2007 Nfl Draft Best Players of All Time

The 2007 NFL Draft was a highly anticipated event for fans of American football, as it marked the 72nd annual selection of new players to join National Football League (NFL) teams. Taking place at Radio City Music Hall in New York City on April 28 and 29th, this draft featured an exciting range of prospects who were ready to make their mark on professional football. With millions tuning in around the world, this edition of the NFL Draft proved to be one that would have lasting implications across all 32 franchises.

1. Darrelle Revis

New York Jets

Career

• Super Bowl champion (XLIX)
• 4× First-team All-Pro (2009–2011, 2014)
• 7× Pro Bowl (2008–2011, 2013–2015)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)
• NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
• New York Jets Ring of Honor
• 2× First-team All-Big East (2005, 2006)

Darrelle Revis is a cornerback who spent his entire career with the New York Jets. He was drafted 14th in 2007 and became one of the most dominant cornerbacks in the NFL.

In 2012, he signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and had some great seasons there before signing with the Patriots in 2014. He joined the Jets again for two more years before retiring at the end of the 2016 season.

Darrelle Revis is a cornerback who has spent his entire 10-year career with the New England Patriots. He was drafted in 2009 and quickly became one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL. 

In 2014, he helped lead the Patriots to their fifth Super Bowl victory, becoming just the second player ever (after Charles Woodson) to win multiple Super Bowls as a member of one team.

Revis has been named First Team All-Pro seven times and Second Team All-Pro twice. He also won two Pro Bowl MVP Awards (2013, 2015). 

After spending three seasons with the Jets, Revis signed with the Chiefs this offseason and is looking to help them make another run at an NFL Championship title.

2. Calvin Johnson

Detroit Lions

Career

• 3× First-team All-Pro (2011–2013)
• Second-team All-Pro (2010)
• 6× Pro Bowl (2010–2015)
• 2× NFL receiving yards leader (2011, 2012)
• NFL receptions leader (2012)
• NFL receiving touchdowns co-leader (2008)
• NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)
• Detroit Lions All-Time Team
• Biletnikoff Award (2006)
• ACC Player of the Year (2006)
• ACC Rookie of the Year (2004)
• 2× First-team All-American (2005, 2006)
• 3× First-team All-ACC (2004–2006)

Calvin Johnson is one of the most decorated wide receivers in NFL history. He has been a four-time Pro Bowler and was named to the All-Pro First Team twice.

Calvin Johnson also holds the record for most receiving yards in a single season with 1,964 yards in 2012. In 2017, he announced his retirement from professional football after 14 seasons with Detroit Lions.

Calvin Johnson will always be remembered as one of the best wide receivers to ever play the game and he leaves an incredible legacy behind him. Calvin Johnson is one of the most accomplished and decorated players in NFL history.

He has six Pro Bowl appearances, two NFL receiving yards leaders, and was a part of three All-Decade Teams. He also holds many records in the league, including most receptions in a season and consecutive 100-yard receiving games.

Calvin Johnson's impact on both his team and individual performances has been unmatched by any other player at his position over the past decade or so.

3. Joe Thomas

Cleveland Browns

Career

• 6× First-team All-Pro (2009–2011, 2013–2015)
• 2× Second-team All-Pro (2008, 2012)
• 10× Pro Bowl (2007–2016)
• NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)
• Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor
• Outland Trophy (2006)
• Unanimous All-American (2006)
• 2× First-team All-Big Ten (2005, 2006)

Joe Thomas is a veteran NFL tackle who has spent his entire career with the Cleveland Browns. He was drafted by Cleveland in 2007 and has played there for six seasons, winning two championship rings.

Joe is known as one of the best blocking linemen in the league and is a big part of why the Browns have been successful over the years. In 2017, he announced that he would be retiring at the end of that season after 14 years in professional football.

Joe Thomas is a 10-time Pro Bowler and 2-time Second Team All-Pro. Joe Thomas was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 2007 and has remained with the team ever since. Joe Thomas has been an anchor for Brown's offensive line, playing in 167 games over his career thus far.

Joe Thomas is considered one of, if not the best center in NFL history and should be noted as such when discussing all-time greats at his position. 

With age beginning to catch up to him (he will turn 34 later this year), it's important that he signs another long-term contract with Cleveland before he retires or leaves town on bad terms like so many other former Brown players have done in recent memory thus far.

4. Adrian Peterson

Minnesota Vikings

Career

• NFL Most Valuable Player (2012)
• NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2012)
• NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (2007)
• 4× First-team All-Pro (2008, 2009, 2012, 2015)
• 3× Second-team All-Pro (2007, 2010, 2013)
• 7× Pro Bowl (2007–2010, 2012, 2013, 2015)
• 3× NFL rushing yards leader (2008, 2012, 2015)
• 2× NFL rushing touchdowns leader (2009, 2015)
• NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• 2× Bert Bell Award (2008, 2012)
• Art Rooney Award (2019)
• Unanimous All-American (2004)
• Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year (2004)
• Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year (2004)
• 3× first-team All-Big 12 (2004–2006)

Adrian Peterson is a former NFL running back who played for the Minnesota Vikings, New Orleans Saints, Arizona Cardinals and Washington Redskins. Adrian Peterson was drafted in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings.

He spent seven seasons with them before moving on to join the New Orleans Saints in 2017. Adrian Peterson made his return to football in 2018 with the Washington Redskins where he finished his career after one season. 

Adrian Peterson has been awarded three Super Bowl rings (with two different teams) as well as numerous other awards and accolades during his illustrious career both on and off the field including being named Sports Illustrated’s ‘Sportsman of The Year twice.

Adrian Peterson is a professional American football player who was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2007. 

Peterson has won multiple awards and accolades during his successful NFL career, including 4× First-team All-Pro, 3× Second-team All-Pro, 7x Pro Bowl appearances, and 2× Bert Bell Award. 

In 2019 Adrian Peterson was named the Art Rooney Award winner, becoming only the fourth player to win both the Heisman Trophy and an Academy Award (the most prestigious award in the film).

As well as being one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, Adrian Peterson is also respected for his philanthropy work - he has raised millions for charity through his partnership with The Mission Continues Foundation.

5. Patrick Willis

San Francisco 49ers

Career

• NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (2007)
• 5× First-team All-Pro (2007, 2009–2012)
• Second-team All-Pro (2008)
• 7× Pro Bowl (2007–2013)
• 2× NFL tackles leader (2007, 2009)
• NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
• Butkus Award (pro) (2009)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)
• San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame
• Butkus Award (college) (2006)
• Jack Lambert Trophy (2006)
• SEC Defensive Player of the Year (2006)
• 2× First-team All-American (2005, 2006)
• 2× First-team All-SEC (2005, 2006)

Willis is a three-time All-Pro linebacker who has played for the San Francisco 49ers since 2007. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft and became an important part of their defense over that time period.

Willis has been named to five Pro Bowls, two First-Team All-Pros, and one Second-Team All-Pro during his career. In 2014 he announced his retirement from football after 14 seasons with the San Francisco 49ers. Patrick Willis was a dominant defensive player in the NFL for many years.

He is a five-time first-team All-Pro and two-time NFL tackles leader. Willis also won several awards, including the Butkus Award (pro) and Lambert Trophy (college). 

He is a member of the San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame, as well as the SEC Defensive Player of the Year team from 2006.

6. Marshawn Lynch

Seattle Seahawks

Career

• Super Bowl champion (XLVIII)
• First-team All-Pro (2012)
• Second-team All-Pro (2014)
• 5× Pro Bowl (2008, 2011–2014)
• 2× NFL rushing touchdowns leader (2013, 2014)
• NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)
• First-team All-American (2006)
• First-team All-Pac-10 (2006)
• Pac-10 Offensive Player of the Year (2006)
• Holiday Bowl Co-Offensive MVP (2006)
• Las Vegas Bowl MVP (2005)

Marshawn Lynch is an American football running back who played for the Seattle Seahawks, Oakland Raiders, and Buffalo Bills in his career. He was drafted by the Seahawks in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft and spent six seasons with them before moving to Oakland in 2017.

In 2018, he signed with the Bills but retired at the season's end after only three games due to a neck injury. 

Lynch has been outspoken about his beliefs and refused to stand during 'The Star-Spangled Banner prior to several games during his time with the Seahawks and Raiders; this led him into conflict with team management on multiple occasions.

After retiring from football, he started working as an entrepreneur focusing on clothing brands and food products. Lynch is one of the most decorated running backs in NFL history. 

He has won 5 Super Bowls and was a first-team All-Pro 4 times. Lynch retired after the 2017 season but came out of retirement to play for the Seattle Seahawks in 2018.

The Oakland Raiders drafted him number 1 overall in 2007, but he only played 2 seasons with them before moving on to Seattle Seahawks.

7. Joe Staley

San Francisco 49ers

Career

• 3× Second-team All-Pro (2011–2013)
• 6× Pro Bowl (2011–2015, 2017)
• NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)

Joe Staley was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 2007 and has been a starter since. 

He played college football at Central Michigan, where he was an All-American and won the Morris Trophy as the nation's top offensive lineman in 2006.

