2001 Nfl Draft Best Players of All Time

The 2001 NFL Draft was a momentous occasion for football fans around the world. Held at Madison Square Garden in New York City, teams from all 32 franchises came together to pick out new talent that would help shape their rosters in the coming season and beyond. As one of the most anticipated drafts ever, this event saw some of the biggest names in professional football enter into careers that have since become legendary. From Tom Brady to LaDainian Tomlinson, many players who were drafted during this year went on to achieve great success as part of their respective teams throughout their time playing professionally. This draft marked an important milestone for both current NFL stars and up-and-coming athletes alike; it set off a chain reaction which has helped define modern day American Football culture like no other before or after it

1. Richard Seymour

New England Patriots

Career

• 3× Super Bowl champion (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX)
• 3× First-team All-Pro (2003–2005)
• 2× Second-team All-Pro (2006, 2011)
• 7× Pro Bowl (2002–2006, 2010, 2011)
• NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2001)
• New England Patriots All-2000s Team
• New England Patriots 50th Anniversary Team
• New England Patriots All-Dynasty Team
• New England Patriots Hall of Fame
• First-team All-American (2000)
• 2× First-team All-SEC (1999, 2000)

Richard Seymour was drafted in the first round by the New England Patriots in 2001. Seymour played for the Patriots until 2008 when he signed with the Oakland Raiders.

He won a Super Bowl championship with the Patriots in 2003 and made five Pro Bowl appearances during his career. Injuries shortened Seymour's final years in the NFL, but he still finished with 139 sacks (second all-time behind Bruce Smith) and four touchdowns on defense.

After retiring as a player, Seymour became an analyst for CBS Sports Radio and NBC's "Pro Football Talk". Seymour was a key player in the Patriots' three Super Bowl championships, recording 494 tackles and 57.5 sacks in his ten-year career with New England. 

Seymour also gained notoriety for being one of the league's most physical defenders, often punishing opposing quarterbacks at will.

Seymour announced his retirement following the Patriots' victory over Atlanta in Super Bowl LI to cap off an illustrious career that saw him named First-team All-American twice and Second-team All-Pro seven times overall.

2. Michael Vick

Atlanta Falcons

Career

• NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2010)
• 4× Pro Bowl (2002, 2004, 2005, 2010)
• Bert Bell Award (2010)
• Archie Griffin Award (1999)
• First-team All-American (1999)
• Big East Offensive Player of the Year (1999)
• Big East Rookie of the Year (1999)

Vick was one of the most successful quarterbacks in NFL history, leading his teams to five division titles and two conference championships. Vick's legal issues caused him to miss a large chunk of his career, but he is now free from prison and ready to restart his football career.

Although many people are skeptical about Vick's return to the NFL, he has earned himself a spot on some team's rosters this season. 

Michael Vick will always be remembered for his time with Atlanta Falcons, where he led the team to its first playoff appearance in over 20 years Michael Vick was a highly successful quarterback in the NFL, winning four Pro Bowls and being named MVP of the 2006 game.

However, his career came to an abrupt end after he was convicted of receiving illegal payments from dogfighting promoters. After serving two years in prison, Vick is now trying his hand at coaching, having been appointed as the head coach of Atlanta Legends in 2019.

3. Deuce McAllister

New Orleans Saints

Career

• Super Bowl champion (XLIV)
• 2× Pro Bowl (2002, 2003)
• New Orleans Saints Hall of Fame
• First-team All-SEC (1999)
• Second-team All-SEC (1998)

Deuce McAllister was a running back for the New Orleans Saints from 2001-2009. He is best known for his time with the Saints, where he rushed for over 12,000 yards and scored over 60 touchdowns during his career.

In 2009, Deuce McAllister retired from the NFL after playing for nine seasons. Since retiring from football, Deuce McAllister has worked as an analyst on ESPN's Monday Night Football coverage and also starred in a reality show called "Deuce 'n' Dime." 

Deuce McAllister was a running back for the New Orleans Saints and an all-star in both the NFL and college.

He is one of only two players to win a Super Bowl with two different teams (the other being Kurt Warner). Deuce also won 2 Pro Bowls, was first-team All-SEC twice and was second-team once during his illustrious career. 

Deuce retired after the 2009 season having amassed over 6,100 yards rushing on his way to becoming one of the most successful backs in NFL history.

4. Steve Hutchinson

Minnesota Vikings

Career

• 5× First-team All-Pro (2003, 2005, 2007–2009)
• 2× Second-team All-Pro (2004, 2006)
• 7× Pro Bowl (2003–2009)
• NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2001)
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• National champion (1997)
• Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year (2000)
• Unanimous All-American (2000)
• Rose Bowl champion (1997)
• Orange Bowl champion (1999)
• 2× Florida Citrus Bowl champion (1998, 2000)

Hutchinson was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in 2001 but did not play a single game for them. He was signed by the Minnesota Vikings shortly after and played there until 2005.

Hutchinson then spent two seasons with the Tennessee Titans before signing with the Minnesota Vikings again in 2006. 

He would stay with them until 2011. Hutchinson has since retired from football, but he continues to work as a guard for the Minneapolis Swarm of the Arena Football League (AFL).

Steve Hutchinson is married and has three children: two daughters and one son. Hutchinson was a four-time first-team All-Pro and two-time second-team All-Pro, earning seven Pro Bowl appearances in his nine seasons with the Vikings. 

Hutchinson led the NFL in rushing yards three times (2003, 2005, 2007) and touchdowns once (2006).

He also finished seventh in receptions during his career with 184 catches for 2,527 yards and 20 touchdowns. 

Hutchinson played college football at Florida State University where he won the National Championship as well as the Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year award in 2000. 

After retiring from professional football following the 2009 season Hutchinson became an analyst on ESPN's Monday Night Football broadcasts before joining Fox Sports North as an assistant coach for their Minnesota Vikings coverage starting in 2018.

5. Reggie Wayne

Indianapolis Colts

Career

• Super Bowl champion (XLI)
• First-team All-Pro (2010)
• 2× Second-team All-Pro (2007, 2009)
• 6× Pro Bowl (2006–2010, 2012)
• NFL receiving yards leader (2007)
• Indianapolis Colts all-time leader in games played (211)
• Indianapolis Colts Ring of Honor
• All-Big East

Reggie Wayne is a former NFL wide receiver who played for the Indianapolis Colts and New England Patriots. Reggie Wayne was born in 1978 in Louisiana and attended John Ehret High School before playing college football at Miami (FL).

After being drafted by the Colts in 2001, he spent six seasons with the team before signing with the Patriots in 2015. 

Reggie Wayne has been coaching receivers since 2016, first joining his old team, Indy Colt Reggie Wayne is a five-time Pro Bowler and two-time Second Team All-Pro wide receiver for the Indianapolis Colts.

He retired as the all-time leader in games played by an Indianapolis Colt, with 211 contests under his belt. Wayne also holds numerous franchise records, including receiving yards (14,934), touchdown receptions (83), and 100+ yard games (22). 

In 2011 he was inducted into the Indiana Football Hall of Fame after being voted unanimously into the team’s Ring of Honor earlier that year.

Reggie Wayne is currently employed as a wide receivers coach for the Indianapolis Colts following his retirement from playing football in 2015 at age 37 due to chronic neck injuries sustained during his time with the New England Patriots.

6. LaDainian Tomlinson

Los Angeles Chargers

Career

• NFL Most Valuable Player (2006)
• NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2006)
• Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (2006)
• 3× First-team All-Pro (2004, 2006, 2007)
• 3× Second-team All-Pro (2002, 2003, 2005)
• 5× Pro Bowl (2002, 2004–2007)
• Bart Starr Award (2008)
• Bert Bell Award (2006)
• 2× NFL rushing yards leader (2006, 2007)
• 3× NFL rushing touchdowns leader (2004, 2006, 2007)
• NFL scoring leader (2006)
• NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2001)
• Los Angeles Chargers Hall of Fame
• Los Angeles Chargers No. 21 retired
• Doak Walker Award (2000)
• Consensus All-American (2000)
• 2× First-team All-WAC (1999, 2000)
• 2× WAC Offensive Player of the Year (1999, 2000)
• TCU Horned Frogs No. 5 retired

LaDainian Tomlinson is a former running back for the San Diego Chargers and New York Jets. He was an All-Pro in 2006 and 2007 and finished his NFL career with over 12,000 yards from scrimmage.

In 2001, Tomlinson was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the first round of the NFL Draft. He spent nine seasons with the team before joining the New York Jets in 2010. 

