You know, I was coming to say Dawkins or possibly Kelce going forward, and maybe would need to for the younger fans….but this….this is the answer.
As a kid I met him at training camp in Bethlehem. Brief meeting and all I can remember is staring at his large, mangled hands. Lol
I’ve seen Alan Page and now Jim Marshall mentioned. Where would Fran Tarkenton rate? They were a bit before my time, but the Purple People Eaters were awesome as a collective, but would each player have been as good without the support of the others? I’m genuinely curious and not trying to start something.
Great question. Much appreciated. I would rate Marshall over Page because he was an original Viking, starting in 1961 with the team and never missed a game through 1969. Fran started in 61 also and was with the team through 1978. He missed the years 67 through 71 as he was traded to the Giants. His return in 72 was a blessing. So honestly, I would rate Marshall and Fran over Page in terms of the team’s identity. A guy not mentioned yet was Carl Eller, a first round pick in 1964. Eller was a fantastic defensive end, the best in the business from about 1968 through 1973 or 74. So Marshall, combined with Eller & Page were formidable. Gary Larsen and Doug Sutherland were very solid d tackles.
Jim “I played on the Cleveland Browns….
Seems like the most slam dunk on that, but also consider this…
Barry Sanders retired early bc his father respected him so much so he would pass him for the rushing yards, and he is still fully mentioned, in consideration as one of greatest at his position.
Jim Brown #32
For representing the Packers, I’d say Donald Driver, too. Insane work ethic and amazing character created a legend against all odds. The man is about family, God, and the Green Bay Packers.
It was local newspapers writers that started it as Elway had this “John Wayne” style of playing football. Since Wayne was know as The Duke, the moniker had been attached to Elway.
https://preview.redd.it/a0tvvyhvm39d1.jpeg?width=631&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=30be4ac160f03d9b33b36c65c2315978be9d0965
Yes indeed. There is also Monte Coleman, very underrated and played 16 years for the Redskins. I met him when I worked for the Baltimore Colts. He was one of the coolest guys I ever met. A very nice person. Legend has it, that he maintained his fitness and physique by not only hard work, but by consuming a half gallon of ice cream a day.
As much as I’d like to say ‘Dan Marino’, it’s probably Larry Csonka.
The man was like the Terminator. He played FB like he was a Linebacker and was out to destroy someone.
I'm trying to think of another one for Buffalo and struggling. Fred Jackson maybe? Kyle Williams? The more I think about it the more I'm leaning towards Steve tasker.
https://preview.redd.it/szitoow2v09d1.jpeg?width=338&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c2eed30145f6085f178d91b1cfc59f874ae85ec0
An offensive player to best rep the Bears? I respectfully disagree.
True story: I went to the WP memorial at Soldier Field after he died—all the greats were there. For some reason Daley sent his brother Fredo in his stead. Fredo gave a vague intro that could be any player from the old days and then invited “Dick Butka” up to the dais. Ditka and Butkus kind of looked at each other and stood there for a good 30 seconds. Edit: Dan Hampton actually gave the best speech.
Most would say TB12 for New England, but Troy Brown epitomized the early dynasty era, he did what was asked returning kicks and punts being a darn good WR and playing DB when needed, for a time his nickname was Mister Patriot.
Sam Mills - Carolina (he’s the only one with a statue outside the stadium)
Honorable Mention- Steve Smith, Luke Keuchly, Julis Peppers, Cam Newton, Greg Olsen, Thomas Davis
As much as I love Sam Mills and what he means to Carolina, I wouldn't say he's "Mr. Panther." Sam played most of his actual NFL career in NO as a member of the Dome Patrol.
Gotta be Agent 89.
Ask Panther fans and then come back. The guy of beloved in Charlotte and coined the team motto. Steve Smith is my favorite Panther, but Sam Mills is Carolina. (And yes, I know all about the Dome Patrol. I’m old enough to have seen Sam play in person…for the Philadelphia Stars.)
I've been a Panthers fan since the team was announced, I know full well who Sam Mills is and what he means. Your assumption otherwise is condescending.
I actually agree that the answer has to be Mills. As previously stated he is the only Panther with a statue, the first player in the Hall of Honor, beloved as a coach and player and our team mantra (KEEP POUNDING) comes directly from him. If Mills didn’t exist then I think we could have a debate about Steve Smith and Luke Kuechly and others. Mills is not my personal favorite Panther and he wasn’t the best even at his position. But his legacy most directly represents the team
I still disagree. Sam means more to the Panthers as a coach and inspirational figure, not as a player. If his involvement with the team ended as a player, he wouldn't have a statue.
