Not as recognized as more recent receivers, Roy Green was still a great player.
While Green isn’t as well-known as some of the receivers that will come later on this list, he was very good for a long time. Drafted in 1979, he didn’t contribute much until his third season, but from that point on, he was a dependable playmaker.
Green’s best season was in 1984, when he had 78 receptions for 1,555 yards (which led the league), and 12 touchdowns. It was his second straight year with double digit scores, having led the league with 14 the previous season. From 1981 until his final season with the franchise, he averaged 52 catches, 848 yards, and seven touchdowns. He also returned both a kickoff and a punt for touchdowns during his career.
Though he isn’t well-remembered today, Green was one of the best receivers in franchise history. He’s second in team history in yards receiving, second in touchdown catches, and fourth in receptions. He made two Pro Bowl appearances and a first-team All Pro twice as well, and was recently inducted into the Cardinals Ring of Honor, a place he most certainly deserves.