Read the opposing arguments from Bleacher Fan and Loyal Homer.
Rod Woodson is an absolute beast. He is undeniably one of the greatest ball hawks in NFL history and the undisputed master of the pick-six. His game-changing ability is unmatched not just by any other defensive back, but by any other defensive player in NFL history, securing his legacy as the greatest DB of all time.
Although Rod Woodson had been wreaking havoc on NFL offenses for years, I first took notice of him toward the end of his career, during his days as an Oakland Raider. And no, I did not notice this stellar defensive star for the reasons one might think – Because of his outstanding 2002 season, or for leading the Raiders defense in Super Bowl XXXVII. I became a fan of Rod Woodson because he was killing my Madden gaming.
Every time I threw a pass it seemed to be picked off by Rod Woodson. Every time I rolled out with my quarterback he was sacked by Rod Woodson. I always knew Woodson was a good defensive back, but the skill of his video game counterpart made me do a little research, and learned that as good as the virtual Woodson was, the real deal was even better. I soon discovered that the former college standout from Purdue was one of the best defensive players of all time. I learned that the former Steeler, 49er, and Baltimore Raven was a terrific all around ball player. He could return kicks and make tackles, but most importantly, he could catch interceptions.
Roderick Kevin Woodson was an above average ball player to begin with—generating more than his fair share of tackles, fumbles, and sacks—but where he really shone was in his ability to generate turnovers, specifically interceptions, as he currently sits third on the all time interception list with71.
Pick after pick, Woodson proved himself to be lethal to the opposing offenses’ game plan, and he was even deadlier after making an interception.
Throughout his career, Woodson racked up 1,483 interception return yards. That is not just impressive, it is the NFL record. That means that throughout his career he ran the length of nearly 15 football fields after making a pick. While a great wide receiver might be lucky enough to accumulate that much yardage after the catch, you have to remember that none of these passes were ever intended for #26.
But most impressive of all is the number of interceptions that Rod Woodson returned for touchdowns in his career. With a grand total of 12 picks returned for scores, Rod Woodson sits atop the stats sheets with yet another NFL record. While not necessarily recorded, who knows how many more scores were the direct result of a possession that began with a turnover created by Woodson. Defenders aren’t supposed to score that many touchdowns, but apparently no one ever told that to Rod Woodson. The term game-changer gets thrown around a lot in football, but what else can you call a player like Woodson? On any down he could not only force a change of possession, but could put points on the board in the process.
Woodson’s impressive pedigree ultimately earned him a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Despite an incredible career highlighted by numerous individual accolades and records, Woodson remained exceptionally humble in his induction speech (it was both articulate and engaging – well worth the watch). He attributed his success to teamwork and the Lord. He could have bragged or been cocky because he certainly had the resume to back it up, but time and time again he credited others with his development and success.
Rod Woodson was a hero on the field and off. He was a one of a kind defender who had an uncanny nose for the ball. His records may not stand forever, but they are impressive nonetheless, and at least for now remain as one of the lasting legacy of the greatest DB in NFL history.
Posted by Babe Ruthless 