After leaving football following the 2009 season, Tomlinson began working as a special assistant to head coach Anthony Lynn with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2017.

LaDainian married his high school sweetheart on July 14th, 2008; they have one daughter together named Lailah Joy Tomlinson (born December 10th, 2011). LaDainian Tomlinson was an all-around great running back in the NFL for many years. 

He won multiple awards and accolades, including three consecutive First-team All-Pro nominations and two Pro Bowl selections.

However, his career ended abruptly due to a knee injury that kept him out of the league from 2012 to 2014. Fortunately, he has since returned and is currently with the Los Angeles Chargers as an executive.

7. Nate Clements

Buffalo Bills

Career

• Buffalo Bills (2001–2006)
• San Francisco 49ers (2007–2010)
• Cincinnati Bengals (2011–2012)

Nate Clements played cornerback for the Cincinnati Bengals from 2011 to 2012. He was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in 2001 but spent most of his career with the San Francisco 49ers and then the Cincinnati Bengals.

Nate is a three-time Pro Bowler and has also been named an All-Pro twice. In 2011 he helped lead the Bengals to their first playoff appearance since 1990, but they were unable to advance past the divisional round. 

Nate retired from football after being released by the Bengals at the end of the 2012 season, having played 12 seasons in professional football overall Nate Clements has been a dominant linebacker in the NFL for over fifteen years, and he is still playing at an extremely high level.

He was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2004 and has also won numerous awards, including three Super Bowl rings. Nate Clements is known for his speed, strength, and agility on the field – all of which have helped him become one of the league’s best linebackers.

8. Santana Moss

Washington Commanders

Career

• Second-team All-Pro (2005)
• Pro Bowl (2005)
• Washington Commanders 90 Greatest
• Big East Offensive Player of the Year (2000)
• Consensus All-American (2000)
• First-team All-Big East (2000)

Moss was a wide receiver for the New York Jets from 2001-2004. He had a productive career with the team, recording over 1,000 receiving yards in 2002 and 2003 combined.

Moss also returned punts for the Jets during his time there, helping them to two playoff appearances. After leaving the NFL, Moss played in Europe for a few seasons before returning to America and joining the Baltimore Ravens as their punt returner in 2017.

In 2018 he joined the Oakland Raiders on a one-year contract extension after impressing head coach Jon Gruden with his performances thus far that season Santana Moss was a highly-

touted wide receiver prospect out of the University of Maryland. He made an immediate impact in the NFL with Washington, catching 732 passes for 10,283 yards and 69 touchdowns during his seven seasons with the team.

In 2006, he led all receivers in receptions (115) and receiving yards (1,934), as well as touchdown catches (14). 

His 2007 campaign was cut short by injury but he still managed to post career highs in both categories - finishing with 116 receptions for 1,502 yards and six touchdowns. 

After being traded to Oakland midway through the 2009 season, Moss finished his career with 598 catches for 8127 yards and 51 scores over 83 games played.

A four-time Pro Bowler who earned first-team All-Pro honors five times (), Santana Moss is one of only six players in NFL history to amass more than 10,000 receiving yards and 50 touchdowns.

9. Todd Heap

Baltimore Ravens

Career

• Second-team All-Pro (2003)
• 2× Pro Bowl (2002, 2003)
• NFL Alumni Tight End of the Year (2006)
• Baltimore Ravens Ring of Honor

Todd Heap is a former NFL tight end who played for the Baltimore Ravens (2001-2010) and Arizona Cardinals (2011-2012). Todd Heap was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the first round of the 2001 NFL Draft, and he spent his entire career with that team.

Todd Heap was an All-Pro selection twice during his time with the Ravens, and he also won two Super Bowls (XXXVIII, XXXIX) as part of that organization.

After spending one year with the Arizona Cardinals, Todd returned to Baltimore in 2013 where he retired after playing one more season.

Todd Heap is a two-time Pro Bowler and an All-Pro. Todd Heap was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the first round of the 2002 NFL Draft. Todd Heap played for the Ravens from 2002 to 2009, and he helped them win two Super Bowls (2002, 2003).

In 2006, Todd Heap was named Tight End of the Year by his peers after having one of his best seasons ever with 82 receptions for 1,112 yards and six touchdowns.

After leaving Baltimore in 2009, Todd Heap signed with the Arizona Cardinals but only played one season before retiring at age 33 due to injury concerns stemming from concussions sustained during his career.

On October 10th 2017 it was announced that Todd had been diagnosed with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or Lou Gehrig’s disease which is a neurodegenerative disorder that attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord causing muscle weakness and paralysis.

10. Chad Johnson

Cincinnati Bengals

Career

• Cincinnati Bengals (2001–2010)
• New England Patriots (2011)
• Miami Dolphins (2012)*
• Montreal Alouettes (2014–2015)
• Fundidores de Monterrey (2017)

Chad Johnson was a wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals from 2001 to 2010. He was drafted in the second round of the 2001 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots and spent 3 seasons with them before joining Miami Dolphins in 2012.

Johnson had some success with Miami, recording over 1,000 yards receiving each season between 2012 and 2015 but his time there came to an end after he pleaded guilty to charges of sexual assault in 2017. 

Since leaving Miami, Johnson has found new success playing football in Mexico where he currently plays for Fundidores de Monterrey (2017).

Chad Johnson was a dominant receiver in the NFL for many years. He first became an All-Pro in 2004 and continued to be one of the best players in the league throughout his career. 

Johnson also won several awards, including six Pro Bowl appearances and receiving yards leader in the 2006 season. In 2019, he led South Florida to its first-ever Spring Season Championship title.

11. Justin Smith

San Francisco 49ers

Career

• 2× First-team All-Pro (2011, 2012)
• 3× Second-team All-Pro (2011–2013)
• 5× Pro Bowl (2009–2013)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2001)
• First-team All-American (2000)
• 2× First-team All-Big 12 (1999, 2000)
• Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year (1998)

Justin Smith is a defensive end who played for the Cincinnati Bengals and San Francisco 49ers. Justin Smith was drafted by the Bengals in 2001, and he spent seven seasons with them before joining the 49ers in 2008.

In his ten-year career, Justin Smith has amassed over 1,000 tackles and 50 sacks. He is considered to be one of the best defensive ends in NFL history. 

Justin Smith will turn 43 this year, and he continues to play at a high level for both teams he has been with throughout his career.

Justin Smith is one of the most accomplished defensive players in NFL history. He has been a first-team All-Pro three times and was also named to four Pro Bowls. 

Smith is also known for his explosiveness off the line of scrimmage, which has helped him make numerous sacks and interceptions over the years.

12. Kris Jenkins

Carolina Panthers

Career

• 2× First-team All-Pro (2002, 2003)
• Second-team All-Pro (2008)
• 4× Pro Bowl (2002, 2003, 2006, 2008)

Jenkins was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in 2001 but only played with them for two seasons before being traded to the New York Jets.

He made a name for himself as a consistent defensive tackle during his time with the Jets and helped lead them to their first playoff appearance in nine years in 2008.

Jenkins signed with the San Francisco 49ers on March 10th, 2011, and spent three seasons there before retiring at the end of 2015. 

Kris Jenkins was a key player on the Philadelphia Eagles defense during their run to three consecutive NFC Championship games. He was a First-team All-Pro in 2002 and 2003, and Second-team All-Pro in 2008.

In 2006, he made his third straight Pro Bowl appearance, and in 2008 he helped lead the Eagles to their first Super Bowl victory since 1980. Jenkins finished his career with 279 tackles, 24 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries.

13. Matt Light

New England Patriots

Career

• 3× Super Bowl champion (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX)
• First-team All-Pro (2007)
• 3× Pro Bowl (2006, 2007, 2010)
• New England Patriots All-2000s Team
• New England Patriots 50th Anniversary Team
• New England Patriots All-Dynasty Team
• New England Patriots Hall of Fame
• First-team All-Big Ten (2000)

Matt Light is a former offensive tackle for the New England Patriots. He was drafted in 2001 by the Patriots and played with them until 2011.

In his career, he won two Super Bowls (XXXIX and XLIX) as well as four AFC Championships.

Matt is known for his hard work on the field, which helped him become one of the best offensive tackles in NFL history. 

He currently coaches youth football in Boston and Ohio, where he also resides with his wife and two children. Matt Light is a three-time Super Bowl champion and first-team All-Pro.

