The Top 10 All-Time Players in Los Angeles Rams History

For decades, the Los Angeles Rams have been synonymous with greatness, fielding some of the most talented and influential players in the history of the National Football League. From defensive titans to offensive powerhouses, these exceptional individuals have not only contributed to the Rams’ success but have also become icons in the sport of football. In this in-depth article, we embark on a journey to honor the ten greatest players to have graced the hallowed grounds of the Los Angeles Rams. Through their extraordinary abilities, remarkable achievements, and everlasting legacies, these players have left an indelible mark on the franchise and earned their rightful place among the all-time greats.

Jack Youngblood (Defensive End):

Acquisition: Jack Youngblood was drafted in the first round (20th overall) of the 1971 NFL Draft.
Notable Achievements: Seven-time Pro Bowl selection, five-time First-team All-Pro, Rams’ all-time leader in sacks (151.5).
Tenure: Youngblood spent his entire illustrious 14-year career (1971-1984) with the Rams.
Peer and Fan Perception: Youngblood’s relentless work ethic and unwavering toughness made him a fan favorite and a highly respected figure among his peers. He was widely recognized as one of the most formidable and durable defensive ends in NFL history.
What Made Him Great: Possessing exceptional speed, strength, and technique, Youngblood consistently disrupted opposing offenses. His relentless pursuit of the quarterback and ability to generate pressure made him an unrivaled force on the field, cementing his place among the greatest players in Rams history.

Marshall Faulk (Running Back):

Acquisition: Marshall Faulk was acquired in a trade from the Indianapolis Colts to the Rams in 1999.
Notable Achievements: Seven-time Pro Bowl selection, three-time First-team All-Pro, NFL MVP (2000), Super Bowl champion (Super Bowl XXXIV), three-time NFL Offensive Player of the Year.
Tenure: Faulk played a pivotal role for the Rams for seven seasons (1999-2005).
Peer and Fan Perception: Faulk was hailed as one of the most versatile and dynamic running backs of his era. His exceptional vision, agility, and pass-catching ability revolutionized the running back position and made him an integral part of the Rams’ explosive “Greatest Show on Turf” offense.
What Made Him Great: Faulk’s ability to contribute both as a runner and a receiver made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His exceptional speed, elusiveness, and football IQ allowed him to consistently make game-changing plays. Faulk’s impact on the Rams’ success during the early 2000s cannot be overstated, solidifying his status as one of the greatest Rams of all time.

Deacon Jones (Defensive End):

Acquisition: Deacon Jones was drafted in the 14th round (186th overall) of the 1961 NFL Draft.
Notable Achievements: Eight-time Pro Bowl selection, five-time First-team All-Pro, two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
Tenure: Jones played for the Rams from 1961 to 1971 before spending his final two seasons with the San Diego Chargers and Washington Football Team.
Peer and Fan Perception: Jones was widely revered as a dominant force on the defensive line, revolutionizing the art of pass-rushing. Known for coining the term “sack,” he was admired for his unparalleled quickness off the snap and relentless pursuit of quarterbacks. His impact on the game extended beyond statistics, as he redefined the role of a defensive end.
What Made Him Great: Jones possessed an extraordinary combination of speed, strength, and agility. His aggressive style of play, coupled with his ability to disrupt opposing offenses, made him a game-changer on every snap. Jones’ impact on the Rams’ defense during his tenure solidifies his place among the greatest players in franchise history.

Eric Dickerson (Running Back):

Acquisition: Eric Dickerson was acquired by the Rams through a trade with the Colts in 1987.
Notable Achievements: Six-time Pro Bowl selection, five-time First-team All-Pro, NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1986), NFL Rookie of the Year (1983), single-season rushing record (2,105 yards).
Tenure: Dickerson played for the Rams from 1983 to 1987, during which he established himself as one of the premier running backs in NFL history.
Peer and Fan Perception: Dickerson was hailed as one of the most electrifying runners of his era. His unique upright running style, coupled with exceptional speed and vision, allowed him to break tackles and outrun defenders. He was celebrated by both peers and fans for his incredible talent and game-changing abilities.
What Made Him Great: Dickerson’s remarkable combination of size, speed, and agility made him nearly unstoppable on the field. His ability to break through tackles and explode for big gains made him a perennial threat. Dickerson’s impact on the Rams’ offense, including his record-breaking 1984 season, solidifies his place among the all-time greats.

Isaac Bruce (Wide Receiver):

Acquisition: Isaac Bruce was selected by the Rams in the second round (33rd overall) of the 1994 NFL Draft.
Notable Achievements: Four-time Pro Bowl selection, First-team All-Pro, Super Bowl champion (Super Bowl XXXIV), Rams’ all-time leader in receiving yards (14,109) and touchdowns (84).
Tenure: Bruce spent the majority of his illustrious career with the Rams, playing for the team from 1994 to 2007.
Peer and Fan Perception: Bruce was widely regarded as one of the most consistent and reliable wide receivers of his era. Known for his exceptional route-running ability and sure hands, he was highly respected by his peers and adored by Rams fans for his clutch performances.
What Made Him Great: Bruce’s precise route-running, exceptional hands, and ability to create separation made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His knack for making crucial catches in key moments, including his game-winning touchdown in Super Bowl XXXIV, solidified his status as one of the greatest wide receivers in Rams history.

Merlin Olsen (Defensive Tackle):

Acquisition: Merlin Olsen was selected by the Rams in the first round (3rd overall) of the 1962 NFL Draft.
Notable Achievements: Fourteen-time Pro Bowl selection, five-time First-team All-Pro, NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1973), member of the NFL 1960s All-Decade Team.
Tenure: Olsen spent his entire 15-year career (1962-1976) with the Rams, becoming a cornerstone of their formidable defense.
Peer and Fan Perception: Olsen was revered as one of the most dominant defensive tackles in NFL history. His exceptional strength, agility, and intelligence on the field made him a nightmare for opposing offensive linemen. His peers and fans alike recognized his impact and often described him as a generational talent.
What Made Him Great: Olsen’s remarkable combination of size, athleticism, and technique allowed him to consistently disrupt opposing offenses. His ability to shed blocks, penetrate the line of scrimmage, and make plays in the backfield made him an unstoppable force. Olsen’s impact on the Rams’ defense and his overall contribution to the game solidify his place among the greatest players of all time.

Kurt Warner (Quarterback):

Acquisition: Kurt Warner signed with the Rams as an undrafted free agent in 1998.
Notable Achievements: Four-time Pro Bowl selection, two-time NFL MVP (1999, 2001), Super Bowl champion (Super Bowl XXXIV), Super Bowl MVP (Super Bowl XXXIV), Rams’ all-time leader in passing yards (14,447) and touchdowns (102).
Tenure: Warner played for the Rams from 1998 to 2003 and again in 2004.
Peer and Fan Perception: Warner’s rise from an unheralded backup quarterback to one of the most prolific passers in NFL history captivated fans and earned him respect from his peers. Known for his accuracy, poise, and ability to lead high-powered offenses, he became a beloved figure among Rams fans.
What Made Him Great: Warner’s ability to deliver pinpoint passes, his exceptional decision-making, and his calm demeanor under pressure made him a formidable force on the field. His role in leading the Rams to their first Super Bowl victory and his overall impact on the franchise solidify his place among the greatest quarterbacks in Rams history.

Orlando Pace (Offensive Tackle):

Acquisition: Orlando Pace was selected by the Rams with the first overall pick in the 1997 NFL Draft.
Notable Achievements: Seven-time Pro Bowl selection, three-time First-team All-Pro, Super Bowl champion (Super Bowl XXXIV), member of the NFL 2000s All-Decade Team.
Tenure: Pace spent the majority of his career with the Rams, playing for the team from 1997 to 2008.
Peer and Fan Perception: Pace was widely regarded as one of the premier offensive tackles of his era. His exceptional size, strength, and agility made him a dominant force in pass protection and run blocking. He was highly respected by his peers and cherished by Rams fans for his consistent excellence.
What Made Him Great: Pace’s remarkable athleticism, coupled with his technical proficiency, made him nearly unbeatable at his position. His ability to neutralize some of the league’s best pass rushers and create running lanes for his teammates contributed significantly to the Rams’ success. Pace’s impact on the offensive line and his overall contribution to the team make him one of the greatest Rams players of all time.

Aaron Donald (Defensive Tackle):

Acquisition: Aaron Donald was selected by the Rams in the first round (13th overall) of the 2014 NFL Draft.
Notable Achievements: Seven-time Pro Bowl selection, six-time First-team All-Pro, three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
Tenure: Donald has been a key player for the Rams since his rookie season in 2014.
Peer and Fan Perception: Aaron Donald is widely regarded as one of the most dominant defensive players of his generation. His remarkable combination of speed, strength, and technique has made him a disruptive force on the defensive line. Peers and fans alike recognize his impact and often refer to him as a game-wrecker.
What Makes Him Great: Donald’s unparalleled quickness off the snap, his exceptional hand usage, and his ability to penetrate the line of scrimmage have made him a constant threat to opposing offenses. His ability to generate pressure on the quarterback, disrupt running plays, and consistently make game-changing plays solidifies his place among the greatest players in Rams history.

