Who wore number 85 in NFL

The number 85, a symbol of catching and advancing the ball, holds a significant place in NFL history. It has been adorned by some of the most remarkable players, particularly receivers and running backs with tight ends. Who among them stands out as the best? Let’s embark on a journey through the history and notable players associated with this iconic number.

Retired numbers 85 in NFL

Two esteemed teams, the Detroit Lions and the Los Angeles Rams, have retired the number 85 from their circuits. This act of retiring a number is a profound honor, symbolizing the team’s deep respect and recognition for the player who once wore that number. The Lions pay homage to Chuck Hughes, who tragically passed away from an unidentified disease in 1971 after two years with the team. The Rams honor the memory of Jack Youngblood, who was a force to be reckoned with during his active years from 1971 to 1984, making significant contributions to the team.

The first player who wore number 85 in NFL

Buck Weaver spent one-third of the 1930 season in the Portsmouth Spartans. He wore number 85 in 4 games, including three starts.

The last player who wore number 85 before AV implementation

Ed Cooke wore number 85 during the 1959 season in Baltimore Ravens. He played 4 games as the substitute and didn’t release the resultative action.

Top 5 players with the highest AV

Jack Youngblood – 147 AV

The Rams retired number 85 almost immediately after Jack Youngblood quit football in 1984. This defensive end, a force to be reckoned with, played there since 1971 and was a master of sacks. He consistently generated at least 9 sacks per season, a feat that took work to achieve. His 7 Pro Bowls and 5 AP1 appearances were a testament to his exceptional skills, and they paved the way for him to become the best team of the 1970s. The final stage of his illustrious career was the Hall of Fame in 2001, a well-deserved honor.

Nick Bunioconti – 135 AV

Nick Bunioconti was the AFL representative as the Boston Patriots picked him in 1962. His position as linebacker was unusual for the ’80s numbers, but there were no single standards in effect at that time. The player changed their destination to Miami in 1969, where he remained till retirement in 1976. Thanking him, the Dolphins won two consecutive SBs in 1972 and 1973 when Nick was their part. Bunioconti collected 8 Pro Bowls and 5 AP1 appearances and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2001.

Antonio Gates – 127 AV</h3
The tight end played for the San Diego Chargers from 2003 to 2018. Antonio Gates moved to Los Angeles with the team in the 2017 season. The performer scored 118 touchdowns and competed in 8 Pro Bowls and 3 All-Pro first teams. Finally, the league included him as the best team of the 2000s.

Derrick Mason – 112 AV

The player started his career with the Titans in 19976 under number 82, but then the team renumbered Derrick Mason to 85 the following year. He preserved his number everywhere except for half of a season in Houston Texans, where he wore number 82. He scored 72 touchdowns in his career. That helped him to compete in 2 Pro Bowls and appear in 2000 first All-Pro team. The wide receiver retired in 2011 without the Super Bowl or nomination for any prize. Still, he has since successfully transitioned to a career in sports broadcasting, where he continues to share his insights and love for the game with fans.

Chad Johnson – 103 AV

The performers had only two teams in their career, but 85 was stable. Chad Johnson spent the first decade of the third millennium in the Bengals. The team from Cincinnati picked him in the second round of the 2001 Draft, a significant achievement that speaks to his talent and potential. He collected 6 Pro Bowls, 11342 yards, 67 TDs and 2 AP1 appearances. The player retired in 2011, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.