Top 10 White Long Snappers of All Time: The Unsung Specialists in NFL History
The greatest white long snappers in NFL history are defined by precision, consistency, and durability – qualities often unnoticed by fans. Patrick Mannelly’s unmatched reliability and Jon Dorenbos’ flair for performance exemplify excellence in this specialized role.
David Binn’s impressive longevity further showcases the grit required to succeed as a long snapper. Behind these standout names lies a legacy of quiet mastery and endurance in a position that rarely earns recognition. So, who earns the top spot among the Top 10 White Long Snappers of All Time?
Table of Contents
#1. Patrick Mannelly
- Position: Long Snapper
- Height/Weight: 6’5″/265 lbs
- Teams: Chicago Bears (1998-2013)
Patrick Mannelly was a model of consistency and dedication throughout his 16-year career with the Chicago Bears, setting the record for the most games played in the team’s storied history. As a long snapper, Mannelly’s precision and reliability were pivotal in special teams success, contributing to countless field goal attempts and punts under a variety of challenging conditions.
This site uses affiliate links. We may earn a commission when you click at no cost to you.
His calm demeanor and leadership qualities made him a respected figure in the locker room. Mannelly’s work ethic and technical skill set a standard in the NFL, influencing future generations of long snappers.
- Accolades:
- NFL record for most seasons played by a long snapper with a single team
- Recipient of the Ed Block Courage Award (2008)
- Named to the All-Rookie Team (1998)
#2. Jon Dorenbos
- Position: Long Snapper
- Height/Weight: 6’0″, 250 lbs
- Teams: Buffalo Bills (2003 – 2004), Tennessee Titans (2005-2006), Philadelphia Eagles (2006-2016)
Jon Dorenbos served as an essential component of the Philadelphia Eagles‘ special teams for over a decade. Renowned for his precision and reliability in the long snapping position, Dorenbos exemplified consistency and dependability, becoming a fan favorite due to his engaging personality and resilience.
His playing style was efficient and meticulous, which minimized mistakes and contributed notably to the success of the Eagles’ kicking unit.
Dorenbos also became known for his off-field talent as a magician, enchanting audiences with his performances. His legacy with the Eagles extends beyond the field, as he left a lasting impression as both a player and person.
- Accolades:
- Selected for the Pro Bowl in 2009 and 2014
- Played 162 consecutive regular-season games for the Eagles
- Inducted into the Eagles’ Hall of Fame
#3. David Binn
- Position: Long Snapper
- Height/Weight: 6’6″, 252 lbs
- Teams: San Diego Chargers (1994–2010), Denver Broncos (2011)
David Binn did more than just snap the ball for the San Diego Chargers; he became a fixture on the team’s special teams unit. Over a career that spanned 17 seasons, Binn was a model of consistency and reliability, playing in 179 consecutive games at one point.
His precise long snapping helped secure numerous successful kicks and punts.
Binn’s exceptional blocking and snapping abilities were complemented by his incredible durability, as he rarely missed a game. His professionalism and dedication made him a respected figure in the locker room and a fan favorite, marking him as one of the most dependable long snappers in NFL history.
- Accolades:
- Pro Bowl selection (2006)
- San Diego Chargers 50th Anniversary Team
- Holds record for most games played as a Charger (256 games)
#4. Trey Junkin
- Position: Long Snapper/Tight End
- Height/Weight: 6’2″ / 250 lbs
- Teams: Buffalo Bills (1983-1984), Washington Redskins (1984), Los Angeles Raiders (1985-1989), Seattle Seahawks (1990-1995), Oakland Raiders (1996), Arizona Cardinals (1996-2001), New York Giants (2002)
Trey Junkin was a reliable and versatile player known for his longevity and consistency in the NFL. Over his 19-year career, Junkin played for several teams, including the Buffalo Bills, Washington Redskins, New York Giants, and Oakland Raiders.
As a long snapper, Junkin’s pinpoint accuracy and dependability made him a valued team player.
Although primarily a long snapper, he occasionally played as a tight end, showcasing his adaptability. One of his most memorable moments came during a controversial long snap in the 2002 NFC Wild Card game while playing with the New York Giants, a reflection of his importance in critical situations.
- Accolades:
- Played in 281 NFL games
- Known for durability, missing only a handful of games in his career
#5. Kendall Gammon
- Position: Long Snapper
- Height/Weight: 6’4″, 250 lbs
- Teams: Pittsburgh Steelers (1992-1995), New Orleans Saints (1996-1999), Kansas City Chiefs (2000-2006)
Kendall Gammon carved out a unique niche as a long snapper with the Kansas City Chiefs, gaining recognition for his precision and dependability in special teams play. Known for his impressive ability to snap under pressure, Gammon became an integral part of the Chiefs’ success during his tenure.