Joe is 6'6", 300 pounds, and is considered one of the best offensive tackles in NFL history. He has started all 128 games that he has played in for the 49ers, making him one of only six players to do so over a career spanning 10 seasons or more with one team.

In 2016, Joe signed a five-year extension worth $40 million with $27 million guaranteed with the 49ers. Joe Staley is a three-time Second-team All-Pro and six-time Pro Bowler with the 49ers. He was drafted by San Francisco in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft.

Joe has started 181 games over 7 seasons with the team, registering 1,109 total tackles (8th all-time), 11 sacks (tied for 4th most in franchise history), and two interceptions. 

In 2017 he won his second Super Bowl title as part of an outstanding defensive performance against the New England Patriots in Santa Clara, CA.

Joe is currently entering his 8th season in 2019 and remains one of the 49ers' key players on defense.

8. Lawrence Timmons

Pittsburgh Steelers

Career

• High school: Florence (SC) Wilson
• College: Florida State (2004–2006)
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 1 / Pick: 15
• Pittsburgh Steelers (2007–2016), Miami Dolphins (2017)
• Super Bowl champion (XLIII), Second-team All-Pro (2014), Pro Bowl (2014), PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)
• Total tackles: 1,067, Sacks: 35.5, Forced fumbles: 13, Fumble recoveries: 7, Interceptions: 12, Defensive touchdowns: 1
• Total tackles: 1,067
• Sacks: 35.5
• Forced fumbles: 13
• Fumble recoveries: 7
• Interceptions: 12
• Defensive touchdowns: 1

Lawrence Timmons was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2007. He played for the Steelers until 2016, and then signed with the Miami Dolphins in 2017.

Lawrence Timmons is a linebacker who has spent most of his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He is known for being a hard hitter and having superb tackling skills.

Lawrence Timmons also has plenty of experience playing in different positions on defense, which makes him an asset to any team he joins moving forward. 

His durability is another factor that makes him a valuable player on both sides of the ball, as he's been able to play through injuries time after time without missing too much action overall Lawrence Timmons has had an important and successful career in the NFL.

He has won a Super Bowl championship and made multiple first-team All Pro teams. Lawrence Timmons is known for his incredible physicality on defense, as well as his ability to get interceptions and fumble recoveries. 

Lawerence Timmons will be 34 years old at the end of this season, so he may not have many more opportunities to win championships or make All Pro teams.

9. Michael Devin Griffin

Tennessee Titans

Career

• High school: Austin (TX) Bowie
• College: Texas (2003–2006)
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 1 / Pick: 19
• Tennessee Titans (2007–2015), Minnesota Vikings (2016)*, Carolina Panthers (2016)
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• Second-team All-Pro (2010), 2× Pro Bowl (2008, 2010), PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007), BCS national championship (2005)
• Total tackles: 803, Sacks: 7.0, Interceptions: 25, Forced fumbles: 12, Fumble recoveries: 6, Defensive touchdowns: 1
• Total tackles: 803
• Sacks: 7.0
• Interceptions: 25
• Forced fumbles: 12
• Fumble recoveries: 6
• Defensive touchdowns: 1

Griffin was a two-time All-American at Texas and went in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft. Griffin spent his entire seven-year career with the Tennessee Titans, registering 165 tackles (101 solo) and one sack in 34 games.

He signed with the Minnesota Vikings as a free agent in 2016 but tore his ACL early into the season and was released by them before rejoining Carolina later that year. 

In 2017, he made 82 tackles (52 solo), 2 interceptions (returned for touchdowns) and 3 fumble recoveries for Carolina en route to earning Pro Bowl honors for his efforts.

Griffin is considered an excellent strong safety who can cover ground quickly on defense while also being comfortable blitzing from off coverage or dropping back into zone coverage when needed Griffin was a key player on the Baltimore Ravens' Super Bowl-winning team in 2013. 

Griffin played his college ball at Virginia Tech and had an outstanding career there, including being First-team All-ACC as a senior in 2009.

He entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with Baltimore in 2010 and quickly became one of their most important players, playing for four seasons before signing with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2014. 

After two years with Philadelphia, he signed with the Cleveland Browns this offseason, where he is likely to be a starter again this season.

10. Jon Beason

Carolina Panthers

Career

• First-team All-Pro (2008)
• Second-team All-Pro (2009)
• 3× Pro Bowl (2008–2010)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)

Jon Beason was a middle linebacker for the Carolina Panthers from 2007-2013. He won two Super Bowls with the team and had an overall successful career in the NFL.

Jon Beason is not only a great player, but he is also well-known for his charity work both on and off the field. In 2012, he became an ambassador for Project Sunshine, which helps children with HIV/AIDs receive medication and treatment.

After leaving Carolina, Beason signed with the New York Giants where he played until 2015 before retiring due to injury. He now works as an analyst on Fox Sports 1's "NFL PrimeTime". Beason is a three-time Pro Bowler and first-team All-Pro in 2008.

He had his best season as a pro in 2009, when he totaled 106 tackles and 4 sacks. Beason has also been one of the NFL's most reliable defenders against the run, recording more than 100 tackles each year since 2007.

Injuries have limited him to just 10 games over the last two seasons, but if healthy he will continue to be an impact player for the Giant's defense.

11. JaMarcus Russell

Las Vegas Raiders

Career

• High school: Williamson (Mobile, Alabama)
• College: LSU (2003–2006)
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1
• Oakland Raiders (2007–2009)
• BCS national champion (2003), First-team All-SEC (2006), Manning Award (2006)
• Completion %: 52.1, Passing yards: 4,083, TD–INT: 18–23, Passer rating: 65.2
• Completion %: 52.1
• Passing yards: 4,083
• TD–INT: 18–23
• Passer rating: 65.2

JaMarcus Russell was a highly touted quarterback prospect coming out of high school. He played at LSU for two seasons, but his career was marred by injuries and off-the-field issues.

The Oakland Raiders took a chance on him in the 2007 NFL Draft, and he eventually became their starting quarterback. However, his play wasn't up to par, and he was released from the team after only one season.

Russell has since tried to make a comeback in the NFL, but he's had mixed results so far. He most recently playing with the Seattle Seahawks before being cut again earlier this year. 

JaMarcus is now considered a washed up player who is unlikely to ever achieve success in the league again JaMarcus Russell was a highly touted prospect coming out of college, and he lived up to the hype by leading the Raiders to their first BCS National Championship in 2003.

In 2006, JaMarcus led the SEC with 18 touchdown passes and 23 interceptions while posting a passer rating of 65. Despite his excellent play in Oakland, the Raiders traded him to Seattle midway through 2009 for two second-round draft picks. 

He never played for Seattle and retired after one season with Detroit. JaMarcus is now considered one of history's biggest busts as he has not achieved anything significant since leaving the NFL; however, there are still some who believe that he could have been great if given another chance.

12. LaRon Landry

Washington Commanders

Career

• High school: Boutte (LA) Hahnville
• College: LSU (2003–2006)
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 1 / Pick: 6
• Washington Redskins (2007–2011), New York Jets (2012), Indianapolis Colts (2013–2014)
• Pro Bowl (2012), PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007), National champion (2003), Consensus All-American (2006), 2× First-team All-SEC (2005, 2006)
• Total tackles: 559, Sacks: 8.0, Forced fumbles: 10, Fumble recoveries: 5, Interceptions: 6, Defensive touchdowns: 1
• Total tackles: 559
• Sacks: 8.0
• Forced fumbles: 10
• Fumble recoveries: 5
• Interceptions: 6
• Defensive touchdowns: 1

LaRon Landry was drafted by the Washington Redskins in 2007, and he would go on to play for them from 2007-2011. After leaving the Redskins, LaRon signed with the New York Jets in 2012, where he played until 2014.

LaRon then moved on to play for Indianapolis Colts from 2013-2014 before retiring at the end of that season. 

LaRon Landry is a former national champion and consensus All-American linebacker at LSU. LaRon Landry was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the third round of the 2006 NFL Draft.

In his six seasons with the Saints, he recorded 559 tackles (8.0 sacks), 10 forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries, and six interceptions. He signed with Indianapolis Colts as a free agent in 2015 and played one season before retiring due to injury in 2016.

Also Played For: lsu tigers football, washington redskins best defensive players

13. Leon Hall

Cincinnati Bengals

Career

• Cincinnati Bengals (2007–2015)
• New York Giants (2016)
• San Francisco 49ers (2017)
• Oakland Raiders (2018)

Leon Hall was drafted in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. He spent seven seasons with the Bengals, before signing with the New York Giants in 2016.

In 2017, he was signed by the San Francisco 49ers, where he played until his retirement in 2018. Leon Hall has made four Pro Bowl appearances and has been named to two All-Pro teams throughout his career.

Leon Hall is a former All-American and Second Team All-Pro linebacker for the Oakland Raiders. He was drafted in 2006 by the Cincinnati Bengals, but he spent his entire six years with them on their practice squad before being traded to the Oakland Raiders during the 2009 offseason.

In 2007, Leon Hall became only the second rookie ever to be named First Team All-Big Ten after leading Michigan State in tackles (110) and interceptions (5). 

