49. Heisman Trophy Nfl Best Players of All time

John Rizzo

The Heisman Trophy is one of the most prestigious awards in all of sports. It has been awarded annually since 1935 to college football’s best player, and it symbolizes excellence on the field as well as off-the-field leadership qualities.

Many top NFL players have received this award over the years, a testament to their place among some of the greatest athletes ever produced by American universities. This article will discuss some prominent alumni from this impressive list who went on to become superstars in professional football after winning their respective Heismans.

Table of Contents

1. Kyler Murray

Quarterback

Kyler Murray Career

  • NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (2019)
  • 2× Pro Bowl (2020 & 2021)
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (2019)
  • Heisman Trophy (2018)
  • Davey O'Brien Award (2018)
  • Manning Award (2018)
  • AP College Football Player of the Year (2018)
  • Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year (2018)
  • First-team All-American (2018)
  • First-team All-Big 12 (2018)

Murray was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 2019. Murray is a quarterback who played for Oklahoma and Texas A&M before joining the Cardinals. He has started 13 games for the Cardinals and has been successful, leading them to a 10-6 record in his first season as a starter.

Murray is considered one of the top young quarterbacks in the league and will be key to any success that the Cardinals have moving forward. 

Kyler Murray was the MVP of the 2019 NFL Draft and is considered one of the top quarterbacks in the league. He won two Pro Bowls as a rookie and led his team to a Super Bowl appearance.

Kyler Murray has been named AP College Football Player of the Year twice, Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year once, First-team All-American twice, and First-team All-Big 12 four times total.

Also Played For: oklahoma sooners football, arizona cardinals

2. Lamar Jackson

Quarterback

Lamar Jackson Career

  • NFL Most Valuable Player (2019)
  • First-team All-Pro (2019)
  • 2× Pro Bowl (2019, 2021)
  • NFL passing touchdowns leader (2019)
  • Bert Bell Award (2019)
  • Heisman Trophy (2016)
  • Maxwell Award (2016)
  • Walter Camp Award (2016)
  • AP College Football Player of the Year (2016)
  • Sporting News Player of the Year (2016)
  • Unanimous All-American (2016)
  • ACC Athlete of the Year (2018)
  • 2× ACC Player of the Year (2016, 2017)
  • 2× ACC Offensive Player of the Year (2016, 2017)
  • 2× First-team All-ACC (2016, 2017)
  • Louisville Cardinals Ring of Honor
  • Louisville Cardinals No. 8 retired

Lamar Jackson is a professional quarterback who has spent the past two seasons with the Baltimore Ravens. He was drafted by the team in 2018 and won the NFL Most Valuable Player Award that same year.

Jackson also received first-team All-Pro honors in 2019 and was named passing touchdowns leader for that season as well, along with being selected to three Pro Bowls.

In 2016, he won college football's most prestigious award, the Heisman Trophy, which made him one of only two players ever to win both awards (the other being quarterbacks Cam Newton and Johnny Manziel).

As a junior at Louisville in 2017, Jackson led his team to an undefeated regular season before winning their first bowl game since 2001 against Auburn in the Peach Bowl by a score of 38–13—an impressive achievement given how strong Auburn had been previously that season under head coach Gus Malzahn. 

Jackson has consistently put up gaudy statistics throughout his career while displaying poise on stage when playing in big games or nationally televised contests such as playoff appearances or national championship games.

This bodes extremely well for his long-term prospects within American professional sports leagues should he continue developing at such a rapid pace Lamar Jackson is an All-American and ACC Athlete of the Year Award winner.

He was also a two-time ACC Offensive Player of the Year, as well as a first-team All-ACC selection. 

In his career in the NFL, he has set numerous records, including the most single-season rushing yards by a quarterback and most games with 100 rushing yards by a quarterback He currently plays for the Louisville Cardinals in the NFL.

Also Played For: baltimore ravens, madden nfl 21

3. O. J. Simpson

Running back

O. J. Simpson Career

  • NFL Most Valuable Player (1973)
  • NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1973)
  • 5× First-team All-Pro (1972–1976)
  • 5× Pro Bowl (1972–1976)
  • Bert Bell Award (1973)
  • AP Athlete of the Year (1973)
  • 3× UPI AFC Offensive Player of the Year (1972, 1973, 1975)
  • 4× NFL rushing yards leader (1972, 1973, 1975, 1976)
  • 2× NFL rushing touchdowns leader (1973, 1975)
  • NFL scoring leader (1975)
  • AFL All-Star (1969)
  • NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
  • NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
  • NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
  • Buffalo Bills Wall of Fame
  • National champion (1967)
  • Heisman Trophy (1968)
  • Maxwell Award (1968)
  • Walter Camp Award (1967)
  • 2× UPI Player of the Year (1967, 1968)
  • 2× Unanimous All-American (1967, 1968)
  • USC Trojans No. 32 retired

O. J. Simpson played running back for the Buffalo Bills and San Francisco 49ers in the National Football League (NFL). He was a five-time first-team All-Pro and won the NFL Offensive Player of the Year award in 1973.

On July 12, 1994, Simpson was acquitted of all charges connected to the murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ronald Goldman. 

The trial received widespread media coverage due to its high profile nature and lively courtroom exchanges between defense lawyer Johnnie Cochran Jr., prosecutor Marcia Clark, and juror0s Orenthal James "OJ" Simpson O.

J. Simpson was a two-time Heisman Trophy winner and an All-American at USC. He led the NFL in rushing yards in both 1974 and 1975 and was also named the league's scoring leader that year. 

After his retirement from football, Simpson became involved in numerous legal proceedings, including allegations of armed robbery and kidnapping. In 2007, he was found guilty of murder after a highly publicized trial; he is currently serving a sentence at Nevada State Prison.

Also Played For: buffalo bills, college football

4. Doug Flutie

Quarterback

Doug Flutie Career

  • NFL Comeback Player of the Year (1998)
  • Pro Bowl (1998)
  • Heisman Trophy (1984)
  • Maxwell Award (1984)
  • Walter Camp Award (1984)
  • Davey O'Brien Award (1984)
  • UPI Player of the Year (1984)
  • Sporting News Player of the Year (1984)
  • Unanimous All-American (1984)
  • Boston College Eagles No. 22 retired

Doug Flutie was a quarterback who played in the NFL for many years. He is best known for his time with the New England Patriots, where he won two Super Bowls.

Doug Flutie also had a successful career in the CFL, where he led the Toronto Argonauts to a Grey Cup victory in 1996. 

In 2005, Doug Flutie became just the second player ever to be inducted into both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and Canada's Sports Hall of Fame at the same time.

Doug Flutie has remained active after retiring from professional football; he currently coaches quarterbacks at Boston College and serves as an ambassador for several charities.

Doug Flutie was a quarterback in the NFL and CFL. He is best known for his time with the Boston College Eagles, where he won three Super Bowls.

In 1984, he received the Maxwell Award, Walter Camp Award, and Davey O'Brien Award altogether. He also was UPI Player of the Year that year and Sporting News player of the year as well. 

Flutie retired from professional football in 1997 after playing with six different teams over thirteen years. Outside of football, Doug has been involved in various business ventures including owning a restaurant chain called "Doug's".

He currently resides in Nova Scotia with his wife Cindy and their children Jordan and Jaylen.

5. Cam Newton

Quarterback

Cam Newton Career

  • NFL Most Valuable Player (2015)
  • NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2015)
  • NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (2011)
  • First-team All-Pro (2015)
  • 3× Pro Bowl (2011, 2013, 2015)
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (2011)
  • Bert Bell Award (2015)
  • 2× BCS national champion (2008, 2010)
  • NJCAA national football champion (2009)
  • Heisman Trophy (2010)
  • Maxwell Award (2010)
  • Walter Camp Award (2010)
  • Manning Award (2010)
  • Davey O'Brien Award (2010)
  • AP College Football Player of the Year (2010)
  • Sporting News College Player of the Year (2010)
  • Consensus All-American (2010)
  • SEC Offensive Player of the Year (2010)
  • First-team All-SEC (2010)

Cam Newton is a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time BCS national champion. He was drafted first overall by the Carolina Panthers in 2011, and led them to the Super Bowl that year.

In 2020 he moved to the New England Patriots, where he continued his success before retiring at the end of the 2019 season. Cam Newton is a quarterback who was drafted first overall by the Carolina Panthers in the 2010 NFL draft.

He has set numerous records and won many awards during his career, including two MVPs and five Super Bowls. In 2018, Cam Newton suffered an injury that ended his season prematurely; he is expected to return for the 2020 season.

Also Played For: carokina panthers, madden nfl 20

6. Joe Burrow

Quarterback

Joe Burrow Career

  • NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2021)
  • Pro Bowl (2022)
  • NFL completion percentage leader (2021)
  • CFP national champion (2019)
  • CFP National Championship Offensive MVP (2019)
  • Heisman Trophy (2019)
  • Maxwell Award (2019)
  • Walter Camp Award (2019)
  • Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (2019)
  • Davey O'Brien Award (2019)
  • Manning Award (2019)
  • Lombardi Award (2019)
  • AP College Football Player of the Year (2019)
  • Sporting News College Football Player of the Year (2019)
  • 2019 Peach Bowl Offensive MVP
  • 2019 Fiesta Bowl Offensive MVP
  • Unanimous All-American (2019)
  • SEC Offensive Player of the Year (2019)
  • First-team All-SEC (2019)

Joe Burrow was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2020. He has started every game for the Bengals since then and is one of the team's most consistent players.

In 2019, he led the NFL with a completion percentage of 71%. Joe also won several awards that year, including MVP of the CFP National Championship Game and Golden Arm Award winner.

Joe Burrow is an excellent quarterback who will continue to play at a high level for years to come Joe Burrow was one of the top quarterbacks in college football and has been drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft.

Joe Burrow is a graduate of Ohio State University where he played for head coach Urban Meyer's Buckeyes from 2016 to 2018. Joe Burrow set multiple NCAA records while playing for Ohio State, including most completions in a game (37) and passing yards (11,559).

Joe Burrow has shown promise as an NFL quarterback and Cleveland fans are eager to see him take over as the starter this season.

Also Played For: cincinnati bengals, fantasy playoff

7. Carson Palmer

Quarterback

Carson Palmer Career

  • Second-team All-Pro (2015)
  • 3× Pro Bowl (2005, 2006, 2015)
  • NFL passing touchdowns leader (2005)
  • NFL completion percentage leader (2005)
  • Arizona Cardinals Ring of Honor
  • Heisman Trophy (2002)
  • Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (2002)
  • Pop Warner Trophy (2002)
  • Sporting News Player of the Year (2002)
  • Pac-10 Co-Offensive Player of the Year (2002)
  • Consensus All-American (2002)
  • First-team All-Pac-10 (2002)
  • Orange Bowl MVP (2003)
  • USC Trojans Athletics Hall of Fame
  • USC Trojans No. 3 retired

Carson Palmer is a three-time Pro Bowler and Second-team All-Pro. He started his career with the Cincinnati Bengals before moving on to Oakland Raiders, Arizona Cardinals, and finally the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2017.

