Tallest NFL players ever stands at a staggering 7 feet 1 inch. In a league known for its incredible athleticism and impressive physiques, the heights of players can often be as astonishing as their skills on the field.
Let’s delve into the 20 tallest NFL players of all time, highlighting their careers, positions, and the unique advantages (and challenges) that come with towering over their peers. By exploring these remarkable athletes, you’ll gain insight into how height plays a role in the game of football and the legacy left by these giants.
Brandon Jacobs
Brandon Jacobs, standing at an impressive height of 6’4″, carved out a unique niche in the NFL as a powerful running back. His towering stature not only made him a formidable force on the field but also allowed him to dominate defenders with his speed and agility.
Jacobs could run the 100 meters in a mere 10.82 seconds, showcasing his remarkable combination of size and speed. This athletic prowess translated into a successful career where he played an integral role in his teammates’ journey to winning two Super Bowls with the New York Giants.
Jacob ability to sprint 200 meters in a jaw-dropping 21.59 seconds further emphasizes his exceptional physical capabilities, allowing him to cover ground quickly while maintaining balance and strength.
| Date of Birth | July 6, 1982 |
| Position | Running Back (New York Giants, San Francisco 49ers) |
| Brandon Jacobs Height | 6’4” (193 cm) |
| Weight | 269 lbs |
Bert Coan
Born Elroy Bert Coan III, this gentleman was also quite the speedster, leaving an indelible mark on the NFL landscape with his remarkable athleticism. Coan prowess on the field was highlighted by his incredible ability to cover ground quickly, evidenced by his staggering 100-yard dash time of 9.4 seconds.
Coan played in 72 games and completed an impressive tally of 19 touchdowns, showcasing not only his speed but also his capability as a reliable scorer. His contributions went beyond mere statistics; Coan embodied the spirit of resilience and determination, which is often overlooked in discussions about NFL greats.
| Date of Birth | July 2, 1940 |
| Position | Halfback (San Diego Chargers, Kansas City Chiefs) |
| Bert Coan Height | 6’5’’ (195.6 cm) |
| Weight | 230 lbs |
Brandon Fields
Brandon Fields, standing tall at 6’5”, enjoyed an impressive nine-season career in the NFL, primarily making his mark with the Miami Dolphins. Known for his powerful leg and precision, Fields averaged an impressive 43.2 yards per punt out of 77 attempts during one standout season.
His ability to consistently place the ball deep into opposing territory was a crucial asset for the Dolphins, often shifting momentum in tight games. Fields also had a brief stint with the New Orleans Saints, adding depth and experience to their roster.
He participated in a full season of 16 games, which is a testament to his durability and work ethic in a league where injuries can derail even the most promising careers.
| Date of Birth | May 21, 1984 |
| Position | Punter (Miami Dolphins, New Orleans Saints) |
| Brandon Fields Height | 6’5’’ |
| Weight | 249 lbs |
Pat Watkins
Pat Watkins, standing at an impressive 6’5”, carved out a notable niche during his time in the NFL as a safety for the Dallas Cowboys and later the San Diego Chargers. His physical stature not only made him a formidable presence on the field but also contributed to his ability to read plays and react swiftly, which was crucial for his role in the secondary.
One of the standout moments of Watkins’ career came when he executed a remarkable field goal from 68 yards, a feat that underscored his versatility and strength. This achievement not only highlighted his kicking prowess but also positioned him as one of the more dynamic players of his time, capable of impacting the game in multiple ways.
| Date of Birth | December 18, 1982 |
| Position | Safety (Dallas Cowboys, San Diego Chargers) |
| Pat Watkins Height | 6’5” |
| Weight | 211 lbs |
Sav Rocca
Sav Rocca, standing at 6’5”, carved a unique niche in the world of American football as a former Australian Rules Football player who transitioned to the NFL. Before making waves in the United States, Rocca had an impressive career as a full forward and half-forward in Australian football, showcasing his remarkable athleticism and kicking precision.