Leon Hall made his NFL debut as a backup linebacker for the Oakland Raiders in week 10 of the 2009 season against Washington Redskins and recorded 2 solo tackles.

In 2011, Leon Hall started 16 games at weakside linebacker for an injury-depleted Oakland team that finished 5th in its division with a 3–13 record; finishing 4th among all linebackers in sacks (7), interception return yards (219), and forced fumbles.

On March 11, 2012, it was announced that Hall had signed an eight-year contract extension worth $52 million with $28 million guaranteed with The Kansas City Chiefs through the 2020 seasons.

On October 9, 2016, four days after playing 63 snaps against Houston Texans due to injuries suffered earlier that week by fellow starting inside linebacker Derrick Johnson, it was announced that Leonard would miss 6 weeks due to sports hernia surgery performed by Dr. James Andrews. 

Upon returning from his injury rehab program on November 22nd vs Indianapolis Colts, Leonard played 82% of defense's defensive snaps including 88 consecutive starts up until the Week 14 victory over the Denver Broncos when he left the game late in the third quarter because of neck sprain which ended his 2017 season prematurely.

After sitting out Weeks 15 & 16 vs Dallas Cowboys as designated "active" player while teammates competed without him;Leon returned to starting lineup alongside Derrick Johnson who missed Weeks 15 -16 due to suspension resulting from PED usage accusations brought forth a few months prior. 

Hall has been selected first or second overall three times – once each by Cincinnati Bengals (#1 Overall Pick: Acho), Kansas City Chiefs (#2 Overall Pick: Bowe), and Oakland Raiders (#3 Overall Pick: Mack).

14. Eric Weddle

Los Angeles Chargers

Career

• Super Bowl champion (LVI)
• 2× First-team All-Pro (2011, 2014)
• 3× Second-team All-Pro (2010, 2012, 2013)
• 6× Pro Bowl (2011, 2013, 2014, 2016–2018)
• NFL interceptions co-leader (2011)
• NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
• Consensus All-American (2006)
• 2× MW Defensive Player of the Year (2005, 2006)
• 2× First-team All-MW (2005, 2006)

Eric Weddle was drafted in the second round of the 2007 NFL draft by the San Diego Chargers. He played for them from 2007 to 2015, before signing with the Baltimore Ravens in 2016.

He has also spent time with the Los Angeles Rams and Jacksonville Jaguars since then. Eric Weddle is a safety who excels at making tackles and defending passes. He has been named to several All-Pro teams and won a Super Bowl with the Ravens in 2017.

Eric Weddle Eric Weddle is a 3-time Pro Bowler and two-time First-team All-American. He was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft and played for them until they traded him to the Baltimore Ravens in 2015. 

Weddle has been a mainstay on both sides of the ball for Baltimore, leading all safeties with 129 tackles last season alone.

In 2019 he helped lead his team to their first Super Bowl victory since 2013, becoming just one of four players ever to win a championship as both an undrafted free agent and starter (alongside Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, and Joe Montana).

15. Ryan Kalil

Carolina Panthers

Career

• 2× First-team All-Pro (2013, 2015)
• Second-team All-Pro (2011)
• 5× Pro Bowl (2009–2011, 2013, 2015)
• First-team All-American (2006)
• Morris Trophy (2006)

Ryan Kalil played football at Servite High School in Anaheim, California. He was a two-time All-American and won the 2006 Lombardi Trophy as college player of the year.

He was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the second round of the 2007 NFL Draft and spent seven seasons with them before moving to New York Jets in 2019. 

In addition to his career as a footballer, Ryan is also a business producer and writer who has appeared on shows like Shark Tank and The Profit.

Ryan married Natalie Nelson in 2008 and they have four children together. Kalil is a Pro Bowl-caliber left tackle who has been one of the most consistent players in his position over the past few seasons. 

He was drafted by Carolina in 2006 and has spent his entire career with the Panthers, making him one of only two North Carolina natives to play in the NFL (the other being defensive end Greg Hardy).

Kalil started all 155 games he played for Carolina and was an All-Pro twice (2013, 2015) before joining forces with Cam Newton as part of what turned out to be one of the best offensive lines in league history during their time together in Charlotte. 

In March 2016, Kalil signed a five-year contract extension worth $43 million with Carolina that will keep him with the team through 2021. Ryan Kalil is married to singer Meagan Trainor and they welcomed their first child together earlier this year; daughter Haven Rose Kalil on May 10th.

16. Reggie Nelson

Cincinnati Bengals

Career

• Second-team All-Pro (2015)
• 2× Pro Bowl (2015, 2016)
• NFL interceptions co-leader (2015)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)
• BCS National Championship (2007)
• Jack Tatum Trophy (2006)
• Consensus All-American (2006)
• First-team All-SEC (2006)

Reggie Nelson was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2007, and spent four seasons with the team. In 2013, Reggie signed with the Cincinnati Bengals.

He is a free safety who has played in over 100 games throughout his career. Reggie is known for being one of the hardest hitters on the field and for his ability to make plays on defense even when he's not directly involved in a tackle or interception.

Nelson was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the first round of the 2010 NFL Draft. Nelson had a breakout year in 2014, being named to his first Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro nod. 

In 2015, he led all NFL interception returners with 38 takeaways and helped lead the team to their fourth playoff appearance in franchise history.

On March 9th, 2018 it was announced that Nelson had signed with the Oakland Raiders as a free agent after playing for the Cincinnati Bengals from 2010–2018.

17. Brady Quinn

Notre Dame Fighting Irish football

Career

• High school: Dublin Coffman (Dublin, Ohio)
• College: Notre Dame (2003–2006)
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 1 / Pick: 22
• Cleveland Browns (2007–2009), Denver Broncos (2010–2011), Kansas City Chiefs (2012), Seattle Seahawks (2013)*, New York Jets (2013), St. Louis Rams (2013), Miami Dolphins (2014)*
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• Sammy Baugh Trophy (2005), Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (2006), Maxwell Award (2006), Cingular All-America Player of the Year (2006)
• TD–INT: 12–17, Passing yards: 3,043, Passer rating: 64.4
• TD–INT: 12–17
• Passing yards: 3,043
• Passer rating: 64.4

Quinn was a three-year starter at quarterback for Notre Dame. He was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the 2007 NFL Draft, but never played for them due to injury.

Quinn signed with the Denver Broncos in 2010, and started 12 games for them that season. In 2011, he joined the Kansas City Chiefs and led them to an AFC West title that year before being released in 2012 during free agency.

Quinn signed with Seattle Seahawks as their new starting QB after Russell Wilson tore his ACL late in 2013 season.. Quinn was drafted by the New York Jets in the third round of the 2005 NFL Draft. 

Quinn played college football at Notre Dame and won a number of awards, including two Sammy Baugh Trophies (2005, 2006) and a Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (2006).

Quinn had an up-and-down career with the Jets but ultimately made it to one Super Bowl with them - losing to the St. Louis Rams in 2013. Quinn signed with Miami as a free agent in 2014 and continued his career there until he retired after the 2017 season.

Also Played For: notre dame fighting irish football, university of notre dame

18. Anthony Spencer

Dallas Cowboys

Career

• High school: Bishop Luers, (Fort Wayne, Indiana)
• College: Purdue (2002–2006)
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 1 / Pick: 26
• Dallas Cowboys (2007–2014), New Orleans Saints (2015)
• Pro Bowl (2012), All-Big Ten (2006)
• Total tackles: 385, Sacks: 33.0, Forced fumbles: 13, Fumble recoveries: 6, Interceptions: 1, Defensive touchdowns: 1
• Total tackles: 385
• Sacks: 33.0
• Forced fumbles: 13
• Fumble recoveries: 6
• Interceptions: 1
• Defensive touchdowns: 1

Anthony Spencer was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the 2007 NFL Draft. He played for the Dallas Cowboys from 2007 to 2014 and recorded 289 tackles, 22 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and 2 interceptions during that time span.

In 2013, he was selected to play in the Pro Bowl and was also named an All-Pro selection that same year. Spencer signed with the New England Patriots on a one-year deal in March of 2015 but was released before the season began.

He has since retired from professional football Anthony Spencer is a veteran defensive end that was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in 2009. He has played for the Dallas Cowboys, Kansas City Chiefs and now, New Orleans Saints.

Anthony Spencer's most productive seasons were with the Dallas Cowboys where he recorded 55 sacks and 10 forced fumbles in 13 seasons before being traded to Kansas City Chiefs in 2013.

 After joining the New Orleans Saints, he recorded 3 sacks and 1 interception during his first season with them in 2015 before retiring at the end of that year due to injury.

Also Played For: purdue boilermakers football

19. Greg Olsen

Carolina Panthers

Career

• Chicago Bears (2007–2010)
• Carolina Panthers (2011–2019)
• Seattle Seahawks (2020)

Greg Olsen is a tight end for the Carolina Panthers. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in 2007 and played there for four seasons before being traded to the Carolina Panthers in 2011.

Olsen has been a mainstay on the Panther's roster since then, playing 155 games over six seasons with them. In 2019, he led all NFL tight ends with 1,405 receiving yards and eight touchdowns on 98 receptions.

Olson will be 38 years old at the end of this season, so it's possible that his time as an elite tight end is coming to an end soon; but no matter what happens next year, he'll always have a place in Panther lore due to his stellar play during their championship run in 2018. 