He was also named to the New England Patriots All-2000s Team and 50th Anniversary Team, as well as their Hall of Fame in 2018. In his 15 seasons with the Patriots, he helped lead them to five division titles and one conference championship game appearance. 

After leaving the Patriots in 2017, he signed with the Philadelphia Eagles before retiring at the season's end due to injury.

14. Alge Crumpler

Atlanta Falcons

Career

• Atlanta Falcons (2001–2007)
• Tennessee Titans (2008–2009)
• New England Patriots (2010)

Alge Crumpler is a tight end who played in the NFL for 11 seasons. He was a two-time Pro Bowler and made all-pro twice. 

In 2001, he was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the second round and spent four seasons with them before moving to Jacksonville Jaguars in 2006.

Between 2007 and 2015, he played for six different teams including New England Patriots, Tennessee Titans, Baltimore Ravens, Carolina Panthers, and Seattle Seahawks. 

Alge retired from football after playing his last game for the Seattle Seahawks at age 38 in 2016. Since then he has been working as an analyst on ESPN's "NFL Live".

Alge Crumpler was a dominant wide receiver in the NFL for 11 seasons. He helped lead the Tennessee Titans to two AFC Championship Games and one Super Bowl. 

In 2007, he was traded to the Atlanta Falcons, where he played until his retirement in 2010. Alge Crumpler is a four-time Pro Bowler and three-time First-team All-ACC selection at Georgia Tech University.

15. Leonard Davis

Arizona Cardinals

Career

• Second-team All-Pro (2007)
• 3× Pro Bowl (2007–2009)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2001)
• Consensus All-American (2000)
• First-team All-Big 12 (2000)
• Second-team All-Big 12 (1999)

Leonard Davis was a two-time Pro Bowler with the Arizona Cardinals, Dallas Cowboys and Detroit Lions. Leonard Davis played guard and tackle in the NFL, but is best known for his stint as a Cowboy where he started all 16 games of the 2007 season at right tackle.

In 2011, Davis signed with the Lions, but was released before the start of the 2012 season after struggling with injuries. He has since retired from football. 

Leonard Davis is married to his wife Christy and they have three children together - daughters Ayden (born 2005) and Kennedy (born 2008), son Landon (born 2010).

Leonard Davis was one of the most productive and consistent running backs in NFL history. He had a long career with the San Francisco 49ers, starting 155 games over 13 seasons. Davis won three Pro Bowls and was second-team All-Pro twice. 

He also received consensus All-American honors in 2000 while at Oklahoma State University before being drafted by the 49ers in 2001.

Leonard is best known for his work as a receiver out of the backfield, but he also ran for over 1,000 yards four times on the ground and caught more than 50 passes five times during his career as well.

16. Adrian Wilson

Arizona Cardinals

Career

• First-team All-Pro (2009)
• 2× Second-team All-Pro (2006, 2008)
• 5× Pro Bowl (2006, 2008–2011)
• Arizona Cardinals Ring of Honor

Adrian Wilson played for the Arizona Cardinals from 2001 to 2012. He then spent time with the New England Patriots and Chicago Bears before returning to the Cardinals in 2019.

Adrian Wilson is responsible for scouting players throughout the NFL, as well as evaluating talent on behalf of his team. He has been with the Cardinals since 2021. Adrian Wilson was born in 1979 and attended high school in North Carolina before playing college football at NC State.

After retiring from playing football, he worked as a scout for several teams over a period of 10 years before rejoining the Cardinals organization in 2019. 

Adrian Wilson is a veteran cornerback who started his NFL career with the Arizona Cardinals. He has played for six different teams and has been a Pro Bowler four times in his career.

Adrian Wilson is known for being one of the best cover cornerbacks in the league, due to his speed and ability to take down receivers deep.

Adrian Wilson was released by the Cardinals earlier this year after 13 seasons with the team, but he continues to play football at a high level on other teams. Adrian Wilson will be playing in his sixth Pro Bowl this year, as he looks to add another championship ring to his collection.

17. Shaun Rogers

Detroit Lions

Career

• High school: La Porte (TX)
• College: Texas
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 2 / Pick: 61
• Detroit Lions (2001–2007), Cleveland Browns (2008–2010), New Orleans Saints (2011), New York Giants (2012–2013)
• Second-team All-Pro (2004), 3× Pro Bowl (2004, 2005, 2008), PFWA All-Rookie Team (2001), First-team All-Big 12 (1999)
• Total tackles: 514, Sacks: 37.5, Forced fumbles: 6, Fumble recoveries: 9, Interceptions: 2, Defensive touchdowns: 1
• Total tackles: 514
• Sacks: 37.5
• Forced fumbles: 6
• Fumble recoveries: 9
• Interceptions: 2
• Defensive touchdowns: 1

Shaun Rogers was a standout defensive tackle at Texas, where he won three national championships. He was drafted by the Detroit Lions in 2001 and spent six years with the team before joining the Cleveland Browns in 2008.

After two seasons with Cleveland, Shaun signed with the New Orleans Saints in 2011 and played there until 2013 when he joined the Giants. 

In 2014, Shaun announced his retirement from professional football after 11 seasons playing in 145 games for five teams Shaun Rogers is a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro.

He played for the Cincinnati Bengals from 2001 to 2006, then spent 2007 with the Cleveland Browns before signing with the Detroit Lions in 2008. In 2009, he was released by Detroit and signed with Oakland Raiders but was cut midway through 2010 season. 

Shaun Rogers retired after playing one game for Indianapolis Colts in 2011season He has been married to Shani Rogers since 2003 and they have two children together (son Kiari Kintzley born on December 2nd 2004 and daughter Keona Jade born January 18th 2005).

They reside in Ohio where Shaun works as an NFL analyst for ESPN television network.

18. Casey Hampton

Pittsburgh Steelers

Career

• 2× Super Bowl champion (XL, XLIII)
• 5× Pro Bowl (2003, 2005–2007, 2009)
• Pittsburgh Steelers All-Time Team
• Pittsburgh Pro Football Hall of Fame
• Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year (2000)
• 2× Consensus All-American (1999, 2000)
• 2× First-team All-Big 12 (1999, 2000)
• Second-Team All-Big 12 (Coaches) (1998)

Casey Hampton was a nose tackle for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 2001-2012. He was named to two Pro Bowls and started in 112 games during his career. 

Hampton is also known for recording 14 sacks in his career, which is the second most all-time among NFL players who played at least 10 years of professional football.

Casey Hampton was a two-time Super Bowl champion and five-time Pro Bowler with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He is also a member of the Pittsburgh Pro Football Hall of Fame and was named Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year in 2000. 

Casey Hampton finished his NFL career with 398 tackles, 9 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries.

19. Marcus Stroud

Jacksonville Jaguars

Career

• Jacksonville Jaguars (2001–2007)
• Buffalo Bills (2008–2010)
• New England Patriots (2011)*

Marcus Stroud was born in 1978 and played college football for the Georgia Bulldogs. He was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2001 but only spent one season with the team before being traded to Buffalo Bills.

There he played until 2010 when he retired. Marcus Stroud is a defensive tackle who has enjoyed success both in the NFL and overseas. In his 10-year career, he's recorded over 100 tackles and five sacks. 

Marcus will be remembered as someone who could play multiple positions on defense and bring energy onto the field no matter what role he was given; this versatility made him very difficult to block for opposing offenses.

After retiring from professional football, Marcus now works as a commentator for college games airing on ESPNU (a subsidiary of ESPN). Marcus Stroud was originally selected by the Patriots in the fourth round of the 2003 NFL Draft. 

He spent three seasons with New England before being traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2006. In 2008, he signed with the Chiefs and appeared in 11 games before retiring at the season's end due to a knee injury.

After his retirement, Marcus began coaching youth football and also served as an analyst for College Football Playoff broadcasts on ESPN Radio from 2014-2016. 

He was inducted into the Patriot's Hall of Fame in 2018 and currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia where he is a color commentator for local sports radio station WSB-AM.

20. Chris Chambers

Miami Dolphins

Career

• Miami Dolphins (2001–2007)
• San Diego Chargers (2007–2009)
• Kansas City Chiefs (2009–2010)

Chambers was a wide receiver for the Miami Dolphins from 2001-2007. He signed with the San Diego Chargers in 2007 but was released in 2009. Chambers later signed with the Kansas City Chiefs and played there until 2010.

Chambers has also had stints with the Cleveland Browns (2005), Baltimore Ravens (2006), and New York Jets (2009). 

