Players in the rapid world of American football come in all different sizes and shapes. Every NFL position requires different physical characteristics, from massive linemen to adaptable cornerbacks.
Among these, height frequently has a big impact on a player’s ability to see over the line of play, block opponents, and reach for catches.
Let’s explore NFL players’ heights at different positions to find out which NFL position is the tallest on the field.
Which NFL position is the tallest?
Offensive linemen are the tallest football players in the NFL. Usually, they control other positions on the field.
Yet, Richard Sligh, who stood at an impressive 7 feet 2 inches, holds the record for being the tallest NFL player of all time. He was an NFL defensive tackle, and he continues to be honored as the greatest of all time.
At 6 feet 9 inches each, four athletes are currently the tallest players in the league and the most gifted athletes in terms of height.
These players are Roy Mbaeteka of the Chicago Bears, Alfredo Gutierrez of the San Francisco 49ers, Caleb Jones of the Green Bay Packers, and Dan Skipper of the Indianapolis Colts.
It is interesting to note that, at an impressive 6 feet 6 inches, Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert is currently the tallest NFL quarterback.
It is amazing to watch tall players contributing at different positions in the NFL, even though offensive linemen are typically the tallest players overall.
Read: How Many Hours Do NFL Players Workout a Day?
How tall is a normal NFL player?
In the NFL, there may not be a single standard for what constitutes a “normal” height because players vary widely in height depending on their position.
In all positions combined, the average NFL player is approximately 6 feet 2 inches (188.35 centimeters) tall. This exceeds the average male height of Americans by a significant margin (5 feet 9.1 inches).
It is necessary to remember that height changes with position. In fact, offensive linemen are typically the tallest, standing at an average of 6 feet 5 inches, while running backs are typically on the shorter side, standing at a height of 6 feet.
How tall is the shortest player in the NFL?
Jack Shapiro holds the record for being the shortest player in NFL history, standing a remarkable 5 feet 1 inch. Shapiro played for the Staten Island Stapletons in 1929 during his brief NFL career.
Shapiro himself claimed to have suited up for more games, but there is only official confirmation that he played in one.
Shapiro’s story shows how talent and willpower can overcome physical limitations in the NFL, even with his size.
Bottom Line
The NFL position has a wide range of height requirements for its various places, and each one has a different skill set.
While taller players may be more advantageous in some positions, skill, speed, and hard work are ultimately what matter most in football.
NFL players never stop impressing with their variety of skills and abilities, whether these are dominating the opposition or going against the trends.