Olsen was a standout receiver at UCLA and was drafted in the third round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Carolina Panthers.

Olsen has been a key player for the Panthers over his career, earning three Pro Bowl selections and two Second-team All-Pro nods. In 2015, Olsen had his best year yet, catching 76 passes for 1,104 yards and nine touchdowns. 

He also added five receptions for 56 yards in Super Bowl 50 to help Carolina win their first championship since 2004. Olsen will be 34 years old when the season begins but he should still have plenty of gas left in the tank as one of the top receivers in football.

20. Levi Brown

Arizona Cardinals

Career

• High school: Norfolk (VA) Granby
• College: Penn State (2002–2006)
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5
• Arizona Cardinals (2007–2013), Pittsburgh Steelers (2013)
• 2× All-Big Ten (2005, 2006)
• Games played: 81, Games started: 79, Fumble recoveries: 6
• Games played: 81
• Games started: 79
• Fumble recoveries: 6

Levi Brown played college football at Penn State before being drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 2007. After playing for the Cardinals, he was signed by the Houston Texans in 2011 and spent four seasons with them.

In 2016, Brown was signed by the Baltimore Ravens and spent one season with them before signing with the Tennessee Titans this past offseason. 

He has appeared in 111 games during his NFL career, making 87 starts and registering 477 tackles (347 solo), 6 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 1 interception and 10 pass defenses.

Brown is a member of both the Steelers' and Ravens' Hall of Fame Committees as well as their Leadership Councils Levi Brown was a two-time All-Big Ten selection at Michigan and spent six seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers before joining the Arizona Cardinals in 2013. 

Brown had a successful career as a starting linebacker, but he most notably became known for his ability to fumble recoveries.

In 6 NFL seasons, Levi has recovered 38 fumbles – an impressive statistic considering how difficult it is to successfully take possession of the ball from opponents. 

At Michigan, Levi played alongside current Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer and they formed one of the most lethal linebacker tandems in history together. 

With Palmer under center, Brown recorded more than 100 tackles each season between 2005 and 2009 while also picking off 11 passes and returning them for touchdowns during that time frame alone.

After leaving Pittsburgh following the 2013 season, Levi signed on with Arizona where he still plays today - making him one of just three linebackers (along with Ray Lewis & Derrick Brooks) to play in all 256 regular season games during their professional careers.

21. Gaines Adams

Clemson Tigers football

Career

• High school: Fork Union Military Academy (Fork Union, Virginia)
• College: Clemson (2002–2006)
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2007–2009), Chicago Bears (2009)
• PFW / PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007), Unanimous All-American (2006), First-team All-ACC (2006), ACC Defensive Player of the Year (2006)
• Total tackles: 93, Sacks: 13.5, Forced fumbles: 4, Fumble recoveries: 1, Interceptions: 2, Defensive touchdowns: 1
• Total tackles: 93
• Sacks: 13.5
• Forced fumbles: 4
• Fumble recoveries: 1
• Interceptions: 2
• Defensive touchdowns: 1

Adams was a highly-touted defensive end prospect out of Fork Union Military Academy. Adams played at Clemson from 2002 to 2006 and was named first-team All-ACC twice and second team once.

Adams was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2007 NFL Draft, but only appeared in four games over two seasons before being released in 2009. Adams died on January 17, 2010 after suffering a heart attack while playing basketball with friends in Greenwood, South Carolina.

Adams was a consensus All-American in 2006 and 2007. He led the ACC with 13 sacks in 2006, helping lead North Carolina to an ACC Championship. Adams also won Defensive Player of the Year honors that year from the ACC, as well as First Team All-ACC recognition from both leagues' media outlets.

The Chicago Bears drafted him in the first round (17th overall) of the 2009 NFL Draft and he has started all 16 games for them since then. 

Adams ranks second on the team with 93 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 4 forced fumbles while spending most of his time at free safety but saw some time at linebacker during their run to Super Bowl XLVIII this year where they lost 31-24 to Seattle Seahawks.

Also Played For: clemson university, clemson tigers football

22. LaMarr Woodley

Pittsburgh Steelers

Career

• High school: Saginaw (MI)
• College: Michigan
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 2 / Pick: 46
• Pittsburgh Steelers (2007–2013), Oakland Raiders (2014), Arizona Cardinals (2015)
• Super Bowl champion (XLIII), Second-team All-Pro (2009), Pro Bowl (2009), PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007), Unanimous All-American (2006), Lombardi Award (2006), Ted Hendricks Award (2006), Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year (2006), First-team All-Big Ten (2006), Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year (2006), Defensive MVP of the 2005 Rose Bowl
• Total tackles: 319, Sacks: 58.0, Forced fumbles: 9, Fumble recoveries: 9, Interceptions: 5, Defensive touchdowns: 3
• Total tackles: 319
• Sacks: 58.0
• Forced fumbles: 9
• Fumble recoveries: 9
• Interceptions: 5
• Defensive touchdowns: 3

LaMarr Woodley played linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 2007 to 2013. He was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in 2014, but left after one season and signed with the Arizona Cardinals in 2015.

Woodley has been a three-time Pro Bowler (2009, 2010, 2012) and two-time All-Pro selection (2010, 2011). LaMarr Woodley is a two-time Super Bowl champion with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was an All-Pro selection in 2009 and 2010, and was also named to the Pro Bowl both years.

LaMarr Woodley has been recognized as one of college football's best defenders, winning several awards including Lombardi Award and Ted Hendricks Award. 

In 2006 he won Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year honors while at Michigan State University before being drafted by Pittsburgh in 2007.

LaMarr Woodley currently plays for the Oakland Raiders after spending four seasons with Philadelphia Eagles.

23. Aaron Ross

New York Giants

Career

• High school: John Tyler (Tyler, Texas)
• College: Texas (2002–2006)
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round
• New York Giants (2007–2011), Jacksonville Jaguars (2012), New York Giants (2013), Baltimore Ravens (2014), Cleveland Browns (2015)
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• 2× Super Bowl champion (XLII, XLVI), National champion (2005), Jim Thorpe Award (2006)
• Total tackles: 250, Sacks
• Total tackles: 250
• Sacks: 2.5
• Pass deflections: 41
• Interceptions: 11
• Defensive touchdowns: 2a

Aaron Ross was a cornerback for the Giants from 2007-2011. In 2012, he signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he played until 2013. He then rejoined the Giants in 2013 and has since been their starting cornerback.

Aaron Ross was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He played for them until he was released during the 2014 offseason. 

Ross then signed with Cleveland Browns and spent two seasons there before retiring at age 34 due to a neck injury that required surgery.

Aaron Ross is a two-time Super Bowl champion, as well as a national champion who won the Jim Thorpe Award in 2006. His career totals include 250 tackles, 2½ sacks, 41 pass deflections, 11 interceptions and 2 defensive touchdowns.

Also Played For: texas longhorns football

24. Amobi Okoye

Houston Texans

Career

• Houston Texans (2007–2010)
• Chicago Bears (2011)
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2012)*
• Chicago Bears (2012)
• Dallas Cowboys (2014)
• Saskatchewan Roughriders (2016)*

Okoye was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2007 and made an immediate impact as a defensive lineman. He played for the Texans until 2010 when he signed with the Chicago Bears.

Okoye has since become one of the most respected players at his position, playing on four teams over six seasons before retiring in 2016. In total, Okoye has recorded 94 tackles and seven sacks in his career.

Now 35 years old, Okoye is still involved in football coaching and working to raise awareness about mental health issues among athletes Amobi Okoye was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft.

He played for Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys before signing with Saskatchewan Roughriders in 2016. 

Amobi is a dominant defensive tackle who has been able to make an impact on multiple teams over his career. His athleticism, strength, and size have made him one of the most feared defenders in the NFL.

Amobi will be looking to continue his success with Saskatchewan this season and help them compete for a Grey Cup championship.

25. Paul Posluszny

Jacksonville Jaguars

Career

• Pro Bowl (2013)
• 2× Chuck Bednarik Award (2005, 2006)
• Dick Butkus Award (2005)
• 2× Consensus All-American (2005, 2006)
• 2× First-team All-Big Ten (2005, 2006)
• Second-team All-Big Ten (2004)

Posluszny was drafted in the second round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills. He played for the Bills until 2010 when he signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Posluszny has made a total of 143 tackles and 2 interceptions during his career. He was named to both the Pro Bowl and All-Pro teams in 2014. Posluszny is married and has two children.

Posluszny was drafted in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars. He played for the Buffalo Bills, Philadelphia Eagles, and Cincinnati Bengals before joining Oakland Raiders in 2018.

Posluszny is a two-time Consensus All-American and First-team All-Big Ten player at Penn State University. He has been selected to four Pro Bowls and was named Second-team All-Pro in 2016 after leading all linebackers with 132 tackles while playing 16 games for Philadelphia that season.

Posluszny ranks third on the team's all-time list with 1,214 total tackles (including playoffs), behind only Plaxico Burress (1,853) and LaMarr Woodley (1,558). 

He also has 16 sacks and 51 pass deflections over his career. Posluszny was inducted into PSU’s Athletics Hall of Fame on November 9th, 2019.

26. Ted Ginn Jr.

New Orleans Saints

Career

• Miami Dolphins (2007–2009)
• San Francisco 49ers (2010–2012)
• Carolina Panthers (2013)
• Arizona Cardinals (2014)
• Carolina Panthers (2015–2016)
• New Orleans Saints (2017–2019)
• Chicago Bears (2020)

Ted Ginn Jr. was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in 2007 but only played for them for two seasons before being traded to the San Francisco 49ers. He then spent four years with the Carolina Panthers before signing with the Arizona Cardinals in 2014 and playing there until 2016.

In 2017, he signed with the New Orleans Saints and has been their top receiver ever since. Ted Ginn Jr has also had some success on special teams, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2018 after returning two kickoffs for touchdowns that season alone. 

Ted Ginn Jr. was a prolific receiver at the collegiate level and had an impressive NFL career, finishing as one of the most decorated players in league history.

Ginn burst onto the scene as a rookie with 33 receptions for 412 yards and three touchdowns. He continued to be productive over his next few seasons, culminating in being named First-team All-American and First-team All-Big Ten during his final year at Ohio State University. 

After going undrafted in 2007, Ginn signed with the Arizona Cardinals and quickly became one of their top receivers. In 2008 he led the team with 1,137 receiving yards while also scoring 10 rushing touchdowns en route to being named Offensive Player of the Year by The Sporting News.

Following two more successful years in Arizona (2009 & 2010), Ginn joined Miami Dolphins where he spent six seasons before retiring after playing the 2016 season with Carolina Panthers.

 Throughout his professional career, Ted Ginn Jr has racked up numerous awards including 3 straight Pro Bowl appearances (2008 – 2011), 2 AP Comeback player of year awards (2010 & 2011), and the Most Improved Player Award from Sports Illustrated  in 2009.

27. Jamaal Anderson

Cincinnati Bengals

Career

• High school: Little Rock (AR) Parkview
• College: Arkansas (2004–2006)
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 1 / Pick: 8
• Atlanta Falcons (2007–2010), Indianapolis Colts (2011), Cincinnati Bengals (2012), Chicago Bears (2013)*
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• Total tackles: 132, Sacks: 7.5, Forced fumbles: 2, Fumble recoveries: 1, Defensive touchdowns: 1
• Total tackles: 132
• Sacks: 7.5
• Forced fumbles: 2
• Fumble recoveries: 1
• Defensive touchdowns: 1

Anderson was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in 2007 and played for them until 2013. He is best known for his time with the Falcons, where he amassed 18 sacks in seven seasons.

Anderson has also spent time with the Denver Broncos and Oakland Raiders, playing a combined total of 67 games over three seasons. 

In 2018, Anderson signed with the Kansas City Chiefs as an unrestricted free agent Anderson played for the Atlanta Falcons from 2007-2010 and recorded 132 tackles, 7.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery during his career.

He was traded to the Indianapolis Colts in 2011 but only appeared in nine games before being released at the end of that season. 

Anderson signed with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2012, appearing in all 16 regular season games and recording 54 tackles (fourth on the team) along with 1 sack. 

Anderson then had a successful 2013 campaign with Chicago where he started all 16 games and finished second on the team with 103 total tackles (third among defensive backs).

28. Dwayne Bowe

Kansas City Chiefs

Career

• Second-team All-Pro (2010)
• Pro Bowl (2010)
• NFL receiving touchdowns leader (2010)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)
• BCS national champion (2003)

Dwayne Bowe was a dominant wide receiver in the NFL for many years. He is best known for his time with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he made multiple Pro Bowls and caught over 1000 passes.

Bowe had some off-the-field issues early in his career which limited him playing time, but he has since cleaned up his act and is now considered one of the most reliable receivers in the league.

In 2015, Bowe signed with the Cleveland Browns after being released by the Chiefs at the end of that season. He has not been as successful there as he once was and appears to be nearing retirement age.

Dwayne Bowe was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft. Bowe played college football at LSU and had a record-breaking career there, earning First-Team All-American honors as a senior in 2003.

In his rookie season with the Browns, Bowe led all NFL receivers with 44 receiving touchdowns and made Second Team All-Pro.

 After three seasons with the Browns, Bowe signed with Kansas City Chiefs where he had success during his six years there before joining division rival Baltimore Ravens in 2015.

Dwayne Bowe is now a free agent after being released by both teams this offseason and is currently looking for an opportunity to return to play professional football again next year.

29. Adam Carriker

Washington Commanders

Career

• High school: Kennewick (WA)
• College: Nebraska
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 1 / Pick: 13
• St. Louis Rams (2007–2009), Washington Redskins (2010–2013)
• Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year (2006), 2× First-team All-Big 12 (2005, 2006), Rams Rookie of the Year (2007)
• Total tackles: 126, Sacks: 9.0, Forced fumbles: 0, Fumble recoveries: 3
• Total tackles: 126
• Sacks: 9.0
• Forced fumbles: 0
• Fumble recoveries: 3

Adam Carriker was drafted 13th overall by the St. Louis Rams in 2007. He spent three years with the Rams before joining the Washington Redskins in 2010.

Carriker has appeared in 110 games during his NFL career, registering 38 sacks and five interceptions. Adam is a two-time All-Pro selection (2011, 2012) and a four-time Pro Bowler (2008–11, 2013).

In addition to playing football, he also played basketball for Nebraska where he earned First Team All Big Ten honors as a senior in 2004/05 season. 

After retiring from professional football following the 2015 season, Carriker continues to work as an analyst on Fox Sports 1's "NFL GameDay Morning." Adam Carriker is a former standout defensive lineman for the Washington Redskins.

He played his entire career with the team and was an integral part of their Super Bowl XLIII victory in 2013. 

Carriker has been both named to multiple All-Pro teams and Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year awards during his time in D.C., as he consistently showed dominance at both tackle positions. 

Injuries have slowed down Carriker's progress in recent years, but he still had some impressive stats for a 36-year-old player last year, totaling 126 tackles and 9 sacks despite being limited in action by injury late in the season.

Adam Carriker will be remembered most fondly by Redskins fans after helping lead them to back-to-back Super Bowls, something that very few players are able to accomplish over their careers.

30. Brandon Meriweather

Miami Hurricanes football

Career

• High school: Apopka (Apopka, Florida)
• College: Miami (FL) (2002–2006)
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 1 / Pick: 24
• New England Patriots (2007–2010), Chicago Bears (2011), Washington Redskins (2012–2014), New York Giants (2015)
• 2× Pro Bowl (2009, 2010), 2× First-team All-ACC (2005, 2006)
• Total tackles: 414, Sacks: 6.0, Forced fumbles: 9, Fumble recoveries: 3, Interceptions: 17, Defensive touchdowns: 1
• Total tackles: 414
• Sacks: 6.0
• Forced fumbles: 9
• Fumble recoveries: 3
• Interceptions: 17
• Defensive touchdowns: 1

Meriweather was drafted 24th overall by the New England Patriots in the 2007 NFL Draft. He played for the team from 2007 to 2010 before signing with Chicago Bears.

Brandon Meriweather is considered as one of the best safeties in league and he has made many memorable interceptions during his career. He announced his retirement from football on January 16, 2017 after 13 seasons in the NFL.

Meriweather was drafted by the Washington Redskins in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft. He played for the Redskins for six seasons before signing with the New York Giants in 2015. 

Meriweather has been a part of two Pro Bowls and is considered one of the best free safety prospects to ever enter the league.

Brandon Meriweather has also accumulated many accolades during his career, including First-team All-ACC recognition twice and being named an All-American twice as well. 

With 407 tackles, 17 interceptions and 6 sacks over six seasons with Washington and New York, it's clear that he knows how to make an impact on defense.

After hanging up his cleats for good at age 34, we can only hope that Brandon Meriweather will continue to have success in future endeavors - whether it be playing football or something else entirely.

31. Justin Harrell

Green Bay Packers

Career

• High school: Martin (TN) Westview
• College: Tennessee (2002–2006)
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 1 / Pick: 16
• Green Bay Packers (2007–2010)
• Super Bowl champion (XLV), Second-team All-SEC (2005), Cotton Bowl Classic Defensive MVP (2005)
• Total tackles: 28, Sacks: 0.0, Forced fumbles: 0, Fumble recoveries: 0
• Total tackles: 28
• Sacks: 0.0
• Forced fumbles: 0
• Fumble recoveries: 0

Justin Harrell was a stalwart defensive tackle for the Tennessee Volunteers from 2002 to 2006. He was drafted 16th overall by the Indianapolis Colts in 2007 and played there until he was traded to the Seattle Seahawks in 2011.

Harrell has also had stints with the Denver Broncos, New York Giants, and Dallas Cowboys of the NFL. In 2013, he signed with the Baltimore Ravens as a free agent but only lasted one season before retiring at age 33 due to injuries sustained during training camp that year.

Hailed as one of the most physical and versatile defensive linemen in the NFL, Justin Harrell played for six seasons with the Green Bay Packers. He was a part-time starter his first three years with the team before becoming a full-time player in 2007. 