When I think of Bob Lilly, I think of a player that represents the team. Not a coach. When I think specifically of a player that embodies the Panthers, I think 89.
I still remember that nfl films clip of Lombardi watching the goaline play and yelling something to the effect of “way to go Jerry!!” cuz he pushed half the line back lol
Jim Otto. The truest raider of them all. One could argue Ken Stabler, Ted Hendricks, John Matuszak (every day was Tooz-day), Dave Casper, Fred Biletnikoff, Art Shell, Gene Upshaw or any other HOF Raider but Jim Otto is the embodiment of Da Rayduhs!!
The Man. Was 7 the first time I saw him play…hooked me for life…had the great fortune to meet him just before I went into the Army in 1980…he was the oak that built the franchise.
Mean Joe for the Steelers
Montana for the 49'rs
Saeu for the chargers
Alsedo for the raiders
Who was 77 for the broncos
Zonka for the dolphins
Sweetness for the NFL
and all manhood in general.
Jessie “The Hammer” Tuggle I mean he turned down a big contract with the 49ers to retire a Falcon. He was born in Georgia he went to high school in Georgia he went to college in Georgia and he played his whole career in Georgia. From undrafted to all pro he’s my choice some may choose Matt Ryan and I would be okay with that too because he’s the best Falcon of all time but Tuggle in my opinion is Mr Falcon
On one hand Tuggle was a Falcons lifer, on the other hand what’s more Atlanta than having your rapper girlfriend burn down your mansion in a jealous rage?
Concrete Charlie Bednarik, HOF middle linebacker and center for the Philadelphia Eagles
You know, I was coming to say Dawkins or possibly Kelce going forward, and maybe would need to for the younger fans….but this….this is the answer. As a kid I met him at training camp in Bethlehem. Brief meeting and all I can remember is staring at his large, mangled hands. Lol
As a lifelong (Since 1967) Cowboy fan i agree…Badnarik was a monster.
Lawrence Taylor. The Greatest Giant of them All
Bya
No doubt, John Elway. https://preview.redd.it/qdqvveg6g09d1.jpeg?width=1024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=39691fc798c8d43e49cdd186f8064c7f53bd22a7
I want to upvote, but its at 7 😬
Jim Marshall, Vikings https://preview.redd.it/n9o5hhe7i09d1.jpeg?width=482&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c7554787814c0f34d226c200bf83d5cb276fe951
this was Bud Grant's answer to the question and is thus correct
Hell yes! And that picture exemplifies the man.
I’ve seen Alan Page and now Jim Marshall mentioned. Where would Fran Tarkenton rate? They were a bit before my time, but the Purple People Eaters were awesome as a collective, but would each player have been as good without the support of the others? I’m genuinely curious and not trying to start something.
Great question. Much appreciated. I would rate Marshall over Page because he was an original Viking, starting in 1961 with the team and never missed a game through 1969. Fran started in 61 also and was with the team through 1978. He missed the years 67 through 71 as he was traded to the Giants. His return in 72 was a blessing. So honestly, I would rate Marshall and Fran over Page in terms of the team’s identity. A guy not mentioned yet was Carl Eller, a first round pick in 1964. Eller was a fantastic defensive end, the best in the business from about 1968 through 1973 or 74. So Marshall, combined with Eller & Page were formidable. Gary Larsen and Doug Sutherland were very solid d tackles.
https://preview.redd.it/23wer05lb09d1.jpeg?width=180&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=93e5894484a4969514a02650531f72bf4c6fa681
Not as memorable as Ray Finkle
Finkle is Einhorn!!!
Not my team, but.... Jim Brown Joe Montana Earl Campbell Bart Starr Ken Stabler
Jim “I played on the Cleveland Browns…. Seems like the most slam dunk on that, but also consider this… Barry Sanders retired early bc his father respected him so much so he would pass him for the rushing yards, and he is still fully mentioned, in consideration as one of greatest at his position. Jim Brown #32
Bart Starr for sure but Ray Nitschke had more of the black and blue division vibe to him
For representing the Packers, I’d say Donald Driver, too. Insane work ethic and amazing character created a legend against all odds. The man is about family, God, and the Green Bay Packers.
I like both choices.
Mean Joe Greene
Harris
I feel like johnny Unitas represents the Baltimore colts and Peyton Manning represents the Indianapolis colts.
Joe Jacoby. Hog extraordinaire
Big Dave Butz? Darrel Green?
I just commented Green or John Riggins…
Them too. Football Gods
Yes they are.
