In football, there are few plays that can change the momentum like an interception. An interception happens when a defender catches a pass meant for the offense. As a result, the defense immediately takes possession and often shifts the momentum of the game. Paul Krause holds the record for the most interceptions in NFL history with 81 picks.
Photo Credit: Jeno’s, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Top 5 NFL Players with the Most Interceptions
Here are the top 5 players with the most interceptions in NFL history, representing a legacy of defensive dominance.
| Rank | Player | Interceptions |
| 1 | Paul Krause | 81 |
| 2 | Emlen Tunnell | 79 |
| 3 | Rod Woodson | 71 |
| 4 | Dick Lane | 68 |
| 5 | Ken Riley | 65 |
Paul Krause (81 Interceptions)
Career: 1964-1979
Teams: Washington Redskins, Minnesota Vikings
Paul Krause holds the record for the most interceptions in NFL history with a total of 81 picks. In his rookie year of 1964, he topped the league with 12 interceptions. Krause was known for his sharp instincts and his skill in reading quarterbacks which made him a standout player and a vital part of the Vikings’ famous “Purple People Eaters” defense.
Emlen Tunnell (79 Interceptions)
Career: 1948-1961
Teams: New York Giants, Green Bay Packers
Emlen Tunnell was a pioneer and one of the greatest safeties of all time. He recorded 79 interceptions which ranks as the second-highest in NFL history. In 1967, he made history by becoming the first African American to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He broke down barriers for future players and showed that defensive backs could be game-changers.
Rod Woodson (71 Interceptions)
Career: 1987-2003
Teams: Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, Baltimore Ravens, Oakland Raiders
Rod Woodson is considered one of the best defensive backs in history. He made 71 interceptions in his 17-year career, setting the NFL record with 12 pick-sixes and earning Defensive Player of the Year in 1993. He began as a top cornerback and later transitioned to safety. Moreover, Woodson was a threat when he had the football.
Dick Lane (68 Interceptions)
Career: 1952-1965
Teams: Los Angeles Rams, Chicago Cardinals, Detroit Lions
Dick Lane was one of the most intimidating defensive backs in history. He recorded 68 interceptions over a 14-year career. His rookie season in 1952 was remarkable as he set a record for the most interceptions in a single season with 14. Lane was famous for his aggressive playing style. As a result, the NFL eventually banned his infamous “Night Train Necktie” tackle.
Ken Riley (65 Interceptions)
Career: 1969-1983
Teams: Cincinnati Bengals
Ken Riley is often considered one of the most underrated ball hawks in NFL history. He played for 15 seasons and ended up with 65 interceptions. He was a college quarterback at Florida A&M. However, when the Bengals switched him to cornerback, it turned out to be a great decision. He led the team in interceptions seven times and still holds the franchise record.
