Top 10 Miami Dolphins of All Time: Celebrating the Legends of South Florida Football
The Miami Dolphins have a rich history filled with legendary players who defined the franchise. Think of Dan Marino slinging perfect passes or Larry Csonka bulldozing through defenders, setting the standard for greatness. But it’s not just about the offense—icons like Jason Taylor and Nick Buoniconti made their mark with game-changing defensive plays.
These athletes’ unique contributions and unforgettable moments have solidified their place in history. Are these the names that truly represent the Top 10 Miami Dolphins of All Time, or is there someone missing from the list? Let’s take a closer look at what makes them legends.
Table of Contents
1. Dan Marino
- Years Played for Team: 1983-1999
- Position: Quarterback
- Height/Weight: 6’4″ / 228 lbs
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Dan Marino is widely celebrated as one of the most talented quarterbacks in NFL history, let alone in Miami Dolphins lore. Known for his strong arm, quick release, and impressive field vision, Marino revolutionized the passing game during his 17-year career with the Dolphins.
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He delivered numerous unforgettable moments, including his record-setting 1984 season when he threw for 5,084 yards and 48 touchdowns, which were records at the time. Despite never capturing a Super Bowl, Marino’s impact on the Dolphins franchise is unmatched, as he remains a symbol of their success and championship aspirations.
- Accolades:
- NFL Most Valuable Player (1984)
- 9× Pro Bowl selections
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100 All-Time Team
- Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2005)
- Miami Dolphins Ring of Honor
2. Larry Csonka
- Years Played for Team: 1968-1974, 1979
- Position: Fullback
- Height/Weight: 6’3″, 237 lbs
Larry Csonka, the bruising fullback for the Miami Dolphins, was the backbone of the team’s vaunted rushing attack during its golden era. Known for his punishing running style, Csonka had an innate ability to plow through defenders, providing a reliable offensive cornerstone.
His performance was pivotal in leading the Dolphins to three consecutive Super Bowl appearances, including the perfect season of 1972. Csonka’s intimidating physicality and relentless determination not only defined Miami’s offense but also left a lasting legacy as a standard for fullbacks in the NFL.
- Accolades:
- 2× Super Bowl Champion (VII, VIII)
- Super Bowl VIII MVP
- 5× Pro Bowl selection
- 1971 NFL Comeback Player of the Year
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987
3. Bob Griese
- Years Played for Team: 1967-1980
- Position: Quarterback
- Height/Weight: 6’1″, 190 lbs
Bob Griese was a pivotal figure in Miami Dolphins’ history, known for his strategic mind and leadership on the field. Playing the quarterback position, Griese was renowned for efficiently managing the game, orchestrating drives with poise, and leading the Dolphins to unprecedented success during his tenure.
A key moment in his illustrious career was leading Miami to back-to-back Super Bowl victories, including the perfect 1972 season—a feat unparalleled in NFL history. Griese’s playing style was characterized by precision and adaptability, making him a reliable cornerstone of the team’s offensive play. His legacy endures as one of the most celebrated quarterbacks in Dolphins’ history.
- Accolades:
- Two-time Super Bowl Champion (VII, VIII)
- Six-time Pro Bowl selection
- Five-time All-Pro selection
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990
- Led Dolphins to NFL’s only perfect season (1972)
4. Jason Taylor
- Years Played: 1997-2007, 2009, 2011
- Position: Defensive End
- Height/Weight: 6’6″, 244 lbs
Jason Taylor was an electrifying presence on the Miami Dolphins‘ defensive line, revered for his exceptional speed and agility. As a pass-rushing defensive end, Taylor wreaked havoc on opposing quarterbacks with his relentless pursuit and technical prowess.
Known for his durability and leadership, Taylor became a benchmark of consistency for Miami’s defense. One of the most memorable aspects of his career was his ability to create turnovers, often turning critical games in favor of the Dolphins.
Respected both as a player and a locker room presence, Taylor cemented his legacy as one of the NFL’s greats.
- Accolades:
- 6× Pro Bowl selection
- 3× First-team All-Pro
- 2006 NFL Defensive Player of the Year
- Miami Dolphins Honor Roll
- 2017 Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee
- 139.5 career sacks
5. Paul Warfield
- Years Played for Team: 1970–1974, 1976
- Position: Wide Receiver
- Height/Weight: 6’0″, 188 lbs
Paul Warfield brought finesse and an exceptional level of skill to the Miami Dolphins during his tenure. As a wide receiver, Warfield was renowned for his precise route running, soft hands, and explosive speed, which made him a significant asset in the Dolphins’ offense.
He was instrumental in the team’s success during the early 1970s, particularly in their historic 1972 undefeated season. Warfield’s ability to make substantial downfield plays and his knack for scoring critical touchdowns contributed to Miami’s dominance in the era.