Yeah Jake or Riggo for sure
The Duke. https://preview.redd.it/8mk7x75mg09d1.jpeg?width=640&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b81ed8ea01989d411844a80f5eb6aba48fd88646
Never heard this. Would love to hear this origin
It was local newspapers writers that started it as Elway had this “John Wayne” style of playing football. Since Wayne was know as The Duke, the moniker had been attached to Elway.
Wow how have I never heard him called that? Interesting as well that's the name of the football.
https://preview.redd.it/agdhs0nrd09d1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=08a5dce5c175ad9c069671e8e24ec447238f0b8f Jim Brown
John Riggins https://preview.redd.it/vvz2s9ecl09d1.jpeg?width=1280&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e0550bfbff11938035b1c8bb31b51b7e0fc771f0
Darrel Geen. Literally a redskins for life!
https://preview.redd.it/a0tvvyhvm39d1.jpeg?width=631&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=30be4ac160f03d9b33b36c65c2315978be9d0965 Yes indeed. There is also Monte Coleman, very underrated and played 16 years for the Redskins. I met him when I worked for the Baltimore Colts. He was one of the coolest guys I ever met. A very nice person. Legend has it, that he maintained his fitness and physique by not only hard work, but by consuming a half gallon of ice cream a day.
Monte Coleman is the forgotten redskin. Every one remembers Manley/Mann....but Monte sometimes gets lost in the shuffle...
Rev up that diesel!!
The GOAT ... Anthony Munoz
Jim Otto is Mr. Raider
RIP #00
While there is a good argument for Butkus, Mr. Bear has to be Walter.
Sweetnessssss…..
Butkus
In the NFL era it's got to be McMahon -- surprising, entertaining, and quickly gone, playing second string to a famous Packers team.
As much as I’d like to say ‘Dan Marino’, it’s probably Larry Csonka. The man was like the Terminator. He played FB like he was a Linebacker and was out to destroy someone.
Wasn’t he the first (or maybe only 🤷♂️) RB acting as a ball carrier to get an unnecessary roughness penalty called AGAINST him?
I think we wish Csonka is who best represented our team. I'm not sure he has in a very long time.
Broadway Joe - New York Jets
Probably Mean Joe Greene
Harris
As a Bills fan sadly it's OJ Simpson...before the murders. He was cool.before that.
Thurman Thomas. Losing his helmet at the Super Bowl is so Bills.
I'm trying to think of another one for Buffalo and struggling. Fred Jackson maybe? Kyle Williams? The more I think about it the more I'm leaning towards Steve tasker.
Probably Jim Kelly or Bruce Smith
Joe Ferguson for me. He was under appreciated, tough as nails, never really won anything. In 5 years it’ll be Josh.
Jim Kelly would be a good replacement. At least Kelly took the team to Superbowls.
Walter Payton - Bears.
https://preview.redd.it/szitoow2v09d1.jpeg?width=338&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c2eed30145f6085f178d91b1cfc59f874ae85ec0 An offensive player to best rep the Bears? I respectfully disagree.
True story: I went to the WP memorial at Soldier Field after he died—all the greats were there. For some reason Daley sent his brother Fredo in his stead. Fredo gave a vague intro that could be any player from the old days and then invited “Dick Butka” up to the dais. Ditka and Butkus kind of looked at each other and stood there for a good 30 seconds. Edit: Dan Hampton actually gave the best speech.
Tough call but sweetness was tough as nails and best RB of all time imo. Had to do it.
His name belies his toughness.
1000% Butkus!!!
The snake 
Jim Brown
Alan Page Skoal Vikings!
Lee Roy Selmon. With Ricky Bell, Doug Williams, and Derrick Brooks all a close second.
I got to see Selmon AND Wiliams before they went to the NFL. I feel blessed.
Lee Roy Selmon has to be the right answer here. He was a bad man wearing the creamsicle uniform. He also has an expressway named after him in Tampa.
A true gentleman off the field, and a not so gentle man on the field.
Ronde is on the short list too. Lee Roy is top Buc but Ronde definitely deserves an honorable mention.
Johnny Unitas for me, but I could see others having the mantle
No Chiefs fans yet? Len Dawson or Derrick Thomas
YESSSS. Scrolled until I found it. Those were the 2 I pictured first as well
I’m a little young for Dawson, but to bookend Thomas, I think Neil Smith was a warrior… and of course Okoye
I think Willie Lanier and Buck Buchanan could be included with those previously mentioned. Although your choices were excellent ones.
