The Best 4th Round Draft Picks of All Time

The NFL Draft is an annual spectacle where teams seek to find talent that can turn their fortunes around or cement their dynasty status. While the first few rounds often get the most attention, the fourth round has produced some of the most impactful players in league history. Here's a look at some of the best fourth-round draft picks ever, players who defied expectations and left an indelible mark on the game.

Art Donovan - Defensive Tackle (1950 Draft, New York Giants)

Art Donovan, selected in the 1950 NFL Draft by the Giants, became one of the most memorable figures in football history. After a brief stint with the Giants, Donovan found his home with the Baltimore Colts. Known for his larger-than-life personality and his on-field dominance, he earned five Pro Bowl selections and five First-Team All-Pro honors. His contributions helped the Colts win two NFL Championships, and he was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1968. Donovan's story is one of resilience and excellence, proving that a fourth-round pick could become a cornerstone of a franchise.

John Stallworth - Wide Receiver (1974 Draft, Pittsburgh Steelers)

Part of the legendary 1974 Steelers draft class, John Stallworth was the 82nd overall pick. His career was nothing short of spectacular, including four Super Bowl victories, three Pro Bowl appearances, and over 1,000 receiving yards in three seasons. Stallworth was a deep threat for Terry Bradshaw, averaging 16.2 yards per reception over his career. His contributions were vital in establishing the Steelers' dynasty in the 1970s, and he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002.

Cliff Branch - Wide Receiver (1972 Draft, Oakland Raiders)

Cliff Branch, selected by the Raiders, became one of the most dynamic receivers of his era. Over his 14-year career, all with Oakland, Branch was instrumental in three Super Bowl wins. His speed and route-running were unparalleled, averaging 20 yards per reception from 1974 to 1976, numbers that were astonishing for the time. Branch was posthumously inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2022, highlighting his significant impact on the game.

Charles Haley - Defensive End/Linebacker (1986 Draft, San Francisco 49ers)

Charles Haley was picked by the 49ers and went on to become one of the most feared pass rushers in NFL history. Unique in his achievement, Haley is the only player to win five Super Bowls, playing a key role in the 49ers' and later the Cowboys' victories. His 100.5 career sacks and 26 forced fumbles led to his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2015. Haley's versatility and relentless pressure off the edge redefined the linebacker and defensive end positions.

Steve Largent - Wide Receiver (1976 Draft, Houston Oilers)

Initially drafted by the Oilers but traded to the Seattle Seahawks, Steve Largent became the franchise's first true star. With seven Pro Bowls during his 14-year career, Largent set numerous receiving records at the time of his retirement, including the most consecutive games with a catch and leading the NFL in receptions. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1995 underscored his status as one of the greatest receivers in league history.

Jared Allen - Defensive End (2004 Draft, Kansas City Chiefs)

Jared Allen's journey from Idaho State to NFL stardom is a testament to finding gems in later rounds. With the Chiefs and later the Minnesota Vikings, Allen established himself as one of the premier pass rushers, leading the NFL in sacks twice and earning five Pro Bowl nods. His 136 career sacks rank him among the all-time greats, proving his worth far beyond his draft position.

Harry Carson - Linebacker (1976 Draft, New York Giants)

Harry Carson was pivotal in anchoring one of the most formidable defenses in the 1980s with the Giants. His nine Pro Bowl selections and his role in the team's first Super Bowl victory in 1987 highlight his career. Carson's leadership and play-making ability earned him a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006. His impact wasn't just in tackles or sacks but in how he transformed the linebacker position with his intelligence and athleticism.

Joe Theismann - Quarterback (1971 Draft, Miami Dolphins)

Although initially drafted by the Dolphins, Joe Theismann's career took off with the Washington Redskins. Winning the NFL MVP in 1983, leading the team to two Super Bowls, and clinching one victory, Theismann's path to success was not typical. His story is a compelling one of patience, development, and eventual stardom from an unexpected draft spot.

Morten Andersen - Kicker (1982 Draft, New Orleans Saints)

Morten Andersen's longevity and consistency make him one of the best draft steals ever. Over a 25-year career, he became the NFL's all-time leading scorer (surpassed later by Adam Vinatieri) and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2017. His selection by the Saints in the fourth round was a masterstroke, providing them with one of the most reliable kickers in football history.

Cris Carter - Wide Receiver (1987 Draft, Philadelphia Eagles)

Cris Carter's career began with the Eagles but truly took off after moving to the Minnesota Vikings. Known for his route precision and clutch receptions, Carter's eight Pro Bowl selections and 130 touchdown receptions mark him as one of the best receivers of his era. His story of overcoming early career setbacks to achieve Hall of Fame status (2013) is inspiring for any late-round draft pick.

The fourth round of the NFL Draft has proven time and again to be a goldmine for teams willing to look beyond the initial glamour picks. The players listed above are not just great athletes; they are success stories of scouting acumen, player development, and sometimes, a bit of luck. These individuals have shown that where you're drafted can often be less important than what you do with the opportunity once you get it. Their legacies remind us that every pick, regardless of round, holds the potential for greatness.