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3 NFL wide receivers who changed the position

By Jakob Ashlin

Jan 6, 1996, San Francisco, CA, USA; FILE PHOTO; San Francisco 49ers receiver Jerry Rice (80) in action against Green Bay Packers defensive back Craig Newsome (21) during the NFC Divisional playoffs at 3Com Park. Mandatory Credit: V.J. Lovero-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 6, 1996, San Francisco, CA, USA; FILE PHOTO; San Francisco 49ers receiver Jerry Rice (80) in action against Green Bay Packers defensive back Craig Newsome (21) during the NFC Divisional playoffs at 3Com Park. Mandatory Credit: V.J. Lovero-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jerry Rice
San Francisco 49ers receiver Jerry Rice (80) scores a touchdown during Super Bowl XXIV against the Denver Broncos at the Louisiana Superdome. The 49ers won 55-10. Mandatory Credit: Rod Hanna-USA TODAY Sports /

NFL wide receivers who changed the position: Jerry Rice

Rice is, arguably, the greatest player in league history. This list would not be complete without him.

The Hall of Famer holds the following records:

  • All-time receptions (1,549)
  • All-time receiving yards (22,895)
  • All-time receiving touchdowns (197)
  • Most 1,000-yard receiving seasons (14)

In addition, he had a legendary work ethic. He literally grew up catching bricks and chasing down horses. This quote encapsulates his mentality:

"“I don’t think I’m such a natural, I think what I’m doing is very hard work. I work hard to keep in shape, I work hard on the practice field, I work hard in a game. Cornerbacks are the best athletes on the team; they wouldn’t be out there if they weren’t. Those are the guys I have to beat. It isn’t easy.”"

Rice’s greatness inspired the next generation of receivers with Julian Edelman, Jarvis Landry, and others citing him as an influence.

Next. 2023 NFL Draft Big Board: Top 5 players at each position. dark

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