In 2010, he retired after playing for the Chiefs again that season Chambers was a highly successful wide receiver in the NFL while playing for both the Miami Dolphins and Tennessee Titans.

Chambers is one of just two receivers to ever eclipse 7,000 receiving yards in a career, and his 58 touchdowns are fifth all-time. 

Chambers has also been an instrumental part of three postseason appearances with the Dolphins (2005, 2006, 2007), including their appearance in Super Bowl XLI where they lost to Chicago by 34 points.

After ten seasons in the league and 540 receptions for 7648 yards and 58 touchdowns, Chris Chambers announced his retirement from professional football on December 12th, 2018 at 36 years old.

21. Freddie Mitchell

Philadelphia Eagles

Career

• High school: Kathleen High School,, Lakeland, Florida
• College: UCLA (1997–2000)
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 25
• Philadelphia Eagles (2001–2004), Kansas City Chiefs (2005)*
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• Consensus All-American (2000), First-team All-Pac-10 (2000)
• Receptions: 90, Receiving yards: 1,263, Receiving touchdowns: 5
• Receptions: 90
• Receiving yards: 1,263
• Receiving touchdowns: 5

Freddie Mitchell was a wide receiver for the Carolina Panthers from 2001-2011. In 2002, he led the NCAA in receptions with 97 and was named first team All American.

He is also a two time Pro Bowler (2004, 2005). After his playing career ended, he became an NFL analyst on FOX Sports South and ESPN Radio network. Mitchell was a highly decorated player at the collegiate level, winning both consensus all-American and first-team All-Pac 10 honors in 2000.

He entered the NFL as one of the most highly touted prospects in league history and quickly proved himself as one of the game's best receivers. Mitchell has since retired from professional football but remains an icon for Eagles fans everywhere.

22. Rod Gardner

Washington Commanders

Career

• High school: Jacksonville (FL) Raines
• College: Clemson (1997–2000)
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 15
• Washington Redskins (2001–2004), Carolina Panthers (2005), Green Bay Packers (2005), Kansas City Chiefs (2006)
• Receptions: 242, Receiving yards: 3,165, Receiving touchdowns: 23
• Receptions: 242
• Receiving yards: 3,165
• Receiving touchdowns: 23

Rod Gardner attended Jacksonville Raines High School before enrolling at Clemson. Rod Gardner had a standout collegiate career, appearing in all four seasons of his time there and amassing over 1,000 yards receiving each year.

After being drafted by the Indianapolis Colts with the 15th overall pick in 2001, Rod Gardner would spend three years with them before signing with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2004. 

In six NFL seasons (2004-10), Rod Gardner caught 303 passes for 4,536 yards and 20 touchdowns - good enough for ninth on The Top 100 Wide Receivers of All Time list according to ESPN Insider.

In 2011, Rod Gardner signed a contract with the New Orleans Saints and played one season for them before retiring from professional football that same year aged 36 after suffering a knee injury playing flag football with his children during their summer break.

23. Koren Robinson

Career

• High school: Belmont (NC) South Point
• College: NC State (1998–2000)
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 9
• Seattle Seahawks (2001–2004), Minnesota Vikings (2005), Green Bay Packers (2006–2007), Seattle Seahawks (2008), Florida Tuskers (2009)*, New York Sentinels (2009)
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• First-team All-Pro (2005), Pro Bowl (2005), ACC Rookie of the Year (1999)
• Receptions: 294, Receiving yards: 4,244, Touchdowns: 16
• Receptions: 294
• Receiving yards: 4,244
• Touchdowns: 16

Koren Robinson was a wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks from 2001-2004. He then played for the Minnesota Vikings from 2005-2007 and 2008 before signing with the Green Bay Packers in 2008.

Robinson had a successful career with the Packers, recording over 1,000 yards receiving in each of his four seasons there. In 2013, he signed with the Baltimore Ravens but retired following one season due to an injury sustained during training camp.

Robinson has since returned to playing football coaching at North Carolina's South Point High School as well as serving as an NFL analyst on Fox Sports 1 and 2 broadcasts). Koren Robinson is a former ACC Rookie of the Year and First-team All-Pro who played professionally for five seasons in the NFL.

Robinson was drafted by the New York Sentinels in the third round of the 1999 NFL Draft and spent four seasons with them before being traded to the Florida Tuskers midway through his fifth season. 

In 2005, he was named to his first Pro Bowl and finished that season as one of only two players in league history with at least 16 touchdown receptions and 294 receiving yards in a single season.

Following his retirement from football, Koren started working as an assistant coach for Division II Valdosta State University where he currently remains employed.

24. Damione Lewis

Carolina Panthers

Career

• High school: Sulphur Springs (TX)
• College: Miami (FL) (1996–2000)
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 12
• First-team All-Big East (2000), Second-team All-Big East (1999)
• Tackles: 244, Sacks: 22.5, Forced fumbles: 4, Pass deflections: 14
• Tackles: 244
• Sacks: 22.5
• Forced fumbles: 4
• Pass deflections: 14

Lewis was a standout defensive back at Sulphur Springs High School, and he went on to play for Miami (FL) from 1996-2000. Lewis began his NFL career with the St.

Louis Rams in 2001, and he spent five seasons there before moving onto the Carolina Panthers in 2006. Lewis played three seasons for New England before being released by the Patriots in 2010.* After spending time out of football, Lewis rejoined New England's coaching staff as an assistant defensive coach in 2013.

In 2017, Lewis was named Seattle Seahawks' Defensive Assistant after previously serving as their Special Teams Coordinator from 2014-2017* Damione Lewis was a standout linebacker for the Houston Texans from 2010-2012. 

He recorded 131 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, and 1 interception during that time period. After leaving the NFL, Lewis became an assistant coach with the Seattle Seahawks under Pete Carroll in 2020.

In 2019, he was hired as an assistant athletic director of football player development at FIU.

25. Rudi Johnson

Auburn Tigers football

Career

• Cincinnati Bengals (2001–2007)
• Detroit Lions (2008)

Rudi Johnson played for the Cincinnati Bengals from 2001-2007. He was a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro selection in his career with the Bengals.

In 2008, he signed with the Detroit Lions where he spent four seasons before retiring in 2012. Rudi's success as both a rusher and receiver has led to him being inducted into several Halls of Fame including the College Football Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Johnson is married to his wife Yvette with whom he has two children - daughter Rylee (born 2003) and son Ryker (born 2006). 

Rudi currently works as an NFL analyst for Fox Sports 1 where he covers preseason games and other events related to the league Johnson was drafted in the first round of the 2000 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions.

He played for the Lions and Arizona Cardinals before joining the Indianapolis Colts in 2007. Johnson retired from football after playing with the Colts in 2013 but returned to play for his old team, Arizona Cardinals, during the 2017 season. 

In 2004 he was named a Pro Bowler and won SEC Player of the Year that same year. Rudi Johnson is one of only two players (along with LaDainian Tomlinson) to rush for over 10,000 yards and score 50 touchdowns in their career.

26. Jamal Reynolds

Career

• High school: Aiken (SC)
• College: Florida State (1997–2000)
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 10
• Green Bay Packers (2001–2003), Cleveland Browns (2004)*
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• Unanimous All-American (2000), First-team All-ACC (2000), Lombardi Award (2000), Bill Willis Trophy (2000)
• Games played: 18, Tackles: 16, Quarterback sacks: 3.0, Fumbles recovered: 2
• Games played: 18
• Tackles: 16
• Quarterback sacks: 3.0
• Fumbles recovered: 2

Reynolds played defensive end for the Green Bay Packers from 2001-2003 before signing with the Cleveland Browns in 2004. Reynolds was a two-time Pro Bowler and had over 100 tackles in his career.

He also won a Super Bowl with the Packers in 2011. After playing for three teams, Reynolds retired at age 36 in 2013 after suffering a knee injury that ended his season prematurely.

 Reynolds is currently an analyst on NFL Network and works as an ambassador for Nike's "Just Do It" campaign which focuses on helping young people pursue their dreams Reynolds was a consensus All-American and First Team All-ACC player in 2000.

He won the Lombardi Award as well as the Bill Willis Trophy that year for his performances at linebacker. Reynolds then entered the NFL draft and was selected by the Atlanta Falcons in round two, with whom he played six seasons before retiring at age 32 due to injury. 

Reynolds finished his career with 128 tackles, three quarterback sacks, and two fumble recoveries over 18 games played in the NFL.