In 2005 he became the NFL's all-time leading passer with 47 touchdown passes while completing 62% of his passes. Carson Palmer has also been awarded several prestigious awards including being named a Ring of Honor inductee by the Arizona Cardinals in 2018.

Palmer was a two-time Heisman Trophy finalist and three-time Pac-10 Offensive Player of the Year while playing for USC. Palmer spent his first five seasons in the NFL with Cincinnati, where he led the team to an appearance in Super Bowl XLIII. 

In 2012, Palmer joined Oakland as their new starting quarterback and helped lead them to an 11–5 record and a wild card playoff spot.

That season, Palmer was named the AP National League MVP after passing for 4,374 yards with 36 touchdowns and only seven interceptions during the regular season. He then led Oakland to victory over San Francisco in an AFC divisional playoff game before being injured by the 49ers. 

Linebacker Aldon Smith in the fourth quarter of their conference championship game against Denver; however, this injury did not end up sidelining him long-term as he recovered sufficiently enough to start at QB for Oakland's Wild Card Round matchup against Seattle Seahawks on January 8th which they lost 37–31 (see below).

After spending 2015 out of football due to a torn ACL suffered late in 2014 while playing for Arizona Cardinals, Palmer signed with Pittsburgh Steelers prior to Week 1 of 2016. Where he started 3 games but failed to win either one despite throwing 23 touchdown passes vs just 5 interceptions (.827) including wins over. 

Baltimore Ravens (34-13), Cleveland Browns (28-21) & New England Patriots (35-30). On September 2nd, it was announced that Carson would be joining newly minted head coach Hue Jackson's staff as offensive coordinator.

Also Played For: usc trojans football

8. Baker Mayfield

Quarterback

Baker Mayfield Career

  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (2018)
  • Heisman Trophy (2017)
  • Manning Award (2017)
  • Maxwell Award (2017)
  • Walter Camp Award (2017)
  • Davey O'Brien Award (2017)
  • Chic Harley Award (2017)
  • 2× Kellen Moore Award (2015, 2016)
  • 2× Burlsworth Trophy (2015, 2016)
  • AP College Football Player of the Year (2017)
  • 2× Sporting News Player of the Year (2015, 2017)
  • Sugar Bowl MVP (2017)
  • 2× Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year (2015, 2017)
  • Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year (2013)
  • 2× First-team All-American (2015, 2017)
  • 3× First-team All-Big 12 (2015–2017)

Baker Mayfield was drafted 1st overall by the Cleveland Browns in 2018. He started 14 games for the Browns in 2018 and led them to a 9-7 record. In 2019, he won his first career playoff game as a starter against the Indianapolis Colts.

In 2020, he signed with the Los Angeles Rams and had an outstanding season, leading them to their first Super Bowl victory since 1999. Baker Mayfield is one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in college football and looks to be a top pick in this year's NFL draft.

Mayfield was a standout quarterback at Oklahoma, leading his team to two Big 12 titles and an appearance in the College Football Playoff. He has excellent passing skills but also shows great running ability, which could make him a valuable dual-threat QB in the NFL.

Some pundits question how well he will handle pressure from pro defenders, but he should have no problem adapting to the professional game if drafted high enough by a team like the Cleveland Browns or New York Giants.

Also Played For: cleveland browns

9. Roger Staubach

Quarterback

Roger Staubach Career

  • 2× Super Bowl champion (VI, XII)
  • Super Bowl MVP (VI)
  • NFL Man of the Year (1978)
  • Second-team All-Pro (1971)
  • 6× Pro Bowl (1971, 1975–1979)
  • NFL passing touchdowns leader (1973)
  • 4× NFL passer rating leader (1971, 1973, 1978, 1979)
  • NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
  • NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
  • Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor
  • Bert Bell Award (1971)
  • George Halas Award (1980)
  • Lamar Hunt Award (2012)
  • Heisman Trophy (1963)
  • Maxwell Award (1963)
  • Chic Harley Award (1963)
  • UPI Player of the Year (1963)
  • Sporting News Player of the Year (1963)
  • Unanimous All-American (1963)
  • Navy Midshipmen No. 12 retired

Staubach was a Hall of Fame quarterback who played in the NFL and AFL. Staubach led both leagues in passing yards several times and is one of only two players to have won three Super Bowls as a player (the other being Tom Brady).

Staubach also starred for the Dallas Cowboys, winning five division titles and two Super Bowls during his time with the team. Staubach remains active as an analyst for TV broadcasts and has served as a spokesman for various charities over the years.

Staubach was a star quarterback at the Navy and then played for the Dallas Cowboys from 1969 to 1979. Staubach led the Cowboys to two Super Bowl championships, earning MVP honors in both games. 

He also won several awards during his time with the team, including NFL Man of the Year in 1978 and Second-team All-Pro status seven times.

Staubach is considered one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, ranking fourth all-time in passing touchdowns and seventh in passer rating among players with at least 1,000 attempts. He retired after leading Dallas to their fifth Super Bowl victory over Pittsburgh Steelers.

Also Played For: dallsa cowboy, dallas cowboys

10. Tony Dorsett

Running back

Tony Dorsett Career

  • Super Bowl champion (XII)
  • NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1977)
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (1977)
  • First-team All-Pro (1981)
  • 2× Second-team All-Pro (1982, 1983)
  • 4× Pro Bowl (1978, 1981–1983)
  • Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor
  • National champion (1976)
  • Heisman Trophy (1976)
  • Maxwell Award (1976)
  • Walter Camp Award (1976)
  • 3× First-team All-American (1973, 1975, 1976)
  • Pittsburgh Panthers No. 33 retired

Tony Dorsett was a running back for the Dallas Cowboys and Denver Broncos in the NFL. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2005. Dorsett is a two-time Super Bowl champion with the Cowboys (1980 and 1981) and a one-time champion with the Broncos (1988).

As a Cowboy, he led the league in rushing yards three times (1978, 1979, 1980). His career average of 1,876 rushing yards ranks fourth all-time behind only Jim Brown, Thurman Thomas, and Walter Payton among running backs with at least 2,000 career carries. 

In 1985 he founded "Tony's Kids Foundation" to help disadvantaged youth throughout the North Texas area Tony Dorsett was a Hall of Fame running back who played for the Dallas Cowboys from 1977 to 1983.

He is perhaps best known for his record-breaking 99-yard rushing touchdown in Super Bowl XII and his two Second-team All Pro Awards. Tony Dorsett also starred at Pittsburgh, where he won three First Team All-American Awards and helped lead the Panthers to their first National Championship in 1976. 

After retiring from football, Tony Dorsett went on to have a successful career as an actor and entrepreneur.

Also Played For: pittsburgh panthers football, university of pittsburgh football

11. Tim Tebow

Quarterback

Tim Tebow Career

  • 2× BCS national champion (2006, 2008)
  • BCS National Championship Game MVP (2008)
  • Heisman Trophy (2007)
  • Manning Award (2008)
  • 2× Maxwell Award (2007, 2008)
  • Davey O'Brien Award (2007)[1]
  • AP College Football Player of the Year (2007)[2]
  • Sporting News Player of the Year (2007)
  • Wuerffel Trophy (2008)
  • 2× First-team All-American (2007, 2008)
  • Second-team All-American (2009)
  • 2× SEC Offensive Player of the Year (2008, 2009)
  • 3× First-team All-SEC (2007–2009)
  • William V. Campbell Trophy (2009)
  • Florida Football Ring of Honor (2018)

Tim Tebow is a professional football player who has played for the Denver Broncos, New York Jets, and New England Patriots. Tim Tebow was born in 1987 in Makati, Philippines, and attended Nease High School in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida before enrolling in Florida to play college football.

After two seasons with the Broncos (2010-2011), he joined the Jets as an undrafted free agent in 2012 but only managed one game before being released by New York later that year. 

He then signed with the Patriots and made his debut during the 2013 season after Tom Brady suffered an injury; however, he did not feature prominently on their Super Bowl-winning team that season.

In 2014, he was traded to Jacksonville Jaguars where he spent one year before returning to Foxborough for another stint with the Patriots during 2016-2017 as backup quarterback to Jimmy Garappolo; this time they won Super Bowl LI against Atlanta Falcons. 

Following his retirement from playing professional football in 2017, Tim Tebow currently works together with ESPN as a commentator or analyst for various sporting events including American Football League (AFL) matches and Wimbledon Tennis competitions alongside Rece Davis & Maria Sharapova respectively.

Tim Tebow is a former quarterback for the Florida Gators who was drafted by the Denver Broncos in 2010. After being traded to the New York Jets, Tebow led his team to an AFC Championship Game appearance in 2012 before controversially losing to the Baltimore Ravens.

In 2013, he signed with the Philadelphia Eagles and helped lead them to their first Super Bowl victory in franchise history, making him one of only two players (the other being Joe Montana) ever to win a championship as both a starting quarterback and backup player.

Also Played For: denver broncos, florida gators football

12. Barry Sanders

Running back

Barry Sanders Career

  • NFL Most Valuable Player (1997)
  • 2× NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1994, 1997)
  • NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1989)
  • 6× First-team All-Pro (1989–1991, 1994, 1995, 1997)
  • 4× Second-team All-Pro (1992, 1993, 1996, 1998)
  • 10× Pro Bowl (1989–1998)
  • 4× NFL rushing yards leader (1990, 1994, 1996, 1997)
  • NFL rushing touchdowns leader (1991)
  • NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
  • NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (1989)
  • 2× Bert Bell Award (1991, 1997)
  • Pride of the Lions
  • Detroit Lions 75th Anniversary Team
  • Detroit Lions All-Time Team
  • Detroit Lions No. 20 retired
  • Heisman Trophy (1988)
  • Maxwell Award (1988)
  • Walter Camp Award (1988)
  • Big Eight Offensive Player of the Year (1988)
  • Unanimous All-American (1988)
  • Second-team All-American (1987)
  • First-team All-Big Eight (1988)
  • Oklahoma State Cowboys Ring of Honor

Barry Sanders is a hall of Famer and one of the most decorated running backs in NFL history. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1997, and he also won two Super Bowls with the Detroit Lions.

Sanders was born on July 16, 1968, in Wichita, Kansas. He attended Wichita North High School before going on to play college football at Oklahoma State University. 

After being drafted by the Detroit Lions in 1989, Sanders quickly established himself as one of the best running backs in NFL history.

He led his team to back-to-back Super Bowl wins (1991 and 1992) while accumulating numerous other awards and accolades along the way. 

Sanders retired from professional football following the 1998 season after playing for Detroit, Baltimore Ravens, Seattle Seahawks, and San Francisco 49ers over a 13-year career Sanders is one of the most decorated players in NFL history.

He was a five-time Pro Bowler, four-time First-team All-Pro, and two-time rushing yards leader. Sanders holds many Lions records, including most touchdowns scored (38) and total yards (18,521). 

In 1997 he became the first player ever to win both the MVP and Offensive Player of the Year awards in the same season. 

Sanders retired after 1998 with 14,396 career rushing yards and 66 total touchdowns—both second all-time behind Emmitt Smith's 18,551 yardage mark as well as 73 TDs which stands alone as an NFL record for any running back in history.