Elroy “Crazy Legs” Hirsch (Wide Receiver):

Acquisition: Elroy Hirsch was acquired by the Rams through a trade with the Chicago Rockets in 1949.
Notable Achievements: Three-time Pro Bowl selection, two-time First-team All-Pro, NFL receiving yards leader (1951).
Tenure: Hirsch played for the Rams from 1949 to 1957.
Peer and Fan Perception: Hirsch was celebrated for his exceptional speed, agility, and elusiveness, which earned him the nickname “Crazy Legs.” He was highly regarded by his peers and adored by Rams fans for his exciting playmaking abilities.
What Made Him Great: Hirsch’s ability to outrun defenders and make acrobatic catches made him one of the most electrifying receivers of his era. His impact on the Rams’ offense, including his record-setting 1951 season, solidifies his place among the all-time greats.

Deacon Jones (Defensive End):

Acquisition: Deacon Jones was drafted in the 14th round (186th overall) of the 1961 NFL Draft.
Notable Achievements: Eight-time Pro Bowl selection, five-time First-team All-Pro, two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
Tenure: Jones played for the Rams from 1961 to 1971 before spending his final two seasons with the San Diego Chargers and Washington Football Team.
Peer and Fan Perception: Jones was revered as a dominant force on the defensive line, revolutionizing the art of pass-rushing. Known for coining the term “sack,” he was admired for his unparalleled quickness off the snap and relentless pursuit of quarterbacks. His impact on the game extended beyond statistics, as he redefined the role of a defensive end.
What Made Him Great: Jones possessed an extraordinary combination of speed, strength, and agility. His aggressive style of play, coupled with his ability to disrupt opposing offenses, made him a game-changer on every snap. Jones’ impact on the Rams’ defense during his tenure solidifies his place among the greatest players in franchise history.

Merlin Olsen (Defensive Tackle):

Acquisition: Merlin Olsen was selected by the Rams in the first round (3rd overall) of the 1962 NFL Draft.
Notable Achievements: Fourteen-time Pro Bowl selection, five-time First-team All-Pro, NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1973), member of the NFL 1960s All-Decade Team.
Tenure: Olsen spent his entire 15-year career (1962-1976) with the Rams, becoming a cornerstone of their formidable defense.
Peer and Fan Perception: Olsen was revered as one of the most dominant defensive tackles in NFL history. His exceptional strength, agility, and intelligence on the field made him a nightmare for opposing offensive linemen. His peers and fans alike recognized his impact and often described him as a generational talent.
What Made Him Great: Olsen’s remarkable combination of size, athleticism, and technique allowed him to consistently disrupt opposing offenses. His ability to shed blocks, penetrate the line of scrimmage, and make plays in the backfield made him an unstoppable force.

Eric Dickerson (Running Back):

Acquisition: Eric Dickerson was acquired by the Rams through a trade with the Colts in 1987.
Notable Achievements: Six-time Pro Bowl selection, five-time First-team All-Pro, NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1986), NFL Rookie of the Year (1983), single-season rushing record (2,105 yards).
Tenure: Dickerson played for the Rams from 1983 to 1987, during which he established himself as one of the premier running backs in NFL history.
Peer and Fan Perception: Dickerson was hailed as one of the most electrifying runners of his era. His unique upright running style, coupled with exceptional speed and vision, allowed him to break tackles and outrun defenders. He was celebrated by both peers and fans for his incredible talent and game-changing abilities.
What Made Him Great: Dickerson’s remarkable combination of size, speed, and agility made him nearly unstoppable on the field. His ability to break through tackles and explode for big gains made him a perennial threat.

Jack Youngblood (Defensive End):

Acquisition: Jack Youngblood was selected by the Rams in the first round (20th overall) of the 1971 NFL Draft.
Notable Achievements: Seven-time Pro Bowl selection, five-time First-team All-Pro, NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1975).
Tenure: Youngblood played his entire 14-year career with the Rams from 1971 to 1984.
Peer and Fan Perception: Youngblood was highly regarded for his toughness, playing through numerous injuries, including a broken leg in the 1979 playoffs. He was respected by his peers and admired by Rams fans for his tenacity and leadership.
What Made Him Great: Youngblood’s relentless pass-rushing ability, combined with his excellent technique and football IQ, made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. His impact on the game extended beyond statistics, as he was known for elevating the play of those around him.

