Top 10 Best Safeties Ever in NFL History

Hello there, gridiron enthusiasts! Let’s dive headfirst into an always captivating debate – the best safeties ever to step onto the NFL battlefield. These are the juggernauts who’ve sent shivers down the spines of quarterbacks and caused wide receivers to double-check their routes. These are the masters of the secondary, the men who’ve epitomized defensive greatness, and in several cases, revolutionized the role of the safety itself. So, whether you’re a fan of hard-hitting old-school legends or awed by the multifaceted prowess of today’s game-changers, strap in for a nostalgic journey as we unveil the top 10 safeties ever in NFL history.

If you like this best NFL safeties list, you can also check out the hardest hitting safeties ever here or best safeties in the NFL today here!

Top 10 Best Safeties Ever in NFL History – Honorable Mention Sean Taylor

Honorable Mention – Sean Taylor

Before we crack into our top 10, we have a significant honorable mention. It’s none other than Sean Taylor, the late, great safety for the Washington Football Team. A powerful and feared figure on the field, Taylor’s career, tragically cut short, leaves us wondering what could have been. Despite his brief tenure in the NFL, his sheer talent and hard-hitting style left a lasting impact. With his remarkable blend of size, speed, and instinct, Taylor was a nightmare for opposing offenses. He could have been one of the greatest of all time. An honorable mention for our list, but surely number one in the hearts of Washington and football fans alike.

• Second-team All-Pro (2007)
• 2× Pro Bowl (2006, 2007)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2004)
• Washington Commanders 90 Greatest
• Washington Commanders Ring of Fame
• Washington Commanders No. 21 retired

• Washington Redskins (2004–2007)

Top 10 Best Safeties Ever in NFL History – #10 John Lynch

#10 – John Lynch

Starting off our countdown at number 10 is the formidable John Lynch, the cornerstone of Tampa Bay’s feared defense throughout the late ’90s and early 2000s. A third-round pick out of Stanford in 1993, Lynch didn’t just make a name for himself in the NFL – he carved it in stone. During his eleven seasons with the Buccaneers, he collected five Pro Bowl selections, over 600 tackles, 23 interceptions, and played a crucial role in securing the franchise’s first Super Bowl victory in 2002.

His physical style of play, combined with his sharp football intelligence, made him an intimidating figure in the secondary. His ability to read and disrupt offensive plays turned him into a certified nightmare for opposing quarterbacks and receivers. He held the Buccaneers’ defense together like glue, proving to be the beating heart of the unit. When you think of the ‘Tampa 2’ defense, it’s impossible not to think of Lynch.

Despite being a hard hitter, Lynch was respected for his clean play. He had a knack for being in the right place at the right time, often making game-changing plays when his team needed it the most. His performance and leadership on the field played a significant part in transforming Tampa Bay from a struggling franchise into a defensive powerhouse and Super Bowl champion.

• Super Bowl champion (XXXVII)
• 2× First-team All-Pro (1999, 2000)
• 2× Second-team All-Pro (2001, 2002)
• 9× Pro Bowl (1997, 1999–2002, 2004–2007)
• Bart Starr Award (2007)
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers Ring of Honor
• Denver Broncos Ring of Fame

• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1993–2003)
• Denver Broncos (2004–2007)

Top 10 Best Safeties Ever in NFL History – #9 Larry Wilson

#9 – Larry Wilson

At number 9 on our list, we travel back in time to honor the late, great Larry Wilson, an influential figure who redefined the safety position. Drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 7th round of the 1960 NFL Draft, Wilson didn’t take long to make an impression. His grit, intelligence, and skill quickly set him apart. In a career that spanned 13 seasons, all with the Cardinals, Wilson amassed an impressive 52 interceptions – a franchise record that still stands today.

But Wilson’s impact on the game extends beyond his impressive stat line. He is credited with popularizing the safety blitz, a strategic move where the safety – typically a defensive backstop – charges towards the line of scrimmage to tackle the quarterback or disrupt a play. This aggressive, risk-taking move became a hallmark of Wilson’s game and has since been adopted widely in the NFL.

In the 1966 season, despite playing with casts on both hands due to broken wrists, Wilson still managed to secure the league’s interception title with 10 picks, an illustration of his sheer determination and toughness. This 8-time Pro Bowler, 5-time first-team All-Pro, and member of the NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility in 1978.

• NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1966)
• 6× First-team All-Pro (1963, 1966–1970)
• Second-team All-Pro (1965)
• 8× Pro Bowl (1962, 1963, 1965–1970)
• NFL interceptions leader (1966)
• NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
• NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
• NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
• NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
• Arizona Cardinals Ring of Honor
• Arizona Cardinals No. 8 retired

• St. Louis Cardinals (1960–1972)

Top 10 Best Safeties Ever in NFL History – #8 Steve Atwater

#8 – Steve Atwater

Sliding in at number 8, we have the hard-hitting enforcer, Steve Atwater. Known for his bone-jarring hits and intimidating presence on the field, Atwater defined the safety position during his career with the Denver Broncos. Drafted in the first round of the 1989 NFL Draft, Atwater wasted no time establishing himself as one of the hardest hitters in NFL history. Just ask Christian Okoye.

Standing at 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighing in at over 220 pounds, Atwater possessed the perfect blend of size, speed, and athleticism. He used his physicality to deliver punishing blows, earning him the nickname ‘The Smiling Assassin.’ Wide receivers and running backs soon learned to fear his presence in the secondary, as he patrolled the field with a relentless tenacity.

Atwater’s impact extended beyond his highlight-reel hits. He was a complete safety, excelling in both pass coverage and run support. His ability to diagnose plays, read quarterbacks, and make timely interceptions contributed to his stellar reputation. Over the course of his career, Atwater recorded 24 interceptions and forced 15 fumbles.

His crowning achievement came in Super Bowl XXXII, when he played a crucial role in the Broncos’ victory, delivering a bone-crushing hit on Green Bay Packers’ running back, Eugene Robinson, and sealing his place in Super Bowl history.

With eight Pro Bowl selections, two first-team All-Pro honors, and a place on the NFL 1990s All-Decade Team, Atwater’s impact on the game was undeniable. He exemplified the qualities of a true leader, earning the respect of teammates and opponents alike.

• 2× Super Bowl champion (XXXII, XXXIII)
• 2× First-team All-Pro (1991, 1992)
• Second-team All-Pro (1996)
• 8× Pro Bowl (1990–1996, 1998)
• NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (1989)
• Denver Broncos Ring of Fame

• Denver Broncos (1989–1998)
• New York Jets (1999)

Top 10 Best Safeties Ever in NFL History – #7 Paul Krause

#7 – Paul Krause

At the seventh spot on our list, we pay homage to the ball-hawking legend, Paul Krause. Krause’s career spanned an incredible 16 seasons, during which he displayed an uncanny ability to intercept passes and change the course of games.

Drafted by the Washington Redskins in 1964, Krause would go on to spend the majority of his career with the Minnesota Vikings. His impact on the field was nothing short of remarkable. Krause finished his illustrious career with an astonishing 81 interceptions, an NFL record that still stands to this day.

Krause’s knack for finding himself in the right place at the right time, combined with his exceptional ball skills and instincts, made him a perennial threat to opposing quarterbacks. He possessed an incredible ability to read routes and make timely breaks on the ball. His interceptions often swung momentum in favor of his team, and he was a vital component of the Vikings’ dominant ‘Purple People Eaters’ defense.

Throughout his career, Krause earned eight Pro Bowl selections and was named a first-team All-Pro four times. He was a key contributor to the Vikings’ four Super Bowl appearances and solidified his place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998.

• 3× First-team All-Pro (1964, 1965, 1975)
• 3× Second-team All-Pro (1968, 1969, 1972)
• 8× Pro Bowl (1964, 1965, 1969, 1971–1975)
• NFL interceptions leader (1964)
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Minnesota Vikings 25th Anniversary Team
• Minnesota Vikings 40th Anniversary Team
• Washington Commanders 90 Greatest

• Most career interceptions: 81

• Washington Redskins (1964–1967)
• Minnesota Vikings (1968–1979)

Top 10 Best Safeties Ever in NFL History – #6 Emlen Tunnell

#6 – Emlen Tunnell

Coming in at number six, we have Emlen Tunnell, a true trailblazer and pioneer of the safety position. Tunnell was the first African American player to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame and left an indelible mark on the game during his illustrious career.

Starting his professional journey with the New York Giants in 1948, Tunnell quickly established himself as a defensive force to be reckoned with. Known for his exceptional speed, agility, and intelligence, Tunnell possessed a remarkable ability to read plays and make impactful plays.

