Ranking the top 25 wide receivers in NFL history…
16. James Lofton
Drafted sixth overall by the Green Bay Packers in 1978 out of Stanford University, where he also excelled in track, James Lofton burst onto the NFL scene as a speedy deep threat, leading the league in yards per catch (22.4) as a rookie.
Over nine seasons with the Packers, Lofton racked up seven Pro Bowl selections, four All-Pro nods and led the NFL in yards per reception in 1983 (22.4) and 1984 (22.0). He posted five seasons averaging 20+ yards per catch, including a 1980 campaign with 71 receptions for 1,226 yards.
Traded to the Los Angeles Raiders in 1987 amid off-field issues, he spent two years there before joining the Buffalo Bills in 1989. With Buffalo, he rejuvenated his career, becoming the oldest player (35) to record 1,000 receiving yards in 1991 with 57 catches for 1,072 yards, also setting a record for 200 yards receiving in a game at that age. Lofton briefly played for the Rams and Eagles in 1993 before retiring.
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Lofton’s career peaked with three Super Bowl appearances (XXV, XXVI, XXVII) during Buffalo’s dynasty, though without a win. He was the first player to reach 14,000 receiving yards and scored touchdowns in three decades (1970s-1990s).
Career totals include 764 receptions, 14,004 yards (18.3 average) and 75 touchdowns over 233 games, ranking him high in all-time yards at retirement.
Lofton’s standout attributes were his elite speed, derived from his NCAA long jump championship background, and lanky 6-foot-3, 187-pound frame that allowed him to outrun and outleap defenders. Lofton’s playing style was that of a classic deep-ball specialist: explosive off the line, with precise route-running and acrobatic catches downfield, making him a constant big-play threat.
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While praised for his longevity and production, Lofton faced criticisms for off-field legal troubles, including sexual assault allegations in the 1980s that impacted his trade.
He was into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2003 and the Packers Hall of Fame in 1999.
But who ranks ahead of Lofton at No. 15 all-time?
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