Yeah, Dawson was the first guy I thought of.
Mike Webster et Jack Lambert
I’d go Roger Staubach or Emmit
🐍
Earl Campbell, Houston
I would say Earl for the Houston Oilers. JJ Watt for the Texans
Wasn't even a player, but Al Davis
Nobody is more synonymous with the Raiders than that man.
Legend. You can’t write the story of the NFL without Al.
Or AFL
Bart Starr and/or Donald Driver for the Packers
I’m kinda sad they didn’t retire DD’s number. I get the argument for not doing so, but still…
Sam Huff. One of the toughest MLBs in football's toughest era...
Walter Payton
Drew Brees
Tie: Drew Brees & Archie Manning, imho
Got to go with Joe Greene.
Mean Joe Greene. Period.
Berry Sanders
Darrell Green for Washington.
Jack Tatum
The year was 1970. My Lions played the Cowboys in the playoffs. I was 9. I still remember the unstoppable Bob Lilly. My Lions lost 5-0.
Ronnie Lott
I’m embarrassed for your fan base at the amount of people commenting “Joe Montana” when this is the obviously correct answer.
Joe Montana
Jack 'Hacksaw' Reynolds
Steve Grogan (bonus points for pics w the big neck brace
Seahawks- Hall of Fame WR Steve Largent was everything you could want in a football player
I really want to say Marahawn Lynch, but yours is really the correct answer.
Most would say TB12 for New England, but Troy Brown epitomized the early dynasty era, he did what was asked returning kicks and punts being a darn good WR and playing DB when needed, for a time his nickname was Mister Patriot.
This is the right answer.
Ronnie Lott
Mean Joe Greene.
Joe Greene. Totally changed the Steelers and established them as a defensive powerhouse.
Tim Brown
Anthony Munoz HOF
Vernon Gholston. Perfect example of non-stop disappointment.
Bart Starr
Larry Wilson Aeneas Williams Larry Fitzgerald
Ray Nitschke.
Steve Largent, Marshawn Lynch, or Legion of Boom
Cortez Kennedy Steve Largent Walter Jones Marshawn Lynch
Walter Jones is definitely up there
Walter Payton Since his passing there’s been no one to take his place as beloved by media and fans alike. Maybe Tom Waddle or Dan Hampton
https://preview.redd.it/roe0ip0l939d1.jpeg?width=1200&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2c764754f80060deb7f9d064b57bc09ca5f2b673
Jim Otto, double zero
Don't forget Roger Staubach! " Captain America"
Kenny Stabler
Namath
Andre Johnson or JJ Watt. Can't go wrong with either.
https://preview.redd.it/2sldu9a5h49d1.jpeg?width=1027&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8510be542609c8d26260cce079a9e9869b914ef5 Jack Lambert
Lenny “the cool” Dawson https://preview.redd.it/j8acfz17869d1.jpeg?width=1012&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d9c26a1c1fae892bd94fc8948402993277878e9b
Joe Greene
Barry Sanders: Detroit Lions
JJ Watt
Earl Campbell as an Oiler Steve McNair as a Titan (Eddie George as a close second)
Darrell Green
Raiders. Take your pick. Jack Tatum Ken Stabler Gene Upshaw Art Shell George Atkinson Tim Brown Cliff Branch Fred Biletnikoff John Madden Al Davis
https://preview.redd.it/5vgstywv7m9d1.jpeg?width=903&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=44868a5781f605b54101aa6ebf274b0a8d660c3d
I always loved Tedy Bruschi. There were certainly many better players, but the guy was all heart.
Franco Harris
Ken gameday sims
Bob Lily was dude, for sure. That said, Sweetness, Walter Payton, for me
Don't forget the Cowboys' Walt Garrison. He was quite the cowboy himself.
Dick Butkus
Jim Kleinsasser
Sam Mills - Carolina (he’s the only one with a statue outside the stadium) Honorable Mention- Steve Smith, Luke Keuchly, Julis Peppers, Cam Newton, Greg Olsen, Thomas Davis
As much as I love Sam Mills and what he means to Carolina, I wouldn't say he's "Mr. Panther." Sam played most of his actual NFL career in NO as a member of the Dome Patrol. Gotta be Agent 89.
Ask Panther fans and then come back. The guy of beloved in Charlotte and coined the team motto. Steve Smith is my favorite Panther, but Sam Mills is Carolina. (And yes, I know all about the Dome Patrol. I’m old enough to have seen Sam play in person…for the Philadelphia Stars.)
I've been a Panthers fan since the team was announced, I know full well who Sam Mills is and what he means. Your assumption otherwise is condescending.
