Category: NFL News

The Super Bowl is the most-watched television program every year and people are not just turning into the game, but the halftime show is also a major draw to the event. Throughout the history of the Super Bowl, the halftime show has evolved and grown into a spectacle that is one of the most highly anticipated musical performances each year.

Throughout the 57 Super Bowls, there have been bands, pop singers, rappers and surprise guests take the stage in front of a stadium full of fans. Wild stunts, visual effects and props are often used to make the performances stand out. There are many options to choose from when it comes to the most wild, exciting and iconic moments, but we did our best to put together some of the best of the best.

10. Destiny’s Child reunion (2013)

Beyonce is one of the most-talked about and beloved artists of all time and is often put on a pedestal above most others. She has performed at the Super Bowl twice, the first time coming in 2013. That year, she made many ’90s and early ’00s pop fans dreams come true with a Destiny’s Child reunion, bringing out Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams.

9. Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, 50 Cent share a stage, win an Emmy (2022)

Getting this many hip-hop and R&B legends on one stage, and not just any stage the biggest stage, was iconic in and of itself. This was one of the most exciting Super Bowl halftime shows, with energy that could be felt from the television. The 2022 SoFi Stadium performance was received so well that it went on to win an Emmy for Outstanding Variety Special (Live), marking the first-ever halftime show to win in the category.

8. Michael Jackson stands still (1993)

Jackson is known as one of the greatest performers of his generation and his presence was so powerful that he would often stand motionless on the stage and still receive the loudest of cheers. The “King of Pop” put his star power to the ultimate test during the 1993 Super Bowl, beginning his set by standing absolutely still for well over a minute. Performers do not get much time on the halftime stage, so most use every minute to its maximum capacity, but M.J. knew he would make an impact even without singing a word.

7. Left Shark (2015)

Even if you do not remember many details about Katy Perry’s halftime show performance, you probably remember Left Shark becoming an instant viral meme. The person in the shark costume decided now was their chance to make their mark on the halftime show and earn their fame, and they did just that. The seemingly off-the-cuff dance moves will go down in halftime history.

6. Rihanna’s pregnancy revealed (2023)

Performing the Super Bowl halftime show is a lot of pressure and takes dedication, time, lots of planning and the stamina to keep up with the fast pace while singing. This year, Rihanna performed the halftime show while pregnant, adding an extra layer of difficulty to an already impressive career highlight. This was the first-ever halftime show pregnancy announcement, and will go down as a memorable moment. Rihanna performed on floating stages with her special guest, though it was not the guest people were predicting. She also did the entire halftime performance alone, something that is becoming more rare, and fit 12 songs into the setlist. 

5. Lady Gaga jumping from the roof (2017)

Lady Gaga certainly knows how to make an entrance. The jump at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas was prerecorded, but the live impact was still there. It was far from the most graceful dive, but that almost made it even better and so Lady Gaga.

4. U2 honoring 9/11 victims (2002)

This was by far the most emotional halftime performance to date. The game was a few months after Sept. 11 and U2 took the opportunity and the stage to honor those lost in the tragedy. The 2002 show included a screen that showed the names of the victims. While the halftime show is often an upbeat celebration, the band recognized the moment and appropriately delivered a powerful performance.

3. ‘Indiana Jones’ performance (1995)

Patti LaBelle, Tony Bennett and actors portraying an “Indiana Jones” scene brought a performance that was slightly confusing, but epically entertaining. The 1995 performance had the typically “Indiana Jones” imagery and props, while mixing in some football aspects, including setting someone on fire and the actors holding up a replica Lombardi Trophy. It was perfectly chaotic.

2. Diana Ross leaves in a helicopter (1996)

There have been some incredible entrances to the halftime show stage, but Diana Ross owns the title for best exit. When her set was over, she took off in a helicopter. She sat with open arms in the open cabin and it not only was a wild moment, but also looked pretty dangerous. 

1. Janet Jackson wardrobe mishap (2004)

The most well known and infamous halftime moment is the one featuring Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake. During the performance — which also featured Kid Rock, P. Diddy and Nelly Jackson — Timberlake removed a piece of Janet’s clothing, exposing her breast in a moment that will debated and discussed for years to come. Eighteen years later, Timberlake even penned an apology to Jackson for the scandalous moment.

The Super Bowl is the most-watched television program every year and people are not just turning into the game, but the halftime show is also a major draw to the event. Throughout the history of the Super Bowl, the halftime show has evolved and grown into a spectacle that is one of the most highly anticipated musical performances each year.

Throughout the 57 Super Bowls, there have been bands, pop singers, rappers and surprise guests take the stage in front of a stadium full of fans. Wild stunts, visual effects and props are often used to make the performances stand out. There are many options to choose from when it comes to the most wild, exciting and iconic moments, but we did our best to put together some of the best of the best.

10. Destiny’s Child reunion (2013)

Beyonce is one of the most-talked about and beloved artists of all time and is often put on a pedestal above most others. She has performed at the Super Bowl twice, the first time coming in 2013. That year, she made many ’90s and early ’00s pop fans dreams come true with a Destiny’s Child reunion, bringing out Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams.

9. Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, 50 Cent share a stage, win an Emmy (2022)

Getting this many hip-hop and R&B legends on one stage, and not just any stage the biggest stage, was iconic in and of itself. This was one of the most exciting Super Bowl halftime shows, with energy that could be felt from the television. The 2022 SoFi Stadium performance was received so well that it went on to win an Emmy for Outstanding Variety Special (Live), marking the first-ever halftime show to win in the category.

8. Michael Jackson stands still (1993)

Jackson is known as one of the greatest performers of his generation and his presence was so powerful that he would often stand motionless on the stage and still receive the loudest of cheers. The “King of Pop” put his star power to the ultimate test during the 1993 Super Bowl, beginning his set by standing absolutely still for well over a minute. Performers do not get much time on the halftime stage, so most use every minute to its maximum capacity, but M.J. knew he would make an impact even without singing a word.

7. Left Shark (2015)

Even if you do not remember many details about Katy Perry’s halftime show performance, you probably remember Left Shark becoming an instant viral meme. The person in the shark costume decided now was their chance to make their mark on the halftime show and earn their fame, and they did just that. The seemingly off-the-cuff dance moves will go down in halftime history.

6. Rihanna’s pregnancy revealed (2023)

Performing the Super Bowl halftime show is a lot of pressure and takes dedication, time, lots of planning and the stamina to keep up with the fast pace while singing. This year, Rihanna performed the halftime show while pregnant, adding an extra layer of difficulty to an already impressive career highlight. This was the first-ever halftime show pregnancy announcement, and will go down as a memorable moment. Rihanna performed on floating stages with her special guest, though it was not the guest people were predicting. She also did the entire halftime performance alone, something that is becoming more rare, and fit 12 songs into the setlist. 

5. Lady Gaga jumping from the roof (2017)

Lady Gaga certainly knows how to make an entrance. The jump at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas was prerecorded, but the live impact was still there. It was far from the most graceful dive, but that almost made it even better and so Lady Gaga.

4. U2 honoring 9/11 victims (2002)

This was by far the most emotional halftime performance to date. The game was a few months after Sept. 11 and U2 took the opportunity and the stage to honor those lost in the tragedy. The 2002 show included a screen that showed the names of the victims. While the halftime show is often an upbeat celebration, the band recognized the moment and appropriately delivered a powerful performance.

3. ‘Indiana Jones’ performance (1995)

Patti LaBelle, Tony Bennett and actors portraying an “Indiana Jones” scene brought a performance that was slightly confusing, but epically entertaining. The 1995 performance had the typically “Indiana Jones” imagery and props, while mixing in some football aspects, including setting someone on fire and the actors holding up a replica Lombardi Trophy. It was perfectly chaotic.

2. Diana Ross leaves in a helicopter (1996)

There have been some incredible entrances to the halftime show stage, but Diana Ross owns the title for best exit. When her set was over, she took off in a helicopter. She sat with open arms in the open cabin and it not only was a wild moment, but also looked pretty dangerous. 

1. Janet Jackson wardrobe mishap (2004)

The most well known and infamous halftime moment is the one featuring Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake. During the performance — which also featured Kid Rock, P. Diddy and Nelly Jackson — Timberlake removed a piece of Janet’s clothing, exposing her breast in a moment that will debated and discussed for years to come. Eighteen years later, Timberlake even penned an apology to Jackson for the scandalous moment.

The Super Bowl is the most-watched television program every year and people are not just turning into the game, but the halftime show is also a major draw to the event. Throughout the history of the Super Bowl, the halftime show has evolved and grown into a spectacle that is one of the most highly anticipated musical performances each year.

Throughout the 57 Super Bowls, there have been bands, pop singers, rappers and surprise guests take the stage in front of a stadium full of fans. Wild stunts, visual effects and props are often used to make the performances stand out. There are many options to choose from when it comes to the most wild, exciting and iconic moments, but we did our best to put together some of the best of the best.

10. Destiny’s Child reunion (2013)

Beyonce is one of the most-talked about and beloved artists of all time and is often put on a pedestal above most others. She has performed at the Super Bowl twice, the first time coming in 2013. That year, she made many ’90s and early ’00s pop fans dreams come true with a Destiny’s Child reunion, bringing out Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams.

9. Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, 50 Cent share a stage, win an Emmy (2022)

Getting this many hip-hop and R&B legends on one stage, and not just any stage the biggest stage, was iconic in and of itself. This was one of the most exciting Super Bowl halftime shows, with energy that could be felt from the television. The 2022 SoFi Stadium performance was received so well that it went on to win an Emmy for Outstanding Variety Special (Live), marking the first-ever halftime show to win in the category.

8. Michael Jackson stands still (1993)

Jackson is known as one of the greatest performers of his generation and his presence was so powerful that he would often stand motionless on the stage and still receive the loudest of cheers. The “King of Pop” put his star power to the ultimate test during the 1993 Super Bowl, beginning his set by standing absolutely still for well over a minute. Performers do not get much time on the halftime stage, so most use every minute to its maximum capacity, but M.J. knew he would make an impact even without singing a word.

7. Left Shark (2015)

Even if you do not remember many details about Katy Perry’s halftime show performance, you probably remember Left Shark becoming an instant viral meme. The person in the shark costume decided now was their chance to make their mark on the halftime show and earn their fame, and they did just that. The seemingly off-the-cuff dance moves will go down in halftime history.

6. Rihanna’s pregnancy revealed (2023)

Performing the Super Bowl halftime show is a lot of pressure and takes dedication, time, lots of planning and the stamina to keep up with the fast pace while singing. This year, Rihanna performed the halftime show while pregnant, adding an extra layer of difficulty to an already impressive career highlight. This was the first-ever halftime show pregnancy announcement, and will go down as a memorable moment. Rihanna performed on floating stages with her special guest, though it was not the guest people were predicting. She also did the entire halftime performance alone, something that is becoming more rare, and fit 12 songs into the setlist. 

5. Lady Gaga jumping from the roof (2017)

Lady Gaga certainly knows how to make an entrance. The jump at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas was prerecorded, but the live impact was still there. It was far from the most graceful dive, but that almost made it even better and so Lady Gaga.

4. U2 honoring 9/11 victims (2002)

This was by far the most emotional halftime performance to date. The game was a few months after Sept. 11 and U2 took the opportunity and the stage to honor those lost in the tragedy. The 2002 show included a screen that showed the names of the victims. While the halftime show is often an upbeat celebration, the band recognized the moment and appropriately delivered a powerful performance.

3. ‘Indiana Jones’ performance (1995)

Patti LaBelle, Tony Bennett and actors portraying an “Indiana Jones” scene brought a performance that was slightly confusing, but epically entertaining. The 1995 performance had the typically “Indiana Jones” imagery and props, while mixing in some football aspects, including setting someone on fire and the actors holding up a replica Lombardi Trophy. It was perfectly chaotic.

2. Diana Ross leaves in a helicopter (1996)

There have been some incredible entrances to the halftime show stage, but Diana Ross owns the title for best exit. When her set was over, she took off in a helicopter. She sat with open arms in the open cabin and it not only was a wild moment, but also looked pretty dangerous. 

1. Janet Jackson wardrobe mishap (2004)

The most well known and infamous halftime moment is the one featuring Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake. During the performance — which also featured Kid Rock, P. Diddy and Nelly Jackson — Timberlake removed a piece of Janet’s clothing, exposing her breast in a moment that will debated and discussed for years to come. Eighteen years later, Timberlake even penned an apology to Jackson for the scandalous moment.

The Super Bowl is the most-watched television program every year and people are not just turning into the game, but the halftime show is also a major draw to the event. Throughout the history of the Super Bowl, the halftime show has evolved and grown into a spectacle that is one of the most highly anticipated musical performances each year.

Throughout the 57 Super Bowls, there have been bands, pop singers, rappers and surprise guests take the stage in front of a stadium full of fans. Wild stunts, visual effects and props are often used to make the performances stand out. There are many options to choose from when it comes to the most wild, exciting and iconic moments, but we did our best to put together some of the best of the best.

10. Destiny’s Child reunion (2013)

Beyonce is one of the most-talked about and beloved artists of all time and is often put on a pedestal above most others. She has performed at the Super Bowl twice, the first time coming in 2013. That year, she made many ’90s and early ’00s pop fans dreams come true with a Destiny’s Child reunion, bringing out Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams.

9. Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, 50 Cent share a stage, win an Emmy (2022)

Getting this many hip-hop and R&B legends on one stage, and not just any stage the biggest stage, was iconic in and of itself. This was one of the most exciting Super Bowl halftime shows, with energy that could be felt from the television. The 2022 SoFi Stadium performance was received so well that it went on to win an Emmy for Outstanding Variety Special (Live), marking the first-ever halftime show to win in the category.

8. Michael Jackson stands still (1993)

Jackson is known as one of the greatest performers of his generation and his presence was so powerful that he would often stand motionless on the stage and still receive the loudest of cheers. The “King of Pop” put his star power to the ultimate test during the 1993 Super Bowl, beginning his set by standing absolutely still for well over a minute. Performers do not get much time on the halftime stage, so most use every minute to its maximum capacity, but M.J. knew he would make an impact even without singing a word.

7. Left Shark (2015)

Even if you do not remember many details about Katy Perry’s halftime show performance, you probably remember Left Shark becoming an instant viral meme. The person in the shark costume decided now was their chance to make their mark on the halftime show and earn their fame, and they did just that. The seemingly off-the-cuff dance moves will go down in halftime history.

6. Rihanna’s pregnancy revealed (2023)

Performing the Super Bowl halftime show is a lot of pressure and takes dedication, time, lots of planning and the stamina to keep up with the fast pace while singing. This year, Rihanna performed the halftime show while pregnant, adding an extra layer of difficulty to an already impressive career highlight. This was the first-ever halftime show pregnancy announcement, and will go down as a memorable moment. Rihanna performed on floating stages with her special guest, though it was not the guest people were predicting. She also did the entire halftime performance alone, something that is becoming more rare, and fit 12 songs into the setlist. 

5. Lady Gaga jumping from the roof (2017)

Lady Gaga certainly knows how to make an entrance. The jump at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas was prerecorded, but the live impact was still there. It was far from the most graceful dive, but that almost made it even better and so Lady Gaga.

4. U2 honoring 9/11 victims (2002)

This was by far the most emotional halftime performance to date. The game was a few months after Sept. 11 and U2 took the opportunity and the stage to honor those lost in the tragedy. The 2002 show included a screen that showed the names of the victims. While the halftime show is often an upbeat celebration, the band recognized the moment and appropriately delivered a powerful performance.

3. ‘Indiana Jones’ performance (1995)

Patti LaBelle, Tony Bennett and actors portraying an “Indiana Jones” scene brought a performance that was slightly confusing, but epically entertaining. The 1995 performance had the typically “Indiana Jones” imagery and props, while mixing in some football aspects, including setting someone on fire and the actors holding up a replica Lombardi Trophy. It was perfectly chaotic.

2. Diana Ross leaves in a helicopter (1996)

There have been some incredible entrances to the halftime show stage, but Diana Ross owns the title for best exit. When her set was over, she took off in a helicopter. She sat with open arms in the open cabin and it not only was a wild moment, but also looked pretty dangerous. 

1. Janet Jackson wardrobe mishap (2004)

The most well known and infamous halftime moment is the one featuring Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake. During the performance — which also featured Kid Rock, P. Diddy and Nelly Jackson — Timberlake removed a piece of Janet’s clothing, exposing her breast in a moment that will debated and discussed for years to come. Eighteen years later, Timberlake even penned an apology to Jackson for the scandalous moment.

The Super Bowl is the most-watched television program every year and people are not just turning into the game, but the halftime show is also a major draw to the event. Throughout the history of the Super Bowl, the halftime show has evolved and grown into a spectacle that is one of the most highly anticipated musical performances each year.

Throughout the 57 Super Bowls, there have been bands, pop singers, rappers and surprise guests take the stage in front of a stadium full of fans. Wild stunts, visual effects and props are often used to make the performances stand out. There are many options to choose from when it comes to the most wild, exciting and iconic moments, but we did our best to put together some of the best of the best.

10. Destiny’s Child reunion (2013)

Beyonce is one of the most-talked about and beloved artists of all time and is often put on a pedestal above most others. She has performed at the Super Bowl twice, the first time coming in 2013. That year, she made many ’90s and early ’00s pop fans dreams come true with a Destiny’s Child reunion, bringing out Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams.

9. Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, 50 Cent share a stage, win an Emmy (2022)

Getting this many hip-hop and R&B legends on one stage, and not just any stage the biggest stage, was iconic in and of itself. This was one of the most exciting Super Bowl halftime shows, with energy that could be felt from the television. The 2022 SoFi Stadium performance was received so well that it went on to win an Emmy for Outstanding Variety Special (Live), marking the first-ever halftime show to win in the category.

8. Michael Jackson stands still (1993)

Jackson is known as one of the greatest performers of his generation and his presence was so powerful that he would often stand motionless on the stage and still receive the loudest of cheers. The “King of Pop” put his star power to the ultimate test during the 1993 Super Bowl, beginning his set by standing absolutely still for well over a minute. Performers do not get much time on the halftime stage, so most use every minute to its maximum capacity, but M.J. knew he would make an impact even without singing a word.

7. Left Shark (2015)

Even if you do not remember many details about Katy Perry’s halftime show performance, you probably remember Left Shark becoming an instant viral meme. The person in the shark costume decided now was their chance to make their mark on the halftime show and earn their fame, and they did just that. The seemingly off-the-cuff dance moves will go down in halftime history.

6. Rihanna’s pregnancy revealed (2023)

Performing the Super Bowl halftime show is a lot of pressure and takes dedication, time, lots of planning and the stamina to keep up with the fast pace while singing. This year, Rihanna performed the halftime show while pregnant, adding an extra layer of difficulty to an already impressive career highlight. This was the first-ever halftime show pregnancy announcement, and will go down as a memorable moment. Rihanna performed on floating stages with her special guest, though it was not the guest people were predicting. She also did the entire halftime performance alone, something that is becoming more rare, and fit 12 songs into the setlist. 