Marshall Faulk (Running Back):

Acquisition: Marshall Faulk was acquired by the Rams in a trade with the Colts in 1999.
Notable Achievements: Seven-time Pro Bowl selection, three-time First-team All-Pro, NFL MVP (2000), Super Bowl champion (Super Bowl XXXIV), three-time NFL Offensive Player of the Year.
Tenure: Faulk played for the Rams from 1999 to 2005.
Peer and Fan Perception: Faulk was widely regarded as one of the most versatile and complete running backs in NFL history. His ability to run with power, elusiveness, and catch passes out of the backfield made him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. He was respected by his peers and beloved by Rams fans for his dynamic playmaking ability.
What Made Him Great: Faulk’s exceptional vision, patience, and explosiveness allowed him to consistently make big plays. His ability to contribute in both the running and passing game made him an integral part of the Rams’ high-powered offense during the “Greatest Show on Turf” era.

Elroy “Crazy Legs” Hirsch (Wide Receiver):

Acquisition: Elroy Hirsch was acquired by the Rams through a trade with the Chicago Rockets in 1949.
Notable Achievements: Three-time Pro Bowl selection, two-time First-team All-Pro, NFL receiving yards leader (1951).
Tenure: Hirsch played for the Rams from 1949 to 1957.
Peer and Fan Perception: Hirsch was celebrated for his exceptional speed, agility, and elusiveness, which earned him the nickname “Crazy Legs.” He was highly regarded by his peers and adored by Rams fans for his exciting playmaking abilities.
What Made Him Great: Hirsch’s ability to outrun defenders and make acrobatic catches made him one of the most electrifying receivers of his era. His impact on the Rams’ offense, including his record-setting 1951 season, solidifies his place among the all-time greats.

Isaac Bruce (Wide Receiver):

Acquisition: Isaac Bruce was selected by the Rams in the second round (33rd overall) of the 1994 NFL Draft.
Notable Achievements: Four-time Pro Bowl selection, First-team All-Pro, Super Bowl champion (Super Bowl XXXIV), Rams’ all-time leader in receiving yards (14,109) and touchdowns (84).
Tenure: Bruce played for the Rams from 1994 to 2007.
Peer and Fan Perception: Bruce was widely regarded as one of the most consistent and reliable wide receivers of his era. His precise route-running, exceptional hands, and ability to make clutch plays in big moments endeared him to Rams fans. He was respected by his peers for his professionalism and work ethic.
What Made Him Great: Bruce’s ability to create separation, make difficult catches, and excel in yards-after-catch situations made him a key component of the Rams’ high-powered offense. His impact on the passing game and his numerous franchise records cement his status as one of the greatest Rams receivers of all time.

Jackie Slater (Offensive Tackle):

Acquisition: Jackie Slater was selected by the Rams in the third round (86th overall) of the 1976 NFL Draft.
Notable Achievements: Seven-time Pro Bowl selection, three-time First-team All-Pro, member of the NFL 1980s All-Decade Team.
Tenure: Slater played his entire 20-year career with the Rams from 1976 to 1995, setting a record for the most seasons played with a single team.
Peer and Fan Perception: Slater was highly respected for his longevity, consistency, and durability. He was regarded as one of the premier offensive tackles of his era and earned the admiration of his peers and Rams fans alike.
What Made Him Great: Slater’s exceptional technique, footwork, and strength made him a stalwart on the offensive line. His ability to neutralize some of the league’s best pass rushers and create running lanes for his teammates contributed significantly to the Rams’ success.

Conclusion: The Los Angeles Rams have been fortunate to have many exceptional players throughout their history. The ten players mentioned in this article, Deacon Jones, Merlin Olsen, Kurt Warner, Orlando Pace, Aaron Donald, Elroy Hirsch, Eric Dickerson, Jack Youngblood, Marshall Faulk, Isaac Bruce, and Jackie Slater, have left an indelible mark on the franchise through their exceptional talent, achievements, and contributions. Whether it was their dominant play on the field, their leadership abilities, or their impact on the team’s success, these players have solidified their places among the greatest in Rams history. Their remarkable careers will be celebrated by Rams fans for generations to come.