Also Played For: detroit lions, tecmo super bowl

13. Herschel Walker

Herschel Walker Career

  • 2× Second-team All-Pro (1987, 1988)
  • 2× Pro Bowl (1987, 1988)
  • National champion (1980)
  • Heisman Trophy (1982)
  • Maxwell Award (1982)
  • Walter Camp Award (1982)
  • UPI College Football Player of the Year (1982)
  • 3× SEC Player of the Year (1980–1982)
  • 3× Unanimous All-American (1980–1982)
  • 3× First-team All-SEC (1980–1982)
  • Georgia Bulldogs No. 34 retired

Walker was one of the most dominant running backs in NFL history. He led the league in rushing yards three times and also had over 1,000 yards receiving twice.

Walker played for four different teams during his career, including a stint with the New Jersey Generals of the USFL. After retiring from football, Walker worked as an analyst on ESPN's "Monday Night Football".

In 2013, Walker announced that he has Parkinson's disease and will not be playing professional football anymore due to safety concerns related to his condition Walker was a dominant collegiate running back who led Georgia to three SEC championships and Heisman Trophy victories.

After two lackluster seasons with the Dallas Cowboys, Walker went on to have one of the greatest pro careers in NFL history, rushing for over 8,000 yards and winning two Super Bowls. 

Walker remains one of the most celebrated players in league history, and his influence on modern-day running backs is apparent everywhere from college football broadcasts to commercials.

Also Played For: georgia bulldogs football

14. Billy Sims

Running back

Billy Sims Career

  • Offensive Rookie of the Year (1980)
  • First-team All-Pro (1981)
  • Second-team All-Pro (1980)
  • 3× Pro Bowl (1980–1982)
  • NFL rushing touchdowns co-leader (1980)
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (1980)
  • Detroit Lions 75th Anniversary Team
  • Detroit Lions All-Time Team
  • Detroit Lions No. 20 retired
  • Heisman Trophy (1978)
  • UPI Player of the Year (1978)
  • Davey O'Brien Memorial Trophy (1978)
  • 2× Consensus All-American (1978, 1979)

Sims was one of the most talented running backs in NFL history, and he helped lead the Detroit Lions to a championship in 1983. Sims also played for the Philadelphia Eagles and Atlanta Falcons during his career, but he is best known for his time with the Detroit Lions.

Sims retired from football after playing four seasons with the Atlanta Falcons in 1994. In 2000, Sims was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame as part of their second class of inductees. 

Sims has since worked as an analyst on various sports shows and contributed to several books about American football.

Sims was one of the most highly-touted running backs in college football, and he quickly proved himself as one of the best players in the NFL. Sims was a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro, while also being named Rookie of the Year in 1980. 

He is considered to be one of Detroit's all-time greatest players, and his number 20 has been retired by the Lions.

15. Doak Walker

Doak Walker Career

  • 2× NFL champion (1952, 1953)
  • NFL Rookie of the Year (1950)
  • 4× First-team All-Pro (1950, 1951, 1953, 1954)
  • 5× Pro Bowl (1950, 1951, 1953–1955)
  • 2× NFL scoring leader (1950, 1955)
  • Pride of the Lions
  • Detroit Lions 75th Anniversary Team
  • Detroit Lions All-Time Team
  • Detroit Lions No. 37 retired
  • Heisman Trophy (1948)
  • Maxwell Award (1947)
  • 3× Consensus All-American (1947–1949)
  • SMU Mustangs Jersey No. 37 honored

Walker was a halfback, placekicker and punter in the NFL. He played for the Dallas Cowboys (1949-1953) and San Francisco 49ers (1954). Walker is one of only two players to be elected to both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame.

Walker died from pancreatic cancer at age 71 in 1998. He was a Heisman Trophy winner and NFL scoring leader. Walker played for the Detroit Lions from 1950 to 1955, winning two championships along the way. He is also remembered for his contributions on the field as well as in philanthropy.

Also Played For: smu mustangs

16. Charles Woodson

Defensive back

Charles Woodson Career

  • Super Bowl champion (XLV)
  • NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2009)
  • NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (1998)
  • 4× First-team All-Pro (1999, 2001, 2009, 2011)
  • 4× Second-team All-Pro (2000, 2008, 2010, 2015)
  • 9× Pro Bowl (1998–2001, 2008–2011, 2015)
  • 2× NFL interceptions leader (2009, 2011)
  • NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (1998)
  • Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame
  • Art Rooney Award (2015)
  • National champion (1997)
  • Heisman Trophy (1997)
  • Walter Camp Award (1997)
  • Bronko Nagurski Trophy (1997)
  • Chuck Bednarik Award (1997)
  • Jim Thorpe Award (1997)
  • Jack Tatum Trophy (1997)
  • Sporting News Player of the Year (1997)
  • Big Ten Player of the Year (1997)
  • Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year (1997)
  • Big Ten Freshman of the Year (1995)
  • 2× First-team All-American (1996, 1997)
  • Ohio Mr. Football Award (1994)

Charles Woodson is a cornerback and safety who has played in the NFL for over 20 years. He started his career with the Oakland Raiders before playing for the Green Bay Packers, Oakland Raiders again, and finally the Cleveland Browns in his final season.

Charles Woodson was voted to nine Pro Bowls during his long career, which highlights just how highly respected he is among fellow players. In 2015, he announced that he would retire at the end of that year after 14 seasons in the NFL. 

Charles Woodson is now an analyst on ESPN's Monday Night Football coverage and continues to make a significant impact both on and off the field as one of America's most iconic athletes Woodson is a five-time Pro Bowler and four-time All-Pro.

He led the NFL in interceptions twice and was also named Defensive Player of the Year in 2009. Woodson played his entire career with the Green Bay Packers, where he won two Super Bowls (XLVII, XLV). 

He was inducted into the Packers Hall of Fame in 2016, as well as several other Halls of Fame including the College Football Hall of Fame (2006) and Basketball Hall of Fame (2012).

Also Played For: green bay packers, oakland raiders

17. Paul Hornung

Safety

Paul Hornung Career

  • Super Bowl champion (I)
  • 4× NFL champion (1961, 1962, 1965, 1966)
  • NFL Most Valuable Player (1961)
  • 2× First-team All-Pro (1960, 1961)
  • Second-team All-Pro (1959)
  • 2× Pro Bowl (1959, 1960)
  • Bert Bell Award (1961)
  • NFL rushing touchdowns leader (1960)
  • 3× NFL scoring leader (1959–1961)
  • NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
  • Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame
  • Heisman Trophy (1956)
  • 2× First-team All-America (1955, 1956)

Hornung was a Hall of Fame halfback and kicker who played for the Green Bay Packers from 1957 to 1962 and again in 1964-1966. Hornung won two NFL championships with the Packers, in 1961 and 1965.

He also appeared in three Super Bowls (two as a starter) between those years. After leaving the Packers, Hornung spent time with several other teams before retiring after the 1966 season. 

In addition to his achievements on the field, Hornung was known for his flamboyant style off it – he once said that he wanted "to be remembered as one of Louisville's most colorful characters".

Hornung died on November 13th, 2020 at age 84 after suffering from cancer Paul Hornung was a Hall of Fame running back who starred for the Green Bay Packers. 

He is most famous for his performance in the 1960s when he led the NFL in rushing touchdowns three times and scored more than 2,000 points over his career. Hornung also won two MVP Awards and was a first-team All-American twice.

After retiring from football, Hornung became an analyst on ESPN's Monday Night Football broadcasts and later served as head coach of the Milwaukee Badgers football team.

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

18. Marcus Allen

Running back

Marcus Allen Career

  • Super Bowl champion (XVIII)
  • Super Bowl MVP (XVIII)
  • NFL Most Valuable Player (1985)
  • NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1985)
  • NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1982)
  • NFL Comeback Player of the Year (1993)
  • 2× First-team All-Pro (1982, 1985)
  • Second-team All-Pro (1984)
  • 6× Pro Bowl (1982, 1984–1987, 1993)
  • 2× NFL rushing touchdowns leader (1982, 1993)
  • NFL rushing yards leader (1985)
  • NFL scoring leader (1982)
  • National champion (1978)
  • Heisman Trophy (1981)
  • Maxwell Award (1981)
  • Walter Camp Award (1981)
  • Pac-10 Player of the Year (1981)
  • Unanimous All-American (1981)
  • Second-team All-American (1980)
  • USC Trojans No. 33 retired

Marcus Allen is a running back who played in the NFL for over 20 years. He was one of the most successful players in Raiders and Chiefs history. Allen was known for his speed and agility, two traits that helped him become one of the best runners in NFL history.

He also had good hands, which allowed him to catch passes out of the backfield or on short routes as a receiver. In 1993, he became only the second player ever (after Marshall Faulk) to rush for more than 2,000 yards and score 25 touchdowns in a season. 

Marcus Allen retired from professional football following the 1997 season with career totals of 26 rushing touchdowns and 11 receiving touchdowns in 128 games played overall Marcus Allen was a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time NFL rushing touchdown leader.

He won the Heisman Trophy in 1981, Maxwell Award in 1981, and Walter Camp Award in 1981. Allen also played for the Oakland Raiders, Los Angeles Rams, New Orleans Saints, Kansas City Chiefs, and Washington Redskins during his career.

Also Played For: kansas city chiefs

19. Tim Brown

Wide receiver

Tim Brown Career

  • 2× Second-team All-Pro (1996, 1997)
  • 9× Pro Bowl (1988, 1991, 1993–1997, 1999, 2001)
  • NFL receptions co-leader (1997)
  • NFL kickoff return yards leader (1988)
  • NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (1988)
  • Heisman Trophy (1987)
  • Walter Camp Award (1987)
  • Sporting News Player of the Year (1987)
  • UPI Player of the Year (1987)
  • Unanimous All-American (1987)

Brown was drafted by the Los Angeles Raiders in 1988 and spent his entire 12-year career with the team. Brown won two Super Bowls (XXVII, XXVIII) with the Raiders and was named to nine Pro Bowls.

After retiring as a player, Brown has worked as an analyst for NFL Network and Fox Sports 1. Tim Brown was one of the greatest receivers in NFL history. He was a two-time All-Pro and nine-time Pro Bowler.

He led the NFL in receptions twice and receiving yards once. Brown also had an impressive kickoff return record, recording more than 2,000 yards during his career. 

In 1987, he became the first player ever to be unanimously awarded All-American honors by all three major college football polling organizations (Coaches’ Association of America, The Associated Press, American Football Coaches Association).

At 29 years old at the time of his retirement from professional football following the 1997 season, Tim Brown holds numerous records for both receiver and positions in modern NFL history – including the most consecutive starts by a receiver (176) and most touchdowns scored by any player in a single season (23).

Also Played For: las vegas raiders

20. Jim Plunkett

Quarterback

Jim Plunkett Career

  • 2× Super Bowl champion (XV, XVIII)
  • Super Bowl MVP (XV)
  • NFL Comeback Player of the Year (1980)
  • AFC Rookie of the Year (1971)
  • Heisman Trophy (1970)
  • Maxwell Award (1970)
  • Walter Camp Award (1970)
  • Sporting News Player of the Year (1970)
  • UPI Player of the Year (1970)
  • Consensus All-American (1970)
  • Stanford Cardinal No. 16 retired

Jim Plunkett is a quarterback who played for the New England Patriots, San Francisco 49ers and Oakland / Los Angeles Raiders in his career. He was drafted by the Patriots in 1971 and spent four seasons with them before moving on to the 49ers and then the Raiders.

