The greatest NFL Draft class of all time? This one packed more legends than any other

For all the buzz around the 2025 NFL Draft, no incoming class has ever topped what 1964 delivered. Not even close... OK, a little close.

Every spring, fans speculate which rookies will shape the league’s future. Some drafts end up rich in talent, as we saw with 1983 with Elway, Marino, and Kelly, or 1981 with L.T. and Ronnie Lott. But when it comes to sheer Hall of Fame volume, 1964 towers above the rest.

Who was in the 1964 NFL Draft?

Ten players from that year’s class made it to Canton. That’s more than any other single draft in NFL history. Some went early, others much later. All became legends.

It starts with Bob Brown, a tackle so dominant he earned nine All-Pro nods. Then there’s Paul Warfield, a wide receiver with two Super Bowl rings and one of the smoothest strides the game has seen. Add in Carl Eller and Dave Wilcox anchoring defenses, and Roger Staubach – drafted in ‘64 but delayed by Navy service – who would eventually lead Dallas to two titles.

And still, that’s barely scratching the surface.

Paul Krause retired as the NFL’s all-time interceptions leader. Mel Renfro made 10 Pro Bowls. Bob Hayes brought Olympic speed to the Cowboys’ passing game, while Charley Taylor and Leroy Kelly piled up yards and awards.

The odds of one draft producing this many gold jackets again? Slim. Even the much-hyped modern classes - loaded with talent but with the added social media buzz – haven’t matched that hit rate, let alone the longevity.

So if you’re wondering what the greatest NFL Draft class ever looks like, stop scrolling. It happened in 1964, without fanfare, cell phones, or televised war rooms. Just pure football greatness.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.