30 greatest NFL defensive players of all-time
By Daniel Tran
16. Deion Sanders, Cornerback
If you want a perfect model for the brash, self-confident, self-promoting NFL in the 90s, look no further than Deion “Prime Time” Sanders. Drafted in 1989 by the Atlanta Falcons in the first round, Sanders instantly made an impact with five interceptions, two forced fumbles, and a punt return for a touchdown during his rookie season. That would only be the beginning for “Neon” Deion.
Armed with unheard of speed and incredible athleticism, Sanders would become the greatest one on one cornerback ever, shutting down any wide receiver he was tasked to guard without any help. His defensive prowess would allow him to intercept the ball 53 times in his 14-year career. Defense was not the only way he would hurt you, either.
Sanders would also pick teams apart on special teams where he has nine total return touchdowns for his career. He even played on the offensive side of the ball where he had three career touchdown receptions. Sanders, it seemed, could do it all.
The question about Sanders is what could have been if he did not lose three years to playing baseball. However, it is all a moot point after Sanders was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011.