5. Lady Gaga jumping from the roof (2017)

Lady Gaga certainly knows how to make an entrance. The jump at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas was prerecorded, but the live impact was still there. It was far from the most graceful dive, but that almost made it even better and so Lady Gaga.

4. U2 honoring 9/11 victims (2002)

This was by far the most emotional halftime performance to date. The game was a few months after Sept. 11 and U2 took the opportunity and the stage to honor those lost in the tragedy. The 2002 show included a screen that showed the names of the victims. While the halftime show is often an upbeat celebration, the band recognized the moment and appropriately delivered a powerful performance.

3. ‘Indiana Jones’ performance (1995)

Patti LaBelle, Tony Bennett and actors portraying an “Indiana Jones” scene brought a performance that was slightly confusing, but epically entertaining. The 1995 performance had the typically “Indiana Jones” imagery and props, while mixing in some football aspects, including setting someone on fire and the actors holding up a replica Lombardi Trophy. It was perfectly chaotic.

2. Diana Ross leaves in a helicopter (1996)

There have been some incredible entrances to the halftime show stage, but Diana Ross owns the title for best exit. When her set was over, she took off in a helicopter. She sat with open arms in the open cabin and it not only was a wild moment, but also looked pretty dangerous. 

1. Janet Jackson wardrobe mishap (2004)

The most well known and infamous halftime moment is the one featuring Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake. During the performance — which also featured Kid Rock, P. Diddy and Nelly Jackson — Timberlake removed a piece of Janet’s clothing, exposing her breast in a moment that will debated and discussed for years to come. Eighteen years later, Timberlake even penned an apology to Jackson for the scandalous moment.

The Super Bowl is the most-watched television program every year and people are not just turning into the game, but the halftime show is also a major draw to the event. Throughout the history of the Super Bowl, the halftime show has evolved and grown into a spectacle that is one of the most highly anticipated musical performances each year.

Throughout the 57 Super Bowls, there have been bands, pop singers, rappers and surprise guests take the stage in front of a stadium full of fans. Wild stunts, visual effects and props are often used to make the performances stand out. There are many options to choose from when it comes to the most wild, exciting and iconic moments, but we did our best to put together some of the best of the best.

10. Destiny’s Child reunion (2013)

Beyonce is one of the most-talked about and beloved artists of all time and is often put on a pedestal above most others. She has performed at the Super Bowl twice, the first time coming in 2013. That year, she made many ’90s and early ’00s pop fans dreams come true with a Destiny’s Child reunion, bringing out Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams.

9. Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, 50 Cent share a stage, win an Emmy (2022)

Getting this many hip-hop and R&B legends on one stage, and not just any stage the biggest stage, was iconic in and of itself. This was one of the most exciting Super Bowl halftime shows, with energy that could be felt from the television. The 2022 SoFi Stadium performance was received so well that it went on to win an Emmy for Outstanding Variety Special (Live), marking the first-ever halftime show to win in the category.

8. Michael Jackson stands still (1993)

Jackson is known as one of the greatest performers of his generation and his presence was so powerful that he would often stand motionless on the stage and still receive the loudest of cheers. The “King of Pop” put his star power to the ultimate test during the 1993 Super Bowl, beginning his set by standing absolutely still for well over a minute. Performers do not get much time on the halftime stage, so most use every minute to its maximum capacity, but M.J. knew he would make an impact even without singing a word.

7. Left Shark (2015)

Even if you do not remember many details about Katy Perry’s halftime show performance, you probably remember Left Shark becoming an instant viral meme. The person in the shark costume decided now was their chance to make their mark on the halftime show and earn their fame, and they did just that. The seemingly off-the-cuff dance moves will go down in halftime history.

6. Rihanna’s pregnancy revealed (2023)

Performing the Super Bowl halftime show is a lot of pressure and takes dedication, time, lots of planning and the stamina to keep up with the fast pace while singing. This year, Rihanna performed the halftime show while pregnant, adding an extra layer of difficulty to an already impressive career highlight. This was the first-ever halftime show pregnancy announcement, and will go down as a memorable moment. Rihanna performed on floating stages with her special guest, though it was not the guest people were predicting. She also did the entire halftime performance alone, something that is becoming more rare, and fit 12 songs into the setlist. 

5. Lady Gaga jumping from the roof (2017)

Lady Gaga certainly knows how to make an entrance. The jump at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas was prerecorded, but the live impact was still there. It was far from the most graceful dive, but that almost made it even better and so Lady Gaga.

4. U2 honoring 9/11 victims (2002)

This was by far the most emotional halftime performance to date. The game was a few months after Sept. 11 and U2 took the opportunity and the stage to honor those lost in the tragedy. The 2002 show included a screen that showed the names of the victims. While the halftime show is often an upbeat celebration, the band recognized the moment and appropriately delivered a powerful performance.

3. ‘Indiana Jones’ performance (1995)

Patti LaBelle, Tony Bennett and actors portraying an “Indiana Jones” scene brought a performance that was slightly confusing, but epically entertaining. The 1995 performance had the typically “Indiana Jones” imagery and props, while mixing in some football aspects, including setting someone on fire and the actors holding up a replica Lombardi Trophy. It was perfectly chaotic.

2. Diana Ross leaves in a helicopter (1996)

There have been some incredible entrances to the halftime show stage, but Diana Ross owns the title for best exit. When her set was over, she took off in a helicopter. She sat with open arms in the open cabin and it not only was a wild moment, but also looked pretty dangerous. 

1. Janet Jackson wardrobe mishap (2004)

The most well known and infamous halftime moment is the one featuring Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake. During the performance — which also featured Kid Rock, P. Diddy and Nelly Jackson — Timberlake removed a piece of Janet’s clothing, exposing her breast in a moment that will debated and discussed for years to come. Eighteen years later, Timberlake even penned an apology to Jackson for the scandalous moment.

The Super Bowl is the most-watched television program every year and people are not just turning into the game, but the halftime show is also a major draw to the event. Throughout the history of the Super Bowl, the halftime show has evolved and grown into a spectacle that is one of the most highly anticipated musical performances each year.

Throughout the 57 Super Bowls, there have been bands, pop singers, rappers and surprise guests take the stage in front of a stadium full of fans. Wild stunts, visual effects and props are often used to make the performances stand out. There are many options to choose from when it comes to the most wild, exciting and iconic moments, but we did our best to put together some of the best of the best.

10. Destiny’s Child reunion (2013)

Beyonce is one of the most-talked about and beloved artists of all time and is often put on a pedestal above most others. She has performed at the Super Bowl twice, the first time coming in 2013. That year, she made many ’90s and early ’00s pop fans dreams come true with a Destiny’s Child reunion, bringing out Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams.

9. Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, 50 Cent share a stage, win an Emmy (2022)

Getting this many hip-hop and R&B legends on one stage, and not just any stage the biggest stage, was iconic in and of itself. This was one of the most exciting Super Bowl halftime shows, with energy that could be felt from the television. The 2022 SoFi Stadium performance was received so well that it went on to win an Emmy for Outstanding Variety Special (Live), marking the first-ever halftime show to win in the category.

8. Michael Jackson stands still (1993)

Jackson is known as one of the greatest performers of his generation and his presence was so powerful that he would often stand motionless on the stage and still receive the loudest of cheers. The “King of Pop” put his star power to the ultimate test during the 1993 Super Bowl, beginning his set by standing absolutely still for well over a minute. Performers do not get much time on the halftime stage, so most use every minute to its maximum capacity, but M.J. knew he would make an impact even without singing a word.

7. Left Shark (2015)

Even if you do not remember many details about Katy Perry’s halftime show performance, you probably remember Left Shark becoming an instant viral meme. The person in the shark costume decided now was their chance to make their mark on the halftime show and earn their fame, and they did just that. The seemingly off-the-cuff dance moves will go down in halftime history.

6. Rihanna’s pregnancy revealed (2023)

Performing the Super Bowl halftime show is a lot of pressure and takes dedication, time, lots of planning and the stamina to keep up with the fast pace while singing. This year, Rihanna performed the halftime show while pregnant, adding an extra layer of difficulty to an already impressive career highlight. This was the first-ever halftime show pregnancy announcement, and will go down as a memorable moment. Rihanna performed on floating stages with her special guest, though it was not the guest people were predicting. She also did the entire halftime performance alone, something that is becoming more rare, and fit 12 songs into the setlist. 

5. Lady Gaga jumping from the roof (2017)

Lady Gaga certainly knows how to make an entrance. The jump at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas was prerecorded, but the live impact was still there. It was far from the most graceful dive, but that almost made it even better and so Lady Gaga.

4. U2 honoring 9/11 victims (2002)

This was by far the most emotional halftime performance to date. The game was a few months after Sept. 11 and U2 took the opportunity and the stage to honor those lost in the tragedy. The 2002 show included a screen that showed the names of the victims. While the halftime show is often an upbeat celebration, the band recognized the moment and appropriately delivered a powerful performance.

3. ‘Indiana Jones’ performance (1995)

Patti LaBelle, Tony Bennett and actors portraying an “Indiana Jones” scene brought a performance that was slightly confusing, but epically entertaining. The 1995 performance had the typically “Indiana Jones” imagery and props, while mixing in some football aspects, including setting someone on fire and the actors holding up a replica Lombardi Trophy. It was perfectly chaotic.

2. Diana Ross leaves in a helicopter (1996)

There have been some incredible entrances to the halftime show stage, but Diana Ross owns the title for best exit. When her set was over, she took off in a helicopter. She sat with open arms in the open cabin and it not only was a wild moment, but also looked pretty dangerous. 

1. Janet Jackson wardrobe mishap (2004)

The most well known and infamous halftime moment is the one featuring Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake. During the performance — which also featured Kid Rock, P. Diddy and Nelly Jackson — Timberlake removed a piece of Janet’s clothing, exposing her breast in a moment that will debated and discussed for years to come. Eighteen years later, Timberlake even penned an apology to Jackson for the scandalous moment.

Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and Andy Reid are among the five or 10 greatest of all-time at their respective positions and they are once again threatening to add to their legacies with another possible Super Bowl run.

Last year, after the Chiefs’ thrilling 38-35 Super Bowl LVII win over the Eagles, I asked our staff to vote on where the trio ranks right now. Not what their trajectory is, but if they retire today, where do they stand? (The voters: Doug Clawson, Garrett Podell, Brett Anderson, Bryan DeArdo, Kevin Steimle, Jared Dubin, Zach Pereles, Jordan Dajani and Kyle Stackpole)

Their place in the games history did not change as a result of the 2023 regular season but they are once again on the doorstep of moving up in those conversations. 

Here’s a look at last year’s vote and what’s at stake the rest of this postseason:

Top 10 Quarterbacks of all time

1. Tom Brady (unanimous)

2. Peyton Manning

3. Joe Montana

4. Patrick Mahomes

5. Aaron Rodgers

6. Dan Marino

7. Johnny Unitas

8. John Elway

9. Drew Brees

10. Brett Favre

Mahomes vote breakdown: No. 2 (1), No. 3 (2), No. 5 (2), No. 6 (3), No. 11 (1)

According to our group of voters, Mahomes is on the Mount Rushmore of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. He was voted as high as second and as low as 11th, and the consensus has him as the fourth-greatest quarterback of all-time between Joe Montana and Aaron Rodgers. No surprise at the top, Tom Brady is the consensus GOAT, getting all nine first-place votes.

Case Mahomes should be higher

Mahomes has done something that no other player in the history of the NFL has done. Not even Brady, Manning or Montana — the three QBs ahead of him on this list. He has won two league MVPs and two Super Bowl MVPs in a five-season span. Now, there’s no way Mahomes has surpassed Brady as the GOAT, but you could argue his playoff resume is already more impressive than Manning’s (14-13 playoff record, two Super Bowls, one Super Bowl MVP) and his regular-season credentials are catching up to Montana’s, who is largely third here thanks to a perfect 4-0 record in the Super Bowl. Mahomes can make plays that no QB in the top three can make, and has a strong case for being the most talented quarterback of all time. It’ll be tough to move past Peyton Manning or Joe Montana with a Super Bowl win this year, but you could at least have the argument. And, he’s still on a trajectory to threaten Brady as the greatest of all-time

Case Mahomes should be lower

He’s only been a full-time starter for six years, so is he really already a top-five quarterback? Aaron Rodgers might have something to say about that. Yes, Mahomes already has more rings and more conference championship trips than Rodgers does, but Rodgers also has four league MVPs, including back-to-back at ages 37 and 38. He belongs in the “most talented QB ever” discussion and has been doing it for much longer than Mahomes, as his 475 career touchdown passes suggest (Mahomes has 219). Johnny Unitas would also like a word. He has one more league MVP and championship (three of each) than Mahomes, was the NFL’s all-time leader in touchdown passes and yards when he retired, and practically invented the two-minute drill with his clutch play in the 1958 NFL Championship Game known as “the greatest game ever played.” 

Top 5 Tight Ends of all time

1. Tony Gonzalez

2. Rob Gronkowski

3. Travis Kelce

4. Shannon Sharpe

5. Antonio Gates

Kelce vote breakdown: No. 2 (3), No. 3 (5), No. 4 (1)

Kelce is the third-best tight end ever, according to our panel, behind Tony Gonzalez and Rob Gronkowski. None of our nine voters had Kelce as the greatest tight end ever, but all nine votes had him in the top four.

Case Kelce should be higher

It’s a tough sell that Kelce should be No. 1 here, Tony Gonzalez has both the prime and longevity that surpasses Kelce. Gonzalez led all tight ends in receiving yards in a season, seven times, to Kelce’s four. He has the sixth-most receiving yards (15,127) in NFL history (regardless of position). Kelce may surpass Tony G one day, but his best case may be ahead of Rob Gronkowski at No. 2. Kelce already has more career receiving yards than Gronk, and only Jerry Rice has more catches, receiving yards and touchdown grabs than Kelce in a playoff career. Kelce is the only tight end to lead a Super Bowl-winning team in receiving yards twice (he led the Chiefs in 2019 and 2022) and has had a ridiculous stretch of playoff games over the last few postseasons. 

Kelce has the same number of 1,000-yard seasons in his 30s as Gronk had in his career (four). The reason he doesn’t surpass Gronk in some people’s minds is due to Gronk’s sheer all-around dominance. He has the same number of first-team All-Pro selections as Kelce (four), has led all tight ends in receiving yards as many times as Kelce (four seasons), and is one of the best red zone threats in league history. When Gronk initially retired after the 2018 season, he had the third-most touchdown catches of any player before turning 30 in NFL history beyond only Randy Moss and Jerry Rice. He has 18 more career touchdowns than Kelce and is widely considered a better blocker. He also has more rings than Kelce. It’ll be interesting to see how productive Kelce is in the coming years and if he can eventually threaten Tony Gonzalez. This is the first year where it looked like Kelce was on the downside of his career in terms of health and production. 

Case Kelce should be lower

Kelce’s career numbers are nearly identical to Shannon Sharpe’s in terms of Pro Bowl selections (nine vs. eight), first-team All-Pro selections (both four), receiving yards (both over 10K) and touchdown catches (Kelce 74 vs. Sharpe 62). Sharpe last played two decades ago when the NFL was hardly a passing league. He also won two championships with the Broncos and one with the Ravens, so a case could be made that he belongs ahead of Kelce. Another Super Bowl title for Kelce could squash that.

Top 10 head coaches of all time

1. Bill Belichick (unanimous)

2. Vince Lombardi

3. Don Shula

4. Bill Walsh

5. Chuck Noll

6. George Halas

7. Andy Reid

8. Tom Landry

9. Paul Brown

10. Joe Gibbs

Reid vote breakdown: No. 3 (1), No. 6 (3), No. 8 (2), No. 10 (3)

Reid is the seventh-best head coach in NFL history, per our panel of nine voters. He was in the top 10 for every voter, and even as high as third. Like Brady at quarterback, Belichick was the unanimous No. 1, garnering all nine first-place votes.

Case Reid should be higher

He is the only head coach in NFL history to hold the wins record for multiple franchises, proving even this run with one of the greatest QBs of all time (Mahomes) is no fluke, and Reid deserves his share of the credit. He made four straight NFC title games with the Eagles and has now made six straight AFC title games with the Chiefs, including two Super Bowl wins. He has the fourth-most regular-season wins in NFL history (258) and is considered one of the greatest offensive minds the league has ever seen (as Super Bowl LVII once again proved). He also has a very successful coaching tree (unlike Belichick) that features John Harbaugh, Doug Pederson, Sean McDermott and Ron Rivera, among others. He will be in the top five discussion with another title. George Halas, who we ranked sixth, won 318 games and six titles, but last coached in 1955 when there were 12 teams in the NFL. Reid also has 65 more regular-season wins than longtime Steelers coach Chuck Noll, who is fifth here.

Case Reid should be lower

Reid has zero Super Bowls and a losing playoff record (11-12) without Patrick Mahomes. However, by this logic, how is Bill Belichick the greatest coach ever? If there’s any reason Reid is lower, it has more to do with the coaches he is ranked ahead of. Joe Gibbs won three Super Bowls with Washington in the 80s, Tom Landry coached the Cowboys dynasty in the 70s and Bill Parcells coached two Super Bowl champions and has perhaps the best coaching tree of all time. 

There you have it. Mahomes, Kelce and Reid are all firmly in the top 10 of all time and all borderline top five. Their legacies have made a big leap in the last year or so and can threaten the Mount Rushmore of their positions with another title. If this postseason is anything like the past ones, the difference between a Super Bowl and an early exit will be decided by the thinnest of margins. Last year, the Chiefs won the AFC Championship Game and Super Bowl on Harrison Butker field goals in the final 10 seconds following controversial (but correct) penalties. 

Five years removed from the Patriots’ final Super Bowl win, Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs are one win away from becoming the NFL’s second dynasty since the turn of the century. 

You could argue that the Chiefs are already a dynasty after capturing a fourth AFC title in five years. But when looking at history, three Super Bowl wins appears to be the bar as far as dynasties are concerned. No one, for example, is confusing the late 2000s/early 2010s Giants a dynasty. You could say the same thing about the 2000s Steelers, who won two Super Bowls and played in a third over a six-year span. 

They may not be a dynasty yet, but the Chiefs’ recent run is still among the greatest of the Super Bowl era. You can see below where they current sit in history, but first, here was the criteria used when putting this list together. 

• Championships won 
• Sustained run of excellence 
• Players/coaches 
• Enduring legacy

1. New England Patriots (2001-18)

No dynasty can match what the Patriots put together during the first two decades of the millennium. In all, Bill Belichick’s team won six Super Bowls, nine AFC titles, and 17 division titles. The Patriots also completed the only 16-0 regular season in NFL history in 2007. 

The Patriots won three Super Bowls in a four-year span from 2001-04. After a 10-year hiatus (that included two heartbreaking losses to Eli Manning’s Giants), New England won three Super Bowls in a five-year span from 2014-18. The common denominator during the Patriots’ reign was Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady, who took home MVP honors during four of his six Super Bowl wins in New England. Two of Brady’s former teammates, cornerback Ty Law and receiver Randy Moss, have been enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Defensive lineman Richard Seymour, a member of the Patriots first run of championships, is a three-time Hall of Fame finalist. Former Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski will be fitted for a gold jacket five years after his final NFL game. 

