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The Ultimate List: Greatest NFL Safeties Of All Time

Trends January 10, 2025

Who are the greatest safeties in NFL history?

The safety position in American football is one of the most important on the field. Safeties are responsible for providing the last line of defense against the pass and run, and they also play a key role in special teams coverage. Over the years, there have been many great safeties who have played in the NFL, but only a few have truly stood out as the best of all time.

In this article, we will take a look at some of the greatest safeties in NFL history. We will discuss their accomplishments, their impact on the game, and their legacy. We will also provide a table of the top 10 safeties of all time, based on their career statistics and accomplishments.

The following table lists the top 10 safeties of all time, based on their career statistics and accomplishments:

| Rank | Player | Team(s) | Years Played | Interceptions | Tackles ||---|---|---|---|---|---|| 1 | Ronnie Lott | 49ers, Raiders, Jets, Saints | 1981-1994 | 63 | 1,464 || 2 | Ed Reed | Ravens, Texans, Jets | 2002-2013 | 64 | 1,254 || 3 | Paul Krause | Vikings, Redskins, Bengals | 1964-1979 | 81 | 749 || 4 | Troy Polamalu | Steelers | 2003-2014 | 32 | 770 || 5 | Steve Atwater | Broncos, Jets | 1989-2005 | 24 | 1,358 || 6 | Eric Berry | Chiefs | 2010-2018 | 30 | 665 || 7 | John Lynch | Buccaneers, Broncos, Raiders | 1993-2007 | 26 | 1,036 || 8 | Darren Woodson | Cowboys | 1992-2004 | 54 | 1,259 || 9 | Larry Wilson | Cardinals, 49ers | 1960-1979 | 52 | 810 || 10 | Rodney Harrison | Patriots, Chargers, Raiders | 1994-2009 | 34 | 1,047 |These are just a few of the many great safeties who have played in the NFL over the years. These players have all made a significant impact on the game, and they have all helped to shape the position of safety into what it is today.

NFL Safeties

Safeties are one of the most important positions in football, and the NFL has seen some of the greatest safeties of all time. Here are some key aspects that make safeties so important:

Last line of defense: Safeties are the last line of defense against the pass, and they are responsible for preventing big plays.
Coverage: Safeties are responsible for covering receivers and tight ends, and they must be able to read the quarterback's intentions and react quickly.
Tackling: Safeties must be able to tackle effectively, as they are often the first player to make contact with the ball carrier.
Special teams: Safeties often play a key role on special teams, as they are responsible for covering punts and kickoffs.
Leadership: Safeties are often leaders on the field, and they must be able to communicate with their teammates and make adjustments as needed.
Intelligence: Safeties must be intelligent and able to read the game, as they are often responsible for making split-second decisions.
Athleticism: Safeties must be athletic and able to run, jump, and tackle effectively.
Versatility: Safeties must be versatile and able to play multiple positions, as they are often asked to fill in for injured teammates.

These are just a few of the key aspects that make safeties so important to the game of football. Safeties are the backbone of any good defense, and they play a vital role in helping their team win games.

1. Last line of defense

Safeties are the last line of defense in the NFL, and they play a critical role in preventing big plays. They are responsible for covering receivers and tight ends, and they must be able to read the quarterback's intentions and react quickly. Safeties must also be able to tackle effectively, as they are often the first player to make contact with the ball carrier.

Importance of preventing big plays: Big plays can be the difference between winning and losing in the NFL. Safeties play a vital role in preventing big plays by providing the last line of defense against the pass. They can do this by intercepting passes, knocking down passes, or making tackles.
Reading the quarterback: Safeties must be able to read the quarterback's intentions in order to be effective. They must be able to identify the quarterback's favorite targets and be able to anticipate where the ball is going. Safeties must also be able to adjust their coverage based on the quarterback's tendencies.
Tackling ability: Safeties must be able to tackle effectively in order to prevent big plays. They must be able to wrap up the ball carrier and bring him to the ground. Safeties must also be able to make tackles in open space.
Communication and leadership: Safeties must be able to communicate effectively with their teammates in order to be effective. They must be able to relay information about the quarterback's intentions and be able to adjust their coverage accordingly. Safeties must also be able to lead their teammates and motivate them to play their best.

Safeties are a vital part of any NFL defense. They play a critical role in preventing big plays and helping their team win games. The best safeties in the NFL are able to read the quarterback's intentions, tackle effectively, and communicate with their teammates. They are the last line of defense, and they play a key role in helping their team win.

2. Coverage

Coverage is one of the most important aspects of playing safety in the NFL. Safeties are responsible for covering receivers and tight ends, and they must be able to read the quarterback's intentions and react quickly in order to prevent big plays.

