Who wore number 19 in NFL

In the dynamic realm of American football, every number on the field holds its importance, symbolizing the enduring impact of the athletes who wore it. Out of all these, the number 19 truly shines as a representation of adaptability and expertise, reserved for individuals who demonstrate exceptional abilities in both attacking and defending. In contrast to other positions, where numbers typically indicate a specific role, number 19 goes beyond conventional boundaries, representing an athlete who can receive the ball with exceptional accuracy and execute game-altering plays.

As we explore the depths of NFL history, we discover the extraordinary tales of the players who wore the number 19 jersey with great pride. From skilled wide receivers to intelligent defensive backs, each player contributed their abilities to the football field, impacting the game. In addition to the numbers, these athletes embody the true spirit of football – a strong drive, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to greatness.

Come along on a captivating journey through history as we honor the remarkable individuals who embody the essence of the game, showcasing the enduring legacy of number 19 in the NFL. From renowned figures to underappreciated individuals, their impact has molded professional football and inspired upcoming generations of players and fans.

Retired numbers 19

Only two teams have retired number 19. These are the Indianapolis Colts, who honoured Johnny Unitas, and the Los Angeles Chargers, who keep memories about Lance Alworth. The performers played in the same years (they could cross in 1962-1970), but that didn’t happen. Alworth didn’t play in the 1970 match. But they are both Hall of Famers.

The first number 19 in the NFL

Walter May was the first player to wear number 19 in the league’s history. He played for a single season in Decatur Staleys in the position of guard.

The last player who wore number 19 before the implementation of the AV in the NFL

We already mentioned Tom Dublinski in our article about number 17. But his initial career stage was connected with the Detroit Lions. He joined the Lions as an undrafted performer in 1952 and wore number 19 until 1954 when he was traded to the Canadian Football League, where he spent three seasons.

Top-5 players with highest AV

Johnny Unitas – 175 AV

The quarterback Johnny Unitas wore number 19 in the Baltimore Colts, where he spent most of his career since the team picked him in the 1955 Draft Round 9. Despite low, low potential, the player demonstrated the opposite. His skills often converted into MVP nominations and even awards. Unitas was part of the star squad that regularly won the playoff berths. The player owns the first Super Bowl after merging the AFL and NFL in 1970. He led the Colts to the decisive game in 1968 but lost it.

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Lance Alworth – 120 AV

The player Lance Alworth has exciting fate. The San Francisco 49ers chose him in the first round of the 1962 NFL Draft, and the Oakland Raiders chose him in the same year’s second round. Raiders traded rights for him to San Diego Chargers in exchange for three players. His years in the AFL were his golden era because his high reception rate and good rushing skills granted him 8 Pro Bowls and regular inclusions to the All-Pro first team. He played in the NFL for three years after the leagues merged, but the nominations for Player of the Year awards ended, too. But he forgave the league for that after being inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Keyshawn Johnson – 99 AV
The player was active from 1996 to 2006. Keyshawn Johnson was the undrafted wide receiver who started his career with the New York Jets. His best years were in Tampa, where he played from 2000 to 2003. The performer had a common career without pretending for prizes but participated in three Pro Bowls. The wide receiver has a 100% starting rate in playoffs despite the coaches sometimes didn’t allow him to start games in the regular season. His peak season was in 2002 when his team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, reached the Super Bowl. However, he didn’t become the MVP.

Bernie Kosar – 77 AV

The way this quarterback went from university football to the NFL was controversial. The experts considered Bernie Kosar the talented prospect, so he became the number 1 pick in the 1985 Draft. However, at the moment of the ballot, he was an underclassman at the University of Miami, which could make him ineligible to participate. However, Kosar took two additional courses in spring and summer to become a graduate. Finally, he joined his favourite Cleveland Browns and spent a major part of his career. He thanked the team for their excellent performance. However, 116 regular TDs and 200 yards per game didn’t help his team win the SB. The only trophy he won with Dallas was the intermediate stop between Cleveland and Miami in the second half of the 1993 season.

Adam Thielen – 68 AV
This wide receiver still wears number 19 but is on the new team, Carolina Panthers. He spent 2014 to 2022 in the Minnesota Vikings but started in Carolina the following season. He’s the only active player from the top 5 of the AV rating. We will follow his progress and write more details later.