Why they’re No. 1: The Patriots’ sustained success is remarkable considering it took place during the NFL’s salary cap era. New England also overcame a slew of worthy competitors that includes Peyton Manning’s Broncos and Colts, as well as Ben Roethlisberger’s Steelers. Patriots detractors can point to the team playing in the underwhelming AFC East along with the fact that they endured Spygate and Deflategate. Controversies aside, no one can argue with the Patriots’ unparalleled success. 

2. Pittsburgh Steelers (1972-79) 

After nearly 40 years of losing, the Steelers soared to uncharted heights during the 1970s. Led by team president Dan Rooney, head coach Chuck Noll, and a talented scouting department that included 2021 Hall of Fame inductee Bill Nunn, the Steelers constructed arguably the most talented roster in pro football history. During Noll’s first four drafts, the Steelers selected five future Hall of Famers and 15 future starters, a list that includes Joe Greene, Terry Bradshaw, Mel Blount, L.C. Greenwood, Dwight White, Ernie Holmes, Gerry Mullins, Larry Brown and Jack Ham. In 1972, the selection of running back Franco Harris spearheaded the Steelers to their first division title and playoff victory, won on Harris’ “Immaculate Reception.” 

Harris lifted Pittsburgh to the playoffs, but it was the Steelers’ 1974 rookie class — a class that featured five future Hall of Famers in Jack Lambert, Lynn Swann, John Stallworth, Mike Webster and Donnie Shell — that put Pittsburgh over the top. From 1974-79, the Steelers posted an 80-22-1 record, won six division titles and became the first team to win four Super Bowls. The Steelers are also the only team to win back-to-back Super Bowls twice and four Super Bowls in a six-year span. Two of Pittsburgh’s Super Bowl wins came against the mighty Dallas Cowboys, the other great team of the 1970s. Along with Art and Dan Rooney, Noll and Nunn, the 1970s Steelers boasted 10 Hall of Fame players and several other players who have received Hall of Fame consideration. 

Why they’re No. 2: The Steelers dominated an era that included Don Shula’s Dolphins, Tom Landry’s Cowboys, and John Madden’s Raiders. The Steelers’ success not only made Pittsburgh a football-crazed city, it helped popularize the NFL nationwide during a time when pro football firmly surpassed baseball as America’s new pastime. Furthermore, while the Patriots have the greatest run of success in NFL history, the 1970s Steelers continue to hold the mantle as the greatest team of all-time, a team that went 4-0 in Super Bowl competition. 

3. Green Bay Packers (1960-67) 

Green Bay had been mired in mediocrity the 14 seasons prior to Vince Lombardi’s arrival. During his nine years as the Packers’ coach, Green Bay tallied a 98-30-4 record that included a 9-1 record in the postseason. From 1960-67, Lombardi’s Packers played for the NFL title six times, with the only loss coming against the Eagles in 1960. After winning back-to-back titles in 1961-62, Green Bay became the second NFL team (the 1929-31 Packers being the first team) to win three consecutive titles, including the first two Super Bowls. No team has since won three consecutive titles. 

There was no NFL play more devastating during the 1960s than the legendary “Packer Sweep,” a play that often saw halfbacks Jim Taylor, Paul Hornung and Elijah Pitts follow the blocking of guards Forrest Gregg and Jerry Kramer. Green Bay also possessed a steady passing attack, led by quarterback Bart Starr. An often overlooked facet of the ’60s Packers was their dominant defense, led by Hall of Famers Willie Davis, Dave Robinson, Ray Nitschke, Herb Adderley and Willie Wood. 

Lombardi’s college connections were one of the reasons why he able to construct one of the greatest teams in pro football history. His willingness to draft Black players in the first round, something that was uncommon at that time, also helped him build a team that would win five titles in a seven-year span while serving as a trailblazer in the process. 

Why they’re No. 3: While they won more titles in one decade than any team in history, the Packers played in the 12-team NFL during their run. They only had to play in one postseason game (the NFL Championship game) during their first two championship runs. Green Bay also didn’t have to deal with the AFL until the first two Super Bowls, where they dispatched the Chiefs and Raiders by a combined score of 68-24. 

4. San Francisco 49ers (1981-94) 

Former 49ers executive Carmen Policy has often referred to San Francisco during the 49ers’ dynasty as Camelot. He wasn’t too far off, as the 49ers enjoyed a magical run that ultimately led to the franchise becoming the first to win five Vince Lombardi Trophies. Led by Bill Walsh’s innovative West Coast offense, the 49ers were tabbed as the team of the ’80s after winning Super Bowls XVI, XIX, and XXIII. In 1989, under first-year head coach George Seifert, the 49ers dismantled the Broncos in Super Bowl XXIV. The ’90 49ers were a field goal away from possibly becoming the first team to win three consecutive Super Bowl titles. San Francisco never won three straight, but they did win their fifth title after Steve Young led the 49ers to a dominant win over the Chargers in Super Bowl XXIX. 

Young followed Joe Montana, who went 4-0 in Super Bowls while becoming the first player to win three Super Bowl MVP awards. Both quarterbacks had substantial success throwing the ball to Jerry Rice, who is regarded as the greatest receiver of all time. The 49ers’ offense also featured halfback Roger Craig, the first player to post 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in the same season. Like the Packers, the 49ers boasted a vastly underrated defense, led by Hall of Fame safety Ronnie Lott, fellow defensive backs Eric Dwight and Dwight Hicks, and linebackers Charles Haley, Jack “Hacksaw” Reynolds and Keena Turner.  

Why they’re No. 4: While Walsh’s innovative offense has left an indelible imprint, the 49ers’ dynasty has not had the same lasting impact as the Packers and Steelers’ dynasties. The 49ers also endured a shocking playoff loss to the Vikings in 1987 (which nearly cost Walsh his job) and two devastating playoff losses to Bill Parcells’ Giants. Seifert’s 49ers then lost back-to-back NFC title games to the Cowboys before breaking through in 1994. 

5. Dallas Cowboys (1991-95) 

In just three years, Jimmy Johnson and Jerry Jones helped turn the Cowboys from a 1-15 outfit to Super Bowl champions. How did they do it? By forcing several popular yet aging veterans into retirement, making a slew of successful draft picks, and putting an emphasis on team speed. Oh yeah, Johnson also pulled off the “Great Train Robbery” when he shipped running back Herschel Walker to the Vikings in a trade that include three future first-round picks and three future second-round picks. Among the players the Cowboys acquired with the picks included Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith, perennial Pro Bowl safety Darren Woodson, Pro Bowl defensive tackle Russell Maryland, and cornerback Kevin Smith. 

Johnson won Coach of the Year after the Cowboys went 7-9 in 1990. After reaching the divisional round of the playoffs in 1991, the 1992 Cowboys won a franchise-record 13 regular-season games on the strength of the league’s top-rated scoring defense and the play of Smith, quarterback Troy Aikman and receiver Michael Irvin. The Cowboys then dispatched the mighty 49ers in the NFC title game before defeating the Bills by 35 points in Super Bowl XXVII. Dallas successfully defended its championship in 1993 before Johnson left the Cowboys less than two months after winning back-to-back titles. With Barry Switzer as head coach, Dallas became the first team to win three Super Bowls in a four-year span after defeating the Steelers in Super Bowl XXX. 

Why they’re No. 5: At the height of their powers, the 1990s Cowboys are right up there with the best teams in league history. The defense was dominant and the Cowboys’ offense (which also included the “Great Wall of Dallas” offensive line) was one of the most complete units of all time. But Johnson’s departure led to a premature ending to one of the NFL’s great dynasties; the Cowboys were a 6-10 team two years after winning Super Bowl XXX, and would not win another playoff game until 2009. 

6. Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders: 1967-85

No NFL team enjoyed more consistent success than the Raiders during this span. During this 18-year run, the Raiders won 11 division titles, earned 15 playoff berths, captured one AFL title and three Super Bowls. Under owner Al Davis, the Raiders earned their still-standing reputation as the NFL’s bad boys, with tough guy players that included Ken Stabler, George Blanda, Jack “The Assassin” Tatum, George Atkinson, Skip “Dr. Death” Thomas, Ted Hendricks, Phil Villapiano, Matt Millen, John Matuszak, and Howie Long. 

The Raiders’ roster also included receivers Fred Biletnikoff and Cliff Branch, tight end Dave Casper, and offensive lineman Jim Otto, Art Shell and Gene Upshaw. The ’76 Raiders captured the franchise’s first Super Bowl after going 13-1 during the regular season. They then dismantled the defending two-time champion Steelers in the AFC title game before routing the Vikings in Super Bowl XI. Four years later, coach Tom Flores and quarterback Jim Plunkett helped the Raiders become the first franchise to win the Super Bowl as a wild-card team. The ’83 Raiders, on the strength of running back Marcus Allen and cornerbacks Lester Hayes and Mike Haynes, held Washington’s record-setting offense to just one touchdown in the Raiders’ 38-8 win in Super Bowl XVIII. 

Why they’re No. 6: The Raiders spent the first half of their run playing second-fiddle to some of the era’s other great teams. After losing Super Bowl II, the Raiders fell short in six conference title games from 1968-75. Two of those losses came at the hands of the Steelers, who also defeated the Raiders on the strength of Franco Harris’ “Immaculate Reception.” 

7. Dallas Cowboys (1970-79) 

We could have included the late ’60s and early ’80s, but the true impact of that era of Cowboys’ football took place in the ’70s. During that span, the Cowboys played in five Super Bowls, winning two and losing three others by a combined total of 11 points. Led by Tom Landry and Roger Staubach, the Cowboys’ popularity soared to such heights that they were eventually crowned as “America’s Team.” 

After falling short short of a title in 1970, the ’71 Cowboys — a loaded roster that included Staubach, Bob Lilly, Bob Hayes, Lance Alworth, Duane Thomas, Walt Garrison, Rayfield Wright, Mike Ditka, Chuck Howley, Herb Adderley, Mel Renfro and Cliff Harris — won the franchise’s first title after dismantling the Dolphins (the same team that went undefeated the following season) in Super Bowl VI. The Cowboys seamlessly transitioned during the decade, drafting future stars that included Drew Pearson, Randy White, Harvey Martin, Tony Dorsett, Thomas “Hollywood” Henderson and Ed “Too Tall” Jones. In  1977 Cowboys’ “Doomsday” defense outplayed the Broncos’ “Orange Crush” defense in Super Bowl XII, 27-10. In the win, Martin and White became the first — and only — Super Bowl co-MVPs. 

Why they’re No. 7: The ’70s Cowboys certainly classify as a dynasty, but their 2-3 record in Super Bowls is underwhelming. Two of those losses came at the hands of the Steelers, with the second Super Bowl matchup (Super Bowl XIII) ultimately giving Pittsburgh the title as the “Team of the ’70s.” 

8. Washington (1982-91) 

Washington had won just two playoff games in the previous 37 years before hiring Joe Gibbs in 1981. Over the next 10 years, Gibbs’ Washington team won 17 playoff games, four conference titles and the franchise’s three Super Bowls. Making Washington’s success during this span even more impressive is the fact that the Football Team played in the ultra competitive NFC, a conference that also included Bill Walsh’s 49ers, Mike Ditka’s Bears, and Bill Parcells’ Giants. 

Gibbs won each of his Super Bowls with a different quarterback. Joe Theismann, John Riggins and the “Hogs” offensive line led Washington to its first title in 1982. While they were dethroned by the Raiders in the following year’s Super Bowl, Washington returned to prominence in 1987 on the strength of quarterback Doug Williams’ MVP performance in Super Bowl XXII. In Super Bowl XXVI, the MVP performance of quarterback Mark Rypien led Washington to a 37-24 win over Buffalo. 

Each quarterback enjoyed talented receiving corps, led by Art Monk, Gary Clark, Charlie Brown, and Ricky Sanders. Gibbs’ teams also featured stingy defensive units that featured Darrell Green, Dexter Manley, Charles Mann, and Wilber Marshall. 

Why they’re No. 8: Washington would have possibly placed higher if not for Super Bowl XVIII. Arguably their best team during the ’80s, Washington’s ’83 team ripped through the NFL during the regular season while setting a then-NFL record for points scored. But not only did they fail to successfully defend their title, Washington was whitewashed by the Raiders in the Super Bowl, 38-9.     

9. Miami Dolphins (1970-74) 

Miami went 15-39-2 during its first four years of existence. During Don Shula’s first five years in Miami, the Dolphins went 62-15-1. The first team to play in three consecutive Super Bowls, the Dolphins also completed the NFL’s only perfect season, going an unblemished 17-0 in 1972. During a two-year span, Miami went 32-2 en route to winning back-to-back Super Bowls. 

Shula’s Dolphins were powered by their “No Name” defense, led by Nick Buoniconti, Manny Fernandez, Jake Scott, Dick Anderson and Bill Stanfill. The Dolphins also possessed a powerful rushing attack that featured Larry Csonka, Mercury Morris and Jim Kiick. When they did throw the ball, quarterback Bob Griese had great success getting the ball to receiver Paul Warfield, a member of the NFL 100 All-Time Team. Miami’s offensive line was powered by Hall of Fame guard Larry Little, center Jim Langer and guard Bob Kuechenberg. The line paved the way for Csonka and Morris to become the first pair of teammates to both run for over 1,000 yards in the same season. 

Why they’re No. 9: Like the ’70s Cowboys, the Dolphins’ lack of longevity hurt them on this all-time list. The short-lived World Football League — which whisked away Csonka, Kiick and Warfield in 1975 for a cool $3 million — largely contributed to the Dolphins’ run ending following a gut-wrenching loss to the Raiders in the ’74 playoffs. 

10. Chiefs (2018-present)

Andy Reid’s team earned a seat at this exclusive table after winning last year’s Super Bowl. They made the list ahead of the 2000s Steelers, late ’90s Broncos and Bill Parcells’ Giants of the late ’80s and early ’90s. Each of those teams also won two Super Bowls during their respective eras. 

The Chiefs’ recent run of success is even more impressive considering that it is happening during the Super Bowl era. Kansas City joined the Patriots as the only teams this century to play in four Super Bowls over a five-year span. It did so after winning the first two road playoff games of Mahomes’ career. 

Why they’re No. 10: Kansas City has one of the game’s all-time great coaches in Reid, the best quarterback in today’s NFL in Mahomes, and a future Hall of Fame tight end in Travis Kelce. They also have other elite players like offensive linemen Creed Humphrey and Joe Thuney, defensive lineman Chris Jones, as well as a slew of other talented players who continue to play integral roles in their success. 

The Chiefs will move much further up this list if they can do something that hasn’t been done in nearly 20 years: win back-to-back titles, a feat that has only been accomplished by the Brady-Belichick Patriots since the start of the millennium. 

Five years removed from the New England Patriots’ final Super Bowl win, Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs are one win away from becoming the NFL’s second dynasty since the turn of the century. 

You could argue that the Chiefs are already a dynasty after capturing a fourth AFC title in five years. But when looking at history, three Super Bowl wins appears to be the bar as far as dynasties are concerned. No one, for example, is confusing the late 2000s/early 2010s Giants a dynasty. You could say the same thing about the 2000s Steelers, who won two Super Bowls and played in a third over a six-year span. 

They may not be a dynasty yet, but the Chiefs’ recent run is still among the greatest of the Super Bowl era. You can see below where they current sit in history, but first, here was the criteria used when putting this list together. 

• Championships won 
• Sustained run of excellence 
• Players/coaches 
• Enduring legacy

1. New England Patriots (2001-18)

No dynasty can match what the Patriots put together during the first two decades of the millennium. In all, Bill Belichick’s team won six Super Bowls, nine AFC titles, and 17 division titles. The Patriots also completed the only 16-0 regular season in NFL history in 2007. 

The Patriots won three Super Bowls in a four-year span from 2001-04. After a 10-year hiatus (that included two heartbreaking losses to Eli Manning’s Giants), New England won three Super Bowls in a five-year span from 2014-18. The common denominator during the Patriots’ reign was Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady, who took home MVP honors during four of his six Super Bowl wins in New England. Two of Brady’s former teammates, cornerback Ty Law and receiver Randy Moss, have been enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Defensive lineman Richard Seymour, a member of the Patriots first run of championships, is a three-time Hall of Fame finalist. Former Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski will be fitted for a gold jacket five years after his final NFL game. 

Why they’re No. 1: The Patriots’ sustained success is remarkable considering it took place during the NFL’s salary cap era. New England also overcame a slew of worthy competitors that includes Peyton Manning’s Broncos and Colts, as well as Ben Roethlisberger’s Steelers. Patriots detractors can point to the team playing in the underwhelming AFC East along with the fact that they endured Spygate and Deflategate. Controversies aside, no one can argue with the Patriots’ unparalleled success. 

2. Pittsburgh Steelers (1972-79) 

After nearly 40 years of losing, the Steelers soared to uncharted heights during the 1970s. Led by team president Dan Rooney, head coach Chuck Noll, and a talented scouting department that included 2021 Hall of Fame inductee Bill Nunn, the Steelers constructed arguably the most talented roster in pro football history. During Noll’s first four drafts, the Steelers selected five future Hall of Famers and 15 future starters, a list that includes Joe Greene, Terry Bradshaw, Mel Blount, L.C. Greenwood, Dwight White, Ernie Holmes, Gerry Mullins, Larry Brown and Jack Ham. In 1972, the selection of running back Franco Harris spearheaded the Steelers to their first division title and playoff victory, won on Harris’ “Immaculate Reception.” 

Harris lifted Pittsburgh to the playoffs, but it was the Steelers’ 1974 rookie class — a class that featured five future Hall of Famers in Jack Lambert, Lynn Swann, John Stallworth, Mike Webster and Donnie Shell — that put Pittsburgh over the top. From 1974-79, the Steelers posted an 80-22-1 record, won six division titles and became the first team to win four Super Bowls. The Steelers are also the only team to win back-to-back Super Bowls twice and four Super Bowls in a six-year span. Two of Pittsburgh’s Super Bowl wins came against the mighty Dallas Cowboys, the other great team of the 1970s. Along with Art and Dan Rooney, Noll and Nunn, the 1970s Steelers boasted 10 Hall of Fame players and several other players who have received Hall of Fame consideration. 

Why they’re No. 2: The Steelers dominated an era that included Don Shula’s Dolphins, Tom Landry’s Cowboys, and John Madden’s Raiders. The Steelers’ success not only made Pittsburgh a football-crazed city, it helped popularize the NFL nationwide during a time when pro football firmly surpassed baseball as America’s new pastime. Furthermore, while the Patriots have the greatest run of success in NFL history, the 1970s Steelers continue to hold the mantle as the greatest team of all-time, a team that went 4-0 in Super Bowl competition. 

