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Top 10 Philadelphia Eagles Players of All Time

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LIne of Philadelphia Eagles helmets representing the Top 10 Philadelphia Eagles Players of All Time.

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The Top 10 Philadelphia Eagles Players of All Time: Legends Who Defined the Franchise

When you think about the top 10 Philadelphia Eagles players of all time, you’re engaging with a legacy that includes legends like Chuck Bednarik and Reggie White, whose defensive prowess became the stuff of NFL lore. And then there’s Donovan McNabb, whose leadership redefined the quarterback role for the Eagles.

Yet, how do you balance the grit of Brian Dawkins with the enduring impact of Steve Van Buren? As you explore this list, consider what truly sets these athletes apart and who among them deserves the title of the greatest Eagle. Your perspective just might change the order of this iconic line-up.

#1: Chuck Bednarik

  • Years Played for Philadelphia Eagles: 1949-1962
  • Position: Linebacker/Center
  • Height/Weight: 6’3″ / 233 lbs
Profile image of legendary Eagles player Chuck Bednarik on the field.
Jan 15, 1961; Los Angeles, CA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Philadelphia Eagles linebacker/center (60) CHUCK BEDNARIK on the bench during the 1961 Pro Bowl at Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: David Boss-USA TODAY Sports © Copyright David Boss

Chuck Bednarik, known as “Concrete Charlie,” left an indelible mark on the Philadelphia Eagles with his unparalleled toughness and versatility.

Playing both linebacker and center, Bednarik was the NFL’s last full-time two-way player. His physical dominance and relentless energy defined an era of grit in the league.

A key moment in his career was his legendary open-field tackle of Frank Gifford in 1960, showcasing his defensive prowess. Bednarik’s leadership and fortitude helped guide the Eagles to two NFL Championships.

His legacy endures as a symbol of the golden age of football and fierce competitiveness.

  • Accolades:
  • 2× NFL Champion (1949, 1960)
  • 8× Pro Bowl selection
  • 10× First-team All-Pro
  • Member of the NFL 75th and 100th Anniversary All-Time Teams
  • Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1967)

#2: Reggie White

  • Years Played for the Philadelphia Eagles: 1985-1992
  • Position: Defensive End
  • Height/Weight: 6’5″, 291 lbs
Portrait of Reggie White wearing his Eagles jersey on the field.
Nov 18, 1990; Atlanta, GA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Reggie White (92) during the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Fulton County Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports

Reggie White, known as “The Minister of Defense,” was a dominant force for the Philadelphia Eagles, making a significant impact during his eight seasons with the team.

With his imposing size and strength, White revolutionized the defensive end position with his relentless pursuit of quarterbacks and ball carriers. He was instrumental in the Eagles’ defense during the late 1980s and early 1990s, leading the NFL in sacks in 1987 and 1988.

His aggressive playing style and ability to change the course of a game made him a legendary figure in Philadelphia Eagles history, leaving a lasting legacy long after his departure.

  • Accolades:
  • Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (2006)
  • 6-time Pro Bowl selection with the Eagles (1986-1991)
  • 5-time First-team All-Pro with the Eagles (1986-1990)
  • NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1987)
  • Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame inductee

#3: Brian Dawkins

  • Years Played for the Eagles: 1996-2008
  • Position: Safety
  • Height/Weight: 6’0″, 210 lbs
Brian Dawkins speaking at the Hall of Fame podium with his bust.
Aug 4, 2018; Canton, OH, USA; Philadelphia Eagles and Denver Broncos former safety Brian Dawkins speaks during the Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony at Tom Bensen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Brian Dawkins, affectionately known as “Weapon X,” was a cornerstone of the Philadelphia Eagles‘ defense throughout his 13-year tenure with the team. A player renowned for his fierce playing style and emotional leadership, Dawkins became the heart and soul of the Eagles.

His aggressive approach to the game made him a feared safety, capable of both punishing hits and adept coverage. Dawkins’ intensity extended beyond physicality, often rallying teammates and fans with his passionate displays.

He was a key figure during the Eagles’ consistent playoff runs in the early 2000s and left a lasting legacy that embodies the spirit of Philadelphia football.