Tunnell’s greatest asset was his knack for interceptions. Over his 14-year career, he amassed a staggering 79 interceptions, setting an NFL record at the time of his retirement. His ability to read quarterbacks and anticipate their throws made him a constant threat to opposing offenses.

Beyond his impressive interception totals, Tunnell also excelled as a punt returner, utilizing his speed and elusiveness to flip field position and provide a spark for his team. His versatility and impact on special teams further solidified his status as a game-changer.

During his career, Tunnell earned nine Pro Bowl selections and was named a first-team All-Pro on four occasions. His contributions to the Giants’ success, including a trip to the 1956 NFL Championship game, were instrumental in establishing him as one of the game’s premier safeties.

Emlen Tunnell’s legacy extends far beyond his remarkable statistics. His accomplishments opened doors for future generations of black players, helping pave the way for greater inclusion and diversity in the sport.

• 2× NFL champion (1956, 1961)
• 6× First-team All-Pro (1949, 1951, 1952, 1954–1956)
• 9× Pro Bowl (1950–1957, 1959)
• NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
• NFL 50th Anniversary All-Time Team
• NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
• New York Giants Ring of Honor

• New York Giants (1948–1958)
• Green Bay Packers (1959–1961)

Top 10 Best Safeties Ever in NFL History – Honorable Mention Kenny Easley

Honorable Mention – Kenny Easley

Before we unveil our top five safeties, it’s essential to acknowledge the exceptional talents of Kenny Easley. Though his career was cut short due to health issues, Easley’s impact during his brief stint in the NFL cannot be overlooked.

Drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in 1981, Easley wasted no time making an impact. He possessed a rare combination of speed, power, and instinct, making him a disruptive force in the secondary. Easley’s ability to read offenses and deliver bone-crushing hits earned him the reputation as one of the most feared defenders of his era.

In just seven seasons, Easley earned five Pro Bowl selections and was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1984. His exceptional ball skills and knack for interceptions resulted in 32 career picks, further solidifying his status as a game-changing safety.

While many regard Earl Thomas and Kam Chancellor as the best safeties in Seahawks history, that honor belongs to Kenny Easley.

• NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1984)
• 4× First-team All-Pro (1982–1985)
• Second-team All-Pro (1987)
• 5× Pro Bowl (1982–1985, 1987)
• NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (1981)
• Seattle Seahawks Ring of Honor
• Seattle Seahawks No. 45 retired

• Seattle Seahawks (1981–1987)

Top 10 Best Safeties Ever in NFL History – #5 Ken Houston

#5 – Ken Houston

Breaking into the top five, we find the legendary Ken Houston, a true icon of the safety position. Known for his exceptional athleticism, versatility, and ball-hawking skills, Houston dominated the gridiron during his time in the NFL.

Houston began his career with the Houston Oilers in 1967 and later joined the Washington Football Team in 1973. No matter the team he represented, Houston left an indelible mark on the game. His ability to make impactful plays was unmatched, as evidenced by his remarkable 49 interceptions over his 14-year career.

What set Houston apart was his ability to contribute in both pass coverage and run support. His range and speed allowed him to cover vast areas of the field, making him a nightmare for quarterbacks attempting deep passes. He possessed a rare combination of size, strength, and agility, making him a formidable force in stopping opposing offenses.

Houston’s list of accomplishments is extensive. He was selected to the Pro Bowl an incredible 12 times and earned All-Pro honors on nine occasions. His leadership and impact on the field were crucial in the success of his teams, including a trip to Super Bowl VII with Washington.

Ken Houston’s legacy as one of the greatest safeties in NFL history is unquestionable. His ability to dominate games and make game-changing plays solidifies his place among the all-time greats. He exemplified the essence of what it means to be a safety – a fierce competitor, a skilled playmaker, and a true leader on and off the field.

• 2× First-team All-Pro (1975, 1978)
• 10× Second-team All-Pro (1968–1974, 1976, 1977, 1979)
• 12× Pro Bowl (1968–1979)
• NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
• NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
• First-team NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
• Titans/Oilers Ring of Honor
• 80 Greatest Redskins
• Washington Commanders Ring of Fame

• Most interceptions returned for touchdown in a season: 4

• Houston Oilers (1967–1972)
• Washington Redskins (1973–1980)

Top 10 Best Safeties Ever in NFL History – #4 Brian Dawkins

#4 – Brian Dawkins

Cracking into the top four, we find the electrifying Brian Dawkins, affectionately known as ‘Weapon X.’ Dawkins was the epitome of a game-changer, possessing a rare blend of physicality, intensity, and skill that made him a force to be reckoned with on the field.

Drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in 1996, Dawkins quickly made his presence felt. His ferocious hits, coupled with his impressive speed and agility, made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. Dawkins had an innate ability to disrupt plays and create turnovers, finishing his career with an impressive 37 interceptions and 26 forced fumbles.

But Dawkins was more than just a turnover machine. He was a leader and the heart and soul of the defense, inspiring his teammates with his unwavering passion and relentless work ethic. Known for his thunderous pre-game speeches and animated on-field celebrations, Dawkins brought an unmatched energy that lifted those around him.

During his 13 seasons with the Eagles and Denver Broncos, Dawkins earned nine Pro Bowl selections and was named a first-team All-Pro four times. He was a key factor in leading the Eagles to multiple playoff appearances, including a trip to Super Bowl XXXIX.

Dawkins’ impact extended beyond his on-field performance. He set a standard for what it means to be a safety in the NFL, and his influence is still felt among players in the league today. His tenacity, versatility, and ability to make game-changing plays solidified his status as one of the greatest safeties of all time as well as one of the hardest NFL hitters ever.

• 4× First-team All-Pro (2001, 2002, 2004, 2006)
• Second-team All-Pro (2009)
• 9× Pro Bowl (1999, 2001, 2002, 2004–2006, 2008, 2009, 2011)
• NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (1996)
• Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame
• Philadelphia Eagles 75th Anniversary Team
• Philadelphia Eagles No. 20 retired

• Philadelphia Eagles (1996–2008)
• Denver Broncos (2009–2011)

Top 10 Best Safeties Ever in NFL History – #3 Troy Polamalu

#3 – Troy Polamalu

Cracking into the top three, we have the enigmatic and dynamic Troy Polamalu. Known for his unique playing style and unrivaled instincts, Polamalu redefined the safety position during his exceptional career with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Drafted in the first round of the 2003 NFL Draft, Polamalu wasted no time making an impact. His combination of athleticism, anticipation, and sheer playmaking ability made him a game-changer on every snap. Polamalu had an uncanny knack for reading offenses and seemed to have a sixth sense when it came to disrupting plays.

Polamalu’s playing style was as unpredictable as it was effective. His lightning-fast bursts, fearless dives over the line of scrimmage, and acrobatic interceptions became his signature moves. Whether he was delivering bone-crushing hits, chasing down ball carriers, or dropping back in coverage, Polamalu’s impact was felt all over the field.

During his illustrious career, Polamalu earned eight Pro Bowl selections, was named a first-team All-Pro four times, and was a key factor in the Steelers’ success, including winning two Super Bowl championships. His ability to come up with clutch plays in critical moments made him a true difference-maker.

• 2× Super Bowl champion (XL, XLIII)
• NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2010)
• 4× First-team All-Pro (2005, 2008, 2010, 2011)
• 2× Second-team All-Pro (2004, 2007)
• 8× Pro Bowl (2004–2008, 2010, 2011, 2013)
• NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
• Pittsburgh Steelers All-Time Team
• Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor

• Pittsburgh Steelers (2003–2014)

Top 10 Best Safeties Ever in NFL History – #2 Ed Reed

#2 – Ed Reed

Sliding into the second spot on our list, we have the incomparable Ed Reed, a true maestro of the safety position. Reed’s football IQ, remarkable range, and playmaking ability set him apart from his peers and solidified his place among the greatest safeties in NFL history.

His uncanny ability to read quarterbacks and dissect plays was nothing short of extraordinary. Reed seemed to have an innate sense of where the ball was going, allowing him to make breathtaking interceptions and game-changing plays.

Reed’s ball-hawking skills were simply unmatched. He finished his illustrious career with 64 interceptions, including a record-setting 107-yard interception return for a touchdown. His ability to turn defense into offense and swing the momentum of a game made him a true game-changer.

Beyond his incredible interceptions, Reed was a master of anticipation, often baiting quarterbacks into making ill-advised throws. His instincts, combined with his exceptional athleticism and quickness, allowed him to cover vast areas of the field, shutting down passing lanes and disrupting offenses.