His journey from the Australian Football League (AFL) to the NFL is a testament to his versatility and determination, illustrating how skills honed on one continent can translate into success on another.Rocca earned the title of the oldest rookie in NFL history, defying conventional wisdom about age and athletic potential.
| Date of Birth | 20 November 1973 |
| Position | Punter (Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Football Team) |
| Sav Rocca Height | 6’5” |
| Weight | 265 lbs |
Pat McInally
Born John Patrick McInally, or as fans know him “Pat,” carved a unique niche in NFL history as a punter and receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals. His journey from Harvard to the professional football arena is a testament to his exceptional skills and intellect.
Pat achieved the remarkable distinction of being the first Harvard graduate to play in both the NFL Pro Bowl and the Super Bowl, highlighting not only his athletic prowess but also the academic excellence that often gets overshadowed in the world of sports.
| Date of Birth | May 7, 1953 |
| Position | Punter, wide receiver (Cincinnati Bengals) |
| Patrick McInally Height | 6’6” |
| Weight | 210 lbs |
Neil O’Donoghue
Standing at an impressive height of 6’6”, Neil O’Donoghue made history as the tallest NFL kicker ever. Born and raised in Ireland, he developed a passion for sports early on, engaging in various athletic pursuits that would later shape his career in American football.
His journey from the fields of Ireland to the gridiron is a testament to his dedication and skill, showcasing how diverse backgrounds can contribute to the rich tapestry of the NFL.
O’Donoghue tenure at Saint Bernard College was pivotal, as it provided him with the platform to refine his kicking abilities while also exposing him to the nuances of American football.
| Date of Birth | 18 January 1953 |
| Position | Placekicker (Buffalo Bills, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, St. Louis Cardinals) |
| Neil O’Donoghue Height | 6’6” |
| Weight | 208 lbs |
Robert Gallery
Robert Gallery, standing at an impressive 6’7”, is one of the tallest players in NFL history, showcasing how size can be a formidable asset on the field. As an All-American offensive guard, he not only brought height but also exceptional skill and agility to his position.
His towering stature allowed him to dominate opposing defensive linemen, creating crucial gaps for running backs and providing critical protection for quarterbacks. Gallery played a total of 104 games, starting in 103 of them, a testament to his durability and effectiveness as a player.
After being drafted second overall in 2004 by the Oakland Raiders, Gallery carved out a notable career before spending a season with the Seattle Seahawks. In the annals of NFL history, Robert Gallery remains a striking example of how towering figures can leave an indelible mark in the league.
| Date of Birth | July 26, 1980 |
| Position | Offensive guard (Oakland Raiders, Seattle Seahawks) |
| Robert Gallery Height | 6’7” |
| Weight | 325 lbs |
Ted Hendrick
Standing at an impressive height of 6’7”, Ted Hendrick made history as the tallest NFL kicker ever. Born and raised in Ireland, he developed a passion for sports early on, engaging in various athletic pursuits that would later shape his career in American football.
| Date of Birth | November 1, 1947 |
| Position | Outside linebacker (Baltimore Colts, Green Bay Packers, Oakland Raiders) |
| Height | 6’7” |
| Weight | 220 lbs |
Jared Veldheer
Jared Veldheer, standing tall at 6’8”, carved out a notable career in the NFL as an offensive tackle, known for his impressive agility and strength. His journey through the league saw him don the colors of several teams, including a memorable stint with the Green Bay Packers in two separate seasons.
Veldheer career was not without its challenges. He faced a suspension of 6 games for disobeying the performance-enhancing drug policy, a setback that prompted discussions about athlete integrity and the pressures they face.
This incident served as a reminder of the fine line many athletes walk between peak performance and ethical boundaries.
| Date of Birth | June 14, 1987 |
| Position | Offensive tackle (Oakland Raiders, Arizona Cardinals, Denver Broncos, New England Patriots, Indianapolis Colts, Green Bay Packers) |
| Jared Veldheer Height | 6’8” |
| Weight | 321 lbs |
Harold Carmichael
A Pro Football Hall of Famer himself, stood at a grand 6’8” tall, making him not just a towering presence on the field but also a symbol of determination and resilience for his Philadelphia Eagles teammates.
