A player is recognizable by his style of play, his personality, his physique… but also his number. Sign of a strong attachment, players often keep the same number (if possible) when they change teams, and it sometimes becomes a communication tool.
During 99 episodes, we will talk about the best players by number in the NFL. With each time a holder and a substitute.
In this 88th episode, one of only two defenders to have obtained the title of MVP.
Starter: Alan Page (DT, Minnesota Vikings 1967-78, Chicago Bears 1978-81)
History is sometimes selective. While Lawrence Taylor is celebrated for having obtained the title of MVP as a defender, Allan Page does not have the same reputation when he also achieved this feat.
Chosen in the first round of the 1967 draft, Page will from his rookie season establish himself as a pillar of the defense of Minnesota. It was in 1971 that he exploded, with a season that allowed him to obtain the title of MVP and defender of the year. The accolade is a fitting celebration of a stellar career that saw him rack up 148.5 sacks and 23 forced fumbles, along with 9 Pro Bowl selections, 9 All Pro selections and a second Defenseman of the Year honor in 1973.
As a member of the Vikings, he will be one of the many talented players ever ringed, since he will fail several times in the Super Bowl. He remains the best defenseman in franchise history, and a member of the centennial team. Indisputable holder despite big competition.
Remplaçant : Marvin Harrison (WR, Indianapolis Colts 1996-2008)
In a fierce duel against Tony Gonzalez, one of the best tight ends in history, Marvin Harrison won the substitute title. Chosen in the first round of the 1996 draft, he had to wait a few years to explode, more precisely the arrival of Peyton Manning as a quarterback.
Machine to garner yards, Harrison also had an incredible ability to stand out in the end zone. Author of 14,580 yards and 128 touchdowns, he is one of the most prolific receivers in history.
Eightfold Pro Bowler and All Pro, he won his ring with the Colts against the Bears in 2006, completing an already complete career. Hall of Famer, he is a deluxe replacement for this article.
Mentions : Tony Gonzalez (TE), Drew Pearson (WR), Michael Irvin (WR), Lynn Swann (WR), Demaryius Thomas (WR), Dez Bryant (WR)