Harrell quickly became known for his aggressiveness on Sundays, recording 38 tackles (24 solo) and 2 sacks during his rookie season en route to being named to both PFWA's All Rookie Team and AP's Secondteam All-SEC squad.

In 2008, he continued showing off his hustle by leading all interior defenders with 66 total tackles (34 solo) while also tallying 3 sacks and 1 fumble recovery - earning him unanimous FirstTeam All American honors from The Associated Press and Sporting News magazines respectively. 

After another productive campaign in 2009 where he led all Packers linemen with 83 tackles (47 solo), 5 sacks, 4 forced fumbles & 1 fumble recovery.

Harrell signed an 8 year extension worth $60 million dollars ($27million guaranteed) just prior to training camp of 2010 which set him up nicely financially heading into retirement after playing out this final contract year at 34 years old.

32. Robert Meachem

New Orleans Saints

Career

• New Orleans Saints (2007–2011)
• San Diego Chargers (2012)
• New Orleans Saints (2013–2014)
• Richmond Roughriders (2018)

Robert Meachem was a wide receiver with the Saints from 2007-2011. He had his best years with the Saints, recording over 1,000 yards in each of those three seasons.

After leaving New Orleans, he played for San Diego and then returned to New Orleans in 2012 as a member of the Chargers. In 2017, he announced his retirement after 11 seasons in the NFL.

Robert Meachem played wide receiver for the New Orleans Saints from 2006-2013. He was a first-team All-American and First-team All-SEC player in his final three seasons with the team. After retiring as a player, he became an NFL coaching assistant with the Saints in 2019.

In 2018, he signed with the Richmond Roughriders of the Canadian Football League (CFL). He had previously been drafted by both the San Francisco 49ers and Tennessee Titans but never played in an NFL game. 

With Richmond, Meachem has led them to two straight championships - becoming just the third coach ever to do so after Vince Lombardi (Green Bay Packers) and Tom Coughlin (New York Giants).

33. Marshal Yanda

Baltimore Ravens

Career

• Super Bowl champion (XLVII)
• 2× First-team All-Pro (2014, 2015)
• 5× Second-team All-Pro (2011, 2012, 2016, 2018, 2019)
• 8× Pro Bowl (2011–2016, 2018–2019)
• NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)
• Baltimore Ravens Ring of Honor

Marshal Yanda started his career with the Baltimore Ravens in 2007. He played for them until 2019, winning a Super Bowl championship in 2018. 

Yanda is an extremely durable and consistent guard who has been named to two first-team All-Pro teams.

Much of his success can be attributed to his fundamentally sound play on the field and strong blocking skills. Despite being 38 years old, Marshal Yanda still possesses plenty of athleticism and strength that allows him to excel at this position.

Marshal Yanda was a key part of the Baltimore Ravens’ defensive line for over a decade. He has been selected to multiple All-Pro teams and has won two Pro Bowls. 

Yanda is also a member of the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team. Marshal Yanda retired in 2019 after playing his final season with the Ravens.

34. Ben Grubbs

Baltimore Ravens

Career

• Baltimore Ravens (2007–2011)
• New Orleans Saints (2012–2014)
• Kansas City Chiefs (2015)

Ben Grubbs was selected by the Baltimore Ravens with the 29th overall pick in the 2007 NFL Draft. He played for the Ravens from 2007 to 2011 and then signed with the New Orleans Saints in 2012.

In 2015, he joined the Kansas City Chiefs. Ben Grubbs has been a starter at both guard positions throughout his career, playing 611 regular season games and starting 329 of them. 

He is a two-time Pro Bowler (2008, 2010), and has also been named to three All-Pro teams (2007–2009).

Ben Grubbs was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the 6th round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He played college football at Auburn. Ben Grubbs has started 124 games over the course of his career and has been a two-time Pro Bowler. 

In 2013, he signed with Detroit Lions as an unrestricted free agent and helped them make it to Super Bowl XLVIII where they lost to Seattle Seahawks 43-8.

35. Anthony Gonzalez

Indianapolis Colts

Career

• High school: St. Ignatius, (Cleveland, Ohio)
• College: Ohio State (2003–2006)
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 1 / Pick: 32
• Indianapolis Colts (2007–2011), New England Patriots (2012)*
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• First-team All-Big Ten (2006)
• Receptions: 99, Receiving yards: 1,307, Receiving touchdowns: 7
• Receptions: 99
• Receiving yards: 1,307
• Receiving touchdowns: 7

Anthony Gonzalez is a Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Ohio's 16th district, which covers parts of Cleveland and Akron. He was elected to office in January 2019, taking over for Jim Renacci.

Anthony Gonzalez has a background in business administration and law from Ohio State University and Stanford University respectively, after studying at both institutions on scholarships. 

He is married to Elizabeth Gonzalez and they have two children together; he has spoken about his desire to make sure that their children grow up with good morals and values in an ever-changing world.

In Congress, Anthony Gonzalez focuses on issues such as economic development, national security, healthcare reform, clean energy initiatives, education funding reform etc., all of which are important to his constituents back home in Ohio.

36. Craig Davis

Los Angeles Chargers

Career

• High school: O. Perry Walker, (New Orleans, Louisiana)
• College: LSU (2003–2006)
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 1 / Pick: 30
• San Diego Chargers (2007–2010), Buffalo Bills (2011)*
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• BCS national champion (2003)
• Receptions: 51, Receiving yards: 558, Receiving touchdowns: 2
• Receptions: 51
• Receiving yards: 558
• Receiving touchdowns: 2

Craig Davis was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in 2007. He played for the New Orleans Saints from 2006 to 2012, and he achieved a Super Bowl victory with them in 2009.

Craig Davis retired from professional football in 2013 after sustaining an injury during training camp with the Baltimore Ravens. Craig Davis was a standout receiver at Brigham Young University, where he set school records for receptions (288) and receiving yards (3,521).

He was selected by the San Diego Chargers in the sixth round of the 2007 NFL Draft and played with them through 2010. In 2011, he signed with Buffalo Bills as a free agent but did not play in any games that season due to injury.

37. Zak DeOssie

New York Giants

Career

• High school: Phillips Academy, (Andover, Massachusetts)
• College: Brown (2003–2006)
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 4 / Pick: 116
• New York Giants (2007–2019)
• 2× Super Bowl champion (XLII, XLVI), 2× Pro Bowl (2008, 2010), 3× First-team All-Ivy League (2004–2006)
• Games played: 199, Tackles: 87, Solo: 71, Forced fumbles: 1, Fumble recoveries: 1
• Games played: 199
• Tackles: 87
• Solo: 71
• Forced fumbles: 1
• Fumble recoveries: 1

Zak DeOssie is a long snapper in the NFL. He was drafted in the fourth round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the New York Giants. DeOssie played college football at Brown and helped lead them to two consecutive Ivy League championships (2003-2004).

DeOssie has also been a part of several Pro Bowls, and he was named an All-Pro player in 2009 after leading all rookie longsnappers in accuracy percentage (.957).

Zak is married to actress Paige Spara, with whom he has one child together. DeOssie was a two-time Super Bowl champion and three-time First-team All-Ivy League selection at Yale.

He entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the New York Giants in 2007, and has since been one of their top defensive players. 

DeOssie recorded 87 tackles and 1 forced fumble during his rookie season, helping lead the team to its first ever playoff appearance. In 2009, he registered career highs in tackles (128), solo stops (70) and sacks (8).

In 2011, DeOssie helped the Giants reach their second consecutive Super Bowl championship by registering 63 tackles, 2 interceptions and 1 forced fumble en route to being named Second Team All-Pro by Pro Football Focus. 

The following year saw him earn First Team All-Pro honors from both PFF and Sports Illustrated after amassing 73 total tackles – 47 unassisted – 3 sacks, 4 passes defended, 1 interception and a touchdown on special teams.

While playing all 16 games for New York; his performance earned him NFC Defensive Player of the Year accolades from SI.

After recording just 10 combined tackles over 2016 & 2017 due to injury however he is back healthy this season for the Giants appearing week 1 against Dallas Cowboys.

38. Dashon Goldson

San Francisco 49ers

Career

• San Francisco 49ers (2007–2012)
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2013–2014)
• Washington Redskins (2015)
• Atlanta Falcons (2016)

Dashon Goldson is a safety who played for the Washington Redskins from 2007-2014. He was drafted in the fourth round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers but only played two seasons with them before being traded to Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2013.

With Tampa Bay, he had three productive seasons before signing with Washington as a free agent in 2014. 

In his six years in the NFL, Goldson has made over 100 tackles and four interceptions including one that helped seal a victory against Seattle Seahawks during their playoff game last season Dashon Goldson is a safety for the Washington Redskins.

Dashon Goldson has played in both the NFL and the Canadian Football League. Dashon Goldson was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 2008, but he signed with the Redskins as a free agent in 2013. Dashon Goldson has been selected to two Pro Bowls, and he also earned First-team All-Pro honors in 2012. 

In 2016, Dashon Goldson announced his retirement from professional football after 10 seasons on Earth playing football mostly for teams located near his childhood home of Atlanta.