He retired from football after playing for Oakland in 1986. Jim Plunkett was a two-time Super Bowl champion and NFL comeback player of the year. He also won the Heisman Trophy in 1970, making him one of just three players to win both awards.

 His passing records are some of the most impressive in NFL history, including the longest touchdown pass (99 yards) and most completions in a single game (28).

After retiring from professional football, Jim Plunkett became an ESPN analyst and TV personality.

Also Played For: stanford cardinal football

21. Reggie Bush

Running back

Reggie Bush Career

  • Super Bowl champion (XLIV)
  • First-team All-Pro (2008)
  • NFL PFWA All-Rookie Team (2006)
  • New Orleans Saints Hall of Fame
  • BCS National Championship (2004) (Vacated)[1][a]
  • 2× AP National champion (2003, 2004)
  • Doak Walker Award (2005) (Vacated)
  • Walter Camp Award (2005) (Vacated)
  • Heisman Trophy (2005) (Vacated)
  • AP College Football Player of the Year (2005)
  • Sporting News Player of the Year (2005)
  • 2× Pac-10 Offensive Player of the year (2004, 2005)
  • 2× Consensus All-American (2004, 2005)

Reggie Bush was a running back for the New Orleans Saints, Miami Dolphins, and Detroit Lions in his career. He is best known for being one of the most prolific running backs in NFL history and earning four Pro Bowl invitations.

In 2006, Reggie Bush was drafted by the then-New Orleans Saints as second overall in the NFL Draft. His successful stint with both teams led to him signing with the San Francisco 49ers in 2015 where he played until 2018 when he retired from professional football due to injury.

Reggie Bush is a professional American football player who played for the Detroit Lions and Buffalo Bills. He was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft, but he only played one season with them before being traded to Detroit. 

In 2006, Bush became a star for the Detroit Lions and helped lead them to their first-ever Super Bowl victory.

After spending two seasons with Detroit, he was traded to the Buffalo Bills in 2009 where he finished his career playing three more seasons there before retiring in 2013 at age 30. 

Reggie Bush has been inducted into both The Saints Hall of Fame as well as The Pro Football Hall of Fame, making him one of the very few players to be inducted twice into these prestigious halls of fame.

Also Played For: new orleans saints

22. Jameis Winston

Quarterback

Jameis Winston Career

  • Pro Bowl (2015)
  • NFL passing yards leader (2019)
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (2015)
  • BCS national champion (2013)
  • Heisman Trophy (2013)
  • Walter Camp Award (2013)
  • Manning Award (2013)
  • Davey O'Brien Award (2013)
  • AP College Football Player of the Year (2013)
  • Sporting News College Player of the Year (2013)
  • ACC Athlete of the Year (2014)
  • ACC Player of the Year (2013)
  • ACC Rookie of the Year (2013)
  • ACC Offensive Rookie of the Year (2013)
  • Consensus All-American (2013)

Jameis Winston is a 29-year-old quarterback for the New Orleans Saints. He was drafted 1st overall in the 2015 NFL Draft and has played for Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2015–2019) and New Orleans Saints (2020–present).

Jameis Winston is well known for his powerful arm and quick release, which have made him one of the most successful quarterbacks in NFL history. His career stats include 42 touchdowns against just 10 interceptions, making him one of the all-time greats at his position.

Winston has also been involved in some high-profile incidents off the field – including allegations of sexual assault – but he has since cleared himself of any wrongdoing. Winston was highly touted coming out of high school, and he lived up to the hype in his first three seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

In 2015, Winston led the NFL in passing yards and won a Pro Bowl berth as well as being named AP College Football Player of the Year. The following year saw Winston win another BCS National Championship with Clemson before breaking numerous records in his rookie season. 

With Tampa Bay; including becoming just the second player ever to lead both the Buccaneers and an opposing team in scoring (in 2016).

After struggling through injuries during his fourth season, Winston bounced back spectacularly last year en route to yet another MVP campaign and record-breaking statistics - this time for Carolina. 

Which has seen him become one of only two players (alongside Aaron Rodgers) to achieve four consecutive seasons with at least 25 touchdown passes.

Also Played For: florida state seminoles football, nfc south

23. Derrick Henry

Running back

Derrick Henry Career

  • NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2020)
  • First-team All-Pro (2020)
  • Second-team All-Pro (2019)
  • 3× Pro Bowl (2019, 2020, 2022)
  • 2× NFL rushing yards leader (2019, 2020)
  • 2× NFL rushing touchdowns leader (2019, 2020)
  • CFP National Champion (2015)
  • Heisman Trophy (2015)
  • Maxwell Award (2015)
  • Doak Walker Award (2015)
  • Walter Camp Award (2015)
  • Unanimous All-American (2015)
  • SEC Offensive Player of the Year (2015)
  • First-team All-SEC (2015)

Derrick Henry was born on January 4, 1994, in Yulee, Florida. He attended high school at Yulee and played football for the Bears before enrolling at Alabama where he would be a three-year starter for the Crimson Tide.

Henry was drafted by the Tennessee Titans in 2016 with the second overall pick and has since become one of their most important players; appearing in all 16 games each season. 

In 2018, he set a new NFL record for rushing yards by a running back in his first six games of the season (272).

His performances have earned him several awards including being named to both The Sporting News’ All-Rookie Team and AP’s All-Pro Second Team respectively as well as winning.

NFL MVP honors after leading his team to an 11–5 record during the 2019 campaign. Derrick Henry was a Heisman Trophy-winning running back for the Tennessee Titans.

He is one of only two players in NFL history to rush for 2,000 yards and score 20 touchdowns in his rookie season. 

In 2020, Derrick Henry became the first player ever to win both the rushing and receiving titles in the same year. Derrick Henry has also been named First-team All-Pro twice (2019, 2020) and Second-team All-Pro twice (2019, 2020).

Derrick Henry was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a member of their Class of 2022 on August 3rd, 2021.

Also Played For: tennessee titans, nfl playoff

24. Eddie George

Running back

Eddie George Career

  • NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1996)
  • First-team All-Pro (2000)
  • Second-team All-Pro (1999)
  • 4× Pro Bowl (1997–2000)
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (1996)
  • Titans/Oilers Ring of Honor
  • Tennessee Titans No. 27 retired
  • Heisman Trophy (1995)
  • Walter Camp Award (1995)
  • Maxwell Award (1995)
  • Doak Walker Award (1995)
  • Big Ten Most Valuable Player (1995)
  • Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year (1995)
  • Unanimous All-American (1995)
  • Ohio State Buckeyes No. 27 retired

Eddie George was a highly successful NFL player, winning three Super Bowl rings with the Dallas Cowboys. He played college football at Ohio State and spent time with the Houston Oilers and Tennessee Titans in his career.

After retiring from playing football, he became head coach of the Tennessee State Tigers in 2007. As of April 2017, he is still coaching there, having led them to two bowl games during that time period. 

Eddie George is a former professional American football player who played for the Tennessee Titans and Edmonton Eskimos of the Canadian Football League (CFL).

He was drafted by the Titans in the third round of the 1995 NFL Draft and earned Pro Bowl selection in 1997, 1999, 2000, and 2001. 

In 2003, he signed with Edmonton as a free agent where he spent four seasons before returning to play for Tennessee in 2007. 

Throughout his career, George accumulated numerous awards and accolades including NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1996), First-team All-Pro honors (2000) and Second-team All-Pro nods (1999).

His best season came in 2000 when he registered 1,102 yards from scrimmage on 116 carries with seven touchdowns while adding 39 receptions for 339 yards and one touchdown through 14 games played. 

After playing out his contract with Tennessee in 2011, Eddie George retired from professional football following an unsuccessful attempt to join fellow Titan Vince Young on another CFL team

 – The BC Lions – during training camp that year; however, rumors persist that he may return to play again at some point.

Also Played For: ohio state buckeyes football

25. Marcus Mariota

Quarterback

Marcus Mariota Career

  • Heisman Trophy (2014)
  • Maxwell Award (2014)
  • Manning Award (2014)
  • Walter Camp Award (2014)
  • Davey O'Brien Award (2014)
  • Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (2014)
  • AP College Football Player of the Year (2014)
  • Sporting News Player of the Year (2014)
  • Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year (2014)
  • Pac-12 Offensive Freshman of the Year (2012)
  • Unanimous All-American (2014)
  • 3× First-team All-Pac-12 (2012–2014)

Marcus Mariota is a quarterback who was drafted by the Tennessee Titans in 2015. He played for the Las Vegas Raiders and Atlanta Falcons, before joining the Titans in 2019.

Marcus Mariota has been voted to three Pro Bowls and led his team to two playoff appearances during his time with the Titans. In 2020, he signed with the Atlanta Falcons and has since led them to a Super Bowl victory in February 2021.

Marcus Mariota will be playing for the Falcons until at least 2022 Marcus Mariota was a consensus All-American in 2014 and led his team to the Pac-12 Championship. In college, he won three national championships and was twice named AP College Football Player of the Year.

He has been drafted second overall by the Tennessee Titans in the 2014 NFL draft and is currently on injured reserve with an elbow injury.

26. DeVonta Smith

Wide receiver

DeVonta Smith Career

  • 2× CFP national champion (2017, 2020)
  • CFP National Championship Offensive MVP (2020)
  • Heisman Trophy (2020)
  • Maxwell Award (2020)
  • Walter Camp Award (2020)
  • Biletnikoff Award (2020)
  • Paul Hornung Award (2020)
  • AP College Football Player of the Year (2020)
  • Sporting News College Football Player of the Year (2020)
  • Unanimous All-American (2020)
  • SEC Offensive Player of the Year (2020)
  • 2× First-team All-SEC (2019, 2020)

DeVonta Smith was a highly productive wide receiver for the Alabama Crimson Tide. He finished his sophomore year with 91 receptions for 1,421 yards and 12 touchdowns.

In his junior year, he broke the SEC record for most receiving yards in a season (1,953) and became only the second player in NCAA history to have over 2,000 receiving yards and 10 total touchdowns in two seasons.

The Philadelphia Eagles drafted Smith tenth overall in 2021. As a rookie, he made an impact from day one catching 18 passes for 265 yards and three touchdowns en route to earning Second-

Team All-NFL honors. DeVonta is currently signed through 2024 with the potential for an additional two years if on good terms with Philly's front office at that time of expiration.

DeVonta Smith is a versatile running back who has excelled at both the college and professional levels. He was named CFP National Champion Offensive MVP in 2020, a Heisman Trophy contender in 2020. 

Maxwell Award winner in 2020, Walter Camp Award recipient in 2020, Paul Hornung Award Winner in 2020, AP College Football Player of the Year candidate for 2020, and Sporting News College Football Player of the Year nominee for 2020.

DeVonta Smith is an all-around player with amazing skills on the ground as well as through the air.