Reading the quarterback: Safeties must be able to read the quarterback's intentions in order to be effective in coverage. They must be able to identify the quarterback's favorite targets and be able to anticipate where the ball is going. Safeties must also be able to adjust their coverage based on the quarterback's tendencies.
Man-to-man coverage: In man-to-man coverage, safeties are responsible for covering a specific receiver or tight end. They must stay with their man throughout the play and prevent them from getting open. Man-to-man coverage is the most challenging type of coverage for safeties, but it can also be the most rewarding.
Zone coverage: In zone coverage, safeties are responsible for covering a specific area of the field. They must stay in their zone and prevent any receivers or tight ends from getting open in that area. Zone coverage is less challenging than man-to-man coverage, but it can also be less effective.
Combination coverage: Combination coverage is a mix of man-to-man and zone coverage. Safeties may be responsible for covering a specific receiver or tight end in man-to-man coverage, but they may also be responsible for helping out in zone coverage if their man gets open. Combination coverage is a versatile type of coverage that can be effective against a variety of offenses.

Safeties who are able to read the quarterback's intentions and react quickly are invaluable to their teams. They can prevent big plays and help their team win games. Some of the best safeties in NFL history have been known for their coverage skills, including Ed Reed, Ronnie Lott, and Paul Krause.

3. Tackling

Tackling is one of the most important aspects of playing safety in the NFL. Safeties are often the first player to make contact with the ball carrier, and they must be able to tackle effectively in order to prevent big plays.

Importance of tackling: Tackling is essential for safeties in order to prevent ball carriers from gaining yards and scoring touchdowns. Safeties must be able to wrap up the ball carrier and bring him to the ground, even if he is bigger and stronger.
Form tackling: Safeties must use proper form tackling in order to be effective. This includes keeping their head up, driving their legs, and wrapping up the ball carrier with both arms.
Open-field tackling: Safeties must be able to tackle effectively in the open field. This is often more difficult than tackling near the line of scrimmage, as the ball carrier has more room to maneuver.
Gang tackling: Safeties must be able to gang tackle effectively. This involves working with other defenders to bring down the ball carrier.

Safeties who are able to tackle effectively are invaluable to their teams. They can prevent big plays and help their team win games. Some of the best safeties in NFL history have been known for their tackling ability, including Ronnie Lott, Steve Atwater, and Eric Berry.

4. Special teams

Safeties are often used on special teams because they are fast, agile, and have good tackling skills. They are responsible for covering punts and kickoffs, and they must be able to make quick decisions and react quickly to the ball. Safeties can also be used as returners on punts and kickoffs, and they can be very dangerous if they are able to break away from the coverage team.

Some of the best safeties in NFL history have been known for their special teams play. For example, Ronnie Lott was a three-time All-Pro selection as a special teams player, and he was also named to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 1980s. Ed Reed was also a three-time All-Pro selection as a special teams player, and he was named to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 2000s.

Safeties who are able to play special teams well are invaluable to their teams. They can help their team win games by making big plays on special teams, and they can also help their team prevent big plays by the opposing team.

In conclusion, safeties play a key role on special teams, and they can be a major asset to their teams. The best safeties in NFL history have been known for their special teams play, and they have helped their teams win many games.

5. Leadership

Leadership is an essential quality for any safety who wants to be successful in the NFL. Safeties are often the quarterbacks of the defense, and they are responsible for making sure that everyone is on the same page. They must be able to communicate effectively with their teammates, and they must be able to make adjustments as needed.

Communication: Safeties must be able to communicate effectively with their teammates in order to be successful. They must be able to relay information about the opposing offense, and they must be able to make sure that everyone is on the same page. Safeties must also be able to communicate with the coaches on the sideline, and they must be able to make adjustments as needed.
Decision-making: Safeties must be able to make quick decisions on the field. They must be able to read the offense and react accordingly. Safeties must also be able to make adjustments as needed, and they must be able to do so quickly.
Motivation: Safeties must be able to motivate their teammates. They must be able to get everyone fired up and ready to play. Safeties must also be able to keep their teammates motivated, even when things are going tough.
Example: Ed Reed is one of the best safeties in NFL history. He was a leader on the field, and he was always able to communicate with his teammates and make adjustments as needed. Reed was also a great motivator, and he was always able to get his teammates fired up and ready to play.

Leadership is an essential quality for any safety who wants to be successful in the NFL. Safeties who are able to lead their teams are more likely to win games. Some of the best safeties in NFL history have been known for their leadership abilities, including Ronnie Lott, Steve Atwater, and Eric Berry.

6. Intelligence

Intelligence is a key quality for any safety who wants to be successful in the NFL. Safeties are often the last line of defense against the pass, and they are responsible for making split-second decisions that can have a major impact on the game. Safeties must be able to read the quarterback's intentions, identify the receivers' routes, and react quickly to the ball. They must also be able to communicate effectively with their teammates and make adjustments as needed.

The best safeties in NFL history have all been intelligent players who were able to read the game and make quick decisions. Ronnie Lott, for example, was a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year who was known for his intelligence and leadership. Lott was always able to put himself in the right position to make a play, and he was always one step ahead of the opposing offense. Ed Reed is another example of an intelligent safety who was able to dominate the game. Reed was a seven-time Pro Bowl selection and a two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year. He was known for his ability to read the quarterback's intentions and make interceptions.