3. Green Bay Packers (1960-67) 

Green Bay had been mired in mediocrity the 14 seasons prior to Vince Lombardi’s arrival. During his nine years as the Packers’ coach, Green Bay tallied a 98-30-4 record that included a 9-1 record in the postseason. From 1960-67, Lombardi’s Packers played for the NFL title six times, with the only loss coming against the Eagles in 1960. After winning back-to-back titles in 1961-62, Green Bay became the second NFL team (the 1929-31 Packers being the first team) to win three consecutive titles, including the first two Super Bowls. No team has since won three consecutive titles. 

There was no NFL play more devastating during the 1960s than the legendary “Packer Sweep,” a play that often saw halfbacks Jim Taylor, Paul Hornung and Elijah Pitts follow the blocking of guards Forrest Gregg and Jerry Kramer. Green Bay also possessed a steady passing attack, led by quarterback Bart Starr. An often overlooked facet of the ’60s Packers was their dominant defense, led by Hall of Famers Willie Davis, Dave Robinson, Ray Nitschke, Herb Adderley and Willie Wood. 

Lombardi’s college connections were one of the reasons why he able to construct one of the greatest teams in pro football history. His willingness to draft Black players in the first round, something that was uncommon at that time, also helped him build a team that would win five titles in a seven-year span while serving as a trailblazer in the process. 

Why they’re No. 3: While they won more titles in one decade than any team in history, the Packers played in the 12-team NFL during their run. They only had to play in one postseason game (the NFL Championship game) during their first two championship runs. Green Bay also didn’t have to deal with the AFL until the first two Super Bowls, where they dispatched the Chiefs and Raiders by a combined score of 68-24. 

4. San Francisco 49ers (1981-94) 

Former 49ers executive Carmen Policy has often referred to San Francisco during the 49ers’ dynasty as Camelot. He wasn’t too far off, as the 49ers enjoyed a magical run that ultimately led to the franchise becoming the first to win five Vince Lombardi Trophies. Led by Bill Walsh’s innovative West Coast offense, the 49ers were tabbed as the team of the ’80s after winning Super Bowls XVI, XIX, and XXIII. In 1989, under first-year head coach George Seifert, the 49ers dismantled the Broncos in Super Bowl XXIV. The ’90 49ers were a field goal away from possibly becoming the first team to win three consecutive Super Bowl titles. San Francisco never won three straight, but they did win their fifth title after Steve Young led the 49ers to a dominant win over the Chargers in Super Bowl XXIX. 

Young followed Joe Montana, who went 4-0 in Super Bowls while becoming the first player to win three Super Bowl MVP awards. Both quarterbacks had substantial success throwing the ball to Jerry Rice, who is regarded as the greatest receiver of all time. The 49ers’ offense also featured halfback Roger Craig, the first player to post 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in the same season. Like the Packers, the 49ers boasted a vastly underrated defense, led by Hall of Fame safety Ronnie Lott, fellow defensive backs Eric Dwight and Dwight Hicks, and linebackers Charles Haley, Jack “Hacksaw” Reynolds and Keena Turner.  

Why they’re No. 4: While Walsh’s innovative offense has left an indelible imprint, the 49ers’ dynasty has not had the same lasting impact as the Packers and Steelers’ dynasties. The 49ers also endured a shocking playoff loss to the Vikings in 1987 (which nearly cost Walsh his job) and two devastating playoff losses to Bill Parcells’ Giants. Seifert’s 49ers then lost back-to-back NFC title games to the Cowboys before breaking through in 1994. 

5. Dallas Cowboys (1991-95) 

In just three years, Jimmy Johnson and Jerry Jones helped turn the Cowboys from a 1-15 outfit to Super Bowl champions. How did they do it? By forcing several popular yet aging veterans into retirement, making a slew of successful draft picks, and putting an emphasis on team speed. Oh yeah, Johnson also pulled off the “Great Train Robbery” when he shipped running back Herschel Walker to the Vikings in a trade that include three future first-round picks and three future second-round picks. Among the players the Cowboys acquired with the picks included Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith, perennial Pro Bowl safety Darren Woodson, Pro Bowl defensive tackle Russell Maryland, and cornerback Kevin Smith. 

Johnson won Coach of the Year after the Cowboys went 7-9 in 1990. After reaching the divisional round of the playoffs in 1991, the 1992 Cowboys won a franchise-record 13 regular-season games on the strength of the league’s top-rated scoring defense and the play of Smith, quarterback Troy Aikman and receiver Michael Irvin. The Cowboys then dispatched the mighty 49ers in the NFC title game before defeating the Bills by 35 points in Super Bowl XXVII. Dallas successfully defended its championship in 1993 before Johnson left the Cowboys less than two months after winning back-to-back titles. With Barry Switzer as head coach, Dallas became the first team to win three Super Bowls in a four-year span after defeating the Steelers in Super Bowl XXX. 

Why they’re No. 5: At the height of their powers, the 1990s Cowboys are right up there with the best teams in league history. The defense was dominant and the Cowboys’ offense (which also included the “Great Wall of Dallas” offensive line) was one of the most complete units of all time. But Johnson’s departure led to a premature ending to one of the NFL’s great dynasties; the Cowboys were a 6-10 team two years after winning Super Bowl XXX, and would not win another playoff game until 2009. 

6. Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders: 1967-85

No NFL team enjoyed more consistent success than the Raiders during this span. During this 18-year run, the Raiders won 11 division titles, earned 15 playoff berths, captured one AFL title and three Super Bowls. Under owner Al Davis, the Raiders earned their still-standing reputation as the NFL’s bad boys, with tough guy players that included Ken Stabler, George Blanda, Jack “The Assassin” Tatum, George Atkinson, Skip “Dr. Death” Thomas, Ted Hendricks, Phil Villapiano, Matt Millen, John Matuszak, and Howie Long. 

The Raiders’ roster also included receivers Fred Biletnikoff and Cliff Branch, tight end Dave Casper, and offensive lineman Jim Otto, Art Shell and Gene Upshaw. The ’76 Raiders captured the franchise’s first Super Bowl after going 13-1 during the regular season. They then dismantled the defending two-time champion Steelers in the AFC title game before routing the Vikings in Super Bowl XI. Four years later, coach Tom Flores and quarterback Jim Plunkett helped the Raiders become the first franchise to win the Super Bowl as a wild-card team. The ’83 Raiders, on the strength of running back Marcus Allen and cornerbacks Lester Hayes and Mike Haynes, held Washington’s record-setting offense to just one touchdown in the Raiders’ 38-8 win in Super Bowl XVIII. 

Why they’re No. 6: The Raiders spent the first half of their run playing second-fiddle to some of the era’s other great teams. After losing Super Bowl II, the Raiders fell short in six conference title games from 1968-75. Two of those losses came at the hands of the Steelers, who also defeated the Raiders on the strength of Franco Harris’ “Immaculate Reception.” 

7. Dallas Cowboys (1970-79) 

We could have included the late ’60s and early ’80s, but the true impact of that era of Cowboys’ football took place in the ’70s. During that span, the Cowboys played in five Super Bowls, winning two and losing three others by a combined total of 11 points. Led by Tom Landry and Roger Staubach, the Cowboys’ popularity soared to such heights that they were eventually crowned as “America’s Team.” 

After falling short short of a title in 1970, the ’71 Cowboys — a loaded roster that included Staubach, Bob Lilly, Bob Hayes, Lance Alworth, Duane Thomas, Walt Garrison, Rayfield Wright, Mike Ditka, Chuck Howley, Herb Adderley, Mel Renfro and Cliff Harris — won the franchise’s first title after dismantling the Dolphins (the same team that went undefeated the following season) in Super Bowl VI. The Cowboys seamlessly transitioned during the decade, drafting future stars that included Drew Pearson, Randy White, Harvey Martin, Tony Dorsett, Thomas “Hollywood” Henderson and Ed “Too Tall” Jones. In  1977 Cowboys’ “Doomsday” defense outplayed the Broncos’ “Orange Crush” defense in Super Bowl XII, 27-10. In the win, Martin and White became the first — and only — Super Bowl co-MVPs. 

Why they’re No. 7: The ’70s Cowboys certainly classify as a dynasty, but their 2-3 record in Super Bowls is underwhelming. Two of those losses came at the hands of the Steelers, with the second Super Bowl matchup (Super Bowl XIII) ultimately giving Pittsburgh the title as the “Team of the ’70s.” 

8. Washington (1982-91) 

Washington had won just two playoff games in the previous 37 years before hiring Joe Gibbs in 1981. Over the next 10 years, Gibbs’ Washington team won 17 playoff games, four conference titles and the franchise’s three Super Bowls. Making Washington’s success during this span even more impressive is the fact that the Football Team played in the ultra competitive NFC, a conference that also included Bill Walsh’s 49ers, Mike Ditka’s Bears, and Bill Parcells’ Giants. 

Gibbs won each of his Super Bowls with a different quarterback. Joe Theismann, John Riggins and the “Hogs” offensive line led Washington to its first title in 1982. While they were dethroned by the Raiders in the following year’s Super Bowl, Washington returned to prominence in 1987 on the strength of quarterback Doug Williams’ MVP performance in Super Bowl XXII. In Super Bowl XXVI, the MVP performance of quarterback Mark Rypien led Washington to a 37-24 win over Buffalo. 

Each quarterback enjoyed talented receiving corps, led by Art Monk, Gary Clark, Charlie Brown, and Ricky Sanders. Gibbs’ teams also featured stingy defensive units that featured Darrell Green, Dexter Manley, Charles Mann, and Wilber Marshall. 

Why they’re No. 8: Washington would have possibly placed higher if not for Super Bowl XVIII. Arguably their best team during the ’80s, Washington’s ’83 team ripped through the NFL during the regular season while setting a then-NFL record for points scored. But not only did they fail to successfully defend their title, Washington was whitewashed by the Raiders in the Super Bowl, 38-9.     

9. Miami Dolphins (1970-74) 

Miami went 15-39-2 during its first four years of existence. During Don Shula’s first five years in Miami, the Dolphins went 62-15-1. The first team to play in three consecutive Super Bowls, the Dolphins also completed the NFL’s only perfect season, going an unblemished 17-0 in 1972. During a two-year span, Miami went 32-2 en route to winning back-to-back Super Bowls. 

Shula’s Dolphins were powered by their “No Name” defense, led by Nick Buoniconti, Manny Fernandez, Jake Scott, Dick Anderson and Bill Stanfill. The Dolphins also possessed a powerful rushing attack that featured Larry Csonka, Mercury Morris and Jim Kiick. When they did throw the ball, quarterback Bob Griese had great success getting the ball to receiver Paul Warfield, a member of the NFL 100 All-Time Team. Miami’s offensive line was powered by Hall of Fame guard Larry Little, center Jim Langer and guard Bob Kuechenberg. The line paved the way for Csonka and Morris to become the first pair of teammates to both run for over 1,000 yards in the same season. 

Why they’re No. 9: Like the ’70s Cowboys, the Dolphins’ lack of longevity hurt them on this all-time list. The short-lived World Football League — which whisked away Csonka, Kiick and Warfield in 1975 for a cool $3 million — largely contributed to the Dolphins’ run ending following a gut-wrenching loss to the Raiders in the ’74 playoffs. 

10. Chiefs (2018-present)

Andy Reid’s team earned a seat at this exclusive table after winning last year’s Super Bowl. They made the list ahead of the 2000s Steelers, late ’90s Broncos and Bill Parcells’ Giants of the late ’80s and early ’90s. Each of those teams also won two Super Bowls during their respective eras. 

The Chiefs’ recent run of success is even more impressive considering that it is happening during the Super Bowl era. Kansas City joined the Patriots as the only teams this century to play in four Super Bowls over a five-year span. It did so after winning the first two road playoff games of Mahomes’ career. 

Why they’re No. 10: Kansas City has one of the game’s all-time great coaches in Reid, the best quarterback in today’s NFL in Mahomes, and a future Hall of Fame tight end in Travis Kelce. They also have other elite players like offensive linemen Creed Humphrey and Joe Thuney, defensive lineman Chris Jones, as well as a slew of other talented players who continue to play integral roles in their success. 

The Chiefs will move much further up this list if they can do something that hasn’t been done in nearly 20 years: win back-to-back titles, a feat that has only been accomplished by the Brady-Belichick Patriots since the start of the millennium. 

With their win in Super Bowl LVIII, Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs have officially become NFL’s second dynasty since the turn of the century, five years removed from the New England Patriots’ final Super Bowl win.

If you weren’t sure before, there’s no denying the Chiefs’ place in history now. While several teams have won two Super Bowls, very few have managed to win three Super Bowls. The Chiefs have now joined the exclusive fraternity, a fraternity that includes some of the greatest teams of all time. 

You can see below where the Chiefs currently sit in history following their 25-22 win, but first, here was the criteria used when putting this list together. 

• Championships won 
• Sustained run of excellence 
• Players/coaches 
• Enduring legacy

1. New England Patriots (2001-18)

No dynasty can match what the Patriots put together during the first two decades of the millennium. In all, Bill Belichick’s team won six Super Bowls, nine AFC titles, and 17 division titles. The Patriots also completed the only 16-0 regular season in NFL history in 2007. 

The Patriots won three Super Bowls in a four-year span from 2001-04. After a 10-year hiatus (that included two heartbreaking losses to Eli Manning’s Giants), New England won three Super Bowls in a five-year span from 2014-18. The common denominator during the Patriots’ reign was Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady, who took home MVP honors during four of his six Super Bowl wins in New England. Three of Brady’s former teammates, defensive lineman Richard Seymour, cornerback Ty Law and receiver Randy Moss, have been enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Former Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski will be fitted for a gold jacket sometime in the very near future. 

Why they’re No. 1: The Patriots’ sustained success is remarkable considering it took place during the NFL’s salary cap era. New England also overcame a slew of worthy competitors that includes Peyton Manning’s Broncos and Colts, as well as Ben Roethlisberger’s Steelers. Patriots detractors can point to the team playing in the underwhelming AFC East along with the fact that they endured Spygate and Deflategate. Controversies aside, no one can argue with the Patriots’ unparalleled success. 

2. Pittsburgh Steelers (1972-79) 

After nearly 40 years of losing, the Steelers soared to uncharted heights during the 1970s. Led by team president Dan Rooney, head coach Chuck Noll, and a talented scouting department that included 2021 Hall of Fame inductee Bill Nunn, the Steelers constructed arguably the most talented roster in pro football history. During Noll’s first four drafts, the Steelers selected five future Hall of Famers and 15 future starters, a list that includes Joe Greene, Terry Bradshaw, Mel Blount, L.C. Greenwood, Dwight White, Ernie Holmes, Gerry Mullins, Larry Brown and Jack Ham. In 1972, the selection of running back Franco Harris spearheaded the Steelers to their first division title and playoff victory, won on Harris’ “Immaculate Reception.” 

Harris lifted Pittsburgh to the playoffs, but it was the Steelers’ 1974 rookie class — a class that featured five future Hall of Famers in Jack Lambert, Lynn Swann, John Stallworth, Mike Webster and Donnie Shell — that put Pittsburgh over the top. From 1974-79, the Steelers posted an 80-22-1 record, won six division titles and became the first team to win four Super Bowls. The Steelers are also the only team to win back-to-back Super Bowls twice and four Super Bowls in a six-year span. Two of Pittsburgh’s Super Bowl wins came against the mighty Dallas Cowboys, the other great team of the 1970s. Along with Art and Dan Rooney, Noll and Nunn, the 1970s Steelers boasted 10 Hall of Fame players and several other players who have received Hall of Fame consideration. 

Why they’re No. 2: The Steelers dominated an era that included Don Shula’s Dolphins, Tom Landry’s Cowboys, and John Madden’s Raiders. The Steelers’ success not only made Pittsburgh a football-crazed city, it helped popularize the NFL nationwide during a time when pro football firmly surpassed baseball as America’s new pastime. Furthermore, while the Patriots have the greatest run of success in NFL history, the 1970s Steelers continue to hold the mantle as the greatest team of all-time, a team that went 4-0 in Super Bowl competition. 

3. Green Bay Packers (1960-67) 

Green Bay had been mired in mediocrity the 14 seasons prior to Vince Lombardi’s arrival. During his nine years as the Packers’ coach, Green Bay tallied a 98-30-4 record that included a 9-1 record in the postseason. From 1960-67, Lombardi’s Packers played for the NFL title six times, with the only loss coming against the Eagles in 1960. After winning back-to-back titles in 1961-62, Green Bay became the second NFL team (the 1929-31 Packers being the first team) to win three consecutive titles, including the first two Super Bowls. No team has since won three consecutive titles. 

There was no NFL play more devastating during the 1960s than the legendary “Packer Sweep,” a play that often saw halfbacks Jim Taylor, Paul Hornung and Elijah Pitts follow the blocking of guards Forrest Gregg and Jerry Kramer. Green Bay also possessed a steady passing attack, led by quarterback Bart Starr. An often overlooked facet of the ’60s Packers was their dominant defense, led by Hall of Famers Willie Davis, Dave Robinson, Ray Nitschke, Herb Adderley and Willie Wood. 

Lombardi’s college connections were one of the reasons why he able to construct one of the greatest teams in pro football history. His willingness to draft Black players in the first round, something that was uncommon at that time, also helped him build a team that would win five titles in a seven-year span while serving as a trailblazer in the process. 

Why they’re No. 3: While they won more titles in one decade than any team in history, the Packers played in the 12-team NFL during their run. They only had to play in one postseason game (the NFL Championship game) during their first two championship runs. Green Bay also didn’t have to deal with the AFL until the first two Super Bowls, where they dispatched the Chiefs and Raiders by a combined score of 68-24. 

4. San Francisco 49ers (1981-94) 

Former 49ers executive Carmen Policy has often referred to San Francisco during the 49ers’ dynasty as Camelot. He wasn’t too far off, as the 49ers enjoyed a magical run that ultimately led to the franchise becoming the first to win five Vince Lombardi Trophies. Led by Bill Walsh’s innovative West Coast offense, the 49ers were tabbed as the team of the ’80s after winning Super Bowls XVI, XIX, and XXIII. In 1989, under first-year head coach George Seifert, the 49ers dismantled the Broncos in Super Bowl XXIV. The ’90 49ers were a field goal away from possibly becoming the first team to win three consecutive Super Bowl titles. San Francisco never won three straight, but they did win their fifth title after Steve Young led the 49ers to a dominant win over the Chargers in Super Bowl XXIX. 

Young followed Joe Montana, who went 4-0 in Super Bowls while becoming the first player to win three Super Bowl MVP awards. Both quarterbacks had substantial success throwing the ball to Jerry Rice, who is regarded as the greatest receiver of all time. The 49ers’ offense also featured halfback Roger Craig, the first player to post 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in the same season. Like the Packers, the 49ers boasted a vastly underrated defense, led by Hall of Fame safety Ronnie Lott, fellow defensive backs Eric Dwight and Dwight Hicks, and linebackers Charles Haley, Jack “Hacksaw” Reynolds and Keena Turner.  

Why they’re No. 4: While Walsh’s innovative offense has left an indelible imprint, the 49ers’ dynasty has not had the same lasting impact as the Packers and Steelers’ dynasties. The 49ers also endured a shocking playoff loss to the Vikings in 1987 (which nearly cost Walsh his job) and two devastating playoff losses to Bill Parcells’ Giants. Seifert’s 49ers then lost back-to-back NFC title games to the Cowboys before breaking through in 1994. 

