5 most iconic reporters in recent NFL history ft. John Clayton

Most iconic reporters from recent NFL history

Here are five of the most iconic reporters for their contributions to the field and innovations in progressing it forward.

#3 - Mel Kiper Jr.

Steve Young, Chris Mortensen and Mel Kiper Jr. at the 2008 Draft

Mel Kiper Jr. has revolutionized the NFL Draft process for all common fans. He has worked to provide information around the clock all year long with a singular focus on analyzing college football players and where they would fit into the professional game.

Kiper has covered the Draft for ESPN since 1984 and is the first to make the prospect’s information as mainstream and accessible as it is today. His famous "Big Board" is often referenced by many around the league when ranking prospects, and his Mock Drafts are highly respected and widely anticipated.

#2 - John Clayton

Legendary reporter John Clayton

John Clayton began covering the NFL full-time in 1976 and was the one who investigated and reported a famous scandal with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1978. He discovered a rule violation at their training camp, which cost them a draft pick, known today as Shouldergate.

Each year, the Pro Football Hall of Fame picks one reporter who will be recognized in the writers' wing in Canton. John Clayton was selected to be inducted in 2007, where he will live on forever.

#1 - Peter King

Peter King atending Super Bowl XLVI

Like John Clayton, Peter King was also recognized in the writers' wing of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He won the award two years later in 2009. He is also on the Board of Selectors for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He has been named the National Sportswriter of the Year three times for his work with Sports Illustrated. His Monday Morning Quarterback column is one of the most popular recurring sports pieces of all time.