Who went number one in the NFL draft? This question has been asked by football enthusiasts and analysts for decades. The NFL draft is a highly anticipated event where teams select the best young talent to bolster their rosters. Over the years, several players have been chosen as the number one overall pick, each bringing their own unique skills and potential to the league. This article will delve into the history of the number one picks, highlighting their backgrounds, achievements, and impact on the NFL.
The first number one pick in the NFL draft was Alex Karras, selected by the Detroit Lions in 1958. Karras, a dominant defensive lineman, went on to have a Hall of Fame career and was a key player in the Lions’ success during the 1960s. His selection set the precedent for future top picks to be among the best players in the league.
In 1971, the New York Jets made history by selecting Joe Namath as the number one overall pick. Namath, a legendary quarterback, led the Jets to victory in Super Bowl III, becoming the first quarterback to win a Super Bowl. His iconic performance and leadership qualities made him a symbol of the NFL and a fan favorite for years to come.
One of the most memorable number one picks was in 1983, when the Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected John Elway. Elway, a future Hall of Famer, became the face of the franchise and led the Buccaneers to their first Super Bowl appearance in 1987. His leadership and playmaking ability earned him numerous accolades and cemented his place as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
Another notable number one pick was in 1993, when the Dallas Cowboys selected Troy Aikman. Aikman, alongside running back Emmitt Smith, helped lead the Cowboys to three Super Bowl titles in the 1990s. His accuracy, intelligence, and leadership made him one of the most respected quarterbacks in the league.
One of the most recent and highly anticipated number one picks was in 2011, when the Carolina Panthers selected Cam Newton. Newton, a dynamic quarterback and running back, brought a new level of excitement to the league with his unique skill set. He won the NFL MVP award in his rookie season and helped lead the Panthers to the Super Bowl in 2015.
Who went number one in the NFL draft? The answer has evolved over the years, showcasing the league’s rich history of talent and the importance of the draft in shaping teams and careers. Each number one pick has left an indelible mark on the NFL, and fans eagerly await the next generation of stars to take their place at the top of the draft.
