3 legendary NFL wide receivers who played in the wrong era

San Diego Chargers wide receiver Lance Alworth (19), inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame class of 1978, makes a catch in front of two defenders, including Houston Oilers cornerback Zeke Moore (22) during a 31-31 tie on October 25, 1970, at San Diego Stadium in San Diego, California. (Photo by Charles Aqua Viva/Getty Images) /

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San Diego Chargers wide receiver Lance Alworth (19) makes a catch during a game against the Boston Patriots on December 7, 1969. This was the 95th consecutive game with a catch for Alworth, tying Don Hutson’s record. (Photo by Charles Aqua Viva/Getty Images) /

NFL wide receivers from the wrong era: 2. Lance Alworth

He was known as “Bambi.” Like the aforementioned Paul Warfield, wide receiver Lance Alworth was also drafted by two leagues. Interestingly, he wound up playing for neither the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers nor the AFL’s Oakland Raiders, both of which made him a first-round pick in 1962. The latter would deal his rights to the San Diego Chargers and the former University of Arkansas product was off and running, literally.

He had amazing hands and uncommon speed and his penchant for the big play was perfect for said Gilman’s offense. His career numbers are pretty impressive concerning it was still an era when defensive backs could have their way with pass-catchers.

In nine seasons with the Bolts, Alworth amassed 493 catches for 9,584 yards and 81 scores, averaging a blistering 19.1 yards per grab. He earned seven Pro Bowl invites and six All-Pro nods over that span.

In 1971, he was dealt to the Dallas Cowboys and spent two seasons with Tom Landry’s club. He was part of an NFL championship that first year and caught a touchdown pass in the team’s 24-3 victory in Super Bowl VI. He and Warfield are tied for 17th in NFL history with 85 touchdown receptions.

Next: 1. Don Hutson

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