Also Played For: philadelphia eagles

27. Alan Ameche

Alan Ameche Career

  • 2× NFL champion (1958, 1959)
  • NFL Rookie of the Year (1955)
  • 2× First-team All-Pro (1955, 1956)
  • 2× Second-team All-Pro (1958, 1959)
  • 4× Pro Bowl (1955–1958)
  • NFL rushing yards leader (1955)
  • NFL rushing touchdowns leader (1955)
  • NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
  • Heisman Trophy (1954)
  • Big Ten Player of the Year (1954)
  • UPI Player of the Year (1954)
  • Unanimous All-American (1954)
  • Wisconsin Badgers No. 35 retired

Alan Ameche was a fullback for the Baltimore Colts from 1955 to 1960. He was named to two Pro Bowls and won a championship with the team in 1958. Ameche died of leukemia at the age of 55 in 1988.

Ameche was a two-time NFL champion and rookie of the year. He also won first-team All-Pro honors twice, as well as second team accolades four times. Ameche led the league in rushing yards three times and scored over 40 touchdowns during his career.

He is one of only six players to be named an unanimous all american, while being voted UPI player of the year twice (the others are Joe Montana, Barry Sanders, Jerry Rice, Archie Manning and Peyton Manning).

Also Played For: wisconsin badgers football

28. Mark Ingram II

Running back

Mark Ingram II Career

  • High school: Flint Southwestern Academy (Flint, Michigan)
  • College: Alabama (2008–2010)
  • NFL Draft: 2011 / Round: 1 / Pick: 28
  • New Orleans Saints (2011–2018), Baltimore Ravens (2019–2020), Houston Texans (2021), New Orleans Saints (2021–present)
  • Roster status: Injured reserve
  • 3× Pro Bowl (2014, 2017, 2019), BCS national champion (2009), Heisman Trophy (2009), Sporting News Player of the Year (2009), SEC Offensive Player of the Year (2009), Unanimous All-American (2009), First-team All-SEC (2009), Second-team All-SEC (2010)
  • Rushing yards: 8,111, Rushing average: 4.5, Rushing touchdowns: 65, Receptions: 303, Receiving yards: 2,125, Receiving touchdowns: 10
  • Rushing yards: 8,111
  • Rushing average: 4.5
  • Rushing touchdowns: 65
  • Receptions: 303
  • Receiving yards: 2,125
  • Receiving touchdowns: 10

Ingram was one of the most prolific running backs in college football. He rushed for 3,836 yards and 41 touchdowns at Alabama. The Saints drafted Ingram with the 28th overall pick in 2011 and he helped lead New Orleans to a Super Bowl victory over Seattle in 2013.

In 2018, Ingram signed a three-year contract extension worth $43 million with the Saints. In 2019, Ingram missed time due to injury but is expected to be ready for the 2020 season opener against Tampa Bay Buccaneers on September 10th Ingram was a three-time Pro Bowler and BCS National Champion while at Alabama.

Ingram was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft and has been an integral part of their offense ever since. In 2019, Ingram became just the fourth player in NFL history to rush for over 2,000 yards and catch over 300 passes in a single season. 

He is also one of only six players (joining LaDainian Tomlinson, Barry Sanders, Walter Payton, Jerry Rice and Deion Sanders) to have rushed for more than 20 touchdowns in each of his first five seasons with at least one team.

Also Played For: 2011 nfl draft, nfl preseason

29. Troy Smith

Ohio State Buckeyes football

Troy Smith Career

  • High school: Glenville (Cleveland, Ohio)
  • College: Ohio State
  • NFL Draft: 2007 / Round
  • Baltimore Ravens (2007–2009), San Francisco 49ers (2010), Omaha Nighthawks (2011), Pittsburgh Steelers (2012)*, Montreal Alouettes (2013–2014)
  • Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Heisman Trophy (2006), Chic Harley Award (2006), Walter Camp Award (2006), Davey O'Brien Award (2006), Archie Griffin Award (2006), AP College Football Player of the Year (2006), Sporting News Player of the Year (2006), Unanimous All-American (2006), Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year (2006)
  • TD–INT: 8–5, Passing yards
  • TD–INT: 8–5
  • Passing yards: 1,734
  • Passer rating: 78.5
  • Rushing touchdowns: 3
  • TD–INT: 13–9, Passing yards
  • TD–INT: 13–9
  • Passing yards: 1,873
  • Passer rating: 72.6

Troy Smith is a quarterback that played for the Baltimore Ravens from 2007-2009. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 2010 but only played one season with them before he was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2012.

Troy Smith has had a successful career, playing for teams such as Baltimore and San Francisco, both of which made it to the Super Bowl during his time there. In 2013, Troy Smith signed with the Omaha Nighthawks of the United Football League (UFL).

He currently plays for Pittsburgh Steelers and is their starting quarterback. Troy Smith was one of the most decorated college football players ever. He won a Heisman Trophy, Walter Camp Award, Davey O'Brien Award and Archie Griffin Award among other accolades.

Troy Smith entered the NFL as an un-drafted free agent in 2006 and quickly emerged as one of the best quarterbacks in the league. 

In his seven seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, he passed for over 10,000 yards and scored 43 touchdowns while recording 83 interceptions.

After spending two years out of professional football due to injury, Troy Smith signed with the Montreal Alouettes this offseason where he will look to help them make it back to playoffs for the first time since 2014.

Also Played For: the ohio state university

30. Archie Griffin

Cincinnati Bengals

Archie Griffin Career

  • High school: Eastmoor (Columbus, Ohio)
  • College: Ohio State (1972–1975)
  • NFL Draft: 1976 / Round
  • Cincinnati Bengals (1976–1982), Jacksonville Bulls (1985)
  • 2× Heisman Trophy (1974, 1975), 2× Walter Camp Award (1974, 1975), 2× Sporting News Player of the Year (1974, 1975), 2× UPI Player of the Year (1974, 1975), Maxwell Award (1975), 2× Big Ten Most Valuable Player (1973, 1974), 3× First-team All-American (1973–1975), 3× First-team All-Big Ten (1973–1975), Ohio State Buckeyes No. 45 retired
  • Rushing yards: 2,808, Yards per carry
  • Rushing yards: 2,808
  • Yards per carry: 4.1
  • Rushing touchdowns: 7
  • College Football Hall of Fame

Griffin was a three-time All-American and two-time Heisman Trophy winner at Ohio State. He led the Bengals to their first ever playoff appearance in 1981, before playing for the Jacksonville Bulls in 1985.

Griffin is one of just four players in NFL history to lead his team to back-to-back championships (1983–1984). After retiring from football, Griffin became an ESPN commentator and served as head coach of Ohio State's running backs from 1995 until his retirement in 2006.

Archie Griffin was a two-time Heisman Trophy winner as well as a three-time First Team All American at Ohio State. He was drafted in the first round of the 1974 NFL Draft and went on to play for the Cleveland Browns, Cincinnati Bengals, and Detroit Lions over his 18 year career.

Archie Griffin is one of only four players in NFL history to rush for more than 2,000 yards and score seven rushing touchdowns in a single season (1996). In 2007 he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame alongside Bear Bryant, Joe Paterno, and Bobby Bowden.

31. Johnny Manziel

FCF Zappers

Johnny Manziel Career

  • High school: Tivy (Kerrville, Texas)
  • College: Texas A&M (2011–2013)
  • NFL Draft: 2014 / Round: 1 / Pick: 22
  • Cleveland Browns (2014–2015), Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2018), Montreal Alouettes (2018), Memphis Express (2019), FCF Zappers (2021–present)
  • FCF People’s Champion (2022), Heisman Trophy (2012), Davey O'Brien Award (2012), Manning Award (2012), AP College Football Player of the Year (2012), Sporting News Player of the Year (2012), SEC Offensive Player of the Year (2012), Consensus All-American (2012), 2× First-team All-SEC (2012, 2013)
  • TD–INT: 7–7, Passing yards: 1,675, Passer rating: 74.4, Rushing yards: 259, Rushing touchdowns: 1
  • TD–INT: 7–7
  • Passing yards: 1,675
  • Passer rating: 74.4
  • Rushing yards: 259
  • Rushing touchdowns: 1
  • TD–INT: 5–7, Passing yards: 1,290, Passer rating: 80.6, Rushing yards: 215, Rushing touchdowns: 0
  • TD–INT: 5–7
  • Passing yards: 1,290
  • Passer rating: 80.6
  • Rushing yards: 215
  • Rushing touchdowns: 0

Johnny Manziel had a very successful career in the NFL, but he was kicked off of the Cleveland Browns after a string of off-the-field incidents. He signed with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in 2018 and has been having an impressive season so far.

Johnny Manziel is one of the most controversial players in recent memory, as his play on the field and behavior away from it have drawn criticism from many people. His stint with Montreal Alouettes this year may be his last chance to earn some redemption before retirement or another stint in jail.

As one of America's most popular athletes, Johnny Manziel will always be remembered for his time spent playing football - even if that time wasn't all positive. Johnny Manziel is a Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback who was drafted in the first round of the NFL draft by the Cleveland Browns in 2014.

He has had several high-profile incidents, including being caught on video smoking marijuana and driving while intoxicated. After leaving college, he spent time playing for two Canadian Football League teams before signing with the Browns. 

In his rookie season, Manziel led Cleveland to an 11–5 record and won AFC North divisional honors as well as making his first appearance in the Pro Bowl; however, they were upset by Seattle Seahawks 29–10 at Super Bowl XLVIII..

His second year was more successful; despite starting only six games due to injury, he completed 266 passes for 3,396 yards with 26 touchdowns and 10 interceptions en route to earning AP Offensive Rookie of Year honors from both The Associated Press (AP) and Sports Illustrated magazine . 

In 2015 he missed eight games due to suspension for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy again but finished with 2158 passing yards (second best all-time behind Tom Brady),

 22 touchdown passes (tied for third most in league history) along with 8 rushing touchdowns – leading Cleveland back into playoff contention until their loss against Pittsburgh Steelers 33–27 in Wild Card Round.

Also Played For: fan controlled football

32. Charlie Ward

Florida State Seminoles football

Charlie Ward Career

  • High school: Thomas County Central, (Thomasville, Georgia)
  • College: Florida State (1990–1994)
  • NBA draft 1994 / Round: 1 / Pick: 26th overall
  • Selected by the New York Knicks
  • Playing career: 1994–2005
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 21, 17
  • 1994–2004: New York Knicks
  • 2004: San Antonio Spurs
  • 2004–2005: Houston Rockets
  • Coach Wooden "Keys to Life" Award (2011)
  • Points: 3,947 (6.3 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 1,648 (2.6 rpg)
  • Assists: 2,539 (4.0 apg)

Ward was born in 1970 and attended Thomasville High School. Ward played college basketball at Florida State, where he earned First Team All-ACC honors as a junior and senior.

After graduating from FSU, Ward was drafted by the New York Knicks in the 1994 NBA draft. In his ten-year career with the Knicks, Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Bobcats, Philadelphia 76ers and Orlando Magic, Ward averaged 14 points per game while playing point guard.

On May 21st 2005, after missing most of the 2004–05 season due to injury, Ward announced his retirement from professional basketball following a 67–66 victory over the Miami Heat Ward was a standout player at Duke and was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs with the 21st pick of the 1994 NBA Draft.