5. Kansas City Chiefs (2019-present)

Andy Reid’s team earned a seat at this exclusive table after winning Super Bowl LVIII. They joined the ’70s Steelers, ’90s Cowboys, ’00s and ’10s Patriots as the only teams to win three Super Bowls over a five-year span. 

The Chiefs’ recent run of success is even more impressive considering that it is happening during the Super Bowl era. Kansas City joined the Patriots as the only teams this century to play in four Super Bowls over a five-year span. It did so after winning the first two road playoff games of Mahomes’ career. In Super Bowl LVIII, they overcame a 10-point deficit against a talented 49ers team before winning the second overtime in history. 

Why they’re No. 5: Kansas City has one of the game’s all-time great coaches in Reid, the best quarterback in today’s NFL in Mahomes, and a future Hall of Fame tight end in Travis Kelce. They also have other elite players like offensive linemen Creed Humphrey and Joe Thuney, defensive lineman Chris Jones, as well as a slew of other talented players who continue to play integral roles in their success. 

6. Dallas Cowboys (1991-95) 

In just three years, Jimmy Johnson and Jerry Jones helped turn the Cowboys from a 1-15 outfit to Super Bowl champions. How did they do it? By forcing several popular yet aging veterans into retirement, making a slew of successful draft picks, and putting an emphasis on team speed. Oh yeah, Johnson also pulled off the “Great Train Robbery” when he shipped running back Herschel Walker to the Vikings in a trade that include three future first-round picks and three future second-round picks. Among the players the Cowboys acquired with the picks included Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith, perennial Pro Bowl safety Darren Woodson, Pro Bowl defensive tackle Russell Maryland, and cornerback Kevin Smith. 

Johnson won Coach of the Year after the Cowboys went 7-9 in 1990. After reaching the divisional round of the playoffs in 1991, the 1992 Cowboys won a franchise-record 13 regular-season games on the strength of the league’s top-rated scoring defense and the play of Smith, quarterback Troy Aikman and receiver Michael Irvin. The Cowboys then dispatched the mighty 49ers in the NFC title game before defeating the Bills by 35 points in Super Bowl XXVII. Dallas successfully defended its championship in 1993 before Johnson left the Cowboys less than two months after winning back-to-back titles. With Barry Switzer as head coach, Dallas became the first team to win three Super Bowls in a four-year span after defeating the Steelers in Super Bowl XXX. 

Why they’re No. 6: At the height of their powers, the 1990s Cowboys are right up there with the best teams in league history. The defense was dominant and the Cowboys’ offense (which also included the “Great Wall of Dallas” offensive line) was one of the most complete units of all time. But Johnson’s departure led to a premature ending to one of the NFL’s great dynasties; the Cowboys were a 6-10 team two years after winning Super Bowl XXX, and would not win another playoff game until 2009. 

7. Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders: 1967-85

No NFL team enjoyed more consistent success than the Raiders during this span. During this 18-year run, the Raiders won 11 division titles, earned 15 playoff berths, captured one AFL title and three Super Bowls. Under owner Al Davis, the Raiders earned their still-standing reputation as the NFL’s bad boys, with tough guy players that included Ken Stabler, George Blanda, Jack “The Assassin” Tatum, George Atkinson, Skip “Dr. Death” Thomas, Ted Hendricks, Phil Villapiano, Matt Millen, John Matuszak, and Howie Long. 

The Raiders’ roster also included receivers Fred Biletnikoff and Cliff Branch, tight end Dave Casper, and offensive lineman Jim Otto, Art Shell and Gene Upshaw. The ’76 Raiders captured the franchise’s first Super Bowl after going 13-1 during the regular season. They then dismantled the defending two-time champion Steelers in the AFC title game before routing the Vikings in Super Bowl XI. Four years later, coach Tom Flores and quarterback Jim Plunkett helped the Raiders become the first franchise to win the Super Bowl as a wild-card team. The ’83 Raiders, on the strength of running back Marcus Allen and cornerbacks Lester Hayes and Mike Haynes, held Washington’s record-setting offense to just one touchdown in the Raiders’ 38-8 win in Super Bowl XVIII. 

Why they’re No. 7: The Raiders spent the first half of their run playing second-fiddle to some of the era’s other great teams. After losing Super Bowl II, the Raiders fell short in six conference title games from 1968-75. Two of those losses came at the hands of the Steelers, who also defeated the Raiders on the strength of Franco Harris’ “Immaculate Reception.” 

8. Dallas Cowboys (1970-79) 

We could have included the late ’60s and early ’80s, but the true impact of that era of Cowboys’ football took place in the ’70s. During that span, the Cowboys played in five Super Bowls, winning two and losing three others by a combined total of 11 points. Led by Tom Landry and Roger Staubach, the Cowboys’ popularity soared to such heights that they were eventually crowned as “America’s Team.” 

After falling short short of a title in 1970, the ’71 Cowboys — a loaded roster that included Staubach, Bob Lilly, Bob Hayes, Lance Alworth, Duane Thomas, Walt Garrison, Rayfield Wright, Mike Ditka, Chuck Howley, Herb Adderley, Mel Renfro and Cliff Harris — won the franchise’s first title after dismantling the Dolphins (the same team that went undefeated the following season) in Super Bowl VI. The Cowboys seamlessly transitioned during the decade, drafting future stars that included Drew Pearson, Randy White, Harvey Martin, Tony Dorsett, Thomas “Hollywood” Henderson and Ed “Too Tall” Jones. In  1977 Cowboys’ “Doomsday” defense outplayed the Broncos’ “Orange Crush” defense in Super Bowl XII, 27-10. In the win, Martin and White became the first — and only — Super Bowl co-MVPs. 

Why they’re No. 8: The ’70s Cowboys certainly classify as a dynasty, but their 2-3 record in Super Bowls is underwhelming. Two of those losses came at the hands of the Steelers, with the second Super Bowl matchup (Super Bowl XIII) ultimately giving Pittsburgh the title as the “Team of the ’70s.” 

9. Washington (1982-91) 

Washington had won just two playoff games in the previous 37 years before hiring Joe Gibbs in 1981. Over the next 10 years, Gibbs’ Washington team won 17 playoff games, four conference titles and the franchise’s three Super Bowls. Making Washington’s success during this span even more impressive is the fact that the Football Team played in the ultra competitive NFC, a conference that also included Bill Walsh’s 49ers, Mike Ditka’s Bears, and Bill Parcells’ Giants. 

Gibbs won each of his Super Bowls with a different quarterback. Joe Theismann, John Riggins and the “Hogs” offensive line led Washington to its first title in 1982. While they were dethroned by the Raiders in the following year’s Super Bowl, Washington returned to prominence in 1987 on the strength of quarterback Doug Williams’ MVP performance in Super Bowl XXII. In Super Bowl XXVI, the MVP performance of quarterback Mark Rypien led Washington to a 37-24 win over Buffalo. 

Each quarterback enjoyed talented receiving corps, led by Art Monk, Gary Clark, Charlie Brown, and Ricky Sanders. Gibbs’ teams also featured stingy defensive units that featured Darrell Green, Dexter Manley, Charles Mann, and Wilber Marshall. 

Why they’re No. 9: Washington would have possibly placed higher if not for Super Bowl XVIII. Arguably their best team during the ’80s, Washington’s ’83 team ripped through the NFL during the regular season while setting a then-NFL record for points scored. But not only did they fail to successfully defend their title, Washington was whitewashed by the Raiders in the Super Bowl, 38-9.     

10. Miami Dolphins (1970-74) 

Miami went 15-39-2 during its first four years of existence. During Don Shula’s first five years in Miami, the Dolphins went 62-15-1. The first team to play in three consecutive Super Bowls, the Dolphins also completed the NFL’s only perfect season, going an unblemished 17-0 in 1972. During a two-year span, Miami went 32-2 en route to winning back-to-back Super Bowls. 

Shula’s Dolphins were powered by their “No Name” defense, led by Nick Buoniconti, Manny Fernandez, Jake Scott, Dick Anderson and Bill Stanfill. The Dolphins also possessed a powerful rushing attack that featured Larry Csonka, Mercury Morris and Jim Kiick. When they did throw the ball, quarterback Bob Griese had great success getting the ball to receiver Paul Warfield, a member of the NFL 100 All-Time Team. Miami’s offensive line was powered by Hall of Fame guard Larry Little, center Jim Langer and guard Bob Kuechenberg. The line paved the way for Csonka and Morris to become the first pair of teammates to both run for over 1,000 yards in the same season. 

Why they’re No. 10: Like the ’70s Cowboys, the Dolphins’ lack of longevity hurt them on this all-time list. The short-lived World Football League — which whisked away Csonka, Kiick and Warfield in 1975 for a cool $3 million — largely contributed to the Dolphins’ run ending following a gut-wrenching loss to the Raiders in the ’74 playoffs. 

Five years removed from the Patriots’ final Super Bowl win, Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs are one win away from becoming the NFL’s second dynasty since the turn of the century. 

You could argue that the Chiefs are already a dynasty after capturing a fourth AFC title in five years. But when looking at history, three Super Bowl wins appears to be the bar as far as dynasties are concerned. No one, for example, is confusing the late 2000s/early 2010s Giants a dynasty. You could say the same thing about the 2000s Steelers, who won two Super Bowls and played in a third over a six-year span. 

They may not be a dynasty yet, but the Chiefs’ recent run is still among the greatest of the Super Bowl era. You can see below where they current sit in history, but first, here was the criteria used when putting this list together. 

• Championships won 
• Sustained run of excellence 
• Players/coaches 
• Enduring legacy

1. New England Patriots (2001-18)

No dynasty can match what the Patriots put together during the first two decades of the millennium. In all, Bill Belichick’s team won six Super Bowls, nine AFC titles, and 17 division titles. The Patriots also completed the only 16-0 regular season in NFL history in 2007. 

The Patriots won three Super Bowls in a four-year span from 2001-04. After a 10-year hiatus (that included two heartbreaking losses to Eli Manning’s Giants), New England won three Super Bowls in a five-year span from 2014-18. The common denominator during the Patriots’ reign was Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady, who took home MVP honors during four of his six Super Bowl wins in New England. Two of Brady’s former teammates, cornerback Ty Law and receiver Randy Moss, have been enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Defensive lineman Richard Seymour, a member of the Patriots first run of championships, is a three-time Hall of Fame finalist. Former Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski will be fitted for a gold jacket five years after his final NFL game. 

Why they’re No. 1: The Patriots’ sustained success is remarkable considering it took place during the NFL’s salary cap era. New England also overcame a slew of worthy competitors that includes Peyton Manning’s Broncos and Colts, as well as Ben Roethlisberger’s Steelers. Patriots detractors can point to the team playing in the underwhelming AFC East along with the fact that they endured Spygate and Deflategate. Controversies aside, no one can argue with the Patriots’ unparalleled success. 

2. Pittsburgh Steelers (1972-79) 

After nearly 40 years of losing, the Steelers soared to uncharted heights during the 1970s. Led by team president Dan Rooney, head coach Chuck Noll, and a talented scouting department that included 2021 Hall of Fame inductee Bill Nunn, the Steelers constructed arguably the most talented roster in pro football history. During Noll’s first four drafts, the Steelers selected five future Hall of Famers and 15 future starters, a list that includes Joe Greene, Terry Bradshaw, Mel Blount, L.C. Greenwood, Dwight White, Ernie Holmes, Gerry Mullins, Larry Brown and Jack Ham. In 1972, the selection of running back Franco Harris spearheaded the Steelers to their first division title and playoff victory, won on Harris’ “Immaculate Reception.” 

Harris lifted Pittsburgh to the playoffs, but it was the Steelers’ 1974 rookie class — a class that featured five future Hall of Famers in Jack Lambert, Lynn Swann, John Stallworth, Mike Webster and Donnie Shell — that put Pittsburgh over the top. From 1974-79, the Steelers posted an 80-22-1 record, won six division titles and became the first team to win four Super Bowls. The Steelers are also the only team to win back-to-back Super Bowls twice and four Super Bowls in a six-year span. Two of Pittsburgh’s Super Bowl wins came against the mighty Dallas Cowboys, the other great team of the 1970s. Along with Art and Dan Rooney, Noll and Nunn, the 1970s Steelers boasted 10 Hall of Fame players and several other players who have received Hall of Fame consideration. 

Why they’re No. 2: The Steelers dominated an era that included Don Shula’s Dolphins, Tom Landry’s Cowboys, and John Madden’s Raiders. The Steelers’ success not only made Pittsburgh a football-crazed city, it helped popularize the NFL nationwide during a time when pro football firmly surpassed baseball as America’s new pastime. Furthermore, while the Patriots have the greatest run of success in NFL history, the 1970s Steelers continue to hold the mantle as the greatest team of all-time, a team that went 4-0 in Super Bowl competition. 

3. Green Bay Packers (1960-67) 

Green Bay had been mired in mediocrity the 14 seasons prior to Vince Lombardi’s arrival. During his nine years as the Packers’ coach, Green Bay tallied a 98-30-4 record that included a 9-1 record in the postseason. From 1960-67, Lombardi’s Packers played for the NFL title six times, with the only loss coming against the Eagles in 1960. After winning back-to-back titles in 1961-62, Green Bay became the second NFL team (the 1929-31 Packers being the first team) to win three consecutive titles, including the first two Super Bowls. No team has since won three consecutive titles. 

There was no NFL play more devastating during the 1960s than the legendary “Packer Sweep,” a play that often saw halfbacks Jim Taylor, Paul Hornung and Elijah Pitts follow the blocking of guards Forrest Gregg and Jerry Kramer. Green Bay also possessed a steady passing attack, led by quarterback Bart Starr. An often overlooked facet of the ’60s Packers was their dominant defense, led by Hall of Famers Willie Davis, Dave Robinson, Ray Nitschke, Herb Adderley and Willie Wood. 

Lombardi’s college connections were one of the reasons why he able to construct one of the greatest teams in pro football history. His willingness to draft Black players in the first round, something that was uncommon at that time, also helped him build a team that would win five titles in a seven-year span while serving as a trailblazer in the process. 

Why they’re No. 3: While they won more titles in one decade than any team in history, the Packers played in the 12-team NFL during their run. They only had to play in one postseason game (the NFL Championship game) during their first two championship runs. Green Bay also didn’t have to deal with the AFL until the first two Super Bowls, where they dispatched the Chiefs and Raiders by a combined score of 68-24. 

4. San Francisco 49ers (1981-94) 

Former 49ers executive Carmen Policy has often referred to San Francisco during the 49ers’ dynasty as Camelot. He wasn’t too far off, as the 49ers enjoyed a magical run that ultimately led to the franchise becoming the first to win five Vince Lombardi Trophies. Led by Bill Walsh’s innovative West Coast offense, the 49ers were tabbed as the team of the ’80s after winning Super Bowls XVI, XIX, and XXIII. In 1989, under first-year head coach George Seifert, the 49ers dismantled the Broncos in Super Bowl XXIV. The ’90 49ers were a field goal away from possibly becoming the first team to win three consecutive Super Bowl titles. San Francisco never won three straight, but they did win their fifth title after Steve Young led the 49ers to a dominant win over the Chargers in Super Bowl XXIX. 

Young followed Joe Montana, who went 4-0 in Super Bowls while becoming the first player to win three Super Bowl MVP awards. Both quarterbacks had substantial success throwing the ball to Jerry Rice, who is regarded as the greatest receiver of all time. The 49ers’ offense also featured halfback Roger Craig, the first player to post 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in the same season. Like the Packers, the 49ers boasted a vastly underrated defense, led by Hall of Fame safety Ronnie Lott, fellow defensive backs Eric Dwight and Dwight Hicks, and linebackers Charles Haley, Jack “Hacksaw” Reynolds and Keena Turner.  

Why they’re No. 4: While Walsh’s innovative offense has left an indelible imprint, the 49ers’ dynasty has not had the same lasting impact as the Packers and Steelers’ dynasties. The 49ers also endured a shocking playoff loss to the Vikings in 1987 (which nearly cost Walsh his job) and two devastating playoff losses to Bill Parcells’ Giants. Seifert’s 49ers then lost back-to-back NFC title games to the Cowboys before breaking through in 1994. 

5. Dallas Cowboys (1991-95) 

In just three years, Jimmy Johnson and Jerry Jones helped turn the Cowboys from a 1-15 outfit to Super Bowl champions. How did they do it? By forcing several popular yet aging veterans into retirement, making a slew of successful draft picks, and putting an emphasis on team speed. Oh yeah, Johnson also pulled off the “Great Train Robbery” when he shipped running back Herschel Walker to the Vikings in a trade that include three future first-round picks and three future second-round picks. Among the players the Cowboys acquired with the picks included Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith, perennial Pro Bowl safety Darren Woodson, Pro Bowl defensive tackle Russell Maryland, and cornerback Kevin Smith. 

Johnson won Coach of the Year after the Cowboys went 7-9 in 1990. After reaching the divisional round of the playoffs in 1991, the 1992 Cowboys won a franchise-record 13 regular-season games on the strength of the league’s top-rated scoring defense and the play of Smith, quarterback Troy Aikman and receiver Michael Irvin. The Cowboys then dispatched the mighty 49ers in the NFC title game before defeating the Bills by 35 points in Super Bowl XXVII. Dallas successfully defended its championship in 1993 before Johnson left the Cowboys less than two months after winning back-to-back titles. With Barry Switzer as head coach, Dallas became the first team to win three Super Bowls in a four-year span after defeating the Steelers in Super Bowl XXX. 

Why they’re No. 5: At the height of their powers, the 1990s Cowboys are right up there with the best teams in league history. The defense was dominant and the Cowboys’ offense (which also included the “Great Wall of Dallas” offensive line) was one of the most complete units of all time. But Johnson’s departure led to a premature ending to one of the NFL’s great dynasties; the Cowboys were a 6-10 team two years after winning Super Bowl XXX, and would not win another playoff game until 2009. 

6. Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders: 1967-85

No NFL team enjoyed more consistent success than the Raiders during this span. During this 17-year run, the Raiders won 11 division titles, earned 15 playoff berths, captured one AFL title and three Super Bowls. Under owner Al Davis, the Raiders earned their still-standing reputation as the NFL’s bad boys, with tough guy players that included Ken Stabler, George Blanda, Jack “The Assassin” Tatum, George Atkinson, Skip “Dr. Death” Thomas, Ted Hendricks, Phil Villapiano, Matt Millen, John Matuszak, and Howie Long. 

The Raiders’ roster also included receivers Fred Biletnikoff and Cliff Branch, tight end Dave Casper, and offensive lineman Jim Otto, Art Shell and Gene Upshaw. The ’76 Raiders captured the franchise’s first Super Bowl after going 13-1 during the regular season. They then dismantled the defending two-time champion Steelers in the AFC title game before routing the Vikings in Super Bowl XI. Four years later, coach Tom Flores and quarterback Jim Plunkett helped the Raiders become the first franchise to win the Super Bowl as a wild-card team. The ’83 Raiders, on the strength of running back Marcus Allen and cornerbacks Lester Hayes and Mike Haynes, held Washington’s record-setting offense to just one touchdown in the Raiders’ 38-8 win in Super Bowl XVIII. 

