In honor of the Los Angeles Rams throwback Superbowl uniforms I have decided to compile a list of the top 10 NFL jerseys of all time. I will probably be basing this analysis on nostalgia, longevity, and eye appeal. I say probably because some of the jerseys I select will just be on here because I remember my mom telling me she liked them or something of that nature. Regardless the best of the best will be represented. My ideal jersey is one that is well put together with simple classic designs. I will be providing a follow up article with my Top 10 worst jerseys of all time. But now onto the show.
10. Carolina’s All Black Uniforms
Coming up in the 10 spot is the Carolina Panthers all black unis. The most consistently worn uniform in today’s game is an absolute stunner. Let it be known this uniform beat out the Steelers all black color rush kit, the ‘Primetime’ Falcons all black unis, and the Raiders classic black and silver. This uniform made the list because of how well the vibrant blue works with the black. The jersey epitomizes a panther. Its perfect.
9. Tampa Bay’s ‘Creamsicles’
At number nine I went with one of the most infamous uniforms of all time. In the 70’s they were considered to be the ugliest uniforms of their era. Most likely because the Bucs went on an 0-26 streak while donning the kit. Looking back these uniforms had it all. The classic 70’s orange that was synonymous with the lining of car interiors and living room carpets just looks so good on the field. Not to mention, the stick that holds the creamsicle upright, the Buccaneer logo on the helmet is likely my second favorite helmet logo of all time. Lets hope the Buccaneers revert back to these and ditch those gaudy rust colored rags that they currently wear.
8. Chargers ‘Air Coryell’ Navy Uniform
As a football fan, a true football fan, I have seen enough film of Kellen Winslow Sr., Dan Fouts, and Don Coryell’s offense to understand that this uniform deserves a top 10 spot. The classic images that surround this uni have been etched into my mind forever. Trust me I’m with you, this is a sleeper. But I believe we are all better off after seeing these jerseys on the field. The bolt on the pants and helmet is the best bolt that the Chargers have displayed. The navy blue is phenomenal with the subtle gold. This uniform is still way too slept on for my liking.
7. The Miami Classics
Need more be said? Even though I am a strong proponent of the current ‘pajama’ kit that Miami suits up in, there’s nothing that can top those arm stripes. The teal is recognizable by anyone. The circus peanut orange on the trim and stripes gives me a sugar rush. The logo is transcendent through every generation. These uniforms paired so well with the night games. The day games are solid. But the night games in Florida just evoke an energy with these. Not necessarily a gladiators uniform but a merman’s. One with the dolphin. Great uni. I probably still have it too low.
6. Minnesota’s ‘Freak’ Uniforms
Minnesota has come a long way in the uni game since the outrageous designs that they forced AP and Sidney Rice to play in. Their new update uniforms are solid. I dig the matte helmets and the simple horns. But we are not here to talk about those. If you could not tell by now I am a big fan of the stripes on the sleeves. The Vikes sleeve stripes are all class. White and gold on the arms, all purple uni, and the simplified horn logo make up an underrated NFL ensemble. The recreation of these uniforms has made me happy every single time that I have seen them. Revel in them. SKOL.
5. Denver’s ‘Orange Crush’ Uniforms
I had to do it. I needed to show love to the color rush. I loved the initiative that Nike took to develop these video game jerseys in the real game. This will probably be my most controversial pick for this top 10. Solely because of the New York Giants retain the nationally beloved all-white color rush kit. But if you want them on the list write your own article. Denver has the best color rush jerseys in the league. The helmet makes this uniform great. The deep navy with the vintage ‘D’ logo. And let’s not overlook the glory that is the helmet stripe. A very good orange and strong pant stripes will put this uniform over the New York Giants color rush. A really complete uniform. Wear them all the time.
4. Philadelphia’s ‘Soft Wings’ Uniforms
Eagles fans save your “the all black’s are better” comments for the birds. This is the best uniform your franchise has ever worn. This is the smoothest uniform of all time. I say this because the smoothest player of all time wore this uni. Randall Cunningham made this uniform. This pine tree air freshener color scheme is brilliant. No other jersey in the NFL has ever replicated this color. Jets green? Meh. Packers green? Classic meh. Seahawks green? Atrocious. Jaguars green? Worse than the Seahawks. Philly’s old school green that popped on the TV screen like no other wholeheartedly deserves a top five ranking. Do not let me forget about the soft tip wings logo. 100x better than the sharp wing garbage that the Eagles have now.
3. The Rams ‘Greatest Show on Turf’ Uniforms
As I foreshadowed in the introduction, the Los Angeles Rams are wearing their updated throwback uniforms for the SuperBowl this Sunday. I have been advocating for these uniforms to come back into the Rams rotation for ten years. Finally this year they got the hint. They wore these more often this year, and the uniforms were a smash hit. Normally I am not a proponent of the blue and gold color scheme. Sometimes it feels a bit ham-fisted. Not in this case. The royal blue and royal gold are a perfect pairing. These jerseys put the navy and gold unis to shame. I mean you go from one of the most iconic and classic color schemes to a dull, gross mesh of baby vomit. Don’t teach it. Can’t win with it. Lastly, the horns on the logo are so simple. There are no extra stripes or dashes needed. There was never a need to stick an ugly ‘Stl’ or ‘LA’ on the side. Matter of fact please don’t. Let these jerseys live forever.
2. The Chargers ‘Powder Blue’ Uniforms
NUMBER TWO?!? Yes number two. The most beloved NFL uniform of all time comes in at number two on my list. This is not a punishment for the uniform. The Chargers have created the perfect uniform. It is perfect in every sense. The originality, the longevity, the constant desire to see it in action. This uniform has stood the test of time and progressed in every way. The electric powder blue is untouched by any other color in the NFL. The clean white and yellow accents only push the uniform further. It is likely the most consecrate uniform of the NFL and may the commissioner strike down upon any other franchise that attempts to replicate it. A beacon. A culture. Let it be known this uniform commands the upmost respect.
1. Buffalo’s ‘Little Bill’ Uniforms
There is so much to unpack here. Firstly, this is the greatest helmet logo of A L L T I M E. The little legged buffalo silhouette cannot be touched. Paint this logo on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Give me this logo on a shirt, a hat, a car, a wall, a boat, I don’t care. Its brilliant and god bless the designer. Secondly, the sleeve stripes are top notch. Multiple stripes and a great red-blue combination. Thirdly, the trim around the numbers on the new throwbacks are elite. Just as elite as the solid numbers and lettering on the true 1970’s versions. This uniform has so much flexibility. The blue and white jerseys are both stellar. The striped socks add an entire new dimension as well. Thank you Buffalo. Long live the Little Bill.
Alright just one more:
