With the 2024 NFL season fast approaching in less than 100 days, the excitement builds as we spotlight the top Miami Dolphins players by jersey number, today focusing on number 61.
As we inch closer to kickoff, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on past greats who have donned the aqua and orange, particularly those who took the field wearing the number 61. We’ve reached a standout jersey in Dolphins history with a couple of notable players making a strong case for being the best to wear it.
The list of players at number 61 includes notable names like Jason Taylor, who impressed with number 99, and others leading up to Cameron Wake at 91 and Bob Kuechenberg at 67. All have shown exceptional talent and contribution in their corresponding numbers for the Dolphins.
Those who graced the gridiron in number 61 for the Dolphins include a variety of athletes from different eras:
- Guard Ernie Park (1966)
- Guard-Defensive Lineman Freddie Woodson (1967-69)
- Center Bob DeMarco (1970-71)
- Tackle Cleveland Green (1979)
- Guard Thom Dornbrook (1980)
- Guard Roy Foster (1982-90)
- Tackle Greg Cleveland (1987)
- Guard Gene Williams (1991-92)
- Center Tim Ruddy (1994-2003)
- Tackle J’Marcus Webb (2019)
- Center Austin Reiter (2021)
The competition for the top player at number 61 has been fiercely contested, primarily between Roy Foster and Tim Ruddy. Foster, who was drafted in the first round, proved his mettle across nine seasons and 132 games, with 95 starts and earning two trips to the Pro Bowl. On the other hand, Tim Ruddy, a stalwart on the offensive line, edged out with 156 appearances and 140 starts over his tenure, along with a Pro Bowl nod.
Additional consideration goes to Bob DeMarco who, despite being in the twilight of his career when he joined the Dolphins, provided veteran leadership and solid play at center before the emergence of Hall of Famer Jim Langer.
The top three Dolphins at number 61 are:
- Center Tim Ruddy
- Guard Roy Foster
- Center Bob DeMarco
While not the most star-studded NFL number, jersey 61 has seen its share of notable talents including Hall of Famers Curley Culp and Bill George, alongside others like Nat Newton and Jesse Sapolu. Both Ruddy and Foster are often highlighted as among the NFL’s top performers at this number, solidifying their legacies not just in Miami but across the league.