Jerry Rice's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Jerry Rice. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Jerry Rice, a retired American football wide receiver, is widely considered the greatest ever in his position and one of the NFL's all-time best. Over a 20-year career, primarily with the San Francisco 49ers, he won three Super Bowls. His Pro Football Hall of Fame biography highlights his unmatched career totals. Rice's legacy is cemented by numerous records and accolades, including being named the greatest NFL player by NFL Films' 'The Top 100: NFL's Greatest Players' in 2010.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1983: Record-Setting Campaign

In 1983, Jerry Rice had a record-setting campaign, including NCAA marks for receptions (102) and receiving yards (1,450). He was named a first-team Division I-AA All-American.

1984: Senior Season Records

In 1984, during his senior year, Jerry Rice surpassed his own Division I-AA records for receiving yards (1,845) and receptions (112); his 27 touchdown receptions in the 1984 season set the NCAA record for every division. He finished ninth in Heisman Trophy balloting.

1986: Led the NFL in Receiving Yards and Touchdowns

In 1986, Jerry Rice led the NFL in both receiving yards (1,570) and touchdown receptions (15). He was also named to the Pro Bowl and First-team All-Pro teams.

1986: First Pro Bowl Selection

In 1986, Jerry Rice was selected to the Pro Bowl, marking the first of 13 Pro Bowl selections in his career.

1987: Record for Most Touchdowns in a Season

In 1987, Jerry Rice set the record for the most receiving touchdowns in a season, achieving 22 touchdowns in a twelve-game strike-shortened season.

1988: Won First Championship

In 1988, Jerry Rice won his first championship with the San Francisco 49ers.

1989: Won Second Championship

In 1989, Jerry Rice secured his second consecutive championship with the San Francisco 49ers.

1994: Won Third Super Bowl

In 1994, Jerry Rice won his third Super Bowl with the San Francisco 49ers and received his second Offensive Player of the Year Award.

1996: Pro Bowl Selection

In 1996, Jerry Rice was selected to the Pro Bowl.

1998: Pro Bowl Selection

In 1998, Jerry Rice was selected to the Pro Bowl.

1999: Stadium Renamed in Honor of Rice and Totten

In 1999, Magnolia Stadium was renamed Rice–Totten Stadium in honor of Jerry Rice and Willie Totten.

1999: Ranked Second Greatest Player

In 1999, The Sporting News ranked Jerry Rice as the second greatest football player, only behind Jim Brown, on its list of "Football's 100 Greatest Players".

2002: Last Pro Bowl Selection

In 2002, Jerry Rice was selected to his final Pro Bowl.

2006: Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame

In 2006, Jerry Rice was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, recognizing his outstanding college career.

2007: Inducted into Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame

In 2007, Jerry Rice was inducted into both the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame, honoring his contributions to sports in those regions.