Also Played For: florida state seminoles football

27. David Terrell

Career

• High school: Richmond (VA) Huguenot
• College: Michigan (1998–2000)
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 8
• Chicago Bears (2001–2004), New England Patriots (2005)*, Denver Broncos (2005), Denver Broncos (2007)*
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• All-American (2000), Orange Bowl MVP (2000)
• Receptions: 128, Receiving yards: 1,602, Receiving touchdowns: 9
• Receptions: 128
• Receiving yards: 1,602
• Receiving touchdowns: 9

David Terrell played wide receiver for the Chicago Bears from 2001 to 2004 and then with the New England Patriots from 2005 until his retirement in 2010.

David Terrell is best known for making spectacular catches during his career, including an incredible one-handed catch against the Indianapolis Colts in 2003 that helped lead to a Patriots victory.

In 2006, he was selected as a starter for the Pro Bowl but injured his ankle before playing in the game. After retiring from football, David Terrell has continued to work as a broadcaster and analyst on NFL games and currently works for ESPN as an NFL studio commentator.

David Terrell was a highly productive receiver in his time with the Denver Broncos and Orange Bowl MVP 2000. 

He had 128 receptions for 1,602 yards and 9 touchdowns during his career. David Terrell is best known for his catches against the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl XXXIII that helped lead to an upset victory over the heavily favored San Francisco 49ers.

David Terrell retired after the 2007 season having played 11 seasons in the NFL and winning two Super Bowls (XXXIII & 50).

28. Gerard Warren

New England Patriots

Career

• High school: Union County (FL)
• College: Florida (1997–2000)
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3
• Cleveland Browns (2001–2004), Denver Broncos (2005–2006), Oakland Raiders (2007–2009), New England Patriots (2010–2011)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2001), Second-team All-American (2000), 2× Second-team All-SEC (1999, 2000)
• Tackles: 335, Sacks: 36.5, Passes defended: 13, Forced fumbles: 7, Safeties: 1
• Tackles: 335
• Sacks: 36.5
• Passes defended: 13
• Forced fumbles: 7
• Safeties: 1

Gerard Warren was drafted in the first round of the 2001 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns. He spent four seasons with the team before being traded to Denver in 2006.

Warren played college football at Florida, and he was a two-time All-American selection. After leaving Denver, Warren spent three seasons with the Oakland Raiders before retiring in 2009.

Gerard Warren is currently an analyst for NFL Network's "NFL Total Access". Gerard Warren was a two-time All-SEC selection at defensive end for the Tennessee Volunteers. 

He entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Oakland Raiders in 2007 and played parts of three seasons there before being traded to New England Patriots in 2010.

In his four NFL seasons, he has registered 335 tackles, 36 sacks, 13 passes defended and one safety on defense. After retiring from football in 2013, Warren began working as a personal trainer and is now doing well enough that he plans to open his own gym soon.

29. Kenyatta Walker

Career

• High school: Meridian (MS)
• College: Florida (1997–2000)
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 14
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2001–2006), Carolina Panthers (2007)*, Toronto Argonauts (2008)*
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• Super Bowl champion (XXXVII), PFWA All-Rookie Team (2001), PFW All-Rookie Team (2001), Second-team All-American (2000), First-team All-SEC (2000), Jacobs Blocking Trophy (2000)
• Games played: 75, Games started: 73
• Games played: 75
• Games started: 73

Walker was a three-time All-American at Florida, winning the SEC Defensive Player of the Year award in 2000. Walker was drafted by Tampa Bay in 2001 and played for them until 2006.

He then moved to Carolina before finishing his career with Toronto. Walker is best known for his time with the Buccaneers where he made four consecutive Pro Bowls (2002–2005) and helped lead Tampa Bay to their first ever Super Bowl appearance in 2004.

In 2007, Walker signed with the Panthers and again became an all-star performer, making two more Pro Bowls en route to helping Carolina reach Super Bowl 50 in 2016. 

Walker retired after playing one final season with the Argonauts in 2018 at age 43 years old having amassed 355 tackles, 26 sacks, eight forced fumbles and six fumble recoveries during his 12 year NFL career.

30. Dan Morgan

Career

• High school: J. P. Taravella, (Coral Springs, Florida)
• College: Miami (FL) (1997–2000)
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 11
• As player, First-team All-Pro (2004), Pro Bowl (2004), PFWA All-Rookie Team (2001), PFW All-Rookie Team (2001), Dick Butkus Award (2000), Bronko Nagurski Trophy (2000), Chuck Bednarik Award (2000), Jack Lambert Trophy (2000), Unanimous All-American (2000), First-team All-Big East (2000), Big East Defensive Player of the Year (2000), College Football Hall of Fame
• Tackles: 390, Sacks: 7.0, Interceptions: 5, Forced fumbles: 3
• Tackles: 390
• Sacks: 7.0
• Interceptions: 5
• Forced fumbles: 3
• College Football Hall of Fame

Morgan played nine seasons as a linebacker in the NFL, most notably for the Carolina Panthers from 2001 to 2007. He served as assistant general manager of the Panthers from 2011 to 2016 before joining the New Orleans Saints as their assistant GM in 2017.

Morgan has been involved with a number of transactions during his time in the NFL, including drafting Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis while with Carolina and signing Drew Brees as an undrafted free agent with New Orleans. 

Dan Morgan was a standout player at the University of Oregon and was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the first round of the 2000 NFL Draft.

Dan Morgan spent most of his career with the Seattle Seahawks, playing cornerback for eleven seasons from 2000 to 2009. In 2005, Dan Morgan was named second-team All-Pro after recording 74 tackles and 2 interceptions during the regular season. 

After leaving the Seattle Seahawks in 2009, Dan Morgan signed with Buffalo Bills where he played until 2018 when he joined Carolina Panthers as assistant general manager.

31. T. J. Houshmandzadeh

Cincinnati Bengals

Career

• Cincinnati Bengals (2001–2008)
• Seattle Seahawks (2009)
• Baltimore Ravens (2010)
• Oakland Raiders (2011)

Houshmandzadeh was a standout wide receiver at Oregon State and spent his entire career with the Cincinnati Bengals. In 2001, Houshmandzadeh was drafted by the Bengals in the seventh round and played for them until 2008.

He then switched to the Seattle Seahawks where he had a successful three-year stint before joining the Baltimore Ravens in 2010. After one season with Oakland, he joined Long Beach Polytechnic High School as their wide receivers coach in 2016-2017 T.

J. Houshmandzadeh is a former NFL wide receiver who played his entire career with the Washington Redskins. 

He was drafted by the Redskins in the second round of the 2001 NFL Draft and became one of their most productive players, recording more than 1,000 yards receiving each season from 2003 to 2007.

In 2007, he was chosen as an alternate for the Pro Bowl and led all NFC receivers with 44 catches for 627 yards and four touchdowns that year. 

After spending the 2008 season with Dallas Cowboys, he signed with Oakland Raiders in 2009 but only managed to play five games due to injuries before retiring at age 33 in 2010.

32. Derrick Burgess

Career

• College: Ole Miss
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 3 / Pick: 63
• Philadelphia Eagles (2001–2004), Oakland Raiders (2005–2008), New England Patriots (2009), Philadelphia Eagles (2010)
• Second-team All-Pro (2005), 2× Pro Bowl (2005, 2006), NFL sacks leader (2005), First-team All-SEC (2000)
• Total tackles: 262, Sacks: 52.0, Forced fumbles: 6, Fumble recoveries: 5, Pass deflections: 7
• Total tackles: 262
• Sacks: 52.0
• Forced fumbles: 6
• Fumble recoveries: 5
• Pass deflections: 7

Derrick Burgess played defensive end for the Philadelphia Eagles, Oakland Raiders, and New England Patriots from 2001-2008. He was a 3rd round pick in the 2001 NFL Draft and spent four seasons with the Eagles before moving on to Oakland.

Derrick Burgess had his best season as an Eagle in 2003 when he recorded 11 sacks and helped lead Philadelphia to their first Super Bowl appearance since 1980. 

After spending two seasons with Oakland, Derrick Burgess signed with the Patriots in 2009 where he won a Super Bowl MVP award after recording 2 forced fumbles and 1 sack in the victory over the St Louis Rams Burgess was drafted in the first round by the Philadelphia Eagles back in 2010.

He immediately became a fan favorite due to his hard-nosed play on defense and is still playing for them today as a rotational player. 

Derrick Burgess has won multiple awards throughout his career, including Second-team All-Pro honors from 2005 and 2006, Pro Bowl appearances in both of those seasons, and NFL sacks leader from 2005. 

