The Best Fourth-Round NFL Draft Picks of All Time

The fourth round of the NFL Draft is often where hidden gems emerge — players who defy expectations to become legends.

Here, we celebrate the 15 greatest fourth-round picks in NFL history, a testament to the scouting process and the relentless determination of these athletes.

1. Steve Largent (WR, 1976, Houston Oilers)

Initially drafted by the Oilers, Steve Largent found his home with the Seattle Seahawks and became one of the most reliable wide receivers in NFL history. A seven-time Pro Bowler and Hall of Famer, Largent retired as the NFL’s all-time leader in receptions, yards, and touchdowns.

2. Cris Carter (WR, 1987, Philadelphia Eagles)

While his early career had its challenges, Cris Carter flourished with the Minnesota Vikings. Known for his impeccable hands and route running, Carter earned eight Pro Bowl selections and became one of the league’s all-time greats, culminating in a Hall of Fame induction.

3. Jerry Kramer (OG, 1958, Green Bay Packers)

An integral part of Vince Lombardi’s Packers dynasty, Jerry Kramer was known for his athleticism and key blocks, particularly in the iconic Ice Bowl. A five-time All-Pro and Hall of Famer, Kramer also authored several insightful books about life in the NFL.

4. Charles Haley (DE/LB, 1986, San Francisco 49ers)

Charles Haley is the only player in NFL history to win five Super Bowl rings. His dominance as a pass rusher for both the 49ers and Dallas Cowboys earned him a Hall of Fame nod, with 100.5 career sacks to his name.

5. Jared Allen (DE, 2004, Kansas City Chiefs)

With a motor that never quit, Jared Allen terrorized quarterbacks throughout his career, amassing 136 sacks. A five-time Pro Bowler and four-time All-Pro, Allen was a cornerstone for both the Chiefs and the Minnesota Vikings.

6. Harry Carson (LB, 1976, New York Giants)

A stalwart in the middle of the Giants’ defense, Harry Carson was a nine-time Pro Bowler and key figure in New York’s Super Bowl XXI championship. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2006, cementing his place among the NFL’s great linebackers.

7. Geno Atkins (DT, 2010, Cincinnati Bengals)

A disruptive force in the trenches, Geno Atkins has been selected to the Pro Bowl eight times and earned All-Pro honors twice. His ability to penetrate offensive lines and dominate the interior made him one of the best defensive tackles of his era.

8. Andre Reed (WR, 1985, Buffalo Bills)

Andre Reed played a crucial role in the Bills’ four consecutive Super Bowl appearances in the early ’90s. Known for his consistency and toughness, Reed’s 951 career receptions and Hall of Fame induction speak volumes about his impact.

9. Norm Van Brocklin (QB, 1949, Los Angeles Rams)

Nicknamed “The Dutchman,” Norm Van Brocklin was a pioneer of the passing game. A two-time NFL champion and nine-time Pro Bowler, he remains the only quarterback to throw for over 550 yards in a single game.

10. Asante Samuel (CB, 2003, New England Patriots)

Asante Samuel had a knack for making big plays in big moments. A four-time Pro Bowler and two-time Super Bowl champion, he led the NFL in interceptions twice and was a constant thorn in the side of opposing quarterbacks.

11. Cliff Branch (WR, 1972, Oakland Raiders)

A key component of the Raiders’ vertical passing game, Cliff Branch was a three-time Super Bowl champion and four-time Pro Bowler. Known for his blazing speed, Branch was one of the most dangerous deep threats of his era.

12. John Stallworth (WR, 1974, Pittsburgh Steelers)

Part of the legendary Steelers teams of the ‘70s, John Stallworth won four Super Bowls and was known for his clutch performances in big games. His smooth route running and strong hands earned him a place in the Hall of Fame.

13. Rich Gannon (QB, 1987, New England Patriots)

Though he started as a journeyman, Rich Gannon found his stride with the Oakland Raiders. He won the 2002 MVP and led the Raiders to a Super Bowl appearance, proving that perseverance pays off.

14. Stephen Davis (RB, 1996, Washington Redskins)

A bruising runner, Stephen Davis was the centerpiece of the Redskins’ offense in the late ’90s and early 2000s. He rushed for over 1,400 yards three times in his career and was a three-time Pro Bowler.

15. Dak Prescott (QB, 2016, Dallas Cowboys)

Taken as a developmental pick, Dak Prescott quickly proved his doubters wrong, winning Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2016. A three-time Pro Bowler, Prescott has become the leader of the Cowboys and one of the league’s top quarterbacks.

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