The 10 greatest Buffalo Bills of all time are a testament to the franchise’s rich history and competitive spirit. Throughout its journey, the team has seen remarkable athletes who have left an indelible mark on the NFL.
While the Bills have yet to claim a Super Bowl title during the NFL era, they made a significant impact in the 1960s by securing multiple American Football League (AFL) championships. The franchise experienced highs and lows, notably becoming the first team to compete in four consecutive Super Bowls in the 1990s, followed by a challenging 17-year playoff drought.
In recent years, the Buffalo Bills have emerged as a formidable force in the league. The 2024 season marked their sixth consecutive playoff appearance and fifth straight title in the AFC East, showcasing their resilience and determination.
As the Bills continue their pursuit of that elusive Super Bowl victory, here is a look at the 10 best players in the franchise’s storied history.
10. Jack Kemp (1962-1969)
9. Billy Shaw (1961-1969)
Billy Shaw was a cornerstone of the offensive line that enabled Jack Kemp to thrive as one of the AFL’s premier quarterbacks. His eight-time All-Star status and selection to the AFL’s All-Time team in 1970 highlight his significant contributions. Interestingly, Shaw initially aspired to play defense but excelled as a guard, becoming the only player inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame without ever playing in the NFL.
8. Steve Tasker (1986-1997)
Steve Tasker redefined the role of a special teams player during the Bills’ Super Bowl years. His five All-Pro selections and seven Pro Bowl appearances underscore his impact. Tasker’s prowess as a gunner and his remarkable seven career punt blocks were instrumental in the Bills’ four consecutive Super Bowl appearances. Many regard him as the greatest non-kicker special teams player in NFL history, leading to ongoing discussions about his Hall of Fame candidacy.
7. Joe DeLamielleure (1973-1979, 1985)
Joe DeLamielleure played a vital role in the success of O.J. Simpson, one of the NFL’s most prolific running backs. As a key member of the “Electric Company” offensive line, he earned six Pro Bowl selections and was named All-Pro three times. His contributions helped the Bills maintain one of the lowest sack rates during the 1970s, showcasing his effectiveness as a blocker.
6. Andre Reed (1985-1999)
Andre Reed stands out as one of the most prolific wide receivers in NFL history. A seven-time Pro Bowler, he consistently ranked among the top 10 in receptions and receiving touchdowns throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Reed’s playoff performances were particularly memorable, including his pivotal role in the Bills’ remarkable comeback against the Houston Oilers in 1992, where he caught three touchdown passes. At the time of his retirement, he was second all-time in receptions and among the top three for Super Bowl receptions and yards.
5. O.J. Simpson (1969-1977)
O.J. Simpson’s dominance as a running back is well-documented, highlighted by five consecutive Pro Bowl and first-team All-Pro selections in the 1970s. His crowning achievement came in 1973 when he rushed for an astonishing 2,003 yards, the most ever for a running back in the 14-game season era. At the time of his retirement, he ranked second in NFL history with 11,236 career rushing yards.
Josh Allen has the potential to become the greatest player in Buffalo Bills history. In his first seven seasons, he has already established himself as a top-five player for the franchise. Allen’s leadership has led the Bills to unprecedented success, including five consecutive AFC East titles. He is recognized as one of the most dangerous dual-threat quarterbacks, consistently rushing for over 400 yards and six touchdowns each season. By the end of the 2024 regular season, he had recorded 65 rushing touchdowns, the second-most for a quarterback in NFL history.
In addition to his rushing prowess, Allen has also excelled as a passer. He has been ranked among the top 10 in passing yards and touchdowns for five years, receiving three Pro Bowl nods. His performance in the 2024 season could earn him his first MVP award.
3. Thurman Thomas (1988-1999)
Thurman Thomas was a pioneer among dual-threat running backs, showcasing his versatility during his career. Under the guidance of Jim Kelly, Thomas led the NFL in total scrimmage yards in four out of five seasons early in his career. His accolades include five Pro Bowl selections, an MVP award, and the Offensive Player of the Year title in 1991. That year, he rushed for 1,407 yards and caught 631 receiving yards, contributing significantly to the Bills’ Super Bowl appearances. Thomas also set postseason records for most touchdowns and consecutive games with a touchdown at the time of his retirement.
2. Jim Kelly (1986-1996)
Jim Kelly’s impact on the Buffalo Bills is undeniable. A five-time Pro Bowler, he led the team to four consecutive AFC championships from 1990 to 1993. Kelly’s leadership and skill were pivotal in the Bills’ success, as they made the playoffs eight times during his 11-year tenure as quarterback, securing his place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
1. Bruce Smith (1985-1999)
Bruce Smith is widely regarded as the greatest pass-rusher in NFL history. Spending 15 of his 19 seasons with the Bills, he played a crucial role in the team’s four consecutive Super Bowl appearances. Smith recorded double-digit sack seasons 12 times and was selected to the Pro Bowl and All-Pro teams 11 times each. He received the NFL’s top defensive award twice, including a standout season in 1990 with 19 sacks. When he retired, Smith held the record for the most career sacks in NFL history, with 171 of those occurring during his time in Buffalo.
His legacy as a dominant force on the field solidifies his status as the best player in Bills history, as recognized by FOX Sports.
Honorable mentions:
- Darryl Talley
- Kyle Williams
- Kent Hull
- Cookie Gilchrist
- Cornelius Bennett