Why they’re No. 6: The Raiders spent the first half of their run playing second-fiddle to some of the era’s other great teams. After losing Super Bowl II, the Raiders fell short in six conference title games from 1968-75. Two of those losses came at the hands of the Steelers, who also defeated the Raiders on the strength of Franco Harris’ “Immaculate Reception.” 

7. Dallas Cowboys (1970-79) 

We could have included the late ’60s and early ’80s, but the true impact of that era of Cowboys’ football took place in the ’70s. During that span, the Cowboys played in five Super Bowls, winning two and losing three others by a combined total of 11 points. Led by Tom Landry and Roger Staubach, the Cowboys’ popularity soared to such heights that they were eventually crowned as “America’s Team.” 

After falling short short of a title in 1970, the ’71 Cowboys — a loaded roster that included Staubach, Bob Lilly, Bob Hayes, Lance Alworth, Duane Thomas, Walt Garrison, Rayfield Wright, Mike Ditka, Chuck Howley, Herb Adderley, Mel Renfro and Cliff Harris — won the franchise’s first title after dismantling the Dolphins (the same team that went undefeated the following season) in Super Bowl VI. The Cowboys seamlessly transitioned during the decade, drafting future stars that included Drew Pearson, Randy White, Harvey Martin, Tony Dorsett, Thomas “Hollywood” Henderson and Ed “Too Tall” Jones. In  1977 Cowboys’ “Doomsday” defense outplayed the Broncos’ “Orange Crush” defense in Super Bowl XII, 27-10. In the win, Martin and White became the first — and only — Super Bowl co-MVPs. 

Why they’re No. 7: The ’70s Cowboys certainly classify as a dynasty, but their 2-3 record in Super Bowls is underwhelming. Two of those losses came at the hands of the Steelers, with the second Super Bowl matchup (Super Bowl XIII) ultimately giving Pittsburgh the title as the “Team of the ’70s.” 

8. Washington Football Team (1982-91) 

Washington had won just two playoff games in the previous 37 years before hiring Joe Gibbs in 1981. Over the next 10 years, Gibbs’ Washington team won 17 playoff games, four conference titles and the franchise’s three Super Bowls. Making Washington’s success during this span even more impressive is the fact that the Football Team played in the ultra competitive NFC, a conference that also included Bill Walsh’s 49ers, Mike Ditka’s Bears, and Bill Parcells’ Giants. 

Gibbs won each of his Super Bowls with a different quarterback. Joe Theismann, John Riggins and the “Hogs” offensive line led Washington to its first title in 1982. While they were dethroned by the Raiders in the following year’s Super Bowl, Washington returned to prominence in 1987 on the strength of quarterback Doug Williams’ MVP performance in Super Bowl XXII. In Super Bowl XXVI, the MVP performance of quarterback Mark Rypien led Washington to a 37-24 win over Buffalo. 

Each quarterback enjoyed talented receiving corps, led by Art Monk, Gary Clark, Charlie Brown, and Ricky Sanders. Gibbs’ teams also featured stingy defensive units that featured Darrell Green, Dexter Manley, Charles Mann, and Wilber Marshall. 

Why they’re No. 8: Washington would have possibly placed higher if not for Super Bowl XVIII. Arguably their best team during the ’80s, Washington’s ’83 team ripped through the NFL during the regular season while setting a then-NFL record for points scored. But not only did they fail to successfully defend their title, Washington was whitewashed by the Raiders in the Super Bowl, 38-9.     

9. Miami Dolphins (1970-74) 

Miami went 15-39-2 during its first four years of existence. During Don Shula’s first five years in Miami, the Dolphins went 62-15-1. The first team to play in three consecutive Super Bowls, the Dolphins also completed the NFL’s only perfect season, going an unblemished 17-0 in 1972. During a two-year span, Miami went 32-2 en route to winning back-to-back Super Bowls. 

Shula’s Dolphins were powered by their “No Name” defense, led by Nick Buoniconti, Manny Fernandez, Jake Scott, Dick Anderson and Bill Stanfill. The Dolphins also possessed a powerful rushing attack that featured Larry Csonka, Mercury Morris and Jim Kiick. When they did throw the ball, quarterback Bob Griese had great success getting the ball to receiver Paul Warfield, a member of the NFL 100 All-Time Team. Miami’s offensive line was powered by Hall of Fame guard Larry Little, center Jim Langer and guard Bob Kuechenberg. The line paved the way for Csonka and Morris to become the first pair of teammates to both run for over 1,000 yards in the same season. 

Why they’re No. 9: Like the ’70s Cowboys, the Dolphins’ lack of longevity hurt them on this all-time list. The short-lived World Football League — which whisked away Csonka, Kiick and Warfield in 1975 for a cool $3 million — largely contributed to the Dolphins’ run ending following a gut-wrenching loss to the Raiders in the ’74 playoffs. 

10. Chiefs (2018-present)

Andy Reid’s team earned a seat at this exclusive table after winning last year’s Super Bowl. They made the list ahead of the 2000s Steelers, late ’90s Broncos and Bill Parcells’ Giants of the late ’80s and early ’90s. Each of those teams also won two Super Bowls during their respective eras. 

The Chiefs’ recent run of success is even more impressive considering that it is happening during the Super Bowl era. Kansas City joined the Patriots as the only teams this century to play in four Super Bowls over a five-year span. It did so after winning the first two road playoff games of Mahomes’ career. 

Why they’re No. 10: Kansas City has one of the game’s all-time great coaches in Reid, the best quarterback in today’s NFL in Mahomes, and a future Hall of Fame tight end in Travis Kelce. They also have other elite players like offensive linemen Creed Humphrey and Joe Thuney, defensive lineman Chris Jones, as well as a slew of other talented players who continue to play integral roles in their success. 

The Chiefs will move much further up this list if they can do something that hasn’t been done in nearly 20 years: win back-to-back titles, a feat that has only been accomplished by the Brady-Belichick Patriots since the start of the millennium. 

With their win in Super Bowl LVIII, Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs have officially become NFL’s second dynasty since the turn of the century, five years removed from the New England Patriots’ final Super Bowl win.

If you weren’t sure before, there’s no denying the Chiefs’ place in history now. While several teams have won two Super Bowls, very few have managed to win three Super Bowls. The Chiefs have now joined the exclusive fraternity, a fraternity that includes some of the greatest teams of all time. 

You can see below where the Chiefs currently sit in history following their 25-22 win, but first, here was the criteria used when putting this list together. 

• Championships won 
• Sustained run of excellence 
• Players/coaches 
• Enduring legacy

1. New England Patriots (2001-18)

No dynasty can match what the Patriots put together during the first two decades of the millennium. In all, Bill Belichick’s team won six Super Bowls, nine AFC titles, and 17 division titles. The Patriots also completed the only 16-0 regular season in NFL history in 2007. 

The Patriots won three Super Bowls in a four-year span from 2001-04. After a 10-year hiatus (that included two heartbreaking losses to Eli Manning’s Giants), New England won three Super Bowls in a five-year span from 2014-18. The common denominator during the Patriots’ reign was Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady, who took home MVP honors during four of his six Super Bowl wins in New England. Three of Brady’s former teammates, defensive lineman Richard Seymour, cornerback Ty Law and receiver Randy Moss, have been enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Former Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski will be fitted for a gold jacket sometime in the very near future. 

Why they’re No. 1: The Patriots’ sustained success is remarkable considering it took place during the NFL’s salary cap era. New England also overcame a slew of worthy competitors that includes Peyton Manning’s Broncos and Colts, as well as Ben Roethlisberger’s Steelers. Patriots detractors can point to the team playing in the underwhelming AFC East along with the fact that they endured Spygate and Deflategate. Controversies aside, no one can argue with the Patriots’ unparalleled success. 

2. Pittsburgh Steelers (1972-79) 

After nearly 40 years of losing, the Steelers soared to uncharted heights during the 1970s. Led by team president Dan Rooney, head coach Chuck Noll, and a talented scouting department that included 2021 Hall of Fame inductee Bill Nunn, the Steelers constructed arguably the most talented roster in pro football history. During Noll’s first four drafts, the Steelers selected five future Hall of Famers and 15 future starters, a list that includes Joe Greene, Terry Bradshaw, Mel Blount, L.C. Greenwood, Dwight White, Ernie Holmes, Gerry Mullins, Larry Brown and Jack Ham. In 1972, the selection of running back Franco Harris spearheaded the Steelers to their first division title and playoff victory, won on Harris’ “Immaculate Reception.” 

Harris lifted Pittsburgh to the playoffs, but it was the Steelers’ 1974 rookie class — a class that featured five future Hall of Famers in Jack Lambert, Lynn Swann, John Stallworth, Mike Webster and Donnie Shell — that put Pittsburgh over the top. From 1974-79, the Steelers posted an 80-22-1 record, won six division titles and became the first team to win four Super Bowls. The Steelers are also the only team to win back-to-back Super Bowls twice and four Super Bowls in a six-year span. Two of Pittsburgh’s Super Bowl wins came against the mighty Dallas Cowboys, the other great team of the 1970s. Along with Art and Dan Rooney, Noll and Nunn, the 1970s Steelers boasted 10 Hall of Fame players and several other players who have received Hall of Fame consideration. 

Why they’re No. 2: The Steelers dominated an era that included Don Shula’s Dolphins, Tom Landry’s Cowboys, and John Madden’s Raiders. The Steelers’ success not only made Pittsburgh a football-crazed city, it helped popularize the NFL nationwide during a time when pro football firmly surpassed baseball as America’s new pastime. Furthermore, while the Patriots have the greatest run of success in NFL history, the 1970s Steelers continue to hold the mantle as the greatest team of all-time, a team that went 4-0 in Super Bowl competition. 

3. Green Bay Packers (1960-67) 

Green Bay had been mired in mediocrity the 14 seasons prior to Vince Lombardi’s arrival. During his nine years as the Packers’ coach, Green Bay tallied a 98-30-4 record that included a 9-1 record in the postseason. From 1960-67, Lombardi’s Packers played for the NFL title six times, with the only loss coming against the Eagles in 1960. After winning back-to-back titles in 1961-62, Green Bay became the second NFL team (the 1929-31 Packers being the first team) to win three consecutive titles, including the first two Super Bowls. No team has since won three consecutive titles. 

There was no NFL play more devastating during the 1960s than the legendary “Packer Sweep,” a play that often saw halfbacks Jim Taylor, Paul Hornung and Elijah Pitts follow the blocking of guards Forrest Gregg and Jerry Kramer. Green Bay also possessed a steady passing attack, led by quarterback Bart Starr. An often overlooked facet of the ’60s Packers was their dominant defense, led by Hall of Famers Willie Davis, Dave Robinson, Ray Nitschke, Herb Adderley and Willie Wood. 

Lombardi’s college connections were one of the reasons why he able to construct one of the greatest teams in pro football history. His willingness to draft Black players in the first round, something that was uncommon at that time, also helped him build a team that would win five titles in a seven-year span while serving as a trailblazer in the process. 

Why they’re No. 3: While they won more titles in one decade than any team in history, the Packers played in the 12-team NFL during their run. They only had to play in one postseason game (the NFL Championship game) during their first two championship runs. Green Bay also didn’t have to deal with the AFL until the first two Super Bowls, where they dispatched the Chiefs and Raiders by a combined score of 68-24. 

4. San Francisco 49ers (1981-94) 

Former 49ers executive Carmen Policy has often referred to San Francisco during the 49ers’ dynasty as Camelot. He wasn’t too far off, as the 49ers enjoyed a magical run that ultimately led to the franchise becoming the first to win five Vince Lombardi Trophies. Led by Bill Walsh’s innovative West Coast offense, the 49ers were tabbed as the team of the ’80s after winning Super Bowls XVI, XIX, and XXIII. In 1989, under first-year head coach George Seifert, the 49ers dismantled the Broncos in Super Bowl XXIV. The ’90 49ers were a field goal away from possibly becoming the first team to win three consecutive Super Bowl titles. San Francisco never won three straight, but they did win their fifth title after Steve Young led the 49ers to a dominant win over the Chargers in Super Bowl XXIX. 

Young followed Joe Montana, who went 4-0 in Super Bowls while becoming the first player to win three Super Bowl MVP awards. Both quarterbacks had substantial success throwing the ball to Jerry Rice, who is regarded as the greatest receiver of all time. The 49ers’ offense also featured halfback Roger Craig, the first player to post 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in the same season. Like the Packers, the 49ers boasted a vastly underrated defense, led by Hall of Fame safety Ronnie Lott, fellow defensive backs Eric Dwight and Dwight Hicks, and linebackers Charles Haley, Jack “Hacksaw” Reynolds and Keena Turner.  

Why they’re No. 4: While Walsh’s innovative offense has left an indelible imprint, the 49ers’ dynasty has not had the same lasting impact as the Packers and Steelers’ dynasties. The 49ers also endured a shocking playoff loss to the Vikings in 1987 (which nearly cost Walsh his job) and two devastating playoff losses to Bill Parcells’ Giants. Seifert’s 49ers then lost back-to-back NFC title games to the Cowboys before breaking through in 1994. 

5. Kansas City Chiefs (2019-present)

Andy Reid’s team earned a seat at this exclusive table after winning Super Bowl LVIII. They joined the ’70s Steelers, ’90s Cowboys, ’00s and ’10s Patriots as the only teams to win three Super Bowls over a five-year span. 

The Chiefs’ recent run of success is even more impressive considering that it is happening during the Super Bowl era. Kansas City joined the Patriots as the only teams this century to play in four Super Bowls over a five-year span. It did so after winning the first two road playoff games of Mahomes’ career. In Super Bowl LVIII, they overcame a 10-point deficit against a talented 49ers team before winning the second overtime in history. 

Why they’re No. 5: Kansas City has one of the game’s all-time great coaches in Reid, the best quarterback in today’s NFL in Mahomes, and a future Hall of Fame tight end in Travis Kelce. They also have other elite players like offensive linemen Creed Humphrey and Joe Thuney, defensive lineman Chris Jones, as well as a slew of other talented players who continue to play integral roles in their success. 

6. Dallas Cowboys (1991-95) 

In just three years, Jimmy Johnson and Jerry Jones helped turn the Cowboys from a 1-15 outfit to Super Bowl champions. How did they do it? By forcing several popular yet aging veterans into retirement, making a slew of successful draft picks, and putting an emphasis on team speed. Oh yeah, Johnson also pulled off the “Great Train Robbery” when he shipped running back Herschel Walker to the Vikings in a trade that include three future first-round picks and three future second-round picks. Among the players the Cowboys acquired with the picks included Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith, perennial Pro Bowl safety Darren Woodson, Pro Bowl defensive tackle Russell Maryland, and cornerback Kevin Smith. 

Johnson won Coach of the Year after the Cowboys went 7-9 in 1990. After reaching the divisional round of the playoffs in 1991, the 1992 Cowboys won a franchise-record 13 regular-season games on the strength of the league’s top-rated scoring defense and the play of Smith, quarterback Troy Aikman and receiver Michael Irvin. The Cowboys then dispatched the mighty 49ers in the NFC title game before defeating the Bills by 35 points in Super Bowl XXVII. Dallas successfully defended its championship in 1993 before Johnson left the Cowboys less than two months after winning back-to-back titles. With Barry Switzer as head coach, Dallas became the first team to win three Super Bowls in a four-year span after defeating the Steelers in Super Bowl XXX. 

Why they’re No. 6: At the height of their powers, the 1990s Cowboys are right up there with the best teams in league history. The defense was dominant and the Cowboys’ offense (which also included the “Great Wall of Dallas” offensive line) was one of the most complete units of all time. But Johnson’s departure led to a premature ending to one of the NFL’s great dynasties; the Cowboys were a 6-10 team two years after winning Super Bowl XXX, and would not win another playoff game until 2009. 

7. Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders: 1967-85

No NFL team enjoyed more consistent success than the Raiders during this span. During this 18-year run, the Raiders won 11 division titles, earned 15 playoff berths, captured one AFL title and three Super Bowls. Under owner Al Davis, the Raiders earned their still-standing reputation as the NFL’s bad boys, with tough guy players that included Ken Stabler, George Blanda, Jack “The Assassin” Tatum, George Atkinson, Skip “Dr. Death” Thomas, Ted Hendricks, Phil Villapiano, Matt Millen, John Matuszak, and Howie Long. 

The Raiders’ roster also included receivers Fred Biletnikoff and Cliff Branch, tight end Dave Casper, and offensive lineman Jim Otto, Art Shell and Gene Upshaw. The ’76 Raiders captured the franchise’s first Super Bowl after going 13-1 during the regular season. They then dismantled the defending two-time champion Steelers in the AFC title game before routing the Vikings in Super Bowl XI. Four years later, coach Tom Flores and quarterback Jim Plunkett helped the Raiders become the first franchise to win the Super Bowl as a wild-card team. The ’83 Raiders, on the strength of running back Marcus Allen and cornerbacks Lester Hayes and Mike Haynes, held Washington’s record-setting offense to just one touchdown in the Raiders’ 38-8 win in Super Bowl XVIII. 

Why they’re No. 7: The Raiders spent the first half of their run playing second-fiddle to some of the era’s other great teams. After losing Super Bowl II, the Raiders fell short in six conference title games from 1968-75. Two of those losses came at the hands of the Steelers, who also defeated the Raiders on the strength of Franco Harris’ “Immaculate Reception.” 

8. Dallas Cowboys (1970-79) 

We could have included the late ’60s and early ’80s, but the true impact of that era of Cowboys’ football took place in the ’70s. During that span, the Cowboys played in five Super Bowls, winning two and losing three others by a combined total of 11 points. Led by Tom Landry and Roger Staubach, the Cowboys’ popularity soared to such heights that they were eventually crowned as “America’s Team.” 

After falling short short of a title in 1970, the ’71 Cowboys — a loaded roster that included Staubach, Bob Lilly, Bob Hayes, Lance Alworth, Duane Thomas, Walt Garrison, Rayfield Wright, Mike Ditka, Chuck Howley, Herb Adderley, Mel Renfro and Cliff Harris — won the franchise’s first title after dismantling the Dolphins (the same team that went undefeated the following season) in Super Bowl VI. The Cowboys seamlessly transitioned during the decade, drafting future stars that included Drew Pearson, Randy White, Harvey Martin, Tony Dorsett, Thomas “Hollywood” Henderson and Ed “Too Tall” Jones. In  1977 Cowboys’ “Doomsday” defense outplayed the Broncos’ “Orange Crush” defense in Super Bowl XII, 27-10. In the win, Martin and White became the first — and only — Super Bowl co-MVPs. 

Why they’re No. 8: The ’70s Cowboys certainly classify as a dynasty, but their 2-3 record in Super Bowls is underwhelming. Two of those losses came at the hands of the Steelers, with the second Super Bowl matchup (Super Bowl XIII) ultimately giving Pittsburgh the title as the “Team of the ’70s.” 

9. Washington (1982-91) 

Washington had won just two playoff games in the previous 37 years before hiring Joe Gibbs in 1981. Over the next 10 years, Gibbs’ Washington team won 17 playoff games, four conference titles and the franchise’s three Super Bowls. Making Washington’s success during this span even more impressive is the fact that the Football Team played in the ultra competitive NFC, a conference that also included Bill Walsh’s 49ers, Mike Ditka’s Bears, and Bill Parcells’ Giants. 

Gibbs won each of his Super Bowls with a different quarterback. Joe Theismann, John Riggins and the “Hogs” offensive line led Washington to its first title in 1982. While they were dethroned by the Raiders in the following year’s Super Bowl, Washington returned to prominence in 1987 on the strength of quarterback Doug Williams’ MVP performance in Super Bowl XXII. In Super Bowl XXVI, the MVP performance of quarterback Mark Rypien led Washington to a 37-24 win over Buffalo. 

Each quarterback enjoyed talented receiving corps, led by Art Monk, Gary Clark, Charlie Brown, and Ricky Sanders. Gibbs’ teams also featured stingy defensive units that featured Darrell Green, Dexter Manley, Charles Mann, and Wilber Marshall. 

Why they’re No. 9: Washington would have possibly placed higher if not for Super Bowl XVIII. Arguably their best team during the ’80s, Washington’s ’83 team ripped through the NFL during the regular season while setting a then-NFL record for points scored. But not only did they fail to successfully defend their title, Washington was whitewashed by the Raiders in the Super Bowl, 38-9.     

10. Miami Dolphins (1970-74) 

Miami went 15-39-2 during its first four years of existence. During Don Shula’s first five years in Miami, the Dolphins went 62-15-1. The first team to play in three consecutive Super Bowls, the Dolphins also completed the NFL’s only perfect season, going an unblemished 17-0 in 1972. During a two-year span, Miami went 32-2 en route to winning back-to-back Super Bowls. 

Shula’s Dolphins were powered by their “No Name” defense, led by Nick Buoniconti, Manny Fernandez, Jake Scott, Dick Anderson and Bill Stanfill. The Dolphins also possessed a powerful rushing attack that featured Larry Csonka, Mercury Morris and Jim Kiick. When they did throw the ball, quarterback Bob Griese had great success getting the ball to receiver Paul Warfield, a member of the NFL 100 All-Time Team. Miami’s offensive line was powered by Hall of Fame guard Larry Little, center Jim Langer and guard Bob Kuechenberg. The line paved the way for Csonka and Morris to become the first pair of teammates to both run for over 1,000 yards in the same season. 

Why they’re No. 10: Like the ’70s Cowboys, the Dolphins’ lack of longevity hurt them on this all-time list. The short-lived World Football League — which whisked away Csonka, Kiick and Warfield in 1975 for a cool $3 million — largely contributed to the Dolphins’ run ending following a gut-wrenching loss to the Raiders in the ’74 playoffs. 

Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs are one win away from becoming the NFL’s second dynasty since the turn of the century, five years removed from the New England Patriots’ final Super Bowl win.

You could argue that the Chiefs are already a dynasty after capturing a fourth AFC title in five years. But when looking at history, three Super Bowl wins appears to be the bar as far as dynasties are concerned. No one, for example, is confusing the late 2000s/early 2010s Giants a dynasty. You could say the same thing about the 2000s Steelers, who won two Super Bowls and played in a third over a six-year span. 

They may not be a dynasty yet, but the Chiefs’ recent run is still among the greatest of the Super Bowl era. You can see below where they current sit in history, but first, here was the criteria used when putting this list together. 

• Championships won 
• Sustained run of excellence 
• Players/coaches 
• Enduring legacy

1. New England Patriots (2001-18)

No dynasty can match what the Patriots put together during the first two decades of the millennium. In all, Bill Belichick’s team won six Super Bowls, nine AFC titles, and 17 division titles. The Patriots also completed the only 16-0 regular season in NFL history in 2007. 

The Patriots won three Super Bowls in a four-year span from 2001-04. After a 10-year hiatus (that included two heartbreaking losses to Eli Manning’s Giants), New England won three Super Bowls in a five-year span from 2014-18. The common denominator during the Patriots’ reign was Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady, who took home MVP honors during four of his six Super Bowl wins in New England. Two of Brady’s former teammates, cornerback Ty Law and receiver Randy Moss, have been enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Defensive lineman Richard Seymour, a member of the Patriots first run of championships, is a three-time Hall of Fame finalist. Former Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski will be fitted for a gold jacket five years after his final NFL game. 

Why they’re No. 1: The Patriots’ sustained success is remarkable considering it took place during the NFL’s salary cap era. New England also overcame a slew of worthy competitors that includes Peyton Manning’s Broncos and Colts, as well as Ben Roethlisberger’s Steelers. Patriots detractors can point to the team playing in the underwhelming AFC East along with the fact that they endured Spygate and Deflategate. Controversies aside, no one can argue with the Patriots’ unparalleled success. 

2. Pittsburgh Steelers (1972-79) 

After nearly 40 years of losing, the Steelers soared to uncharted heights during the 1970s. Led by team president Dan Rooney, head coach Chuck Noll, and a talented scouting department that included 2021 Hall of Fame inductee Bill Nunn, the Steelers constructed arguably the most talented roster in pro football history. During Noll’s first four drafts, the Steelers selected five future Hall of Famers and 15 future starters, a list that includes Joe Greene, Terry Bradshaw, Mel Blount, L.C. Greenwood, Dwight White, Ernie Holmes, Gerry Mullins, Larry Brown and Jack Ham. In 1972, the selection of running back Franco Harris spearheaded the Steelers to their first division title and playoff victory, won on Harris’ “Immaculate Reception.” 

Harris lifted Pittsburgh to the playoffs, but it was the Steelers’ 1974 rookie class — a class that featured five future Hall of Famers in Jack Lambert, Lynn Swann, John Stallworth, Mike Webster and Donnie Shell — that put Pittsburgh over the top. From 1974-79, the Steelers posted an 80-22-1 record, won six division titles and became the first team to win four Super Bowls. The Steelers are also the only team to win back-to-back Super Bowls twice and four Super Bowls in a six-year span. Two of Pittsburgh’s Super Bowl wins came against the mighty Dallas Cowboys, the other great team of the 1970s. Along with Art and Dan Rooney, Noll and Nunn, the 1970s Steelers boasted 10 Hall of Fame players and several other players who have received Hall of Fame consideration. 

Why they’re No. 2: The Steelers dominated an era that included Don Shula’s Dolphins, Tom Landry’s Cowboys, and John Madden’s Raiders. The Steelers’ success not only made Pittsburgh a football-crazed city, it helped popularize the NFL nationwide during a time when pro football firmly surpassed baseball as America’s new pastime. Furthermore, while the Patriots have the greatest run of success in NFL history, the 1970s Steelers continue to hold the mantle as the greatest team of all-time, a team that went 4-0 in Super Bowl competition. 

3. Green Bay Packers (1960-67) 

Green Bay had been mired in mediocrity the 14 seasons prior to Vince Lombardi’s arrival. During his nine years as the Packers’ coach, Green Bay tallied a 98-30-4 record that included a 9-1 record in the postseason. From 1960-67, Lombardi’s Packers played for the NFL title six times, with the only loss coming against the Eagles in 1960. After winning back-to-back titles in 1961-62, Green Bay became the second NFL team (the 1929-31 Packers being the first team) to win three consecutive titles, including the first two Super Bowls. No team has since won three consecutive titles. 

There was no NFL play more devastating during the 1960s than the legendary “Packer Sweep,” a play that often saw halfbacks Jim Taylor, Paul Hornung and Elijah Pitts follow the blocking of guards Forrest Gregg and Jerry Kramer. Green Bay also possessed a steady passing attack, led by quarterback Bart Starr. An often overlooked facet of the ’60s Packers was their dominant defense, led by Hall of Famers Willie Davis, Dave Robinson, Ray Nitschke, Herb Adderley and Willie Wood. 

Lombardi’s college connections were one of the reasons why he able to construct one of the greatest teams in pro football history. His willingness to draft Black players in the first round, something that was uncommon at that time, also helped him build a team that would win five titles in a seven-year span while serving as a trailblazer in the process. 

Why they’re No. 3: While they won more titles in one decade than any team in history, the Packers played in the 12-team NFL during their run. They only had to play in one postseason game (the NFL Championship game) during their first two championship runs. Green Bay also didn’t have to deal with the AFL until the first two Super Bowls, where they dispatched the Chiefs and Raiders by a combined score of 68-24. 

4. San Francisco 49ers (1981-94) 

Former 49ers executive Carmen Policy has often referred to San Francisco during the 49ers’ dynasty as Camelot. He wasn’t too far off, as the 49ers enjoyed a magical run that ultimately led to the franchise becoming the first to win five Vince Lombardi Trophies. Led by Bill Walsh’s innovative West Coast offense, the 49ers were tabbed as the team of the ’80s after winning Super Bowls XVI, XIX, and XXIII. In 1989, under first-year head coach George Seifert, the 49ers dismantled the Broncos in Super Bowl XXIV. The ’90 49ers were a field goal away from possibly becoming the first team to win three consecutive Super Bowl titles. San Francisco never won three straight, but they did win their fifth title after Steve Young led the 49ers to a dominant win over the Chargers in Super Bowl XXIX. 

Young followed Joe Montana, who went 4-0 in Super Bowls while becoming the first player to win three Super Bowl MVP awards. Both quarterbacks had substantial success throwing the ball to Jerry Rice, who is regarded as the greatest receiver of all time. The 49ers’ offense also featured halfback Roger Craig, the first player to post 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in the same season. Like the Packers, the 49ers boasted a vastly underrated defense, led by Hall of Fame safety Ronnie Lott, fellow defensive backs Eric Dwight and Dwight Hicks, and linebackers Charles Haley, Jack “Hacksaw” Reynolds and Keena Turner.  

Why they’re No. 4: While Walsh’s innovative offense has left an indelible imprint, the 49ers’ dynasty has not had the same lasting impact as the Packers and Steelers’ dynasties. The 49ers also endured a shocking playoff loss to the Vikings in 1987 (which nearly cost Walsh his job) and two devastating playoff losses to Bill Parcells’ Giants. Seifert’s 49ers then lost back-to-back NFC title games to the Cowboys before breaking through in 1994. 

5. Dallas Cowboys (1991-95) 

In just three years, Jimmy Johnson and Jerry Jones helped turn the Cowboys from a 1-15 outfit to Super Bowl champions. How did they do it? By forcing several popular yet aging veterans into retirement, making a slew of successful draft picks, and putting an emphasis on team speed. Oh yeah, Johnson also pulled off the “Great Train Robbery” when he shipped running back Herschel Walker to the Vikings in a trade that include three future first-round picks and three future second-round picks. Among the players the Cowboys acquired with the picks included Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith, perennial Pro Bowl safety Darren Woodson, Pro Bowl defensive tackle Russell Maryland, and cornerback Kevin Smith. 

Johnson won Coach of the Year after the Cowboys went 7-9 in 1990. After reaching the divisional round of the playoffs in 1991, the 1992 Cowboys won a franchise-record 13 regular-season games on the strength of the league’s top-rated scoring defense and the play of Smith, quarterback Troy Aikman and receiver Michael Irvin. The Cowboys then dispatched the mighty 49ers in the NFC title game before defeating the Bills by 35 points in Super Bowl XXVII. Dallas successfully defended its championship in 1993 before Johnson left the Cowboys less than two months after winning back-to-back titles. With Barry Switzer as head coach, Dallas became the first team to win three Super Bowls in a four-year span after defeating the Steelers in Super Bowl XXX. 

Why they’re No. 5: At the height of their powers, the 1990s Cowboys are right up there with the best teams in league history. The defense was dominant and the Cowboys’ offense (which also included the “Great Wall of Dallas” offensive line) was one of the most complete units of all time. But Johnson’s departure led to a premature ending to one of the NFL’s great dynasties; the Cowboys were a 6-10 team two years after winning Super Bowl XXX, and would not win another playoff game until 2009. 

6. Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders: 1967-85

No NFL team enjoyed more consistent success than the Raiders during this span. During this 18-year run, the Raiders won 11 division titles, earned 15 playoff berths, captured one AFL title and three Super Bowls. Under owner Al Davis, the Raiders earned their still-standing reputation as the NFL’s bad boys, with tough guy players that included Ken Stabler, George Blanda, Jack “The Assassin” Tatum, George Atkinson, Skip “Dr. Death” Thomas, Ted Hendricks, Phil Villapiano, Matt Millen, John Matuszak, and Howie Long. 

The Raiders’ roster also included receivers Fred Biletnikoff and Cliff Branch, tight end Dave Casper, and offensive lineman Jim Otto, Art Shell and Gene Upshaw. The ’76 Raiders captured the franchise’s first Super Bowl after going 13-1 during the regular season. They then dismantled the defending two-time champion Steelers in the AFC title game before routing the Vikings in Super Bowl XI. Four years later, coach Tom Flores and quarterback Jim Plunkett helped the Raiders become the first franchise to win the Super Bowl as a wild-card team. The ’83 Raiders, on the strength of running back Marcus Allen and cornerbacks Lester Hayes and Mike Haynes, held Washington’s record-setting offense to just one touchdown in the Raiders’ 38-8 win in Super Bowl XVIII. 

Why they’re No. 6: The Raiders spent the first half of their run playing second-fiddle to some of the era’s other great teams. After losing Super Bowl II, the Raiders fell short in six conference title games from 1968-75. Two of those losses came at the hands of the Steelers, who also defeated the Raiders on the strength of Franco Harris’ “Immaculate Reception.” 

7. Dallas Cowboys (1970-79) 

We could have included the late ’60s and early ’80s, but the true impact of that era of Cowboys’ football took place in the ’70s. During that span, the Cowboys played in five Super Bowls, winning two and losing three others by a combined total of 11 points. Led by Tom Landry and Roger Staubach, the Cowboys’ popularity soared to such heights that they were eventually crowned as “America’s Team.” 

After falling short short of a title in 1970, the ’71 Cowboys — a loaded roster that included Staubach, Bob Lilly, Bob Hayes, Lance Alworth, Duane Thomas, Walt Garrison, Rayfield Wright, Mike Ditka, Chuck Howley, Herb Adderley, Mel Renfro and Cliff Harris — won the franchise’s first title after dismantling the Dolphins (the same team that went undefeated the following season) in Super Bowl VI. The Cowboys seamlessly transitioned during the decade, drafting future stars that included Drew Pearson, Randy White, Harvey Martin, Tony Dorsett, Thomas “Hollywood” Henderson and Ed “Too Tall” Jones. In  1977 Cowboys’ “Doomsday” defense outplayed the Broncos’ “Orange Crush” defense in Super Bowl XII, 27-10. In the win, Martin and White became the first — and only — Super Bowl co-MVPs. 

Why they’re No. 7: The ’70s Cowboys certainly classify as a dynasty, but their 2-3 record in Super Bowls is underwhelming. Two of those losses came at the hands of the Steelers, with the second Super Bowl matchup (Super Bowl XIII) ultimately giving Pittsburgh the title as the “Team of the ’70s.” 

8. Washington (1982-91) 

Washington had won just two playoff games in the previous 37 years before hiring Joe Gibbs in 1981. Over the next 10 years, Gibbs’ Washington team won 17 playoff games, four conference titles and the franchise’s three Super Bowls. Making Washington’s success during this span even more impressive is the fact that the Football Team played in the ultra competitive NFC, a conference that also included Bill Walsh’s 49ers, Mike Ditka’s Bears, and Bill Parcells’ Giants. 

Gibbs won each of his Super Bowls with a different quarterback. Joe Theismann, John Riggins and the “Hogs” offensive line led Washington to its first title in 1982. While they were dethroned by the Raiders in the following year’s Super Bowl, Washington returned to prominence in 1987 on the strength of quarterback Doug Williams’ MVP performance in Super Bowl XXII. In Super Bowl XXVI, the MVP performance of quarterback Mark Rypien led Washington to a 37-24 win over Buffalo. 

Each quarterback enjoyed talented receiving corps, led by Art Monk, Gary Clark, Charlie Brown, and Ricky Sanders. Gibbs’ teams also featured stingy defensive units that featured Darrell Green, Dexter Manley, Charles Mann, and Wilber Marshall. 

Why they’re No. 8: Washington would have possibly placed higher if not for Super Bowl XVIII. Arguably their best team during the ’80s, Washington’s ’83 team ripped through the NFL during the regular season while setting a then-NFL record for points scored. But not only did they fail to successfully defend their title, Washington was whitewashed by the Raiders in the Super Bowl, 38-9.     

9. Miami Dolphins (1970-74) 

Miami went 15-39-2 during its first four years of existence. During Don Shula’s first five years in Miami, the Dolphins went 62-15-1. The first team to play in three consecutive Super Bowls, the Dolphins also completed the NFL’s only perfect season, going an unblemished 17-0 in 1972. During a two-year span, Miami went 32-2 en route to winning back-to-back Super Bowls. 

Shula’s Dolphins were powered by their “No Name” defense, led by Nick Buoniconti, Manny Fernandez, Jake Scott, Dick Anderson and Bill Stanfill. The Dolphins also possessed a powerful rushing attack that featured Larry Csonka, Mercury Morris and Jim Kiick. When they did throw the ball, quarterback Bob Griese had great success getting the ball to receiver Paul Warfield, a member of the NFL 100 All-Time Team. Miami’s offensive line was powered by Hall of Fame guard Larry Little, center Jim Langer and guard Bob Kuechenberg. The line paved the way for Csonka and Morris to become the first pair of teammates to both run for over 1,000 yards in the same season. 

Why they’re No. 9: Like the ’70s Cowboys, the Dolphins’ lack of longevity hurt them on this all-time list. The short-lived World Football League — which whisked away Csonka, Kiick and Warfield in 1975 for a cool $3 million — largely contributed to the Dolphins’ run ending following a gut-wrenching loss to the Raiders in the ’74 playoffs. 

10. Chiefs (2018-present)

Andy Reid’s team earned a seat at this exclusive table after winning last year’s Super Bowl. They made the list ahead of the 2000s Steelers, late ’90s Broncos and Bill Parcells’ Giants of the late ’80s and early ’90s. Each of those teams also won two Super Bowls during their respective eras. 

The Chiefs’ recent run of success is even more impressive considering that it is happening during the Super Bowl era. Kansas City joined the Patriots as the only teams this century to play in four Super Bowls over a five-year span. It did so after winning the first two road playoff games of Mahomes’ career. 

Why they’re No. 10: Kansas City has one of the game’s all-time great coaches in Reid, the best quarterback in today’s NFL in Mahomes, and a future Hall of Fame tight end in Travis Kelce. They also have other elite players like offensive linemen Creed Humphrey and Joe Thuney, defensive lineman Chris Jones, as well as a slew of other talented players who continue to play integral roles in their success. 

