NFL Power Rankings: 30 best TE of all-time

By Jeffery Reynolds | Jan 27, 2015

Dec 20, 2014; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis (85, left) speaks with San Diego Chargers tight end Antonio Gates (85) after the game at Levi /

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No. 24 Russ Francis, New England Patriots / San Francisco 49ers

The New England Patriots selected Russ Francis in the first round of the 1975 draft, and he quickly became a trusted red zone target. He appeared in three Pro Bowls while in New England, but left in a bitter contract dispute, retiring after the 1980 season. He was coaxed out of retirement to join Bill Walsh in San Francisco, where he was able to win a Super Bowl ring with a solid performance against the Dolphins.

Though he was the lesser known of the San Francisco tight ends, he enjoyed a productive time with the 49ers as they emphasized the position in the Bill Walsh West Coast Offense. In his eight year career, Francis racked up 40 touchdowns and 5,262 yards.

Next: The No. 23 Tight End in NFL History

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