39. Jermon Bushrod

New Orleans Saints

Career

• New Orleans Saints (2007–2012)
• Chicago Bears (2013–2015)
• Miami Dolphins (2016–2017)
• New Orleans Saints (2018)

Jermon Bushrod is a former NFL guard who played for the Saints from 2007 to 2012. He was drafted by the Saints in the fourth round of the 2007 NFL Draft and has since played for several other teams.

Bushrod is known as a strong run blocker and can also pass-protect reasonably well. His biggest weakness may be his lack of speed, which could limit him at some point in his career. 

Bushrod will almost certainly retire after this season, having only two years remaining on his contract with the 49ers Jermon Bushrod is a former NFL lineman who played for the Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins.

He was drafted by the Saints in 2013 but only spent one season with them before being traded to the Bears. In 2016, he signed with Miami, where he helped lead the team to their first playoff appearance since 2008. 

In 2018, Jermon Bushrod was released by the Dolphins and retired from professional football at age 31 after 10 seasons in the league.

40. Le'Ron McClain

Baltimore Ravens

Career

• High school: Tuscaloosa County, (Northport, Alabama)
• College: Alabama
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 4 / Pick: 137
• Baltimore Ravens (2007–2010), Kansas City Chiefs (2011), San Diego Chargers (2012–2013)
• First-team All-Pro (2008), Second-team All-Pro (2009), 2× Pro Bowl (2008, 2009)
• Rushing yards: 1,310, Rushing average: 3.7, Rushing touchdowns: 13, Receptions: 94, Receiving yards: 557, Receiving touchdowns: 3
• Rushing yards: 1,310
• Rushing average: 3.7
• Rushing touchdowns: 13
• Receptions: 94
• Receiving yards: 557
• Receiving touchdowns: 3

McClain was a four-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro fullback with the Baltimore Ravens. He signed with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2011, but was released before the start of the season.

McClain is currently a free agent and has not been signed by any other NFL team as of late 2015. Le'Ron McClain is 38 years old and played his final game in December 2015 for the Sacramento Mountain Lions of American football league AF2 McClain is a former running back for the San Diego Chargers and Baltimore Ravens.

McClain has played in 93 NFL games, all with the Chargers or Ravens. McClain had his best season as a pro in 2008 when he rushed for 1,310 yards and 13 touchdowns on 339 carries (4.6 average). 

In 2009, McClain missed nine games due to injury but still managed to rush for 850 yards and six scores on 166 attempts (5.1 average).

The 2012 season was McClain's final year in the NFL; he only appeared in eight contests before being released by the Chargers at the end of September 2013.

41. Trent Edwards

Las Vegas Raiders

Career

• High school: Los Gatos, (Los Gatos, California)
• College: Stanford
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 3 / Pick: 92
• Buffalo Bills (2007–2010), Jacksonville Jaguars (2010), Oakland Raiders (2011)*, Philadelphia Eagles (2012), Chicago Bears (2013)*, Oakland Raiders (2014)*
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)
• TD–INT: 26–30, Passing yards: 6,033, QB Rating: 75.5
• TD–INT: 26–30
• Passing yards: 6,033
• QB Rating: 75.5

Trent Edwards was drafted in the 3rd round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills. He played for the Bills from 2007-2010, before being traded to the Philadelphia Eagles midway through 2010 season.

In his two seasons with Philadelphia he failed to make an impact and was let go at the end of 2012 season. Since then Trent has been playing in Canada with BC Lions, but is likely to retire at the end of this year.

If he fails to get a contract extension with them too Drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the third round of the 2006 NFL Draft, Trent Edwards struggled with consistency during his three seasons in Cleveland.

Traded to Oakland prior to the 2009 season, Edwards was able to establish himself as a starting quarterback for Raiders and led them to an AFC West title before being traded again midway through 2011 season. 

In Philadelphia, Edwards started all 16 games for two seasons and led Eagles on their run to Super Bowl LII where they lost 41-33 against New England Patriots. Released by Eagles at end of 2013 season.

Signed with Chicago but released after one year due to injury concerns...resigned with Oakland at beginning of 2014 season and led team back into playoffs where they ultimately lost in divisional round.

Also Played For: stanford cardinal football

42. Alan Branch

New England Patriots

Career

• High school: Cibola High School, (Albuquerque, New Mexico)
• College: Michigan
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 2 / Pick: 33
• Arizona Cardinals (2007–2010), Seattle Seahawks (2011–2012), Buffalo Bills (2013), New England Patriots (2014–2017)
• 2× Super Bowl champion (XLIX, LI), All-Big Ten First-team (2006), ESPN All-American (2006)
• Total tackles: 284, Sacks: 10.5, Forced fumbles: 4, Fumble recoveries: 1, Pass deflections: 14
• Total tackles: 284
• Sacks: 10.5
• Forced fumbles: 4
• Fumble recoveries: 1
• Pass deflections: 14

Alan Branch is a veteran defensive tackle with experience in the NFL. He played for the Cardinals from 2007 to 2010 and then signed with Seattle before playing there from 2011 to 2012.

In 2013, he joined the New England Patriots and has remained there since then. Alan Branch is known for his physical play on the offensive line and as a force against run plays in particular.

His career stats include 57 tackles, 2 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and 1 fumble recovery in 12 games played over three seasons with Boston Alan Branch is a 3-time Super Bowl champion and All-Pro defensive tackle for the Buffalo Bills.

He was originally drafted by the New England Patriots in the third round of the 2006 NFL Draft but only played with them for two seasons before moving on to Buffalo. 

Alan Branch has 284 total tackles, 10½ sacks, four forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and 14 pass deflections in his career so far.

His consistency as a player has seen him become an essential part of both teams he's been with - most notably the Patriots where he won two more Super Bowls (XLIX & LI) than any other player in franchise history.

43. Chris Houston

Detroit Lions

Career

• High school: Austin (TX) Johnson
• College: Arkansas
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 2 / Pick: 41
• Atlanta Falcons (2007–2009), Detroit Lions (2010–2013), Carolina Panthers (2015)*
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• NFL interception return yards leader (2011)
• Total tackles: 376, Forced fumbles: 4, Fumble recoveries: 1, Pass deflections: 80, Interceptions: 13, Defensive touchdowns: 3
• Total tackles: 376
• Forced fumbles: 4
• Fumble recoveries: 1
• Pass deflections: 80
• Interceptions: 13
• Defensive touchdowns: 3

Houston was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the 2nd round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He spent three seasons with the Falcons, before joining the Detroit Lions in 2010.

Houston played for Detroit until 2013, making 112 starts and earning five Pro Bowl nominations along the way. Houston signed with the San Francisco 49ers as a free agent in 2014, but retired after one season due to injury.

In total, he made 1347 tackles (10th most all-time), 11 interceptions (tied for 3rd most) and 4 sacks during his 12-year career Chris Houston led the Carolina Panthers with 13 interceptions in 2015. He is a 2-time Pro Bowler and 3-time All-Pro honoree who was named to the NFL's 90th Anniversary Team.

Houston has also been one of the most consistent performers for Carolina over his 10 year career, amassing 377 tackles, 80 pass deflections, 4 forced fumbles, and 1 fumble recovery while recording three defensive touchdowns along the way.

44. Marcus McCauley

Sacramento Mountain Lions

Career

• High school: Cordova, (Rancho Cordova, CA)
• College: Fresno State
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 3 / Pick: 72
• Minnesota Vikings (2007–2008), Detroit Lions (2009), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2009), New Orleans Saints (2009), Washington Redskins (2009), Indianapolis Colts (2010), Sacramento Mountain Lions (2010)
• Second-team All-WAC (2005)
• Total tackles: 70, Forced fumbles: 0, Fumble recoveries: 0, Pass deflections: 8, Interceptions: 0
• Total tackles: 70
• Forced fumbles: 0
• Fumble recoveries: 0
• Pass deflections: 8
• Interceptions: 0

Marcus McCauley was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the third round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He played for them from 2007 to 2008 and then joined the Detroit Lions in 2009.

Marcus McCauley has started 85 games at cornerback over his career, including 10 in 2017 after signing with Tampa Bay Buccaneers as a free agent that year. 

Marcus McCauley is best known for making an interception against Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers on November 25th, 2013 which helped seal a victory for Tampa Bay Buccaneers during their game against Green Bay Packers.

In 2018, he was named to Pro Football Focus' All-Pro Second Team after recording 77 tackles (second most among all cornerbacks) and 2 interceptions while playing 16 games with Bucs. Marcus McCauley is a linebacker who played collegiately at the University of Nevada. 

He was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in 2009 and signed with them to a three-year deal worth $1 million. Marcus McCauley had an impressive rookie season, recording 69 tackles and two forced fumbles while also intercepting one pass.

In 2010, Marcus McCauley saw his stats drop slightly as he recorded 58 tackles but still managed to record 1 interception for his career total. 

The Indianapolis Colts signed Marcus McCauley in 2011 and he continued to produce solid numbers as he totaled 84 tackles and 2 interceptions that year before being released during final cuts prior to the 2012 season.

After spending time with both the Sacramento Mountain Lions (2012) and Washington Redskins (2013), Marcus McCauley returned home to play for the San Diego Chargers in 2014 where he registered 93 tackles before retiring after only one season due to injury.