Derrick Burgess also holds the record for forced fumbles with six over his career so far - something he’s very proud of.

33. Jeff Backus

Detroit Lions

Career

• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2001)
• National champion (1997)

Jeff Backus is a former NFL offensive tackle who played for the Detroit Lions and Atlanta Falcons. Backus was drafted in the first round of the 2001 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions, but he only played one season with them before being traded to the Atlanta Falcons.

With the Falcons, Backus won two Super Bowls (2005 and 2008) and made five All-Pro teams during his career. 

After his retirement from football, Jeff became a television analyst for both college football and professional football games. Jeff Backus was a dominant player in the NFL for over a decade.

He started 191 games and won two championships with the Detroit Lions. Jeff Backus is known for his toughness, as he has never missed a game due to injury throughout his career. 

Jeff Backus is also an excellent pass blocker, which helped him become one of the best at his position during his time in the NFL.

In 2012, Jeff Backus retired after 11 seasons in the NFL – making him one of the longest-serving players of all time.

34. Andre Carter

San Francisco 49ers

Career

• High school: Oak Grove, (San Jose, California)
• College: California (1997–2000)
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 7
• Pro Bowl (2011), Unanimous All-American (2000), 2× First-team All-Pac-10 (1999, 2000), Morris Trophy (2000)
• Total tackles: 517, Sacks: 80.5, Pass deflections: 25, Forced fumbles: 18, Fumble recoveries: 4
• Total tackles: 517
• Sacks: 80.5
• Pass deflections: 25
• Forced fumbles: 18
• Fumble recoveries: 4

Andre Carter is a well-known defensive end who has played for the San Francisco 49ers, Washington Redskins, and New England Patriots. Andre Carter was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 2001 and spent six seasons with the team before being traded to Washington in 2006.

Andre Carter helped lead the Redskins to two division titles during his time with them before moving on to play for New England from 2010 until 2013. Andre Carter is a hard-nosed player who is known for his strong tackles and sacks throughout his career. 

After leaving the NFL, AndreCarter has started working as an analyst for ESPN's Monday Night Football coverage and also co-owns a bar in Los Angeles called The Hangar Bar & Grille with teammate Shaun Phillips .

Andre Carter was drafted by the New England Patriots in the sixth round of the 2001 NFL Draft. He played with the Patriots for six seasons, before being released in August 2007. Carter then signed a three-year contract with Oakland Raiders, and made his debut in October 2007 against Seattle Seahawks. 

In total Andre Carter played 97 games (36 starts) for both teams and amassed 256 carries for 1,663 yards and 12 touchdowns as well as 34 receptions for 379 yards and one touchdown.

Also Played For: washington redskins best defensive players

35. Will Allen

Miami Dolphins

Career

• High school: Syracuse (NY) Corcoran
• College: Syracuse (1996–2000)
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 22
• New York Giants (2001–2005), Miami Dolphins (2006–2011), New England Patriots (2012)
• First-team All-Big East (2000)
• Total tackles: 527, Sacks: 5.0, Forced fumbles: 7, Fumble recoveries: 6, Interceptions: 15, Defensive touchdowns: 1
• Total tackles: 527
• Sacks: 5.0
• Forced fumbles: 7
• Fumble recoveries: 6
• Interceptions: 15
• Defensive touchdowns: 1

Will Allen was drafted by the Giants in 2001, and played for them from 2001-2005. He was a two time Pro Bowler with the Giants, and helped lead them to their first championship in 2004.

Following his playing days, Allen went on to have a successful career as an NFL cornerbacks coach with the Cleveland Browns (2006-2008), New Orleans Saints (2009-2011) and Miami Dolphins (2012).

Will Allen was a three-time first-team All-Big East selection at the University of Miami. He played for the Dolphins from 2006 to 2011 and recorded 527 tackles, 5.0 sacks and 15 interceptions during that time span.

Allen signed with the New England Patriots in 2012 and has since made an impact on their defense, recording 60 tackles and 2 forced fumbles in 9 games so far this season.

Also Played For: syracuse orange football

36. Ryan Diem

Indianapolis Colts

Career

• Indianapolis Colts (2001–2011)

Ryan Diem was drafted in the 2001 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints. After playing for three seasons with the Saints, he signed a contract with the Indianapolis Colts in 2004.

He played two seasons there before being released and signing a deal with the Atlanta Falcons in 2006. Ryan Diem remained with Atlanta until 2009 when he signed a contract to play for the Miami Dolphins. 

After one season with Miami, he retired from football after missing most of the 2011 season due to injury In 2013, Ryan Diem began working as an offensive line coach at his alma mater Glenbard North High School Ryan Diem was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in 2001, and made his debut with them in 2002.

He played 157 games over 10 seasons with the Colts, amassing 150 starts and 1 fumble recovery. In 2011, he signed a one-year contract with the St. Louis Rams but was released after just two months due to injury problems. 

Since then, Ryan has had a career renaissance playing for the CFL's Montreal Alouettes from 2012 to the present day where he has won four Grey Cup championships (2011–2013 & 2017). 

With Montreal, this season, Ryan is leading all linebackers in tackles (106) and interceptions (6), while also registering 2 sacks and 3 forced fumbles through 11 games so far this season.

Ryan still holds several records from his time as an NFL linebacker including most tackles in a game (23 vs Pittsburgh Steelers on November 7th, 2006).

Most tackles for loss in a season (14½ during 2007), most combined tackles/games played at any position in a season (1128 – December 17th, 2009)7.,and finally, Most interception return yards single game(186 yds against Baltimore Ravens on October 9th 2015).

37. Kyle Vanden Bosch

Tennessee Titans

Career

• Arizona Cardinals (2001–2004)
• Tennessee Titans (2005–2009)
• Detroit Lions (2010–2012)

Kyle Vanden Bosch was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 2001 and played for them from 2001-2004.

 He was a two-time All Pro selection with the Cardinals and won a Super Bowl title with them in 2003.

After leaving the Cardinals, he signed with the Lions in 2005 but only played one season there before retiring at the end of 2006 due to injury. 

Kyle has since been involved in broadcasting and coaching, most recently serving as defensive coordinator for an NFL team between 2014-2016 before resigning midseason due to personal reasons.

Kyle Vanden Bosch was a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time Draddy Trophy recipient with the Tennessee Titans.

In his ten seasons in the NFL, Kyle Vanden Bosch recorded 464 tackles, 58 sacks, 20 forced fumbles, 6 fumble recoveries, and one defensive touchdown. 

Kyle Vanden Bosch is a highly respected player both on and off the field due to his hard work ethic and passion for the game of football.

38. Adam Archuleta

Los Angeles Rams

Career

• High school: Chandler (Chandler, Arizona)
• College: Arizona State (1996–2000)
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 20
• St. Louis Rams (2001–2005), Washington Redskins (2006), Chicago Bears (2007), Oakland Raiders (2008)*
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2001), St. Louis Rams 10th Anniversary Team, Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year (2000), 2× First-team All-Pac-10 (1999–2000)
• Total tackles: 530, Sacks: 18.0, Forced fumbles: 4, Fumble recoveries: 6, Interceptions: 4, Defensive touchdowns: 3
• Total tackles: 530
• Sacks: 18.0
• Forced fumbles: 4
• Fumble recoveries: 6
• Interceptions: 4
• Defensive touchdowns: 3

Archuleta was a safety for the St. Louis Rams, Washington Redskins and Chicago Bears in his NFL career. Archuleta played college football at Arizona State before being drafted by the Rams with the 20th overall pick in 2001.

Archuleta spent five seasons with the Rams before signing with the Redskins in 2006. He remained there until 2008 when he switched to Oakland Raiders squad. 

Archuleta has made more than 100 tackles during his professional career and is considered one of league's most consistent safeties over past decade or so Archuleta was a three-time first team All Pac-10 selection and played in the NFL for 10 years.

He accumulated 530 tackles, 18 sacks, four forced fumbles, six fumble recoveries and three interceptions. Archuleta retired after the 2016 season.

39. Ryan Pickett

Green Bay Packers

Career

• High school: Zephyrhills (FL)
• College: Ohio State (1998–2000)
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 29
• St. Louis Rams (2001–2005), Green Bay Packers (2006–2013), Houston Texans (2014)
• Super Bowl champion (XLV), St. Louis Rams 10th Anniversary Team
• Total tackles: 577, Sacks: 9.5, Forced fumbles: 1, Fumble recoveries: 2, Pass deflections: 32
• Total tackles: 577
• Sacks: 9.5
• Forced fumbles: 1
• Fumble recoveries: 2
• Pass deflections: 32

Ryan Pickett was drafted by the St. Louis Rams in the 2001 NFL Draft and played there for four seasons before moving on to play with the Packers. He is best known for his time with the Packers where he became a starter and helped lead them to two Super Bowls.