Carmichael was known for his exceptional hands and route-running ability, which allowed him to excel as a wide receiver during an era when the passing game was still evolving.
As a driving force in the Eagles’ offensive lineup, he played a pivotal role in the team journey to their first Super Bowl appearance in 1980, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
His work ethic and dedication inspired those around him, creating a bond that transcended mere camaraderie.
| Date of Birth | September 22, 1949 |
| Position | Wide receiver (Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys) |
| Harold Height | 6’8” |
| Weight | 225 lbs |
Stone Forsythe
Stone Forsythe, the towering offensive tackle for the Seattle Seahawks, stands at an impressive 6’8”, making him one of the tallest players in the NFL. His height provides him a unique advantage on the field, allowing him to create a formidable presence against opposing defensive linemen.
Growing up with a father who was also deeply rooted in football — Ray Forsythe, who played for teams like the Cincinnati Bengals, Amsterdam Admirals, and Orlando Predators — Stone was immersed in the sport from an early age.
As he developed his skills through high school and college football at the University of Florida, it became clear that Stone was not just riding the coattails of his father’s legacy; he was carving out his path in the competitive world of professional football.
| Date of Birth | December 29, 1997 |
| Position | Offensive tackle (Seattle Seahawks) |
| Stone Forsythe Height | 6’8” |
| Weight | 307 lbs |
Dan McGwire
California-born Dan McGwire, towering at 6 feet 8 inches, carved out a unique niche as a quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks during the 1990s. His impressive height provided him with a distinct advantage on the field, allowing him to see over defenders and deliver passes with an elevated vantage point.
The McGwire family genes, have consistently produced athletes excelling in various sports. This lineage was particularly highlighted by his brother, Mark McGwire, who achieved fame as a Major League Baseball player and set records that captivated fans across the nation.
The McGwire family athletic prowess extends into basketball, with several successful players emerging from California schools like Santa Clara, Oregon, and Boise State. This diverse athletic background underscores the importance of genetics and environment in shaping elite athletes.
| Date of Birth | December 18, 1967 |
| Position | Quarterback (Seattle Seahawks, Miami Dolphins) |
| Dan McGwire Height | 6’8” |
| Weight | 240 |
Alejandro Villanueva
Alejandro Villanueva stands out not just for his towering height of 6’9“, but also for his remarkable journey from the Army Black Knights to the NFL. His collegiate career at West Point was marked by discipline and resilience, traits that he carried into professional football after starting his NFL career in 2014.
As a player who earned a Bronze Star for his bravery during three tours in Afghanistan, Villanueva life story transcends the field, illustrating a unique blend of athleticism and military valor.
His height gave him a natural advantage on the offensive line, allowing him to protect quarterbacks and create space for running plays. It’s his commitment to teamwork and leadership that truly sets him apart from other tall athletes in the league.
| Date of Birth | September 22, 1988 |
| Position | Offensive tackle (Pittsburgh Steelers, Baltimore Ravens) |
| Alejandro Villanueva Height | 6’9” |
| Weight | 320 lbs |
Demar Dotson
Demar Dotson, standing at an impressive 6’9”, carved out a notable niche in the NFL as one of the tallest players in league history. His journey began with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he made his mark as a right tackle starting in 2012.
This towering height not only provided him with a significant advantage in blocking but also allowed him to see over defenders and anticipate plays more effectively. Dotson stature was a key factor in his ability to protect quarterbacks and create running lanes, showcasing how height can be a game-changer in the trenches.