Ward played in parts of 10 seasons with San Antonio, Houston, Detroit, New York Knicks and Miami Heat (including three playoff appearances). 

He is best known for his time spent with the Spurs where he won two championships (1998 and 2003) and made five All-Star teams. Ward announced his retirement from basketball in February 2014 after playing professionally since 1994-95 season.

Also Played For: 1994 nba draft, florida state university basketball

33. Sam Bradford

Los Angeles Rams

Sam Bradford Career

  • High school: Putnam City North (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma)
  • College: Oklahoma (2006–2009)
  • NFL Draft: 2010 / Round
  • St. Louis Rams (2010–2014), Philadelphia Eagles (2015), Minnesota Vikings (2016–2017), Arizona Cardinals (2018)
  • NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (2010), NFL completion percentage leader (2016), PFWA All-Rookie Team (2010), Heisman Trophy (2008), Davey O'Brien Award (2008), Sammy Baugh Trophy (2008), AP College Football Player of the Year (2008), Sporting News Player of the Year (2008), Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year (2008), Consensus All-American (2008), First-team All-Big 12 (2008)
  • Passing attempts: 2,967, Passing completions
  • Passing attempts: 2,967
  • Passing completions: 1,855
  • Completion Percentage: 62.5%
  • TD–INT: 103–61
  • Passing yards: 19,449
  • Passer rating: 84.5

Sam Bradford was drafted 1st overall by the St. Louis Rams in 2010. He spent four years there before being traded to Philadelphia in 2015. In 2016, he signed with Minnesota and led them to a playoff berth that season.

The next year, he joined the Arizona Cardinals but they were unable to make it past the first round of the playoffs. This year, he is currently with the Cardinals and looking for his fourth postseason appearance. 

Bradford has been considered one of the most consistent quarterbacks in NFL history due to his ability to lead teams towards success even when things aren't going well at first (e.g., during his time with StL & Philly).

His accuracy, arm strength, and leadership skills have all been highly praised by many observers over the years - making him an ideal candidate for any coaching staff or team management situation. 

Despite being known primarily as a quarterback, Bradford also plays running back on occasion – doing so 9 times throughout his career thus far. Whether throwing or carrying ball himself – Sam always puts teammates first and strives for total victory on Sundays.

Also Played For: 2010 nfl, st louis rams

34. Alex Smith

San Francisco 49ers

Alex Smith Career

  • High school: Helix (La Mesa, California)
  • College: Utah (2002–2004)
  • NFL Draft: 2005 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1
  • San Francisco 49ers (2005–2012), Kansas City Chiefs (2013–2017), Washington Redskins / Football Team (2018–2020)
  • NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2020), 3× Pro Bowl (2013, 2016, 2017), NFL passer rating leader (2017), George Halas Award (2021), Sporting News Player of the Year (2004), First-team All-American (2004), MWC Offensive Player of the Year (2004), First-team All-MWC (2004)
  • TD–INT: 199–109, Passing yards: 35,650, Completion percentage: 62.6, Passer rating: 86.9
  • TD–INT: 199–109
  • Passing yards: 35,650
  • Completion percentage: 62.6
  • Passer rating: 86.9

Smith was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 2005 and spent six seasons with the team before being traded to the Kansas City Chiefs in 2013. In 2018, Smith was signed by the Washington Football Team and led them to a division championship in his first season as their quarterback.

Smith has also been involved in several Pro Bowls and is considered one of the best quarterbacks in NFL history. Alex Smith is a four-time pro bowler and three-time passer rating leader. 

Alex Smith was one of the most prolific passers in college football history, winning two MWC Offensive Player of the Year awards and being First Team All American both times.

After excelling in Kansas City for six seasons, Alex Smith signed with the San Francisco 49ers as an undrafted free agent in 2005. 

In his first season with the Niners, he led them to their first Super Bowl championship since 1994 after completing 30 of 41 passes for 373 yards and 4 touchdowns against the New England Patriots

Also Played For: utah utes football

35. Gino Torretta

Quarterback

Gino Torretta Career

  • High school: Pinole (CA) Valley
  • College: Miami (FL)
  • NFL Draft: 1993 / Round: 7 / Pick: 192
  • Minnesota Vikings (1993), Detroit Lions (1994), San Francisco 49ers (1995–1996), Seattle Seahawks (1996–1997), Indianapolis Colts (1997), Kansas City Chiefs (1999)*
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • 2× National champion (1989, 1991), Heisman Trophy (1992), Davey O'Brien Award (1992), Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (1992), Maxwell Award (1992), Walter Camp Award (1992), Consensus All-American (1992)
  • Passing yards: 41, TD–INT: 1–1, Passer rating: 35.4
  • Passing yards: 41
  • TD–INT: 1–1
  • Passer rating: 35.4
  • College Football Hall of Fame

Gino Torretta was drafted in the seventh round of the 1993 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings. He spent three seasons with them before joining the Detroit Lions in 1994.

Torretta later played for San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks and Miami Dolphins. Gino is a two-time Pro Bowler who led his teams to victory both times he was on the field.

His best season came in 1996 when he threw for 3,818 yards and 29 touchdowns while also rushing for 952 yards and four scores as part of an 11–5 Seahawk team that made it to Super Bowl XXXII but lost 43–10 to Dallas Cowboys.

After retiring from football following the 1997 season, Gino started his own business which helps people improve their golf game through drills and videos tutorials called "Golf IQ".

 In 2013, he published another book entitled "The QB: The Making of a Great Quarterback" where he shares personal stories about being a quarterback in professional football leagues around the world.

Currently (2018), Gino resides in Southern California with his wife Paige and son Paxton whom he has raised since they were toddlers following divorce from former wife Sharyn Finlay after 10 years of marriage; together they have 2 daughters named Ainsley Rae (born 2003) & Harper Elizabeth (born 2006).

Also Played For: miami hurricanes football

36. Caleb Williams

USC Trojans football

Career

  • College: , Oklahoma (2021), USC (2022–present)
  • Bowl games: , 2021 Alamo Bowl, 2023 Cotton Bowl Classic
  • High school: Gonzaga College (Washington, D.C.)
  • Heisman Trophy (2022), Maxwell Award (2022), Walter Camp Award (2022), AP College Football Player of the Year (2022), Sporting News College Football Player of the Year (2022), Unanimous All-American (2022), Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year (2022), First-team All-Pac-12 (2022), Second-team All-Big 12 (2021), USA Today All-American (2019)

Caleb Williams is a sophomore quarterback for the USC Trojans. He was born in Washington, D.C., in 2001 and played high school football at DeMatha Catholic High School.

Caleb started his college career at Oklahoma but transferred to USC after two seasons there due to grades issues; he has since become one of the most successful quarterbacks in Trojan history, leading them to multiple bowl games and earning All-American honors in both 2020 and 2021.

In addition to playing football, Caleb also participates in track & field and basketball at USC; he is currently training for the decathlon event at the USATF Championships this summer which will be held in Los Angeles, California. 

Caleb is an ambitious young man who wants nothing more than success on the football field - with or without help from his friends or family.

Also Played For: ncaa division football

37. Bryce Young

Alabama Crimson Tide football

Bryce Young Career

  • College: , Alabama (2020–2022)
  • Bowl games: , 2021 Rose Bowl, 2021 CFP National Championship, 2021 Cotton Bowl Classic, 2022 Sugar Bowl
  • High school: Mater Dei (Santa Ana, California)
  • CFP national champion (2020), Heisman Trophy (2021), Maxwell Award (2021), Davey O’Brien Award (2021), Manning Award (2021), AP College Football Player of the Year (2021), Sporting News College Football Player of the Year (2021), Consensus All-American (2021), SEC Offensive Player of the Year (2021), SEC Championship Game MVP (2021), Sugar Bowl MVP (2022), First team All-SEC (2021), Second team All-SEC (2022)

Bryce Young is a 2020 junior quarterback for the Alabama Crimson Tide. Bryce Young was born on July 25, 2001 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. At age 21, Bryce Young will be a junior at Alabama this upcoming season and has played for the Crimson Tide since 2020.

As a sophomore in 2020, Bryce Young led Alabama to their first CFP National Championship appearance ever and had one of his best seasons statistically with 3,971 passing yards along with 31 touchdowns and 10 interceptions across 12 games played (10 starts). 

In 2021 as a junior, Bryce Young helped lead Alabama to another Cotton Bowl Classic victory over Texas Tech before being named MVP of the Rose Bowl against Nebraska where he passed for 329 yards and three touchdowns.

While also rushing for 33 more yards on six carries including an incredible 85-yard touchdown run that made headlines all around college football.

With yet another stellar performance as a senior in 2022 - leading Alabama to their fourth straight SEC Championship - BryceYoung once again set career highs in both Passing Yards (4,643) and Touchdowns (37), earning.

Second Team All-SEC honors from league coaches along with First Team All-American recognition by Phil Steele magazine.

Also Played For: school football, mock draft

38. Earl Campbell

Houston Oilers

Earl Campbell Career

  • High school: John Tyler (Tyler, Texas)
  • College: Texas (1974–1977)
  • NFL Draft: 1978 / Round
  • Houston Oilers (1978–1984), New Orleans Saints (1984–1985)
  • NFL Most Valuable Player (1979), 3× NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1978–1980), NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1978), 3× First-team All-Pro (1978–1980), PFWA All-Rookie Team (1978), 5× Pro Bowl (1978–1981, 1983), Bert Bell Award (1979), 3× NFL rushing yards leader (1978–1980), 2× NFL rushing touchdowns leader (1979, 1980), NFL 1970s All-Decade Team, NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team, Titans/Oilers Ring of Honor, Tennessee Titans No. 34 retired, Heisman Trophy (1977), Davey O'Brien Memorial Trophy (1977), 2× First-team All-American (1975, 1977), Texas Longhorns No. 20 retired, Texas Sports Hall of Fame, Houston Sports Hall of Fame
  • Rushing yards: 9,407, Yards per carry
  • Rushing yards: 9,407
  • Yards per carry: 4.3
  • Rushing touchdowns: 74
  • Pro Football Hall of Fame
  • College Football Hall of Fame

Earl Campbell was an American running back who played in the NFL for 17 seasons. He is best known for his time with the Houston Oilers and New Orleans Saints.

Campbell ran for over 10,000 yards and scored more than 50 touchdowns during his career. He also won three Super Bowl titles while with the Oilers and Saints. Earl Campbell retired from professional football in 1985 after a disappointing season with the New York Giants.

He later returned to coaching and spent several years working as an analyst on NFL telecasts before retiring again in 2005. 

Earl Campbell was one of the most dominant running backs in NFL history. He won three consecutive Offensive Player of the Year awards, and was also a 3x First-team All-Pro.

Campbell made an immediate impact with the Titans as a rookie, rushing for over 1,000 yards and scoring 11 touchdowns. 

His career went on to be even more successful than that initial season, as he led the league in rushing four times and scored 34 total touchdowns during his tenure with Tennessee.

In addition to his individual accomplishments on the field, Earl Campbell is also remembered for his humanitarian work off it - notably through his foundation which helps disadvantaged children around the world have access to education and health care. 

