In the NFL, an interception is when a defensive player catches a pass meant for the opposing team, often turning the tide of the game. These game-changing plays can shift momentum and create opportunities for a comeback. The Interception Leaders In NFL History have mastered this skill, consistently making plays that have secured victories for their teams.
Let’s see the Top 10 Interception Leaders In NFL History :
10. Dave Brown

Dave Brown rounded out the top 10 with 62 interceptions. His leadership and defensive intelligence on the field were crucial during his time with the New York Giants. Brown’s timely plays often shifted the momentum of games, earning him a respected place among the Interception Leaders In NFL History.
Team | Interception | Key Accomplishment |
---|---|---|
New York Giants | 62 | Distinguished for his leadership and defensive acumen |
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9. Darren Sharper
Darren Sharper consistently showcased his ability to steal the ball, registering 63 interceptions over his career. His performances with the Green Bay Packers were marked by his knack for disrupting offensive plays at critical moments, solidifying his reputation as one of the Interception Leaders In NFL History.
Team | Interception | Key Accomplishment |
---|---|---|
Green Bay Packers | 63 | Known for his consistent ball-stealing prowess |
8. Ronnie Lott

Ronnie Lott is celebrated for his tough, hard-hitting style and versatile defensive play. His 63 interceptions with the San Francisco 49ers are a testament to his ability to read the game and make game-changing plays. Lott’s fearless approach on the field has left an enduring legacy among the Interception Leaders In NFL History.
Team | Interception | Key Accomplishment |
---|---|---|
San Francisco 49ers | 63 | Celebrated for his hard-hitting, versatile play |
7. Ed Reed
Ed Reed’s ability to read the offense and make crucial interceptions is exemplified by his 64 interceptions with the Baltimore Ravens. His ball-hawking skills made him one of the most formidable safeties in the NFL, ensuring his status as one of the top Interception Leaders In NFL History.
Team | Interception | Key Accomplishment |
---|---|---|
Baltimore Ravens | 64 | Renowned for his extraordinary ball-hawking ability |
6. Charles Woodson

Charles Woodson’s career is distinguished by both his 65 interceptions and his unique achievement as the only primarily defensive player to win the Heisman Trophy. Playing for the Oakland Raiders, Woodson’s leadership and versatility made him an essential figure on the field and among the Interception Leaders In NFL History.
Team | Interception | Key Accomplishment |
---|---|---|
Oakland Raiders | 65 | Only primarily defensive player to win the Heisman Trophy |
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5. Ken Riley
Ken Riley amassed 65 interceptions during his career with the Cincinnati Bengals, demonstrating exceptional instincts and consistency. His record-setting performance with the Bengals has firmly placed him among the Interception Leaders In NFL History, serving as a benchmark for defensive excellence.
Team | Interception | Key Accomplishment |
---|---|---|
Cincinnati Bengals | 65 | Record-setting interception leader for the Bengals |
4. Dick Lane

Dick Lane recorded 68 interceptions with the Los Angeles Rams, earning a reputation for his exceptional coverage skills. His ability to neutralize top receivers and make clutch plays has solidified his place among the Interception Leaders In NFL History.
Team | Interception | Key Accomplishment |
---|---|---|
Los Angeles Rams | 68 | Known for his exceptional shutdown coverage |
3. Rod Woodson
Rod Woodson, with 71 interceptions, is recognized as one of the most versatile defensive players in NFL history. His career, particularly with the Pittsburgh Steelers, is highlighted by his game-changing plays and accolades, including the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award, placing him among the top Interception Leaders In NFL History.
Team | Interception | Key Accomplishment |
---|---|---|
Pittsburgh Steelers | 71 | 1999 NFL Defensive Player of the Year and Hall of Fame inductee |
2. Emlen Tunnell
Emlen Tunnell’s 79 interceptions not only rank him among the Interception Leaders In NFL History but also underscore his role as a pioneer in the game. Playing for the New York Giants, Tunnell broke racial barriers and became the first African-American inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, making a lasting impact both on and off the field.
Team | Interception | Key Accomplishment |
---|---|---|
New York Giants | 79 | First African-American inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame |
1. Paul Krause

Paul Krause tops the list with an unparalleled 81 interceptions, a record that still stands today. His remarkable career with the Minnesota Vikings is defined by his ability to consistently make game-changing plays. Krause’s exceptional performance on the field has established him as the ultimate benchmark among the Interception Leaders In NFL History.
Team | Interception | Key Accomplishment |
---|---|---|
Minnesota Vikings | 81 | Holds the NFL record for career interceptions |
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