Beyond his snapping duties, he occasionally contributed in other capacities on the field, showcasing his versatility and commitment to the team.
His playing style was defined by exemplary consistency and durability, allowing him to play in the NFL for 15 seasons. Gammon’s legacy is marked by his professionalism and a Pro Bowl selection, establishing him as one of the best long snappers of his time.
- Accolades:
- Pro Bowl Selection (2004)
- Played in 218 consecutive games throughout his NFL career
#6. Brian Jennings
- Position: Long snapper
- Height/Weight: 6’5″, 242 lbs
- Teams: San Francisco 49ers (2000-2012)
Brian Jennings was a steadfast presence for the San Francisco 49ers over his 13-year career, exclusively as their long snapper. Known for his meticulous accuracy and consistency, Jennings was a lynchpin for the special teams unit.
His reliability in snapping for punts and field goals contributed greatly to the team’s success during his tenure.
Jennings’ strong game awareness and ability to remain virtually error-free in high-pressure situations made him invaluable. Among the highlights of his career were his contributions to the 49ers’ playoff runs in the early 2000s and the NFC Championship appearance in 2011.
- Accolades:
- 2-time Pro Bowl selection (2004, 2011)
- Total games played: 208
- Played in 12 playoff games
- Integral part of a special teams unit that consistently ranked highly in NFL special teams categories
#7. Don Muhlbach
- Position: Long snapper
- Height/Weight: 6’4″, 258 lbs
- Teams: Detroit Lions (2004-2020)
Don Muhlbach is well-regarded as one of the most reliable long snappers in NFL history, spending his entire career with the Detroit Lions from 2004 to 2020. Known for his consistency and precision, Muhlbach was an essential part of the special teams unit, contributing to the success of punters and kickers alike.
This site uses affiliate links. We may earn a commission when you click at no cost to you.
His calm demeanor and professional attitude endeared him to coaches and teammates, earning him the nickname “Old Mule.” Throughout his tenure, he became a respected leader in the locker room and a fan favorite. His durability and skill led to a remarkable career longevity uncommon at his position.
- Accolades:
- Two-time Pro Bowl selection (2012, 2018)
- Third-most games played in Lions history
- Part of over 2020 special teams plays
#8. Clark Harris
- Position: Long Snapper
- Height/Weight: 6’5″/250 lbs
- Teams: Houston Texans (2008-2009), Cincinnati Bengals (2009-2022)
Clark Harris has been a mainstay at the long snapper position for the Cincinnati Bengals since 2009. Known for his consistency and reliability, Harris’s performance has guaranteed stability in the Bengals’ special teams unit.
His tall stature and strong build have allowed him to execute snaps with precision and speed, earning the trust of his coaches and teammates.
One of his key moments was during the Bengals’ playoff runs, where his consistency contributed to maintaining momentum in critical games. An underappreciated position, Harris’s stellar tenure has left a lasting legacy at the special teams unit in Cincinnati.
This site uses affiliate links. We may earn a commission when you click at no cost to you.
- Accolades:
- Pro Bowl Selection: 2017
- Played in over 200 consecutive games
- Consistent long snapper during Bengals’ playoff appearances
#9. Zak DeOssie
- Position: Long snapper
- Height/Weight: 6’4″/249 lbs
- Teams: New Giants (2007–2019)
Zak DeOssie served as the New York Giants‘ long snapper for over a decade, becoming an integral part of their special teams unit. Known for his consistency and reliability, DeOssie was a key figure in the Giants’ success, especially during their two Super Bowl victories in the 2007 and 2011 seasons.
His leadership extended beyond the field as he took on the role of special teams captain, setting a high standard for professionalism and performance. DeOssie’s legacy is marked not only by his technical skills but also by his commitment to the team and his role in significant playoff moments.
- Accolades:
- 2× Pro Bowl selection (2008, 2010)
- 2× Super Bowl Champion (XLII, XLVI)
- Consistent starter throughout his career with the Giants
#10. Greg Warren
- Position: Long Snapper
- Height/Weight: 6’3″, 252 lbs
- Teams: Pittsburgh Steelers (2005-2016)
Greg Warren was a steadfast presence for the Pittsburgh Steelers, serving as their dedicated long snapper for 12 seasons. Known for his consistency and reliability, Warren was a vital yet unsung component of the Steelers’ special teams unit.
His steadiness allowed the team’s kickers to perform with confidence, contributing to the Steelers’ successful run during the late 2000s and early 2010s, including two Super Bowl victories. Warren’s career was characterized by his meticulous preparation and unerring precision, establishing him as a fan favorite and a highly respected figure in the locker room.
- Accolades:
- 2× Super Bowl Champion (XL, XLIII)
- Played in 181 games without a botched snap
- Key contributor to one of the NFL’s strongest special teams units