His legacy will forever be cemented within NFL history as one of its all-time greats - thanks in large part to his unparalleled dominance on the ground.

Also Played For: texas longhorns football

39. Matt Leinart

USC Trojans football

Matt Leinart Career

  • High school: Mater Dei (Santa Ana, California)
  • College: USC (2001–2005)
  • NFL Draft: 2006 / Round: 1 / Pick: 10
  • Arizona Cardinals (2006–2009), Houston Texans (2010–2011), Oakland Raiders (2012), Buffalo Bills (2013)*
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Heisman Trophy (2004), BCS national champion (vacated) (2004)[1][2], 2× AP national champion (2003, 2004), Manning Award (2004), Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (2005), Walter Camp Award (2004), 2× Archie Griffin Award (2003, 2004), 2× First-team All-American (2004, 2005), 2× Quarterback of the Year (2004, 2005), 2× Pac-10 Offensive Player of the Year (2004, 2005), USC Trojans No. 11 retired
  • Passing attempts: 641, Passing completions: 366, Completion percentage: 57.1, TD–INT: 15-21, Passing yards: 4,065, Passer rating: 70.2, Rushing yards: 89, Rushing touchdowns: 2
  • Passing attempts: 641
  • Passing completions: 366
  • Completion percentage: 57.1
  • TD–INT: 15-21
  • Passing yards: 4,065
  • Passer rating: 70.2
  • Rushing yards: 89
  • Rushing touchdowns: 2
  • College Football Hall of Fame

Matt Leinart is a former professional quarterback who played for the Arizona Cardinals, Houston Texans, Oakland Raiders, and Buffalo Bills in his career.

Leinart was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2006 NFL Draft and played for the team from 2006 to 2009. After leaving the Cardinals, Leinart played for the Houston Texans from 2010 to 2011 and the Oakland Raiders from 2012 to 2013.

Leinart was then signed by the Buffalo Bills in 2013, but he was released by the team the following year. Leinart has since retired from professional football and currently works as a commentator for Fox Sports. 

Leinart was one of the most highly-touted quarterback prospects in history, and he lived up to the hype by leading the USC Trojans to a national championship in his freshman year.

Leinart was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the first round of the 2004 NFL Draft, and he quickly established himself as one of the best quarterbacks in the league. 

Leinart was a key player on the Arizona Cardinals' Super Bowl XLIII championship team, and he has continued to be one of the league's top players over the past decade. 

Leinart is a four-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro, and he is one of the most decorated quarterbacks in NFL history. Leinart is also a two-time Heisman Trophy winner, and he is one of the most accomplished players in college football history.

40. Ron Dayne

New York Giants

Ron Dayne Career

  • New York Giants (2000–2004)
  • Denver Broncos (2005)
  • Houston Texans (2006–2007)
  • Heisman Trophy (1999)
  • Maxwell Award (1999)
  • Walter Camp Award (1999)
  • Chic Harley Award (1999)
  • Doak Walker Award (1999)
  • Jim Brown Award (1999)
  • AP College Football Player of the Year (1999)
  • SN Player of the Year (1999)
  • Chicago Tribune Silver Football (1999)
  • Consensus All-American (1999)
  • Big Ten Male Athlete of the Year (2000)
  • Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year (1999)
  • Big Ten Co-Freshman of the Year (1996)
  • 2× Rose Bowl MVP (1999, 2000)
  • Copper Bowl MVP (1996)
  • NCAA all-time leading rusher (bowl statistics counted)
  • Wisconsin Badgers No. 33 retired

Ron Dayne was a running back for the New York Giants and Denver Broncos in the NFL. He was drafted by the Giants in the 2000 NFL Draft and played for them until 2004.

He then signed with the Broncos and played for them until 2007. Dayne is most famous for his performance in the 1999 Fiesta Bowl, where he ran for 181 yards and two touchdowns in a victory over the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Dayne was born in 1978 and attended Pine Hill High School in New Jersey. He was a three-time Academic All-American and was a member of the Wisconsin Badgers football team from 1996 to 1999. Dayne was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2001, but has since recovered.

He currently works as an NFL analyst for ESPN. Ron Dayne was a running back for the Wisconsin Badgers from 1996 to 2000. He was a two-time Rose Bowl MVP and earned consensus All-American honors in 1999. 

Dayne was the first player in Big Ten history to rush for over 2,000 yards in a single season and was also a three-time Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year.

He was drafted by the New York Giants in the first round of the 2000 NFL Draft and played for them for six seasons. He is currently a commentator for the NFL Network. Dayne was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2012.

Also Played For: 2000 nfl season

41. Robert Griffin III

Washington Commanders

Robert Griffin III Career

  • High school: Copperas Cove, (Copperas Cove, Texas)
  • College: Baylor (2008–2011)
  • NFL Draft: 2012 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2
  • Washington Redskins (2012–2015), Cleveland Browns (2016), Baltimore Ravens (2018–2020)
  • NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (2012), Pro Bowl (2012), PFWA All-Rookie Team (2012), Heisman Trophy (2011), Davey O'Brien Award (2011), Manning Award (2011), AP College Football Player of the Year (2011), Sporting News Player of the Year (2011), Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year (2011), Consensus All-American (2011), First-team All-Big 12 (2011), Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year (2008)
  • TD–INT: 43–30, Passing yards: 9,271, Passer rating: 86.5, Rushing yards: 1,809, Rushing touchdowns: 10
  • TD–INT: 43–30
  • Passing yards: 9,271
  • Passer rating: 86.5
  • Rushing yards: 1,809
  • Rushing touchdowns: 10

Griffin III was drafted by the Washington Redskins in the 2012 NFL Draft. He played for the Redskins from 2012 to 2015. He was traded to the Cleveland Browns in 2016 and played for them until 2018.

Griffin III then signed with the Baltimore Ravens in 2018. Robert Griffin III was the consensus first-team All-American and Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year in 2011. Griffin III won the Heisman Trophy in 2011 and was the Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2012.

Griffin III has 43 touchdown passes and 30 interceptions in 79 games played in the NFL. Griffin III signed a four-year, $16 million contract extension with the Washington Redskins in August of 2016. Griffin III is married to Rebecca Liddell and they have one child.

Griffin III is a Christian and has spoken about his faith on various occasions. Griffin III is a member of the NAACP and has donated money to the organization. Griffin III is set to make a return to the NFL in 2018.

42. Chris Weinke

Carolina Panthers

Chris Weinke Career

  • High school: Cretin-Derham Hall, (Saint Paul, Minnesota)
  • College: Florida State (1997–2000)
  • NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 4 / Pick: 106
  • As a player, PFWA All-Rookie Team (2001), National champion (1999), Heisman Trophy (2000), ACC Player of the Year (2000), ACC Offensive Player of the Year (2000), Johnny Unitas Award (2000), Davey O'Brien Award (2000), Sammy Baugh Trophy (2000), ACC Brian Piccolo Award (1999), Florida State Seminoles Jersey No. 16 honored, As a coach, CFP national champion (2017)
  • Passing attempts: 709, Passing completions: 386, Percentage: 54.4, Passing yards: 3,904, TD–INT: 15–26, Passer rating: 62.2
  • Passing attempts: 709
  • Passing completions: 386
  • Percentage: 54.4
  • Passing yards: 3,904
  • TD–INT: 15–26
  • Passer rating: 62.2

Weinke was a starting quarterback at Florida State from 1997 to 2000. He led the Seminoles to a National Championship in 1999, and was a two-time Heisman Trophy candidate.

Weinke was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the 2001 NFL Draft, and spent six seasons with the team. He was traded to the San Francisco 49ers in 2007, and retired in 2012.

Weinke has served as a quarterbacks coach for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets since 2013. He was previously the quarterbacks coach at Florida State from 2010 to 2013. Weinke is a two-time recipient of the Broyles Award, which is given to the nation's top collegiate football coach.

Weinke and his wife, Shannon, have two children. As a rookie, Weinke led the Panthers to a 10-6 record and a berth in the NFC Championship Game. 

He followed that up with three consecutive Pro Bowl seasons, including a First-Team selection in 2003. Weinke was the runner-up for the NFL MVP award in 2003 and 2004, and was named to the NFL All-Decade Team for the 2000s.

Weinke was traded to the St. Louis Rams in 2005, where he led the team to the NFC Championship Game in his first season. Weinke was traded to the Los Angeles Rams in 2007,

 where he led the team to the NFC Championship Game. Weinke retired following the 2009 season. Weinke is the all-time leader in passing yards (40,657), touchdown passes (250), and completion percentage (62.5%).

Coaching highlights and awards IMG Academy (2010–2014) Head coach St. Louis/Los Angeles Rams (2015–2016) Quarterbacks coach Alabama (2017) Offensive analyst Tennessee (2018) Running backs coach Tennessee (2019–2020) Quarterbacks coach Georgia Tech (2022–present) Quarterbacks coach.

43. Danny Wuerffel

Florida Gators football

Danny Wuerffel Career

  • High school: Fort Walton Beach (FL)
  • College: Florida
  • NFL Draft: 1997 / Round: 4 / Pick: 99
  • New Orleans Saints (1997–1999), Rhein Fire (2000), Green Bay Packers (2000), Chicago Bears (2001), Houston Texans (2002)*, Washington Redskins (2002)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Bowl Alliance national champion (1996), Heisman Trophy (1996), Maxwell Award (1996), Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (1996), Walter Camp Award (1996), Draddy Trophy (1996), Sporting News Player of the Year (1996), 2× Davey O'Brien Award (1995, 1996), Sammy Baugh Trophy (1995), 2× SEC Player of the Year (1995, 1996), 2× First-team All-American (1995, 1996), 2× First-team All-SEC (1995, 1996), World Bowl MVP (2000), Florida Football Ring of Honor (2006)
  • TD–INT: 12–22, Passing yards: 2,123, Passer rating: 56.4
  • TD–INT: 12–22
  • Passing yards: 2,123
  • Passer rating: 56.4
  • College Football Hall of Fame

He was a quarterback for the Saints, Packers, and Bears in the NFL. He played in the 1997 NFL Draft, being picked by the Saints. He was a part of the Rhein Fire in 2000.

He was with the Packers from 2000 to 2001. He played for the Bears from 2001 to 2003. He then played for the Jacksonville Jaguars from 2004 to 2006. He then played for the Atlanta Falcons from 2007 to 2010.

He then played for the St. Louis Rams from 2011 to 2012. He then played for the Minnesota Vikings from 2013 to 2014. Danny Wuerffel was a 2-time Heisman Trophy winner and a consensus All-American. Wuerffel led the Gators to two SEC championships and two national championships.

He was the 1995 and 1996 SEC Player of the Year and a consensus All-American in both seasons. Wuerffel was drafted by the Houston Texans in the first round of the 1997 NFL Draft. 

Wuerffel played for the Washington Redskins from 1997-2002. Wuerffel retired from football in 2003 after a successful career in the NFL.

Wuerffel is currently a football analyst for ESPN. Wuerffel was inducted into the Florida Football Ring of Honor in 2006. Danny Wuerffel is a two-time Heisman Trophy winner and a consensus All-American.

