If there’s been one blanket statement that can be made about the Avengers over the decades, it’s that their membership is constantly in flux. In the 21st Century, the addition of heroes like Spider-Man and Wolverine as well as a general expansion of the size of the team has led to many Marvel heroes getting the call to assemble, and it’s a running joke among fans that pretty much everyone is an Avenger.

Be that as it may, some of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes are simply more important to the concept of the team than others, whether it’s because of their length of service, their time spent leading the group or their general dedication to return to the fold over and over again. It’s tough to pick a top 10 list from among the Avengers’ many stalwarts, but that doesn’t mean we’re not willing to give it a try!

Before we dive into our top 10, let’s take a moment to give a shout out to those who just missed the cut. To a pair of Captain Marvels (Danvers and Rambeau), Wonder Man, Black Panther, Hercules, Beast and even Spider-Man, we give you honorable mention status. All of you were considered, and you no doubt make other fans’ lists. Just not this one.

Intrigued as to who we did pick as the greatest Avengers of all time? Let’s get into it starting with a certain Green Goliath.

10. Hulk (Bruce Banner)

This might seem a little low for a founding member of the Avengers, but the Hulk’s initial stay with the team was famously brief, ending after just two issues because he felt like his own teammates distrusted him too much. Since they were quick to believe it when a villain framed him, it’s hard to say Hulk was wrong.

In the 50 years since Avengers #2, Hulk has spent much more time away from the team than he has as a member, but he’s been in the fold a lot more often in recent times. At his best, he offers both Bruce Banner’s impressive intellect and his alter ego’s massive gamma-powered muscle. Depending on where you come down on the Hulk vs. Thor debate, it’s possible he brings the Avengers more raw power than anyone.

We’re also giving him extra credit for his recent appearances with the team in other media, most notably the Avengers movie and Marvel’s most recent animated series. He’s certainly an integral part of the group as it exists in the 21st Century, and he was there at the beginning too. That counts for something, and it’s enough to get him the nod over several other worthy candidates so he can lead off our list.