During his 12 seasons with the Ravens and a brief stint with the Houston Texans, Reed earned nine Pro Bowl selections and was named a first-team All-Pro five times. He played an instrumental role in the Ravens’ Super Bowl victory in 2012, capping off an illustrious career with the ultimate prize.

• Super Bowl champion (XLVII)
• NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2004)
• 5× First-team All-Pro (2004, 2006–2008, 2010)
• 3× Second-team All-Pro (2003, 2009, 2011)
• 9× Pro Bowl (2003, 2004, 2006–2012)
• 3× NFL interceptions leader (2004, 2008, 2010)
• NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
• NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2002)
• Baltimore Ravens Ring of Honor

• Most career interception return yards: 1,590
• Longest interception return: 108 yards
• Most career postseason interceptions: 9 (tied)
• Most seasons leading league in interceptions: 3

• Baltimore Ravens (2002–2012)
• Houston Texans (2013)
• New York Jets (2013)

Top 10 Best Safeties Ever in NFL History – #1 Ronnie Lott

#1- Ronnie Lott

Ladies and gentlemen, at the top of our list, we have none other than the legendary Ronnie Lott. Widely regarded as the epitome of greatness at the safety position, Lott’s impact on the game is unparalleled. You can make an argument for Troy Polamalu or Ed Reed, but Ronnie Lott is in my mind the most complete safety ever.

Drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 1981, Lott wasted no time making his presence felt. From the moment he stepped onto the field, it was clear that he possessed a rare combination of physicality, intelligence, and leadership. Lott’s style of play was ferocious and uncompromising, making him one of the most feared defenders of his era. He went from one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL to the best safety in the NFL with just a blink of an eye.

Lott’s reputation as a hard-hitting enforcer became legendary. His bone-jarring hits sent shockwaves through opponents and set the tone for the entire defense. But Lott was more than just a fierce hitter – he was a complete player. His coverage skills were exceptional, allowing him to excel in both pass defense and run support.

During his career, Lott earned 10 Pro Bowl selections and was named a first-team All-Pro six times. He was a key part of the 49ers’ dynasty in the 1980s, helping them win four Super Bowl championships. Lott’s leadership and presence on the field were invaluable, elevating those around him and instilling a winning mentality in his teammates.

Ronnie Lott’s legacy extends far beyond the field. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive players of all time, not just at the safety position, but in the entire history of the NFL. His impact, influence, and the respect he commanded from teammates and opponents alike make him a true icon of the game.

So there you have it, folks – Ronnie Lott, the ultimate safety and our number one pick for the best safety in NFL history. His dominance, leadership, and impact on the game make him the gold standard by which all safeties are measured.

• 4× Super Bowl champion (XVI, XIX, XXIII, XXIV)
• 8× First-team All-Pro (1981, 1983, 1986–1991)
• 10× Pro Bowl (1981–1984, 1986–1991)
• 2× NFL interceptions leader (1986, 1991)
• NFL forced fumbles co-leader (1982)
• NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
• NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
• NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
• NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (1981)
• San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame
• San Francisco 49ers No. 42 retired

• Most interceptions returned for touchdown in a season by a rookie: 3

• San Francisco 49ers (1981–1990)
• Los Angeles Raiders (1991–1992)
• New York Jets (1993–1994)

In Conclusion

In conclusion, our journey through the top 10 best safeties ever in NFL history has showcased the immense talent, impact, and legacy of these remarkable athletes. From Ronnie Lott’s hard-hitting dominance to Ed Reed’s unmatched playmaking ability, each safety on this list has left an indelible mark on the game.

These safeties have set the standard for excellence at their position, combining physicality, intelligence, and leadership to elevate their respective teams and reshape the course of games. They have showcased the importance of the safety position in modern football, demonstrating the versatility and impact that these defensive stalwarts can have on the outcome of a match.

Throughout the years, these legendary safeties have thrilled fans with their bone-crushing hits, game-changing interceptions, and clutch performances. They have redefined the role of a safety, bringing a unique combination of athleticism, instinct, and leadership to the field.

So, whether it’s Ronnie Lott’s fierce physicality, Ed Reed’s unparalleled playmaking, or the contributions of the other remarkable safeties on this list, one thing is clear – the best safeties in NFL history have played a pivotal role in shaping the game we know and love today.

For the most up-to-date NFL content, follow me on Instagram @sogfootball! I’m always open for debate.