Top 10 NFL Wide Receivers of the 1970s

By Jason Bolton April 01, 2024 10:45

In the 1970s, the NFL saw the emergence of several remarkable wide receivers who left an indelible mark on the game.

These players possessed exceptional athleticism, hands, and route-running abilities, making them standout performers during a pivotal era in American football.

1. Lynn Swann

Lynn Swann, a key player for the Pittsburgh Steelers, was known for his acrobatic catches and clutch performances.

His agility and precise route running made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Swann's standout moment came in Super Bowl X, where he earned the MVP award for his spectacular performance.

2. Drew Pearson

Drew Pearson, a dominant force for the Dallas Cowboys, was renowned for his consistency and big-play ability. His sure hands and knack for coming up with crucial catches in pivotal moments made him a vital part of the Cowboys' success in the 1970s.

3. Harold Carmichael

Harold Carmichael, a towering figure at 6'8", posed matchup nightmares for defenders. His combination of size, strength, and athleticism made him a force to be reckoned with.

Carmichael's ability to high-point the football and make tough catches in traffic made him a standout receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles.

4. Cliff Branch

Cliff Branch, a speedster for the Oakland Raiders, was known for stretching the field with his exceptional speed. His deep-threat ability and knack for turning short receptions into long gains made him a vital component of the Raiders' high-powered offense.

5. Ahmad Rashad

Ahmad Rashad, formerly known as Bobby Moore, was a versatile receiver who played for the Minnesota Vikings. His agility and elusiveness made him a dangerous weapon in the Vikings' passing attack.

Rashad's ability to make defenders miss in the open field and come up with clutch receptions solidified his place among the top wide receivers of the 1970s.

6. Charley Taylor

Charley Taylor, a legendary receiver for the Washington Redskins, was a model of consistency and reliability. His precise route running and strong hands made him a favorite target for Redskins quarterbacks.

Taylor's ability to move the chains and make tough catches in traffic endeared him to fans and teammates alike.

7. John Stallworth

John Stallworth, another integral part of the Pittsburgh Steelers' powerhouse offense, was known for his smooth route running and big-play ability.

His chemistry with quarterback Terry Bradshaw resulted in numerous memorable connections, and Stallworth played a pivotal role in the Steelers' success during the 1970s.

8. Charlie Joiner

Charlie Joiner, a dependable receiver for the San Diego Chargers, was known for his precise route running and sure hands. Joiner's ability to find openings in opposing defenses and come up with crucial receptions made him a valuable asset for the Chargers' passing game.

9. Mel Gray

Mel Gray, a dynamic playmaker for the St. Louis Cardinals, was known for his explosiveness and game-breaking ability. His speed and elusiveness made him a constant threat to score whenever he touched the football.

10. Harold Jackson

Harold Jackson, a versatile receiver who played for multiple teams during the 1970s, was known for his ability to consistently make plays in the passing game.

His speed and agility made him a nightmare for defenders, and his knack for coming up with crucial receptions in key moments made him a valuable asset for every team he played for.

In Summary

These wide receivers not only left a lasting impact on the game but also paved the way for future generations of players. Their contributions to the NFL during the 1970s helped shape the evolution of the wide receiver position and solidified their places in football history.