ESPN recently unveiled its All Quarter Century Team, honoring the best players in the NFL from the past 25 years. Among those recognized were former Washington Commanders players Bobby Wagner, Trent Williams, and Champ Bailey, who were lauded for their exceptional contributions to the game. Wagner, a standout linebacker, has consistently been one of the league’s top defenders, showcasing his prowess on the field year after year. Williams, a dominant offensive tackle, has been a force to be reckoned with, providing stellar protection for his quarterbacks. Bailey, a legendary cornerback, has left a lasting impact on the game with his impressive skills and playmaking abilities.
In addition to the Washington players, Bears legends Devin Hester and Brian Urlacher were also named to the prestigious team. Hester, known for his electrifying kick returns, revolutionized the special teams position, while Urlacher, a fearsome linebacker, anchored the Bears’ defense with his leadership and playmaking abilities. Both players were instrumental in their team’s success during their careers and have rightfully earned their spots on the All Quarter Century Team.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were well-represented on the list, with seven former players making the cut. From homegrown talent to acquired stars, the Buccaneers showcased the depth and talent of their roster over the years. Notable names like Tom Brady, Julio Jones, and Lavonte David were among those honored for their outstanding performances on the field.
The Pittsburgh Steelers also saw two of their former players, Alan Faneca and Troy Polamalu, make the All Quarter Century Team. Faneca, a dominant offensive lineman, and Polamalu, a dynamic safety, were key contributors to the Steelers’ success during their time with the team. Their inclusion on the team further solidifies their legacies as two of the greatest players in Steelers history.
Meanwhile, the Minnesota Vikings had an impressive showing on the All Quarter Century Team, with five former players making the cut. Standout players like Justin Jefferson, Randy Moss, and Jared Allen were recognized for their exceptional talent and impact on the game during their careers.
Not to be outdone, the Los Angeles Rams also had a few former players make the list, showcasing the talent and skill that has passed through their organization over the years. Players like Aaron Donald, Bobby Wagner, and Jalen Ramsey were among those honored for their contributions to the game.
While many players were rightfully recognized for their accomplishments, there were some notable snubs as well. Steelers defensive tackle Cam Heyward, in particular, had a humorous response to being left off the starting lineup, showing his lighthearted approach to the situation.
Overall, ESPN’s All Quarter Century Team serves as a testament to the incredible talent and impact that players have had on the NFL over the past 25 years. The list is a celebration of the best of the best, highlighting the skill, dedication, and passion that players bring to the game each and every season.
References:
– https://commanderswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/commanders/2025/06/19/washington-commanders-bobby-wagner-trent-williams-champ-bailey-all-quarter-century-team/84270344007/
– https://bearswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/bears/2025/06/19/bears-devin-hester-brian-urlacher-nfl-all-quarter-century-team/84273110007/
– https://bucswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/buccaneers/2025/06/19/former-bucs-espn-quarter-century-team-tom-brady-julio-jones-lavonte-david/84270040007/
– https://steelerswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/steelers/2025/06/19/former-steelers-alan-faneca-troy-polamalu-named-espn-all-quarter-century-team/84272988007/
– https://vikingswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/vikings/2025/06/19/former-vikings-espn-quarter-century-team-justin-jefferson-randy-moss-jared-allen/84269826007/
– https://theramswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/rams/2025/06/19/nfl-best-players-2000-rams-donald-wagner-ramsey-all-quarter-century/84273076007/
– https://steelerswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/steelers/2025/06/19/steelers-cam-heyward-all-quarter-century-team-espn/84277074007/