  • Accolades:
  • 9x Pro Bowl Selection (1999, 2001-2002, 2004-2006, 2008-2009)
  • 4x First-team All-Pro (2001, 2002, 2004, 2006)
  • NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
  • Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame
  • Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2018)
  • 1,131 total tackles, 37 interceptions, and 26 sacks in career

#4: Steve Van Buren

  • Years Played for Philadelphia Eagles: 1944-1951
  • Position: Running Back
  • Height/Weight: 6’0″, 200 lbs
Artistic mural image of Steve Van Buren on a fence.
July 23, 2012; Bethlehem, PA. USA; A picture of former Philadelphia Eagles player Steve Van Buren appears outside the facility at Lehigh University. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

A forceful presence on the gridiron, Steve Van Buren was a dominant running back for the Philadelphia Eagles during the 1940s. Known for his exceptional speed and strength, he played a pivotal role in transforming the Eagles into a formidable team.

Van Buren’s playing style was characterized by his powerful runs and ability to break through defenses, making him one of the most feared runners of his era. Key moments of his career include leading the Eagles to back-to-back NFL Championships in 1948 and 1949, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in franchise history.

  • Accolades:
  • Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (Class of 1965)
  • 4-time NFL Rushing Yards Leader
  • 5-time First-team All-Pro
  • NFL 1940s All-Decade Team
  • Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame Member

#5: Donovan McNabb

  • Years Played for Team: 1999-2009
  • Position: Quarterback
  • Height/Weight: 6’2″ / 240 lbs
Donovan McNabb throwing a pass during a game against the Cowboys.
Jan 9, 2010; Arlington, TX, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb (5) is chased by Dallas Cowboys linebacker DeMarcus Ware (94) during the second half of the 2010 NFC wild card playoff game at Cowboys Stadium. The Cowboys defeated the Eagles 34-14. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

Donovan McNabb was a transformative figure for the Philadelphia Eagles, leading the team as their quarterback for over a decade. Known for his exceptional arm strength and ability to extend plays with his legs, McNabb brought a dual-threat capability that revitalized the Eagles’ offense.

His leadership helped guide the team to multiple NFC Championship games and a Super Bowl appearance in the 2004 season. McNabb wasn’t only the team’s offensive engine but also a community leader, endearing himself to fans with his charismatic personality.

His legacy remains as one of the greatest quarterbacks in franchise history.

  • Accolades:
  • 6-time Pro Bowl selection
  • NFC Player of the Year (2004)
  • Eagles’ all-time leader in pass attempts, completions, and passing touchdowns
  • Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame inductee

#6: Tommy McDonald

  • Years played for the team: 1957–1963
  • Position: Wide Receiver
  • Height/Weight: 5’9″, 178 lbs
Tommy McDonald giving a thumbs up in an Eagles jersey at a game event.
Sep 12, 2010; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Tommy McDonald gives a thumbs up to the camera after a ceremony honoring the 1960 NFL Championship team at halftime of the game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Green Bay Packers at Lincoln Financial Field. The Packers defeated the Eagles 27-20. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

Tommy McDonald was a key offensive weapon for the Philadelphia Eagles during his seven-year tenure with the team. Renowned for his speed and elusiveness, McDonald was a dynamic wide receiver known for making difficult catches look effortless.

Standing at just 5’9″, he played with a chip on his shoulder, often outmatching taller defenders with his quickness and agility. His most memorable moment came when he helped the Eagles secure the 1960 NFL Championship.

McDonald’s impact extended beyond the field, as he played a critical role in evolving the wide receiver position in the NFL. His energy and enthusiasm left a lasting legacy with the Eagles.

  • Accolades:
  • Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (1998)
  • 3× First-team All-Pro (1959-1961)
  • 5× Pro Bowl selection (1958-1962)
  • NFL receiving touchdowns leader (1958)
  • Member of the NFL 1950s All-Decade Team

#7: Harold Carmichael

  • Years played for the Philadelphia Eagles: 1971-1983
  • Position: Wide Receiver
  • Height/Weight: 6’8″, 225 lbs
Harold Carmichael at his Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
Aug 7, 2021; Canton, Ohio, USA; Class of 2020 member Harold Carmichael kisses his bust during the Professional Football HOF enshrinement ceremonies at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Harold Carmichael made an indelible mark on the Philadelphia Eagles with his towering height and exceptional skillset. Despite being initially drafted as a tight end, he found his true calling as a wide receiver.