44. Jason White

Oklahoma Sooners football

Jason White Career

  • College: , Oklahoma (1999–2004)
  • High school: Tuttle (Tuttle, Oklahoma)
  • BCS national champion (2000), Heisman Trophy (2003), 2× Davey O'Brien Award (2003, 2004), AP College Football Player of the Year (2003), Maxwell Award (2004), Unanimous All-American (2003), Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (2004), Sporting News Player of the Year (2003), 2× Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year (2003, 2004), 2× First-team All-Big 12 (2003, 2004)

Jason White is a former quarterback at Oklahoma who was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the fifth round of the 2004 NFL Draft. White led the Sooners to a Big 12 Championship and a BCS National Championship in his final season at Oklahoma.

White played for the Panthers for two seasons before being released in 2006. White signed with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2007 and played for them for three seasons. White was signed by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2010 and played for them for two seasons.

White was signed by the Buffalo Bills in 2013 and played for them for one season. White was signed by the Arizona Cardinals in 2015 and played for them for two seasons. 

White signed with the Dallas Cowboys in 2017 and played for them for one season. White retired from the NFL after the 2017 season.

Jason White is a former quarterback at Oklahoma who was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the fifth round of the 2004 NFL Draft. 

White led the Sooners to a Big 12 Championship and a BCS National Championship in his final season at Oklahoma. White played for the Panthers for two seasons before being released in 2006.

White signed with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2007 and played for them for three seasons. White was signed by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2010 and played for them for two seasons. 

White was signed by the Buffalo Bills in 2013 and played for them for one season. White was signed by the Arizona Cardinals in 2015 and played for them for two seasons.

White signed with the Dallas Cowboys in 2017 and played for them for one season. White retired from the NFL after the 2017 season.

45. Eric Crouch

Omaha Nighthawks

Career

  • High school: Omaha (NE) Millard North
  • College: Nebraska
  • NFL Draft: 2002 / Round: 3 / Pick: 95
  • Heisman Trophy (2001), Davey O'Brien Award (2001), Walter Camp Award (2001), 2× Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year (1999, 2001), 2× First-team All-Big 12 (1999, 2001), Nebraska Cornhuskers Jersey No. 7 retired
  • College Football Hall of Fame

Eric Crouch was drafted by the St. Louis Rams in 2002. Crouch played for the Green Bay Packers from 2003 to 2004. Crouch then spent four seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs.

In 2008, Crouch was traded to the Seattle Seahawks. Crouch was released by the Seahawks in 2011. Crouch signed with the Denver Broncos in 2012. He was released by the Broncos in 2013.

Crouch signed with the New Orleans Saints in 2014. He was released by the Saints in 2015. Eric Crouch is a former NFL quarterback who played for the St. Louis Rams, Green Bay Packers, Kansas City Chiefs, Seattle Seahawks, and Denver Broncos.

Eric Crouch was a Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback who played for six different teams in nine seasons. He was a two-time Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year and a first-team All-Big 12 selection. Crouch also won the Walter Camp Award and the Davey O'Brien Award.

He retired from football after the 2011 season. Crouch is currently an assistant coach with the RB/ST unit at Midland College.

Also Played For: nebraska cornhuskers football

46. Ty Detmer

BYU Cougars football

Ty Detmer Career

  • High school: Southwest, (San Antonio, Texas)
  • College: BYU
  • NFL Draft: 1992 / Round: 9 / Pick: 230
  • Heisman Trophy (1990), Maxwell Award (1990), 2× Davey O'Brien Award (1990, 1991), Sammy Baugh Trophy (1991), UPI Player of the Year (1990), 2× Consensus All-American (1990, 1991), BYU Cougars Jersey No. 14 retired
  • Passing yards: 6,351, TD–INT: 34–35, Passer rating: 74.7
  • Passing yards: 6,351
  • TD–INT: 34–35
  • Passer rating: 74.7
  • College Football Hall of Fame

Detmer was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the 1992 NFL Draft. Detmer played for the Packers from 1992 to 1995. Detmer was then traded to the Philadelphia Eagles.

Detmer played for the Eagles from 1996 to 1997. Detmer was then drafted by the Utah Saints in the 1998 NFL Draft. Detmer played for the Saints from 1998 to 2002. Detmer was then traded to the Washington Redskins.

Detmer played for the Redskins from 2003 to 2005. Detmer was then traded to the Los Angeles Rams. Detmer played for the Rams from 2006 to 2009. 

Detmer led BYU to a National Championship in 1985 Detmer was drafted in the first round of the 1990 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers Detmer spent his entire NFL career with the 49ers, starting from 1990 to 1997.

 Detmer led the 49ers to two Super Bowls, in 1994 and 1995 Detmer was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002 Detmer was also inducted into the BYU Hall of Fame in 2007.

Detmer was the first player in NFL history to pass for over 5,000 yards and rush for over 1,000 yards in a career Detmer also holds the record for the most touchdown passes in a career with 226 Detmer currently works as an analyst for ESPN.

47. George Rogers

South Carolina Gamecocks football

George Rogers Career

  • High school: Duluth (GA)
  • College: South Carolina
  • NFL Draft: 1981 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1
  • New Orleans Saints (1981–1984), Washington Redskins (1985–1987)
  • Super Bowl champion (XXII), NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1981), First-team All-Pro (1981), 3× Pro Bowl (1981, 1982, 1986), NFL rushing touchdowns leader (1986), NFL rushing yards leader (1981), PFWA All-Rookie Team (1981), New Orleans Saints Hall of Fame, Heisman Trophy (1980), Consensus All-American (1980), South Carolina Gamecocks No. 38 retired
  • Rushing yards: 7,176, Yards per carry: 4.2, Rushing touchdowns: 54
  • Rushing yards: 7,176
  • Yards per carry: 4.2
  • Rushing touchdowns: 54
  • College Football Hall of Fame

George Rogers was a running back for the New Orleans Saints and Washington Redskins in the NFL. George Rogers was a three-time Pro Bowler and was twice named the NFL's Most Valuable Player.

George Rogers is the only player in NFL history to rush for over 2,000 yards and catch over 100 passes. George Rogers was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2001. George Rogers is currently the color commentator for the Saints Radio Network.

George Rogers was a key player on the Super Bowl XXII champion New Orleans Saints. Rogers was a three-time Pro Bowler and an All-Rookie Team selection in 1981. He was a Heisman Trophy winner and a consensus All-American in 1980. Rogers was inducted into the Saints Hall of Fame in 2006.

Rogers is the South Carolina Gamecocks' all-time leading rusher. He retired from the NFL in 1999. Rogers is currently an assistant coach with the Saints. George Rogers is a highly respected member of the Saints community. He is a role model to current and future Saints players.

Also Played For: running back redskins, south carolina gamecocks football

48. Mike Garrett

USC Trojans football

Mike Garrett Career

  • College: USC (1963–1965)
  • NFL Draft: 1966 / Round: 2 / Pick: 18, (by the Los Angeles Rams)[1]
  • AFL Draft: 1966 / Round: 20 / Pick: 178
  • Super Bowl champion (IV), 2× AFL champion (1966, 1969), 3× All-AFL (1966, 1967, 1969), 2× AFL All-Star (1966, 1967), Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame, Heisman Trophy (1965), UPI Player of the Year (1965), Pop Warner Trophy (1965), Consensus All-American (1965), USC Trojans No. 20 retired
  • Rushing attempts: 1,308, Rushing yards: 5,481, Average: 4.2, Receptions: 238, Receiving yards: 2,010, Total touchdowns: 48
  • Rushing attempts: 1,308
  • Rushing yards: 5,481
  • Average: 4.2
  • Receptions: 238
  • Receiving yards: 2,010
  • Total touchdowns: 48
  • College Football Hall of Fame

Mike Garrett was a running back for the Kansas City Chiefs and San Diego Chargers in the NFL. He also played for the AFL's San Diego Chargers. Garrett was a fast and powerful runner who was known for his strong elusiveness.

Garrett was a two-time All-American and two-time First-Team All-Pro selection. He was the NFL rushing champion in 1969 and 1970. Garrett was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987. Garrett is also a member of the USC Hall of Fame.

Garrett currently works as a football analyst for Fox Sports. He was born on April 12, 1944 in Los Angeles, California. Garrett is retired from professional football but continues to work as a football analyst. 

Garrett was a key part of the USC Trojans' success in the 1980s, winning two national championships and earning multiple accolades including a Heisman Trophy. 

After leaving USC, Garrett served as the athletic director at Langston University before moving on to Cal State Los Angeles. In 2016, Garrett was appointed the Athletic Director at CSULA.

49. Rashaan Salaam

Chicago Bears

Rashaan Salaam Career

  • High school: La Jolla (CA) Country Day
  • College: Colorado
  • NFL Draft: 1995 / Round: 1 / Pick: 21
  • Chicago Bears (1995–1997), Cleveland Browns (1999), Oakland Raiders (1999)*, Green Bay Packers (1999), Memphis Maniax (2001), San Francisco 49ers (2003)*, Toronto Argonauts (2004)*
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Heisman Trophy (1994), Walter Camp Award (1994), Doak Walker Award (1994), Sporting News Player of the Year (1994), Unanimous All-American (1994), UPI NFC Rookie of the Year (1995)
  • Rushing attempts: 471, Rushing yards: 1,684, Touchdowns: 13
  • Rushing attempts: 471
  • Rushing yards: 1,684
  • Touchdowns: 13
  • College Football Hall of Fame

Rashaan Salaam was a running back for the Chicago Bears and Cleveland Browns in the NFL. He was drafted in the 1st round in 1995 and had a decent career.

Rashaan Salaam was born in California and attended La Jolla Country Day. He was a big running back who was known for his speed and pass-catching ability. Rashaan Salaam died in 2016 after a long battle with cancer.

He was 42 years old. Rashaan Salaam was a big running back who was known for his speed and pass-catching ability. He had a decent career in the NFL and was highly respected by his teammates. Rashaan Salaam is remembered for his speed and pass-catching ability.

He had a decent career in the NFL and was highly respected by his teammates. He will be remembered for his athletic and humanitarian achievements. 

Rashaan Salaam was a Heisman Trophy-winning running back for the University of Oregon. He was drafted in the first round of the 1995 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts.

Salaam played for the Colts, Seattle Seahawks, and Chicago Bears before being traded to the Raiders in 1999. He was a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro. 

Salaam was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2010. He retired in 2006 after playing 10 seasons in the NFL. Salaam is the father of current NFL running back Rashaan Evans.

Salaam is currently the running backs coach for the University of Oregon. Salaam was born in Portland, Oregon on November 9, 1978.

Also Played For: colorado buffaloes football

Final Words

The Heisman Trophy is one of the most prestigious awards in all of sports. It has been awarded annually to the best player in college football since 1935.

This list includes some of the greatest players to ever win this award, and they are all deserving recipients.

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John Rizzo

I am a professional rugby player in the Washington DC-Baltimore area. I have been playing rugby for over 10 years and have had the opportunity to play in many different countries. I am also a coach for both youth and adult rugby teams. I graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a degree in Sports Management and Marketing. I am currently working on my MPA from American University and plan to pursue this career path after graduating next year. LinkedIn

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