Top 20 Series. There are many ways in which a player's success in the NFL is measured. One of the most obvious is a comparison of statistics. Each week during the NFL's regular season Profootballhof.com featured updated Top 20 lists for four main statistical categories.
Here, thanks to the help of Elias Sports Bureau, is an expanded look at Top 20 leaders in multiple NFL statistical categories. Check out where today’s stars compare to NFL greats at the start of the 2013 NFL Season. | Return to Top 20 at the Start of 2013>>>
CAREER NOTES. Tight End Tony Gonzalez of the Atlanta Falcons added 93 receptions for 930 yards and eight touchdowns to his Hall of Fame resume during the 2012 season. He became the only player in NFL history with 15 consecutive 50-reception seasons.
Gonzalez is the leading receiver among active players and currently ranks second all-time.
2012 LEADER: Calvin Johnson, Detroit Lions (122 receptions)
SINGLE-SEASON NFL RECORD: Marvin Harrison, Indianapolis Colts (143 receptions in 2002)
Receptions (at start of 2013 NFL Season)
| 1 | Jerry Rice* | 1,549 |
| 2 | Tony Gonzales | 1,242 |
| 3 | Marvin Harrison | 1,102 |
| 4 | Cris Carter* | 1,101 |
| 5 | Tim Brown | 1,094 |
| 6 | Terrell Owens | 1,078 |
| 7 | Isaac Bruce | 1,024 |
| 8 | Hines Ward | 1,000 |
| 9 | Randy Moss | 982 |
| 10 | Reggie Wayne | 968 |
| 11 | Andre Reed | 951 |
| 12 | Derrick Mason | 943 |
| 13 | Art Monk* | 940 |
| 14 | Torry Holt | 920 |
| 15 | Keenan McCardell | 883 |
| 16 | Jimmy Smith | 862 |
| 17 | Muhsin Muhammad | 860 |
| 18 | Irving Fryar | 851 |
| 19 | Rod Smith | 849 |
| 20 | Larry Centers | 827 |
* Pro Football Hall of Fame member
Bold - players active during 2012 season
Top 20 lists courtesy of Elias Sports Bureau