The American Football League (AFL) was a groundbreaking professional football league that operated from 1960 to 1969 and played a key role in reshaping the future of the sport. As a direct competitor to the NFL, the AFL introduced exciting innovations like the two-point conversion and a more pass-heavy offensive style, bringing a fresh energy to the game.
The league’s growing popularity and intense competition with the NFL led to the first-ever Super Bowl in 1967 and eventually, the historic merger in 1970. The merger led to AFL teams becoming part of the NFL American Football Conference (AFC), marking a turning point that permanently reshaped the future of American football.
Whether you’re a passionate football historian or just curious about the legends who defined an era, this is your chance to explore the Top 10 American Football League Players — athletes who not only dominated the AFL but helped shape the modern game as we know it today.
The Legacy of the American Football League
The AFL started in 1960 with the goal of providing an alternative to the established NFL. It brought new teams, new talent, and a new style of play that emphasized passing and speed. The league was instrumental in driving change in professional football, eventually leading to a merger with the NFL in 1970.
Some of the innovations credited to the AFL include the two-point conversion, names on the back of jerseys, and widespread use of the deep passing game. The league also played a key role in integrating professional football, signing African American players who were often overlooked by NFL teams.
Criteria for Ranking the Top 10 AFL Players
This list was put together by carefully considering a few important factors:
- Statistical Excellence: Career achievements and consistency
- Team Success: Contributions to AFL Championships and Super Bowls
- Cultural Impact: Influence on the game and popularity among fans
- Hall of Fame status: In this list, we’ll also include players who have been recognized by the Pro Football Hall of Fame — those who have earned the prestigious Hall of Fame status.
- Innovation: Introduction of new techniques or redefining a position
1. Joe Namath – “Broadway Joe”
Team: New York Jets
Position: Quarterback
Joe Namath is perhaps the most well-known player to come out of the AFL. With his Hollywood looks, media presence, and rocket arm, Namath became a symbol of the AFL appeal. His most iconic moment came before Super Bowl III, when he boldly guaranteed a win over the heavily favored Baltimore Colts. Namath delivered, leading the Jets to a stunning 16-7 victory and earning Super Bowl MVP honors.
Legacy:
- First quarterback to pass for over 4,000 yards in a season
- Hall of Fame inductee (1985)
- Helped the AFL gain trust and recognition.
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2. Lance Alworth – “Bambi”
Team: San Diego Chargers
Position: Wide Receiver
Nicknamed ‘Bambi’ for his smooth, effortless stride, Alworth was easily the AFL top wide receiver. He led the league in receiving yards three times and was named an All-Star in seven straight seasons.
Legacy:
- He made history as the AFL first inductee into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
- 7 consecutive 1,000+ yard seasons
- AFL MVP (1963)
3. Jim Otto – “Mr. Raider”
Team: Oakland Raiders
Position: Center
Jim Otto wasn’t just a center — he was the heart of the Raiders’ toughness. Playing 210 straight games without missing a snap, he became a symbol of durability. With his iconic ‘00‘ jersey and tireless work ethic, Otto anchored the Raiders’ offensive line for over a decade.
Legacy:
- 10-time AFL All-Star
- Inducted into Hall of Fame (1980)
- Played through numerous injuries, defining toughness in football
4. Don Maynard – Deep Threat Legend
Team: New York Jets
Position: Wide Receiver
Maynard teamed up with Namath to form one of the most dangerous quarterback-receiver duos in AFL history. He made history as the first wide receiver to cross 10,000 receiving yards in his career.
Legacy:
- 633 career receptions for 11,834 yards
- Key contributor to Jets’ Super Bowl III victory
- Inducted into Hall of Fame (1987)
5. George Blanda – The Ageless Wonder
Teams: Houston Oilers, Oakland Raiders
Position: Quarterback/Kicker
George Blanda had one of the longest and most versatile careers in professional football. He spent an incredible 26 seasons on the field, pulling double duty as both quarterback and kicker. He led the Oilers to two AFL championships and later had an impressive stint with the Raiders in the early 1970s.
Legacy:
- Over 26,000 passing yards
- Scored more than 2,000 points as a kicker
- Played professionally until age 48
6. Len Dawson – A True Game Plan Genius
Teams: Dallas Texans, Kansas City Chiefs
Position: Quarterback
Dawson was known for his calm demeanor, pinpoint accuracy, and leadership. He led the Chiefs to three AFL championships and was named MVP of Super Bowl IV.
Legacy:
- 239 career touchdown passes
- 3× AFL Champion
- Hall of Fame inductee (1987)
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7. Bobby Bell – Versatile Defender
Team: Kansas City Chiefs
Position: Linebacker/Defensive End
Bobby Bell was a versatile, athletic defender who could line up at multiple positions. His blazing speed and sharp instincts turned him into a constant threat on the Chiefs’ powerhouse defense.
Legacy:
- 9× All-Star (AFL + NFL)
- Super Bowl IV Champion
- Hall of Fame inductee (1983)
8. Willie Brown – Elite Cornerback
Team: Denver Broncos, Oakland Raiders
Position: Cornerback
Willie Brown set the standard as one of the first true shutdown corners in football history. Known for his ability to read plays and shut down top receivers, he was an anchor in the Raiders’ defense.
Legacy:
- 54 career interceptions
- Super Bowl XI interception returned for a touchdown
- Inducted into Hall of Fame (1984)
9. Billy Shaw – Offensive Line Great
Team: Buffalo Bills
Position: Guard
Billy Shaw stands alone as the only Hall of Famer to have played his whole career in the AFL. He was a key part of the Bills’ offensive line and helped them win two AFL championships.
Legacy:
- 8× AFL All-Star
- AFL Champion (1964, 1965)
- Hall of Fame inductee (1999)
10. Nick Buoniconti – Defensive Leader
Teams: Boston Patriots, Miami Dolphins
Position: Linebacker
Nick Buoniconti was known for his intelligence and leadership on the field. Though smaller in size, he was one of the fiercest tacklers and most respected defenders in the league.
Legacy:
- 5× AFL All-Star
- Key leader in Dolphins’ undefeated 1972 season
- Hall of Fame inductee (2001)
Honorable Mentions
While these 10 players stand out, several others made significant contributions to the AFL:
- Abner Haynes – Dynamic running back for Dallas Texans
- Paul Lowe – Speedy rusher for the Chargers
- Jack Kemp – Quarterback and later U.S. Congressman
- Charlie Tolar – Powerful fullback with the Oilers
- Ernie Ladd – One of the AFL’s top defensive tackles
Read Also:- Most Underrated Footballers of the 21st Century
Conclusion: A Legacy That Lives On
The AFL may have only lasted 10 years, but its legacy continues to influence professional football. Its players introduced exciting styles, pushed boundaries, and opened doors for future generations. The merger with the NFL in 1970 didn’t erase the AFL’s identity, it amplified it.
From Joe Namath bold Super Bowl prediction to George Blanda’s incredible longevity, these legends created unforgettable moments that still resonate with fans today. They weren’t just great AFL players—they were pioneers who helped shape the very soul of American football.
As fans of the sport, we owe much of today excitement, competitiveness, and innovation to these AFL trailblazers. Their names deserve to be remembered, and their stories deserve to be told.
