Sports Illustrated Ranks Best Players Per Jersey Number

Sports Illustrated's Richard Deitsch took on the daunting task of ranking the best players per jersey number. Deitsch declared that the #12 oozed with the most star power with players like Terry Bradshaw, Tom Brady, Jim Kelly, Joe Namath, Ken Stabler and Roger Staubach. Any guesses on the best player to wear #4? Boomer Esiason wasn't even mentioned amongst the group of "7", even taking second-fiddle to Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. So the Super Bowl must mean something. Then again, Michael Vick was worthy of consideration whereas alas, Boomer is not.

Even though Kenny Anderson was worthy of consideration, Browns quarterback Otto Graham took champion of those wearing #14. I guess winning 10 straight title games, including three NFL Championships is pretty impressive, as is being on the list twice for wearing #60 as well. Then again, he did have one of the most legendary and innovative coaches in the history of the game. The same guy whose named after Cincinnati's stadium. Just saying.

Cris Collinsworth (#80), Max Montoya (#65) and Chad Ochocinco (#85) were mentioned.

Two Bengals did eventually make the list. Former defensive tackle Tim Krumrie, who beat out Jared Allen and Mark Schlereth, and Anthony Munoz, beating Bruce Armstrong, Jackie Slater, Bruce Smith, Bubba Smith and God.