Intelligence is a key component of being a successful safety in the NFL. Safeties who are able to read the game and make quick decisions are more likely to be successful. They are more likely to make big plays, and they are more likely to help their team win games.

7. Athleticism

Athleticism is essential for any safety who wants to be successful in the NFL. Safeties are responsible for a variety of tasks, including covering receivers, tackling ball carriers, and making interceptions. In order to do all of these things effectively, safeties need to be athletic and able to run, jump, and tackle effectively.

Speed: Safeties need to be fast in order to keep up with receivers and ball carriers. They need to be able to close ground quickly and make tackles before the offense can gain too much yardage.
Agility: Safeties need to be agile in order to change direction quickly and make plays on the ball. They need to be able to jump high to intercept passes and make tackles in the air.
Strength: Safeties need to be strong in order to tackle ball carriers and make physical plays. They need to be able to shed blocks and bring down runners who are bigger and stronger than they are.

The best safeties in NFL history have all been great athletes. They have been able to use their speed, agility, and strength to make big plays and help their teams win games. Some of the best safeties in NFL history include Ronnie Lott, Steve Atwater, and Eric Berry. These players were all exceptional athletes who were able to dominate the game with their physical skills.

Athleticism is a key component of being a successful safety in the NFL. Safeties who are athletic and able to run, jump, and tackle effectively are more likely to be successful. They are more likely to make big plays, and they are more likely to help their team win games.

8. Versatility

In the NFL, injuries are a common occurrence. As a result, safeties must be versatile and able to play multiple positions. This is because they are often asked to fill in for injured teammates. Safeties who are able to play multiple positions are more valuable to their teams because they can provide depth and flexibility. They can also help their teams win games by making big plays in key situations.

One of the most versatile safeties in NFL history is Ed Reed. Reed was a seven-time Pro Bowl selection and a two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year. He was known for his ability to play multiple positions, including safety, cornerback, and linebacker. Reed was also a great playmaker, and he made a number of big plays throughout his career, including interceptions, tackles, and forced fumbles. Another versatile safety is Tyrann Mathieu. Mathieu has been a three-time Pro Bowl selection and a one-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year. He is known for his ability to play multiple positions, including safety, cornerback, and slot corner. Mathieu is a great playmaker, and he has made a number of big plays over the years.

Versatility is a key component of being a successful safety in the NFL. Safeties who are versatile and able to play multiple positions are more valuable to their teams and are more likely to be successful.

FAQs on NFL Safeties of All Time

The position of safety in American football is one of the most important on the field. Safeties are responsible for providing the last line of defense against the pass and run, and they also play a key role in special teams coverage. Over the years, there have been many great safeties who have played in the NFL, but only a few have truly stood out as the best of all time.

Question 1: Who are the greatest safeties in NFL history?

Answer: Some of the greatest safeties in NFL history include Ronnie Lott, Ed Reed, Paul Krause, Troy Polamalu, and Steve Atwater.

Question 2: What are the key responsibilities of a safety in football?

Answer: Safeties are responsible for providing the last line of defense against the pass and run, covering receivers and tight ends, tackling ball carriers, and playing a key role in special teams coverage.

Question 3: What are the most important qualities for a successful safety?

Answer: The most important qualities for a successful safety include athleticism, speed, agility, strength, intelligence, leadership, and versatility.

Question 4: Who is considered the best safety in NFL history?

Answer: There is no definitive answer to this question, as there are many great safeties who have played in the NFL. However, some of the most commonly mentioned players include Ronnie Lott, Ed Reed, and Paul Krause.

Question 5: What are the key factors that contribute to the success of a safety?

Answer: The key factors that contribute to the success of a safety include their ability to read the quarterback, cover receivers, tackle effectively, communicate with their teammates, and make quick decisions.

Summary of key takeaways or final thought: Safeties play a vital role in the success of any NFL team. They are the last line of defense against the pass and run, and they also play a key role in special teams coverage. The best safeties in the NFL are athletic, intelligent, and versatile players who are able to make big plays and help their team win games.

Transition to the next article section: In the next section, we will take a closer look at some of the greatest safeties in NFL history and discuss their accomplishments and impact on the game.

NFL Safeties

Safeties are one of the most important positions in football, and the NFL has seen some of the greatest safeties of all time. These players have all made a significant impact on the game, and they have all helped to shape the position of safety into what it is today. Safeties are the last line of defense, and they play a vital role in helping their team win games.

In this article, we have explored some of the greatest safeties in NFL history. We have discussed their accomplishments, their impact on the game, and their legacy. We have also provided a table of the top 10 safeties of all time, based on their career statistics and accomplishments.

Safeties are a vital part of any NFL team. They play a key role in preventing big plays and helping their team win games. The best safeties in the NFL are able to read the quarterback's intentions, tackle effectively, and communicate with their teammates. They are the last line of defense, and they play a key role in helping their team win.