His presence on the field not only boosted the team’s performance but also left a lasting impact on their offensive strategies.
- Accolades:
- Pro Football Hall of Fame Induction (1983)
- 2x Super Bowl Champion (VII, VIII)
- 5x Pro Bowl Selections with Miami Dolphins
- Led the NFL in receiving touchdowns (1971)
- Named to the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
6. Zach Thomas
- Years Played for Team: 1996-2007
- Position: Linebacker
- Height/Weight: 5’11”, 242 lbs
Zach Thomas, a relentless and highly intelligent linebacker, defined the Miami Dolphins’ defense for over a decade. Selected in the fifth round of the 1996 NFL Draft, Thomas quickly made an impact with his sharp instincts and ferocious tackling.
Despite being considered undersized for his position, his exceptional play recognition and discipline allowed him to become the heart of Miami’s defensive unit. Thomas was known for his intense preparation and tenacity on the field, qualities that earned him widespread respect and admiration throughout the league.
His leadership and consistent performance left a lasting legacy with the franchise.
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- Accolades:
- 7-time Pro Bowl selection
- 5-time First-team All-Pro
- Miami Dolphins Honor Roll inductee
- 1,734 tackles in career with Dolphins
- NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (1996)
7. Nick Buoniconti
- Years Played for Team: 1969-1976
- Position: Linebacker
- Height/Weight: 5’11″/220 lbs
Nick Buoniconti was a driving force in the Miami Dolphins’ dominant defense during the early 1970s. Renowned for his leadership and intelligence on the field, Buoniconti played a central role as the captain of the “No-Name Defense,” leading the team to consecutive Super Bowl victories in 1972 and 1973.
His unmatched ability to read the game and his relentless tackling made him a linchpin of the team. Buoniconti’s legacy was further cemented as he became a Pro Football Hall of Famer, embodying the grit and determination that defined the Dolphins’ golden era.
- Accolades:
- Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2001)
- Super Bowl Champion (VII, VIII)
- 5-time Pro Bowler with Miami Dolphins
- 3-time First-team All-Pro
- Member of the AFL All-Time Team
8. Mark Clayton
- Years Played for Team: 1983-1992
- Position: Wide Receiver
- Height/Weight: 5’9″ / 177 lbs
Mark Clayton was an electrifying wide receiver for the Miami Dolphins and a crucial component of their offensive unit during his decade-long tenure with the team. Known for his chemistry with fellow player Dan Marino, Clayton was a key weapon in the Dolphins’ passing game, utilizing his speed and precise route-running to outmaneuver defenders.
One of his most memorable moments was during the 1984 season, when he set an NFL record with 18 touchdown receptions. Clayton’s ability to make clutch plays contributed considerably to the Dolphins’ success, cementing his legacy as one of the franchise’s all-time greats.
- Accolades:
- 5× Pro Bowl selection (1984–1986, 1988, 1991)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1984, 1988, 1991)
- Dolphins’ franchise leader for single-season receiving touchdowns (1984)
- NFL receiving touchdowns leader (1984)
- Miami Dolphins Honor Roll inductee
9. Richmond Webb
- Years Played for Team: 1990-2000
- Position: Offensive Tackle
- Height/Weight: 6’6″, 325 lbs
Richmond Webb was a cornerstone of the Miami Dolphins‘ offensive line throughout the 1990s. Known for his remarkable durability and consistent performance, Webb started every game during his tenure with the Dolphins except for two.
His agile footwork and power were essential in protecting quarterback Dan Marino, allowing the Dolphins’ passing game to thrive.
Webb wasn’t only a dominant force on the field but also a respected leader in the locker room. His ability to neutralize some of the NFL’s most feared pass rushers set him apart and solidified his legacy within the organization.
- Accolades:
- 7× Pro Bowl selection (1990-1996)
- 2× First-Team All-Pro (1992, 1994)
- Miami Dolphins Honor Roll inductee
10. Dwight Stephenson
- Years Played for Team: 1980-1987
- Position: Center
- Height/Weight: 6’2″, 255 lbs
Dwight Stephenson is widely regarded as one of the greatest centers in NFL history and a cornerstone of the Miami Dolphins during the 1980s. His exceptional quickness, intelligence, and strength made him a formidable force on the offensive line.
Despite a career shortened by injury, Stephenson’s impact on the team was profound. He protected the likes of quarterback Dan Marino, allowing the offense to flourish. Known for his impeccable technique and leadership, he was instrumental in helping the Dolphins reach two Super Bowls.
His legacy as a dominant and reliable player endures among fans and peers alike.
- Accolades:
- 5× Pro Bowl selection (1983-1987)
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1984-1987)
- Two-time AFC Champion (1982, 1984)
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1998)