In 2018, Pickett announced that he would be retiring from football after 11 years of playing professionally. 

Ryan Pickett is a linebacker who played for the Green Bay Packers from 2006 to 2013 and then with the Houston Texans in 2014. 2. He has appeared in 62 games, totaling 577 tackles, 9.5 sacks and 32 pass deflections.

Ryan was a member of the Rams' 10th anniversary team and also won two Super Bowls as part of the Packers (XLV and LI).

In his nine-year career, he's been suspended four times for violating NFL policy on performance-enhancing drugs - twice for PEDs and twice for substance abuse issues outside of football.

40. Jamar Fletcher

Career

• Miami Dolphins (2001–2003)
• San Diego Chargers (2004–2005)
• Detroit Lions (2006)
• Houston Texans (2007)
• Cincinnati Bengals (2008–2009)
• 2× First-team All-American (1999, 2000)
• 3× First-team All-Big Ten (1998, 1999, 2000)
• Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year (2000)
• Jim Thorpe Award (2000)
• Jack Tatum Trophy (2000)
• Big Ten All-Decade Team (1990–2000)

Fletcher was selected 26th overall by the Miami Dolphins in the 2001 NFL Draft. Fletcher played for the Miami Dolphins (2001–2003) and San Diego Chargers (2004-2005).

Fletcher signed with the Detroit Lions in 2006 and spent three seasons with them before he retired at the end of 2009 season. 

After retiring from football, Fletcher began working as a cornerback coach for various colleges including Wisconsin Badgers and Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles.

Fletcher was a two-time First Team All American and three time Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year. Jamar Fletcher was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2007, but only played one season with them before being traded to the Cincinnati Bengals where he would play until 2009. 

In his four seasons with the Bengals, Fletcher recorded 193 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 3 fumble recoveries, 34 pass deflections and 7 interceptions while also scoring 1 defensive touchdown.

Also Played For: wisconsin badgers football

41. Derrick Gibson

Career

• High school: Miami Killian (Kendall, Florida)
• College: Florida State (1997–2000)
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 28
• BCS national champion (1999), First-team All-ACC (2000), Second-team All-ACC (1999)
• Tackles: 194, Interceptions: 3, Sacks: 2
• Tackles: 194
• Interceptions: 3
• Sacks: 2

Derrick Gibson has been a safeties coach for the Florida Atlantic Owls since 2019. Gibson played cornerback and safety in the NFL, winning two Super Bowls with the Oakland Raiders (2001 and 2002).

He also coached at Miami Central HS from 2009 to 2018 before taking over as safeties coach for FAU in 2019. Derrick Gibson is the defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach for Miami Killian HS in Florida.

He was head coach of FAU from 2022-present and compiled a record of 63–51 (.561). In 2018, he led FAU to their first conference championship since 1985. 

Derrick Gibson has over 20 years of coaching experience including time as safeties coach with the Oakland Raiders (2011), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2012) and Jacksonville Jaguars (2013).

42. Willie Middlebrooks

Career

• Status: Retired
• CFL status: American
• Position(s): CB
• Height: 6 ft 2 in (188 cm)
• Weight: 196 lb (89 kg)
• College: Minnesota
• NFL draft 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 24
• Drafted by: Denver Broncos

Willie Middlebrooks is a retired American football cornerback who played for the Minnesota Vikings and Miami Dolphins. Willie Middlebrooks was born on February 12, 1979 in Miami, Florida.

In high school, Willie Middlebrooks starred at safety for Coral Gables Senior High School before switching to cornerback in college. 

After playing collegiately at Minnesota from 1998-2001, he was drafted by the Vikings in 2002nd Round of the NFL Draft and spent four seasons with them before signing with the Dolphins in 2006th Round Between 2007-2015.

Willie Middlebrooks appeared in 149 games (135 starts) recording 9 interceptions and 2 sacks while also returning 159 kickoffs for 1,839 yards (18 avg.) and 5 touchdowns - all career highs. 

On January 6th 2016 it was announced that Willie had officially retired from professional football after 16 seasons.

43. Michael Bennett

Los Angeles Chargers

Career

• High school: Milwaukee Trade and Technical High School
• College: Wisconsin (1998–2000)
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 1 / Pick: 27
• Minnesota Vikings (2001–2005), New Orleans Saints (2006)*, Kansas City Chiefs (2006–2007), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2007–2008), San Diego Chargers (2008–2009), Oakland Raiders (2010)
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• Pro Bowl (2002)
• Rushing attempts: 842, Rushing yards: 3,703, Rushing touchdowns: 13, Receptions: 159, Receiving yards: 1,294, Receiving touchdowns: 6
• Rushing attempts: 842
• Rushing yards: 3,703
• Rushing touchdowns: 13
• Receptions: 159
• Receiving yards: 1,294
• Receiving touchdowns: 6

Michael Bennett is a talented running back who was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2001. He played for the New Orleans Saints from 2006 to 2007, and then signed with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2008.

Bennett has been a consistent performer over his career and has made several Pro Bowl appearances. He retired from playing football in 2013 but continues to work as an NFL analyst for Fox Sports 1. Michael Bennett is a defensive end who played college football at Texas A&M.

After spending time on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and San Diego Chargers' practice squads, Bennett was signed by the Oakland Raiders in 2010. 

In his first season with the Raiders, he made an impact as a pass rusher and led all players in sacks (14). The following year, Bennett recorded 11 sacks and was named to his second Pro Bowl appearance.

In 2013, Michael signed a five-year contract extension with the Raiders that will keep him with the team through 2020.

44. Fred Smoot

Washington Commanders

Career

• High school: Provine, (Jackson, Mississippi)
• College: Mississippi State
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 2 / Pick: 45
• Washington Redskins (2001–2004), Minnesota Vikings (2005–2006), Washington Redskins (2007–2009)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2001), Consensus All-American (2000), First-team All-SEC (1999, 2000)
• Games played: 129, Games started: 104, Tackles: 450, Interceptions: 21, Forced fumbles: 5
• Games played: 129
• Games started: 104
• Tackles: 450
• Interceptions: 21
• Forced fumbles: 5

Fred Smoot was a cornerback for the Washington Redskins from 2001-2004. He played in 71 games, starting 21 of them. Fred Smoot has also been a member of the Detroit Lions and Buffalo Bills during his career.

In 2004, he signed with the San Diego Chargers but was released before the season started. After being out of football for two years, Fred Smoot signed with the Arizona Cardinals in 2006 but was again cut before playing a single game for them either as a starter or on special teams.

Finally, Fred Smoot retired after playing one final season with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2007 where he started six games at cornerback and finished second on team with 73 tackles behind Tamba Hali (92). 

Since retiring from football, Fred Smoot has worked as an assistant coach at Mississippi State University where he helped develop defensive backs Jabrill Peppers and Johnthan Banks into NFL players themselves under head coach Dan Mullen's tutelage over three seasons (2013-2015).

45. Kenny Smith

Career

• High school: Meridian (MS)
• College: Alabama
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 3 / Pick: 81
• New Orleans Saints (2001–2004), Oakland Raiders (2005)*, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2007)*, New England Patriots (2007–2009)*, Kansas City Chiefs (2009)
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only

Kenny Smith was a standout defensive end and tackle at Alabama. He was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the 2001 NFL Draft, but only played one season with them before being traded to the Kansas City Chiefs.

He spent six seasons with the Chiefs, appearing in 138 games and registering 8 sacks. In 2013, he signed a two-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles and has since appeared in all 16 games of their regular season campaign thus far.

Kenny Smith is considered one of the best pass rushing defensive ends of his era and is still playing at an high level well into his forties. Smith was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in 2001 and spent three seasons with them before moving on to Oakland.

Smith had a solid career with both teams, playing mainly as a cornerback but also appearing at safety and nickelback. He was signed by Tampa Bay in 2007 and played there for two seasons before moving on to New England in 2009. 

In Kansas City, he started all 16 games in his first season and helped lead the team to their first playoff appearance since 2002.

Smith is currently an unrestricted free agent after spending four years with the Patriots, although he has hinted that he may retire at the end of this season if no new club comes forward willing to sign him up.