The Chiefs will move much further up this list if they can do something that hasn’t been done in nearly 20 years: win back-to-back titles, a feat that has only been accomplished by the Brady-Belichick Patriots since the start of the millennium. 

Since the Green Bay Packers and Kansas City Chiefs faced off in Super Bowl I in 1967, thousands of players have taken part in the Super Bowl. Several of those players became household names by virtue of their performance in the big game. Tom Brady, Joe Montana and many others etched their name in football lore after leading their teams to victory multiple times. 

With Super Bowl LVIII just around the corner, we decided to take on the task of creating an all-time, 53-man roster comprised of some of the best players in Super Bowl history. The construction of our roster included the following criteria:

• Super Bowl MVPs weighed heavily
• Multiple Super Bowl appearances are an advantage 
• Did their performance significantly contribute to the success of their team?
• Was their performance critical to the outcome of the game(s)? 

Choosing performance over a specific player also played a role in the building of the roster. Yes, being a big name certainly doesn’t hurt, but this is not a roster of the biggest names that have played in the Super Bowl. If that was the case, Walter Payton, arguably the greatest running back in NFL history, would have made the list. 

Without further ado, let’s take a look at the all-time, 53-man Super Bowl roster, with a practice squad to boot.

Offense

Quarterbacks: Tom Brady, Joe Montana, and Terry Bradshaw are a combined 15-3 in Super Bowl competition, with 10 MVP trophies to boot. Brady currently holds the Super Bowl single-game passing record (505 yards), a record that had been previously held by both Montana and Bradshaw. Brady’s greatest Super Bowl moment may have been his first one when he led the Patriots past the heavily-favored Rams in Super Bowl XXXVI. Montana’s signature Super Bowl moment took place in Super Bowl XXIII, when he led the 49ers on a 92-yard, game-winning drive that was capped off with his game-winning pass to John Taylor. A decade earlier, Bradshaw threw for then-Super Bowl records 318 yards and four touchdowns in Pittsburgh’s 35-31 win over Dallas. 

Running backs: The MVP of Super Bowl XXVIII, Emmitt Smith is the Super Bowl’s all-time leader in rushing touchdowns. Franco Harris, who took home MVP honors in Super Bowl IX, is the Super Bowl’s career rushing leader with 354 yards. Terrell Davis tallied 321 yards and three touchdowns in Denver’s back-to-back Super Bowl wins. His 157 yards and three touchdowns in Super Bowl XXXII helped Denver upset the defending-champion Packers to end the NFC’s run of 13 consecutive Super Bowl wins. 

Receivers: Jerry Rice is the Super Bowl’s all-time leader in catches (28), yards (589) and touchdowns (8). His 215 receiving yards in Super Bowl XXIII is still the single-game record. Flanking Rice in the starting lineup is Super Bowl X MVP Lynn Swann, who caught 16 passes for 364 yards and three touchdowns in his last three Super Bowls. 

Also cracking the starting lineup is former Cowboys receiver Michael Irvin, who caught 16 passes and two touchdowns in three Super Bowl wins. Stallworth caught a combined six passes for 236 yards and three touchdowns in Super Bowls XIII and XIV. Cliff Branch caught three Super Bowl touchdowns while helping the Raiders win three rings in a seven-year span. Julian Edelman caught 24 passes for 337 yards in New England’s three most recent Super Bowl wins. He was named Super Bowl LIII MVP after catching 10 passes for 141 yards. Edelman also made several clutch catches in the Patriots’ Super Bowl wins over the Seahawks and Falcons. 

Tight ends: Rob Gronkowski caught 21 passes for 271 yards and three touchdowns in his three Super Bowl wins in New England. He caught two touchdown passes from Brady in Tampa Bay’s 31-9 win over Kansas City in Super Bowl LV. In three Super Bowls, Kelce has caught 22 passes for 257 yards and two scores. He led the Chiefs with 81 yards and a touchdown on six catches in Super Bowl LVII. 

Offensive line: You’d be hard-pressed to find a better offensive line than this one. Art Shell and Gene Upshaw anchored a powerful Raiders offensive line that had their way against the Vikings and Eagles in Super Bowls XI and XV. Mike Webster started in three of the Steelers’ four Super Bowls during the ’70s. Larry Little and Forrest Gregg both won back-to-back Super Bowls as members of the Dolphins and Packers, respectively. Little helped pave the way for Larry Csonka, Mercury Morris and Jim Kiick in three straight Super Bowls. One of the key cogs in Vince Lombardi’s legendary Packers sweep, Gregg helped Green Bay win the first two Super Bowls and three straight NFL titles. 

Orlando Pace protected Kurt Warner’s blind side during both of his Super Bowls with the Rams. Newton helped plow open running lanes for Emmitt Smith. Tom Nalen and Mark Schlereth won a combined five Super Bowls that included two rings as teammates in Denver. In losing efforts, Anthony Munoz played well in the Bengals’ two Super Bowl matchups with the 49ers.

Defense

Defensive line: This group is as good as it gets. Reggie White, who retired as the NFL’s career sack leader, tallied three sacks in Green Bay’s win over New England in Super Bowl XXXI. Joe Greene was the anchor of four Super Bowl championship defenses in Pittsburgh. His interception and fumble recovery in Super Bowl IX helped the Steelers become the second team to shut out an opposing offense in the Super Bowl. Randy White’s dominance in Super Bowl XII earned him co-MVP honors. 

Richard Dent’s 1.5 sacks and two forced fumbles earned him MVP honors in Super Bowl XX. Bruce Smith, Alan Page and L.C. Greenwood each played in four Super Bowls. Smith recorded a safety in Super Bowl XXV, while Greenwood’s three deflected passes helped neutralize Frank Tarkenton in Super Bowl IX. A year later, Greenwood sacked Roger Staubach three times in Pittsburgh’s 21-17 win over Dallas. Manny Fernandez recorded a whopping 17 tackles while leading Miami’s “No Name” defense in Super Bowl VII. 

Aaron Donald became the only active player to make the roster after leading the Rams to a comeback win over Cincinnati in Super Bowl LVI. Donald, who helped hold the Patriots to 13 points in Super Bowl LIII, had two sacks of Joe Burrow along with his crucial pressure on Cincinnati’s final play that prevented Burrow from finding Ja’Marr Chase downfield. 

The defensive line’s lucky charm is its least-known member. In Super Bowls XV and XVIII, Reggie Kinlaw wreaked havoc on Philadelphia and Washington. With Kinlaw plugging the middle, the Raiders’ defense held Wilbert Montgomery and John Riggins (the MVP of the previous year’s Super Bowl) to a combined 110 yards on 42 carries (a 2.62 yards per carry average). 

Linebackers: A player who revolutionized the linebacker position, Lawrence Taylor’s tackle of John Elway in Super Bowl XXI was part of a crucial goal-line stand by the Giants. Jack Lambert played big in each of Pittsburgh’s four Super Bowl wins during the ’70s. His 14 tackles in Super Bowl X led both teams. In Super Bowl XIV, his fourth-quarter interception set up the Steelers’ game-clinching score. 

Ray Lewis, the MVP of Super Bowl XXXV, won two Super Bowls with the Ravens. Jack Ham’s quickness and savviness helped the Steelers dominate opposing rushing attacks. En route to becoming the first player to win five Super Bowls, Charles Haley recorded 4.5 sacks for the 49ers and Cowboys. In Super Bowl XXVII, his sack/forced fumble of Jim Kelly set up a touchdown by teammate Jimmy Jones, as Dallas took the lead for good. Mike Singletary and Derrick Brooks presided over legendary defenses. Von Miller’s 2.5 sacks and two forced fumbles in Super Bowl 50 earned him Super Bowl MVP honors. He had two more sacks in the Rams’ Super Bowl win over Cincinnati. 

Secondary: Mel Blount, whose physical dominance over receivers ushered in new league rules, picked off two passes in Super Bowl play. In Super Bowl XIII, his second-quarter interception set up the Steelers’ go-ahead touchdown. Herb Adderley, who won Super Bowls with the Packers and Cowboys, had a 60-yard pick six in Green Bay’s win over Oakland in Super Bowl II. Safety Ronnie Lott led the 49ers to their first Super Bowl win as a rookie. Seven years later, his jarring hit of Bengals running back Ickey Woods helped set the tone for the 49ers’ victory. Lott is flanked by Ed Reed, who recorded an interception in his only Super Bowl appearance. 

Lester Hayes, the 1980 Defensive Player of the Year, won his second ring after shutting down Washington’s talented receiving corps in Super Bowl XVIII. Willie Wood, Adderley’s teammate on those legendary Packers defenses, recorded a game-changing interception during the second half of Green Bay’s win over Kansas City in Super Bowl I. A stabilizing force in the Steelers’ secondary, Donnie Shell’s clutch tackle in Super Bowl XIV prevented an early Rams touchdown. 

Ironically, Sanders’ best play in a Super Bowl was his 47-yard catch in Super Bowl XXX that set up the Cowboys’ first touchdown. 

Special teams

A four-time champion, Adam Vinatieri made two game-winning field goals with the Patriots. Ray Guy, the only punter who resides in the Hall of Fame, saved a potential disaster when he made a one-handed catch following a high snap in Super Bowl XVIII. Desmond Howard, the only special teams player to win Super Bowl MVP, returned a kickoff 99 yards for a touchdown in Green Bay’s 35-21 win over New England. Howard also tallied 90 yards on punt returns. 

Practice squad

CB Richard Sherman 

RB Larry Csonka

WR Paul Warfield 

OT Winston Hill 

DT Warren Sapp 

DT/DE Richard Seymour

LB Willie Lanier 

LB Chuck Howley

LB Nick Buoniconti 

FS Jake Scott

Since the Green Bay Packers and Kansas City Chiefs faced off in Super Bowl I in 1967, thousands of players have taken part in the Super Bowl. Several of those players became household names by virtue of their performance in the big game. Tom Brady, Joe Montana and many others etched their name in football lore after leading their teams to victory multiple times. 

With Super Bowl LVIII just around the corner, we decided to take on the task of creating an all-time, 53-man roster comprised of some of the best players in Super Bowl history. The construction of our roster included the following criteria:

• Super Bowl MVPs weighed heavily
• Multiple Super Bowl appearances are an advantage 
• Did their performance significantly contribute to the success of their team?
• Was their performance critical to the outcome of the game(s)? 

Choosing performance over a specific player also played a role in the building of the roster. Yes, being a big name certainly doesn’t hurt, but this is not a roster of the biggest names that have played in the Super Bowl. If that was the case, Walter Payton, arguably the greatest running back in NFL history, would have made the list. 

Without further ado, let’s take a look at the all-time, 53-man Super Bowl roster, with a practice squad to boot.

Offense

Quarterbacks: Tom Brady, Joe Montana, and Terry Bradshaw are a combined 15-3 in Super Bowl competition, with 10 MVP trophies to boot. Brady currently holds the Super Bowl single-game passing record (505 yards), a record that had been previously held by both Montana and Bradshaw. Brady’s greatest Super Bowl moment may have been his first one when he led the Patriots past the heavily-favored Rams in Super Bowl XXXVI. Montana’s signature Super Bowl moment took place in Super Bowl XXIII, when he led the 49ers on a 92-yard, game-winning drive that was capped off with his game-winning pass to John Taylor. A decade earlier, Bradshaw threw for then-Super Bowl records 318 yards and four touchdowns in Pittsburgh’s 35-31 win over Dallas. 

Running backs: The MVP of Super Bowl XXVIII, Emmitt Smith is the Super Bowl’s all-time leader in rushing touchdowns. Franco Harris, who took home MVP honors in Super Bowl IX, is the Super Bowl’s career rushing leader with 354 yards. Terrell Davis tallied 321 yards and three touchdowns in Denver’s back-to-back Super Bowl wins. His 157 yards and three touchdowns in Super Bowl XXXII helped Denver upset the defending-champion Packers to end the NFC’s run of 13 consecutive Super Bowl wins. 

Receivers: Jerry Rice is the Super Bowl’s all-time leader in catches (28), yards (589) and touchdowns (8). His 215 receiving yards in Super Bowl XXIII is still the single-game record. Flanking Rice in the starting lineup is Super Bowl X MVP Lynn Swann, who caught 16 passes for 364 yards and three touchdowns in his last three Super Bowls. 

Also cracking the starting lineup is former Cowboys receiver Michael Irvin, who caught 16 passes and two touchdowns in three Super Bowl wins. Stallworth caught a combined six passes for 236 yards and three touchdowns in Super Bowls XIII and XIV. Cliff Branch caught three Super Bowl touchdowns while helping the Raiders win three rings in a seven-year span. Julian Edelman caught 24 passes for 337 yards in New England’s three most recent Super Bowl wins. He was named Super Bowl LIII MVP after catching 10 passes for 141 yards. Edelman also made several clutch catches in the Patriots’ Super Bowl wins over the Seahawks and Falcons. 

Tight ends: Rob Gronkowski caught 21 passes for 271 yards and three touchdowns in his three Super Bowl wins in New England. He caught two touchdown passes from Brady in Tampa Bay’s 31-9 win over Kansas City in Super Bowl LV. In three Super Bowls, Kelce has caught 22 passes for 257 yards and two scores. He led the Chiefs with 81 yards and a touchdown on six catches in Super Bowl LVII. 

Offensive line: You’d be hard-pressed to find a better offensive line than this one. Art Shell and Gene Upshaw anchored a powerful Raiders offensive line that had their way against the Vikings and Eagles in Super Bowls XI and XV. Mike Webster started in three of the Steelers’ four Super Bowls during the ’70s. Larry Little and Forrest Gregg both won back-to-back Super Bowls as members of the Dolphins and Packers, respectively. Little helped pave the way for Larry Csonka, Mercury Morris and Jim Kiick in three straight Super Bowls. One of the key cogs in Vince Lombardi’s legendary Packers sweep, Gregg helped Green Bay win the first two Super Bowls and three straight NFL titles. 

Orlando Pace protected Kurt Warner’s blind side during both of his Super Bowls with the Rams. Newton helped plow open running lanes for Emmitt Smith. Tom Nalen and Mark Schlereth won a combined five Super Bowls that included two rings as teammates in Denver. In losing efforts, Anthony Munoz played well in the Bengals’ two Super Bowl matchups with the 49ers.

Defense

Defensive line: This group is as good as it gets. Reggie White, who retired as the NFL’s career sack leader, tallied three sacks in Green Bay’s win over New England in Super Bowl XXXI. Joe Greene was the anchor of four Super Bowl championship defenses in Pittsburgh. His interception and fumble recovery in Super Bowl IX helped the Steelers become the second team to shut out an opposing offense in the Super Bowl. Randy White’s dominance in Super Bowl XII earned him co-MVP honors. 

Richard Dent’s 1.5 sacks and two forced fumbles earned him MVP honors in Super Bowl XX. Bruce Smith, Alan Page and L.C. Greenwood each played in four Super Bowls. Smith recorded a safety in Super Bowl XXV, while Greenwood’s three deflected passes helped neutralize Frank Tarkenton in Super Bowl IX. A year later, Greenwood sacked Roger Staubach three times in Pittsburgh’s 21-17 win over Dallas. Manny Fernandez recorded a whopping 17 tackles while leading Miami’s “No Name” defense in Super Bowl VII. 

Aaron Donald became the only active player to make the roster after leading the Rams to a comeback win over Cincinnati in Super Bowl LVI. Donald, who helped hold the Patriots to 13 points in Super Bowl LIII, had two sacks of Joe Burrow along with his crucial pressure on Cincinnati’s final play that prevented Burrow from finding Ja’Marr Chase downfield. 

The defensive line’s lucky charm is its least-known member. In Super Bowls XV and XVIII, Reggie Kinlaw wreaked havoc on Philadelphia and Washington. With Kinlaw plugging the middle, the Raiders’ defense held Wilbert Montgomery and John Riggins (the MVP of the previous year’s Super Bowl) to a combined 110 yards on 42 carries (a 2.62 yards per carry average). 

Linebackers: A player who revolutionized the linebacker position, Lawrence Taylor’s tackle of John Elway in Super Bowl XXI was part of a crucial goal-line stand by the Giants. Jack Lambert played big in each of Pittsburgh’s four Super Bowl wins during the ’70s. His 14 tackles in Super Bowl X led both teams. In Super Bowl XIV, his fourth-quarter interception set up the Steelers’ game-clinching score. 

Ray Lewis, the MVP of Super Bowl XXXV, won two Super Bowls with the Ravens. Jack Ham’s quickness and savviness helped the Steelers dominate opposing rushing attacks. En route to becoming the first player to win five Super Bowls, Charles Haley recorded 4.5 sacks for the 49ers and Cowboys. In Super Bowl XXVII, his sack/forced fumble of Jim Kelly set up a touchdown by teammate Jimmy Jones, as Dallas took the lead for good. Mike Singletary and Derrick Brooks presided over legendary defenses. Von Miller’s 2.5 sacks and two forced fumbles in Super Bowl 50 earned him Super Bowl MVP honors. He had two more sacks in the Rams’ Super Bowl win over Cincinnati. 

Secondary: Mel Blount, whose physical dominance over receivers ushered in new league rules, picked off two passes in Super Bowl play. In Super Bowl XIII, his second-quarter interception set up the Steelers’ go-ahead touchdown. Herb Adderley, who won Super Bowls with the Packers and Cowboys, had a 60-yard pick six in Green Bay’s win over Oakland in Super Bowl II. Safety Ronnie Lott led the 49ers to their first Super Bowl win as a rookie. Seven years later, his jarring hit of Bengals running back Ickey Woods helped set the tone for the 49ers’ victory. Lott is flanked by Ed Reed, who recorded an interception in his only Super Bowl appearance. 

Lester Hayes, the 1980 Defensive Player of the Year, won his second ring after shutting down Washington’s talented receiving corps in Super Bowl XVIII. Willie Wood, Adderley’s teammate on those legendary Packers defenses, recorded a game-changing interception during the second half of Green Bay’s win over Kansas City in Super Bowl I. A stabilizing force in the Steelers’ secondary, Donnie Shell’s clutch tackle in Super Bowl XIV prevented an early Rams touchdown. 

Ironically, Sanders’ best play in a Super Bowl was his 47-yard catch in Super Bowl XXX that set up the Cowboys’ first touchdown. 

Special teams

A four-time champion, Adam Vinatieri made two game-winning field goals with the Patriots. Ray Guy, the only punter who resides in the Hall of Fame, saved a potential disaster when he made a one-handed catch following a high snap in Super Bowl XVIII. Desmond Howard, the only special teams player to win Super Bowl MVP, returned a kickoff 99 yards for a touchdown in Green Bay’s 35-21 win over New England. Howard also tallied 90 yards on punt returns. 

Practice squad

• CB Richard Sherman 
• RB Larry Csonka
• WR Paul Warfield 
• OT Winston Hill 
• DT Warren Sapp 
• DT/DE Richard Seymour
• LB Willie Lanier 
• LB Chuck Howley
• LB Nick Buoniconti 
• FS Jake Scott

Super Bowl LVIII goes down Feb. 11 on CBS. The game will also be broadcast on Nickelodeon and streamed on Paramount+.