His powerful presence and agility enabled him to dominate the field, becoming a reliable target for bustling plays and essential touchdowns. Carmichael’s consistency helped propel the Eagles to their first Super Bowl appearance in 1980.

His career was characterized by an impressive ability to adapt, becoming a key player in the NFL during the 1970s and early 1980s, cementing his legacy as one of the Eagles’ greats.

  • Accolades:
  • Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020
  • Four-time NFL Pro Bowler (1973, 1978, 1979, 1980)
  • Named to the NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
  • Led the NFL in receptions and receiving yards in 1973
  • Retired as the Eagles’ all-time leader in career receiving yards and receptions

#8: Eric Allen

  • Years Played for Eagles: 1988-1994
  • Position: Cornerback
  • Height/Weight: 5’10”, 180 lbs
Eric Allen poised in a defensive stance wearing his Eagles jersey.
Eric Allen, CB – 1988-1994 Philadelphia Eagles, 1995-97 New Orleans Saints, 1998-2001 Oakland Raiders
Xxx Eric Allen Zx30538 Jpg S Fbn Dc

Eric Allen is celebrated as one of the Philadelphia Eagles’ premier cornerbacks, known for his agility, intelligence, and tenacious defensive presence. During his seven seasons with the team, Allen became a staple of the Eagles’ formidable defense, particularly under the guidance of defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan.

His exceptional skill in interceptions and knack for reading plays made him a top-threat defender, allowing the Eagles to consistently shut down opposing offenses. Allen’s key moments include several game-saving interceptions and consistent Pro Bowl-level performances, solidifying his place in Eagles history as one of their best defensive players.

  • Accolades:
  • 6× Pro Bowl selections (1989-1995)
  • 3× First-team All-Pro (1989, 1991, 1993)
  • Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame Inductee
  • Total Interceptions with the Eagles: 34

#9: Pete Pihos

  • Years Played for Team: 1947-1955
  • Position: End
  • Height/Weight: 6’1″, 210 lbs

Pete Pihos, an integral force for the Philadelphia Eagles, played a significant role during the team’s golden era in the late 1940s and early 1950s. Known for his exceptional versatility, Pihos excelled at both offense and defense.

As a tight end, he was a powerhouse in receiving, while his speed and strength made him equally formidable on defense. Pihos was essential in leading the Eagles to back-to-back NFL Championships in 1948 and 1949.

His consistency and performance on the field earned him a permanent legacy as one of the game’s early greats, setting a standard for future generations.

  • Accolades:
  • Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1970)
  • Six-time Pro Bowl selection
  • Five-time First-team All-Pro
  • NFL receiving yards leader (1953, 1955)
  • NFL receiving touchdowns leader (1953)

#10: Jason Kelce

  • Years Played for Team: 2011-present
  • Position: Center
  • Height/Weight: 6’3″ / 295 lbs
Close-up shot of Jason Kelce in his Eagles uniform and helmet.
Jan 15, 2024; Tampa, Florida, USA; Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce (62) looks on during warm ups a 2024 NFC wild card game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

Jason Kelce has been a cornerstone of the Philadelphia Eagles‘ offensive line since being drafted in the sixth round of the 2011 NFL Draft. Known for his agility and intelligence, Kelce’s playing style combines technical mastery with raw tenacity.

His ability to lead and call out defensive formations has been instrumental in the Eagles’ offensive success, including their iconic Super Bowl LII victory. Renowned for his quick footwork and relentless drive, Kelce isn’t only a fan favorite but a respected leader in the locker room, leaving a lasting legacy marked by consistency and excellence.

  • Accolades:
  • Super Bowl LII Champion (2018)
  • 6× Pro Bowl selections
  • 5× First-team All-Pro selections
  • Eagles’ record for most consecutive starts by an offensive lineman
  • Inducted into the Eagles Hall of Fame (Future consideration)

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Reece Lightner

Reece Lightner is a Philly-born sports writer with a Journalism degree from Penn State and a background in PR and NBA scouting. He founded Sortie Sports to fuel debates through bold, SEO-driven player rankings and lists
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