Whether it be wide receivers, tight ends, or players on defense, the number 85 has been iconic in the NFL. So, with 85 days until the 2024 NFL season begins, we will take a look at the five best players to wear #85 in NFL history. Follow along to keep track of how many days until the NFL season, and share who YOU think the best player to ever wear that jersey number is! Click here to see the best NFL players from yesterday.
With 85 days until the 2024 NFL season, we give you the best NFL players to wear #85. Of course, some of the all-time greats at this number will still be playing this season. They have the ability to continue rising up the list! The official ranking of these players is based on the Approximate Value (AV) from Pro Football Reference.
Without further ado, here are the all-time best players to wear #85 in NFL history.
Best Players to Wear 85 in NFL History
1) Jack Youngblood, DE (1971-84)
NFL Draft: 1971, Round 1, Pick 20 to the Los Angeles Rams
Hall of Fame
7x Pro Bowl | 5x All-Pro
151.5 Sacks, 10 Fumble Recoveries
2) Nick Buoniconti, LB (1962-76)
NFL Draft: 1962, Round 13, Pick 102 to the Boston Patriots
Hall of Fame
8x Pro Bowl | 5x All-Pro
Super Bowl Champion (VII, VIII)
24 Sacks, 32 Interceptions, 2 Defensive TDs
3) Antonio Gates, TE (2003-18)
NFL Draft: Undrafted in 2003
8x Pro Bowl | 3x All-Pro
955 Receptions, 11,841 Rec Yards, 116 Rec TDs
4) Derrick Mason, WR (1998-2011)
NFL Draft: 1997, Round 4, Pick 98 to the Tennessee Oilers
2x Pro Bowl | 1x All-Pro
943 Receptions, 12,061 Rec Yards, 66 Rec TDs
5) Chad Johnson, WR (2001-11)
NFL Draft: 2001, Round 2, Pick 36 to the Cincinnati Bengals
6x Pro Bowl | 2x All-Pro
766 Receptions, 11,059 Rec Yards, 67 Rec TDs