46. Eric Downing

Career

• High school: Paterson (NJ) John F. Kennedy
• College: Syracuse
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 3 / Pick: 75
• Kansas City Chiefs (2001–2003), San Diego Chargers (2004)
• Tackles: 31, Sacks: 2.0, Interceptions: 0
• Tackles: 31
• Sacks: 2.0
• Interceptions: 0

Eric Downing was a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro selection during his 10 seasons in the NFL. He played for the Buffalo Bills, Baltimore Ravens, and Philadelphia Eagles from 2001 to 2011.

Downing is also a member of the Syracuse University Hall of Fame. In 2012, he joined the Dallas Cowboys as an assistant defensive line coach under head coach Jason Garrett. Downing was drafted by the Chiefs in 2001 and played for them until 2003.

In 2004, he signed with the Chargers. Downing is best known for his strong play against the run and as a backup quarterback on special teams. 

He has also been involved in several big plays during his career, including an interception return for a touchdown against the Jaguars in 2002 and a fumble recovery that led to another Chiefs touchdown against the Eagles in 2003.

Downing finished his NFL career with 186 tackles, 2 sacks, and 2 interceptions.

47. Bhawoh Jue

Career

• High school: Chantilly (VA)
• College: Penn State
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 3 / Pick: 71
• Green Bay Packers (2001–2004), San Diego Chargers (2005–2006), St. Louis Rams (2007), Arizona Cardinals (2007), Florida Tuskers (2009)*
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• Tackles: 181, Passes Defended: 26, Interceptions: 6
• Tackles: 181
• Passes Defended: 26
• Interceptions: 6

Bhawoh Jue was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 2001. He played for them from 2001 to 2004. Bhawoh Jue is a safety who primarily plays on special teams and in coverage units.

In 2002, Bhawoh Jue had one of his best seasons as a pro, recording 82 tackles and an interception while helping the Packers make it to the NFC Championship Game that year. 

After four years with the Packers, Bhawoh signed with the Seattle Seahawks in 2005 but only lasted two years before he returned to Green Bay in 2007 where he finished out his career playing for the Cowboys (2008-2009).

A three-time Pro Bowler and two time All-Pro selection, Bhawow's contributions both on and off of the field have made him one of professional football's most respected players over his lengthy career Bhawoh Jue was drafted by the Chargers in the 5th round of the 2005 NFL Draft. 

He played for San Diego from 2005-2006 and then St. Louis from 2007-2008 before signing with Arizona in 2009. In his four seasons, Bhawoh Jue has accumulated 181 tackles, 26 passes defended, and six interceptions on defense.

Additionally, he has two touchdowns on offense (one receiving and one rushing) during that span as well. 

Bhawoh Jue is currently a free agent after being released by the Cardinals last season; however, he could be re-signed at any time now that teams are starting to prepare for next year's draft.

48. Dwight Smith

Career

• High school: Detroit (MI) Central
• College: Akron
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 3 / Pick: 84
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2001–2004), New Orleans Saints (2005), Minnesota Vikings (2006–2007), Detroit Lions (2008)
• Super Bowl champion (XXXVII), Consensus All-American (2000), MAC Defensive Player of the Year (2000)
• Games played: 117, Games started: 83, Tackles: 449, Interceptions: 23, Forced fumbles: 10
• Games played: 117
• Games started: 83
• Tackles: 449
• Interceptions: 23
• Forced fumbles: 10

Dwight Smith was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2001. He played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2001-2004), New Orleans Saints (2005) and Minnesota Vikings (2006-2007).

In 2007, he signed with the Detroit Lions and played there until 2013. After leaving Detroit, Dwight Smith has continued to play football at a lower level. Smith was a two-time All American and Super Bowl champion with the Detroit Lions in 2008.

Smith had an impressive NFL career, amassing 449 tackles, 23 interceptions and 10 forced fumbles. He retired after the 2013 season, but came back to play for the Baltimore Ravens in 2016 before retiring again later that year.

Also Played For: akron zips

49. Ron Edwards

Buffalo Bills

Career

• High school: Houston (TX) Klein Forest
• College: Texas A&M
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 3 / Pick: 76
• Buffalo Bills (2001−2005), Kansas City Chiefs (2006−2010), Carolina Panthers (2011−2012)
• Tackles: 206, Sacks: 16.5, Forced fumbles: 3
• Tackles: 206
• Sacks: 16.5
• Forced fumbles: 3

Ron Edwards was drafted by the Detroit Lions in 2001, but only played one season with them. He then spent time with the Cleveland Browns and Jacksonville Jaguars before signing with the Seattle Seahawks in 2009.

Edwards has been a stalwart for Seattle since he joined their defensive line rotation, making three Pro Bowls and being named to two All-Pro teams during his tenure there. 

In 2018, he announced his retirement from professional football after 11 seasons playing professionally Edwards was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in 2001 and spent four seasons with the team.

He signed with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2006 and had a successful six-year career there, including two Pro Bowl appearances. After leaving Kansas City, Edwards played for Carolina Panthers from 2011 to 2012 before retiring at the end of his contract season. 

Edwards finished his NFL career having accumulated 206 tackles, 16 sacks, three forced fumbles, and one interception.

50. Kenyatta Jones

Career

• High school: Gainesville (FL) Eastside
• College: South Florida
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 4 / Pick: 96
• New England Patriots (2001–2003), Washington Redskins (2003–2004), Tampa Bay Storm (2008), New York Sentinels (2009)*
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• Super Bowl Champion (XXXVI)
• Games played: 21, Games started: 13, Fumble recoveries: 0
• Games played: 21
• Games started: 13
• Fumble recoveries: 0

Kenyatta Jones was a 2001 fourth-round pick of the New England Patriots. He spent three seasons with the team, playing in 44 games and starting 21. In 2003, he was traded to the Denver Broncos for QB Daunte Culpepper.

He played one season there before being released in 2004. Jones then signed with the Carolina Panthers but only appeared in two games before being cut loose again in 2005. In 2006. 

He joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and started all 16 games at left tackle for them that season, helping them make it to Super Bowl XXXVII where they lost to the Oakland Raiders handily 33–7 Kenyatta Jones was drafted by the Washington Redskins in 2003 and played for them until 2004.

In 2008, he signed with the Tampa Bay Storm of the Arena Football League where he won a championship that year. 

He then signed with the New York Sentinels of the NFL in 2009 but only played one game before being released later that season. Jones has since retired from football but continues to work as a firefighter in Maryland.

Also Played For: south florida bulls football

51. Jabari Holloway

Career

• High school: Sandy Creek (Tyrone, Georgia)
• College: Notre Dame
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 4 / Pick: 119
• New England Patriots (2001), Houston Texans (2002–2003)
• Super Bowl champions (XXXVI)
• Receptions: 15, Receiving Yards: 157, Total Touchdowns: 0
• Receptions: 15
• Receiving Yards: 157
• Total Touchdowns: 0

Jabari Holloway was drafted in the 2001 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons. He played for the Falcons until 2006, when he signed with the San Francisco 49ers.

In 2008, Jabari joined the Cleveland Browns and remained there until 2012. In 2013, Jabari signed with Seattle Seahawks where he remains today as a member of their roster.

Jabari is best known for his time spent with the 49ers and Browns, where he was a key contributor on both teams during his career in the NFL. 

Jabari has also appeared in several playoff games during his tenure in professional football and has won two Super Bowls (one with San Francisco and one with Seattle).

Currently, Jabari is playing for Seattle Seahawks in their season opener against Arizona Cardinals Jabari Holloway attended the University of Oregon and played for the Ducks from 2009-2012. Jabari Holloway was drafted by the New England Patriots in the 3rd round of the 2013 NFL Draft. 

Jabari Holloway spent most of his rookie season on injured reserve because he tore his ACL in training camp, but he made an impact when healthy, hauling in six passes for 73 yards and a touchdown over five appearances.

In 2014, Jabari Holloway had another productive year despite battling through injuries - catching 43 balls for 577 yards and four touchdowns while appearing in all 16 games. 

In 2015, Jabari Hollowaya battled yet again with injury but still managed to haul in 50 receptions for 693 yards and eight touchdowns en route to being named first team All Pro at wide receiver.

Final Words

. . The 2001 NFL Draft was a momentous occasion for football fans around the world. Held at Madison Square Garden in New York City, it is considered one of the best drafts ever.

Some of the greatest players to ever play the game were drafted during this event, including Peyton Manning, Tom Brady and Drew Brees.