Ranking the top 25 wide receivers in NFL history…
Drafted 30th overall by the Indianapolis Colts in the 2001 NFL Draft out of the University of Miami, Wayne quickly became a cornerstone of the Colts’ offense, forming a dynamic trio with Peyton Manning and Marvin Harrison.
Over his entire 14-season career with the Colts, Wayne helped lead the team to consistent playoff success, culminating in a [Super Bowl XLI](https://www.nfl.com/photos/super-bowl-xli-09000d5d800459e1#a6c8ec92-2c4e-4411-a7b3-b54f5cef89e7) victory in 2007, where he caught a 53-yard touchdown in the first quarter during a 29-17 win over the Chicago Bears.
He set franchise postseason records with 93 receptions, 1,254 yards and nine touchdowns, and holds Colts marks for games played (209) and wins (142). Wayne led the NFL in receiving yards in 2007 with 1,510 and had a career-high 111 catches in 2010, earning first-team All-Pro honors that year.
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He broke Cris Carter’s record for consecutive games with three or more receptions (59) in 2012 and became the ninth player to reach 1,000 receptions in 2013. Wayne was selected to six Pro Bowls (2006-2010, 2012).
After a short, unsigned stint with the New England Patriots in 2015, Wayne retired.
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His career totals stand at 1,070 receptions, 14,345 receiving yards and 82 touchdowns across 211 games.
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Wayne’s standout attributes included his quickness off the line, precise hands and a 4.45-second 40-yard dash speed that allowed him to separate from defenders. His playing style was that of a technician: methodical route-runner with impeccable fundamentals, excelling in timing-based offenses and third-down conversions with Manning.
Though occasionally overshadowed by Harrison, Wayne’s reliability and work ethic made him indispensable.
Featured image via Matthew Emmons/USA TODAY Sports Copyright © 2007 Matthew Emmons