Originally undrafted, he transformed his career through dedication and skill development, proving that success in the NFL isn’t solely determined by one’s size or draft status.
| Date of Birth | October 11, 1985 |
| Position | Offensive tackle (Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Denver Broncos) |
| Demar Doston Height | 6’9” |
| Weight | 315 lbs |
Jonathan Ogden
Jonathan Ogden, standing at an impressive 6 feet 9 inches, is often celebrated not just for his height but for his remarkable impact on the game of football. Laying the groundwork for his professional career while playing college football for the UCLA Bruins, Ogden honed his skills as an offensive lineman, showcasing agility and finesse that belied his towering stature.
Upon joining the Baltimore Ravens in 1996, he quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the franchise, earning accolades for his dominant presence on the field.In 2001, Ogden and his fellow Ravens teammates achieved the pinnacle of success by winning the Super Bowl, marking a significant milestone in his career and solidifying his legacy in NFL history.
| Date of Birth | July 31, 1974 |
| Position | Offensive tackle (Baltimore Ravens) |
| Jonathan Ogden Height | 6’9” |
| Weight | 345 lbs |
Ed Jones
Ed ‘Too Tall’ Jones stands at an impressive 6 feet 9 inches. Jones played defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys, where he became a pivotal player in their defense during the late 1970s.
His nickname was coined during college football practices, perfectly encapsulating his formidable presence on the field. In 1977, he and his teammates achieved the pinnacle of success by winning the Super Bowl, solidifying his legacy within the franchise.Jones ventured into boxing, showcasing his athletic versatility and determination.
| Date of Birth | February 23, 1951 |
| Position | Defensive end |
| Ed Jones Height | 6’9” |
| Weight | 271 lbs |
Dan Skipper
3rd on our list is tall and mighty, 6’10”, Dan Skipper, whose presence on the field is impossible to overlook. His journey began under the stadium lights since high school football, where his towering stature set him apart from his peers.
As an offensive tackle for the Detroit Lions and the Houston Texans, Skipper has utilized his height to create an imposing barrier against defenders, showcasing not only physical size but also impressive agility for a man of his stature.
In 2019, Skipper took his talents to the practice squad of the New England Patriots, a testament to his versatility and potential within a highly competitive environment.
| Date of Birth | September 20, 1994 |
| Position | Offensive tackle (Detroit Lions) |
| Dan Skipper Height | 6’10” |
| Weight | 320 |
Morris Stroud
Morris Stroud, standing at an impressive height of 6’10”, redefined the physical expectations of tight ends in the NFL. His stature not only made him a formidable presence on the field but also contributed to his remarkable statistics over his career.
Playing in 69 games and starting in 49 of them, Stroud amassed 977 receiving yards and 54 receptions, showcasing his skill as an excellent football player who could capitalize on his unique advantages.
This distinction has sparked conversations about how player dimensions influence gameplay, particularly in positions traditionally dominated by shorter, more agile athletes.
| Date of Birth | May 17, 1946 |
| Position | Tight end (Kansas City Chiefs) |
| Morris Stroud Height | 6’10” |
| Weight | 255 lbs |
Richard Sligh
The number 1 slot for the tallest football player of all time is none other than Richard Sligh himself, towering at an impressive 7’2“. His extraordinary height set him apart in the NFL, making him a unique figure in a league where physicality often dominates.
Despite only playing in 8 games during his professional career, Sligh presence on the field was undeniably remarkable. He played as a defensive tackle, and while his time in the league was brief, his legacy continues to inspire discussions about the intersection of athleticism and height.
Sligh made a name for himself off the field as well, earning a place on the Dean’s List at North Carolina Central University.
| Date of Birth | August 18, 1944 |
| Position | Defensive tackle (Oakland Raiders) |
| Richard Sligh Height | 7’2” |
| Weight | (Not documented) |
Conclusion
All the tallest NFL players faced both opportunities and challenges that came with such a distinctive stature, illustrating the diverse attributes athletes bring to the game. Their legacy continues to inspire future generations of players who aspire to break records and redefine the standards of physicality in sports.
For those interested in the intersection of height and athletic performance, exploring the stories of players like Richard Sligh can provide valuable insights into the dynamics of the game.
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