylor, linebacker for the New York Giants
- Mean Joe Greene, defensive tackle for the Pittsburgh Steelers
These players were all dominant forces on their respective teams and helped to shape the NFL into the league it is today.
People Also Ask
Who was the best quarterback of the 1970s?
There are many great quarterbacks who played in the 1970s, but Terry Bradshaw, Joe Namath, and Roger Staubach are considered to be the best of the best. Bradshaw led the Pittsburgh Steelers to four Super Bowl victories, Namath led the New York Jets to an upset victory over the Baltimore Colts in Super Bowl III, and Staubach led the Dallas Cowboys to two Super Bowl victories.
Who was the best running back of the 1970s?
Walter Payton is considered to be the best running back of the 1970s. He led the NFL in rushing for four consecutive seasons, was named NFL MVP in 1977, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993.
Who was the best defensive player of the 1970s?
Lawrence Taylor is considered to be the best defensive player of the 1970s. He was a dominant force at linebacker for the New York Giants, and was named NFL MVP in 1986. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999.
