10 best University of Alabama alumni in NFL history

10 best Alabama alumni in NFL history

Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame quarterback Bart Starr (15) looks downfield during Super Bowl I, a 35-10 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs on January 15, 1967, at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by James Flores/Getty Images) /

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CLEVELAND, OH – OCTOBER 6: Offensive lineman John Hannah #73 of the New England Patriots blocks as quarterback Tony Eason drops back to pass during a game against the Cleveland Browns at Cleveland Municipal Stadium on October 6, 1985 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Browns defeated the Patriots 24-20. (Photo by George Gojkovich/Getty Images) /

2. John Hannah

When you’re in the conversation for the greatest offensive lineman in NFL history, there’s a lot to be said. From tackles Forrest Gregg and Anthony Munoz to versatile Jim Parker to centers such as Jim Otto and Mike Webster. Pro Football Hall of Famers all.

There have been many great guards in the history of the game. One name that consistently comes up in regards to the best at his position, as well as the top offensive lineman to play in the NFL, is former University of Alabama standout and longtime New England Patriots standout John Hannah.

Only three players were drafted ahead of “Hog” Hannah in 1973. Including seven postseason contests, four of those during his final season in 1985 when the Patriots reached Super Bowl XX, Hannah played and started in 190 contests. In his final 10 campaigns from 1976-85, he was named to the Pro Bowl all but one year and earned All-Pro honors seven times, including his final season.

Hannah is not only a member of the 1970s All-Decade Team but the 1980s All-Decade Team as well. Hannah was one of three Pro Football Hall of Famers selected in the first round of the 1973 draft, along with punter Ray Guy and fellow guard Joe DeLamielleure.

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