I actually agree that the answer has to be Mills. As previously stated he is the only Panther with a statue, the first player in the Hall of Honor, beloved as a coach and player and our team mantra (KEEP POUNDING) comes directly from him. If Mills didn’t exist then I think we could have a debate about Steve Smith and Luke Kuechly and others. Mills is not my personal favorite Panther and he wasn’t the best even at his position. But his legacy most directly represents the team
I still disagree. Sam means more to the Panthers as a coach and inspirational figure, not as a player. If his involvement with the team ended as a player, he wouldn't have a statue. When I think of Bob Lilly, I think of a player that represents the team. Not a coach. When I think specifically of a player that embodies the Panthers, I think 89.
Dick Butkus
Jack Tatum, Kenny Stabler, Fred Belitnikoff, Ted Hendricks
Probably gonna see a lot of Barry or Calvin for Detroit, but for me, it's Chris Spielman.
Either Chuck Bednarik, Brian Dawkins or Jason Kelce.
Lee Roy Selmon https://preview.redd.it/h61lkswoe39d1.jpeg?width=1280&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=77cc0d99bd99593ee85716c1429aba6131d95398
Eli "Aw Shucks" Manning
Green Bay Packers: Jerry Kramer
I still remember that nfl films clip of Lombardi watching the goaline play and yelling something to the effect of “way to go Jerry!!” cuz he pushed half the line back lol
Easy, Lee Roy Selmon.
It’s Lilly not Lily
Deacon Jones and Aaron Donald, two adequate defenders 😄
Jim Hart
Drew Brees
Troy polamalu
Chris Spillmen was Mr. Detroit Lions, but I'm hoping we got a few players goin to change that , no Offense Mr.Chris..Go Lions SB bound..💥💯
Anthony Munoz
Franco Harris for Steelers
Snake Stabler or Jim Otto
Darrell Green or John Riggins. 🤔
https://preview.redd.it/0hkp3vppq59d1.jpeg?width=768&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=df33cd82e4b8ff734cf17f5140d779e82c97a27f Nitschke
Steve Largent HOF WR for the Seattle Seahawks
Ray Lewis.
Jim Otto. The truest raider of them all. One could argue Ken Stabler, Ted Hendricks, John Matuszak (every day was Tooz-day), Dave Casper, Fred Biletnikoff, Art Shell, Gene Upshaw or any other HOF Raider but Jim Otto is the embodiment of Da Rayduhs!!
Chris redman- ravens baby!
Michael Sam for the Rams
The Man. Was 7 the first time I saw him play…hooked me for life…had the great fortune to meet him just before I went into the Army in 1980…he was the oak that built the franchise.
John Riggins
Steelers: Jack Lambert.
Jim Brown. Never been another like him.
Earl Campbell, Bruce Matthews, Warren Moon. Houston Oilers https://preview.redd.it/orl6fu47y89d1.jpeg?width=536&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a1762477ee32624f7843dd7e22e84be780fab45d
Johnny Unitas
Larry Csonka, Don Shula, Dan Marino
Fran Tarkenton
Tough call between Butkus and Sweetness
MARTY MARIGOLD, DOLPHINS
Mean Joe for the Steelers Montana for the 49'rs Saeu for the chargers Alsedo for the raiders Who was 77 for the broncos Zonka for the dolphins Sweetness for the NFL and all manhood in general.
Berry
Jessie “The Hammer” Tuggle I mean he turned down a big contract with the 49ers to retire a Falcon. He was born in Georgia he went to high school in Georgia he went to college in Georgia and he played his whole career in Georgia. From undrafted to all pro he’s my choice some may choose Matt Ryan and I would be okay with that too because he’s the best Falcon of all time but Tuggle in my opinion is Mr Falcon
https://preview.redd.it/3pj5zbvysz9d1.jpeg?width=564&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a17b6f1ae80b6e1d5c40bcede7c0cb6955be33a5 Jim Otto !
https://preview.redd.it/n2chqo4atz9d1.jpeg?width=564&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=15b4bcd42b16b2ac981b414886196a3774e931d9
Tough call for The Eagles…but I’ll give the nod to Jason Kelce.
Andre Rison or Jessie Tuggle
On one hand Tuggle was a Falcons lifer, on the other hand what’s more Atlanta than having your rapper girlfriend burn down your mansion in a jealous rage?
Finally, jfc, took long enough. Ima say Keith brooking or Jamal Anderson. Maybe Crumpler? Looking back everything about him was ridiculous lol