The NFL Draft: Retired NFL Players Who Were Number One Draft Picks

Apr 22, 2025

PFRPA

The NFL Draft has played a pivotal role in shaping the game into what it is today. The first NFL Draft was introduced in 1936 to promote competitiveness and provide a structured way for teams to acquire new talent, ensuring that all franchises had access to the best college football players.

Over time, the NFL Draft has evolved, becoming a highly publicized event that fans eagerly anticipate each year. It is a defining moment that turns former college athletes into professionals, marking the beginning of their NFL careers.

Several PFRPA members were the number one overall pick during their draft year. Some also went on to have playing careers of more than ten years!

1970 NFL Draft

Terry Bradshaw, Quarterback

Pittsburgh Steelers (1970-1983)

Terry Bradshaw was drafted in 1970 by the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he remained throughout his entire playing career. Bradshaw was the cornerstone of the Pittsburgh Steelers' dynasty in the 1970s and helped the team to four Super Bowl victories, including Super Bowl IX in 1975; Super Bowl X in 1976; Super Bowl XIII in 1979; and Super Bowl XIV in 1980. He was also named Super Bowl MVP on two of these occasions.

Known for his strong arm and leadership, Bradshaw was a three-time Pro Bowl selection and the 1978 NFL MVP. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1989 and remains one of the most iconic quarterbacks in NFL history.

1971 NFL Draft

Jim Plunkett, Quarterback

New England Patriots (1971-1975); San Francisco 49ers (1976-1977); Las Vegas Raiders (1978-1986)

After being drafted by the Patriots in 1971, Jim Plunkett threw for more than 2,100 yards during his rookie season and was named AFC Rookie of the Year.

Plunkett had a robust NFL career highlighted by two Super Bowl wins with the Raiders during Super Bowl XV in 1981 and Super Bowl XVIII in 1984. Plunkett found his greatest success in the 1980s, earning Super Bowl MVP honors in Super Bowl XV.

1974 NFL Draft

Ed Jones, Defensive End

Dallas Cowboys (1974–1978, 1980–1989)

Ed Jones was a dominant defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys and known for his pass-deflecting skills. Standing tall at 6’9” and fittingly nicknamed "Too Tall," Jones proved himself as a crucial member of the Dallas Cowboys' defense. He earned three Pro Bowl selections throughout his playing career and helped the Cowboys to win Super Bowl XII in 1978.

Jones took some time out of his football career to pursue a career in professional boxing, before returning to the Cowboys in 1980. His unique presence on the line and consistent play made him one of the most feared defenders of his era.

1987 NFL Draft

Vinny Testaverde, Quarterback

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1987–1992); Cleveland Browns (1993–1995); Baltimore Ravens (1996–1997); New York Jets (1998–2003); Dallas Cowboys (2004); New York Jets (2005); New England Patriots (2006); Carolina Panthers (2007)

Vinny Testaverde had one of the longest careers of any NFL quarterback, playing an impressive 21 seasons across seven teams. He was known for his durability and strong arm.

Testaverde passed for more than 46,000 yards and 275 touchdowns throughout his career, earning a Pro Bowl nod in 1996 with the Baltimore Ravens.

1996 NFL Draft

Keyshawn Johnson, Wide Receiver

New York Jets (1996–1999); Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2000–2003); Dallas Cowboys (2004–2005); Carolina Panthers (2006)

Keyshawn Johnson was a standout wide receiver who made an immediate impact as the No. 1 overall pick in the 1996 NFL Draft. He went on to earn three Pro Bowl selections and helped the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to win Super Bowl XXXVII in 2003.

Johnson finished his career with more than 10,000 receiving yards and remains a memorable figure in modern NFL history.

The 2025 NFL Draft will take place in Green Bay, Wisconsin, between April 24-26.