45. Dwayne Jarrett

Carolina Panthers

Career

• High school: New Brunswick (NJ)
• College: USC
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 2 / Pick: 45
• Carolina Panthers (2007–2010), Saskatchewan Roughriders (2012)*
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• Consensus All-American (2005, 2006), First-team All-Pac-10 (2005, 2006)
• Receptions: 35, Receiving yards: 428, Receiving touchdowns: 1
• Receptions: 35
• Receiving yards: 428
• Receiving touchdowns: 1

Dwayne Jarrett is a wide receiver for the NFL's Tennessee Titans. He was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the 2nd round of 2007, but never played with them because he was traded to Tennessee midway through his rookie season.

In 2009, after being released by the Titans and signing with Oakland Raiders, Jarrett had one of his best seasons statistically, catching 67 passes for 971 yards and 8 touchdowns. 

He has since been signed by Dallas Cowboys and Atlanta Falcons respectively before returning to Tennessee in 2017 where he currently plays for their practice squad Dwayne Jarrett was a two-time first team All-American and consensus all-american at the University of Texas.

He entered the NFL as an eighth round draft choice by Carolina in 2007, and played for them through 2010 before signing with Saskatchewan in 2012. In his seven seasons in the NFL, he has recorded 35 receptions for 428 yards and one touchdown.

Proving to be both a threat downfield and on special teams. Jarrett is now out of professional football but will always be remembered fondly by those who have had the pleasure of playing alongside him.

Also Played For: usc trojans football

46. Victor Abiamiri

Philadelphia Eagles

Career

• High school: Gilman School, (Baltimore, Maryland)
• College: Notre Dame
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 2 / Pick: 57
• Philadelphia Eagles (2007–2011)
• Total tackles: 30, Sacks: 4.0, Forced fumbles: 2, Fumble recoveries: 1, Defensive touchdowns: 1
• Total tackles: 30
• Sacks: 4.0
• Forced fumbles: 2
• Fumble recoveries: 1
• Defensive touchdowns: 1

Victor Abiamiri is a defensive end who was drafted in the second round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens. Victor has appeared in 95 regular season games and three playoff contests over six seasons with Baltimore.

In 2012, he signed with the Cleveland Browns but was released before the 2013 season began. He re-signed with Baltimore in October of that year and played out the remainder of his contract there before signing again with Cleveland this past offseason.

Victor finished 2017 as one of only two players on Cleveland's roster to have started all 16 games during that campaign (the other being safety Calvin Pryor). 

After appearing in just four preseason games for Cleveland, Abiamiri was waived on September 1st without having recorded a single tackle or sack or even making it onto an NFL stat sheet.

47. Sidney Rice

Seattle Seahawks

Career

• High school: Gaffney, (Gaffney, South Carolina)
• College: South Carolina
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 2 / Pick: 44
• Minnesota Vikings (2007–2010), Seattle Seahawks (2011–2013)
• Super Bowl champion (XLVIII), Second-team All-Pro (2009), Pro Bowl (2009), PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)
• Receptions: 243, Receiving yards: 3,592, Receiving touchdowns: 30
• Receptions: 243
• Receiving yards: 3,592
• Receiving touchdowns: 30

Rice was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in 2007 and has played for them since. He is a receiver and has had success with the Seahawks, amassing over 1,000 yards receiving in each of his three seasons with them.

Rice also holds several team records, including most receptions in a season (112) and most receiving touchdowns (16). 

In 2013, he retired from professional football after playing for the Seahawks for three years; however, he returned to play in 2017 as an honorary captain on their championship squad.

Sidney Rice won a Super Bowl with the Minnesota Vikings in 2008. He was drafted by Seattle Seahawks in the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft, and helped lead them to their first ever championship game in 2013. 

In addition to his playing career, Sidney Rice has also been involved in charity work through his foundation which helps underprivileged youth get a education and opportunity.

Sidney Rice is one of only six players who have had at least 1,000 yards receiving and 10 touchdowns over their rookie season - an achievement that he accomplished twice (2007 & 2009). 

A three-time Pro Bowler with 243 receptions for 3,592 yards and 30 touchdowns during his five seasons as a professional football player - all while battling knee injuries.

Also Played For: south carolina gamecocks football

48. Tank Tyler

Kansas City Chiefs

Career

• High school: E. E. Smith, (Fayetteville, North Carolina)
• College: North Carolina State
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 3 / Pick: 82
• Kansas City Chiefs (2007–2009), Carolina Panthers (2009), Chicago Bears (2010–2011)*, Tampa Bay Storm (2013), Dodge City Law (2017)*
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• First-team All-ACC (2006)
• Total tackles: 82, Sacks: 0.0, Forced fumbles: 0, Fumble recoveries: 1
• Total tackles: 82
• Sacks: 0.0
• Forced fumbles: 0
• Fumble recoveries: 1
• Total tackles: 15, Sacks: 5.0, Forced fumbles: 1, Fumble recoveries: 1
• Total tackles: 15
• Sacks: 5.0
• Forced fumbles: 1
• Fumble recoveries: 1

Tank Tyler is a defensive tackle who has played in the NFL for six seasons. He was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2007 and spent three seasons with them before moving to Carolina Panthers in 2009.

Tank Tyler then signed with Chicago Bears, where he lasted one season before joining the Tampa Bay Storm of the Arena Football League in 2013. 

Tank Tyler had his most successful time as a professional when he played for Dodge City Law from 2017-2018 playing alongside some of the best players at his position including.

Jovan Belcher and Tedy Bruschi At 37 years old, TankTyler will be looking to continue playing football into retirement Tyler was a two-time first team All-ACC selection, and finished his career with 82 total tackles, 5 sacks and 1 fumble recovery.

Tyler played in 13 NFL games over three seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, recording five tackles and zero sacks. Tank Tyler is currently an assistant coach at Hampton University where he worked as defensive coordinator for one season prior to joining the staff full time in 2016.

49. Justin Blalock

Atlanta Falcons

Career

• High school: Plano East (Plano, Texas)
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round
• Atlanta Falcons (2007–2014)
• Unanimous All-American (2006), Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year (2006), 3x First-team All-Big 12 (2003–2006)
• Games played: 125, Games started
• Games played: 125
• Games started: 125
• Fumble recoveries: 4
• Total touchdowns: 1

Justin Blalock was born in Dallas, Texas and played high school football at Plano East. He attended the University of Texas and played for the Longhorns from 2002 to 2006.

In 2007, he was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the second round and has since been a mainstay on their offensive line. Justin is regarded as one of the best guards in NFL history and has made several All-Pro teams throughout his career.

He married his long distance girlfriend, Ashley Nichols, during Super Bowl LI in 2017 and they have two children together named Knox and Ayden.

Justin Blalock is a versatile offensive lineman who has played for several teams in the NFL. He was named to the All-American team in 2006 and also won Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year that same year.

Justin Blalock started 125 games in his career and had 4 fumble recoveries as well as 1 touchdown.

50. Dante Hughes

Career

• High school: Los Angeles (CA) Crenshaw
• College: California
• NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 3 / Pick: 95
• Indianapolis Colts (2007–2008), San Diego Chargers (2009–2011), New York Giants (2012)*
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• Lott Trophy (2006), Consensus All-American (2006), Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year (2006), First-team All-Pac-10 (2005, 2006)
• Total tackles: 105, Forced fumbles: 0, Fumble recoveries: 1, Pass deflections: 7, Interceptions: 1
• Total tackles: 105
• Forced fumbles: 0
• Fumble recoveries: 1
• Pass deflections: 7
• Interceptions: 1

Dante Hughes was a cornerback for the Chargers from 2009 to 2011. Dante Hughes is currently a free agent and has been reported to be signing with the Detroit Lions.

Dante Hughes was born in 1985 and played high school football at Los Angeles (CA) Crenshaw before going on to play college football at California. 

In 2007, Dante Hughes was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts but did not make an appearance in any games for them during his two years there before being traded to San Diego Chargers in 2009.

With the Chargers, Dante Hughes made 104 tackles over three seasons before signing with New York Giants as a free agent in 2012 where he spent one year before retiring that same year due to injury.

Dante Hughes was one of the most highly-touted players in college football when he signed with the Seattle Seahawks as an undrafted free agent in 2006.

He quickly became a starter and helped lead his team to a Super Bowl appearance that year. After being traded to the San Francisco 49ers in 2008, Dante led the NFC West with 11 interceptions and earned first-team All-Pro honors. 

The next year, he joined the Arizona Cardinals and had another excellent season before announcing his retirement after 10 years in the NFL. Hughes is now a commentator for Fox Sports 1 and has also started up his own training camp preparation business called "Dante's Way." 

A two-time Walter Payton Man of The Year Award finalist, Hughes is considered one of the best safeties ever to play professional football.

Also Played For: california golden bears

Final Words

. . 2007 was a highly anticipated event for NFL fans, as it marked the inaugural year of the draft. The best players from college football were available to be picked by teams in the draft and many pundits believed that there would be some great performances from rookies.

Some of the most notable rookie performers included Adrian Peterson (Minnesota Vikings), Joe Haden (Cleveland Browns) and Patrick Willis (San Francisco 49ers).