45 Washington Huskies Football Best Players of All Time

John Rizzo

Updated on:

The Washington Huskies football team is the proud representative of the University of Washington in college football. Established in 1889, the program has had a long-standing tradition of success and excellence, having won 17 conference championships, seven Rose Bowls, and claimed six national championships.

With its home field, Husky Stadium, located on campus, Washington Huskies football has been a staple on the college football landscape for over a century.

Table of Contents

1. Shaq Thompson

Linebacker

Shaq Thompson Career

  • Paul Hornung Award (2014)
  • First-team All-American (2014)
  • First-team All-Pac-12 (2014)

Shaq Thompson is a linebacker for the Carolina Panthers. He was drafted by the team in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft and has since appeared in 102 games, recording 431 tackles, nine sacks, and two interceptions.

Thompson attended Grant Union High School in Sacramento, California before attending Washington University where he played football from 2012 to 2014.

In his four years at Washington, Thompson totaled 191 tackles (64 for loss), 16 sacks, and three interceptions while being named Second-Team All-American as a senior in 2014.

Thompson made his professional debut with Carolina against the New Orleans Saints on September 10th, 2015, and had 14 total tackles (10 solo) during that game including an interception returned for a touchdown which helped propel Carolina to victory 38–35. 

Shaq Thompson is a linebacker for the Washington Redskins. In college, Thompson played at Oregon and was a first-team All-American in his sophomore season.

He won the Paul Hornung Award as the best player in FCS football in 2014 and was drafted by the Redskins with their third overall pick that year. 

Thompson has made an immediate impact on defense for Washington, recording 651 tackles, 11 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, 4 fumble recoveries, and 26 pass deflections over his 5 seasons so far in the NFL.

Also Played For: carokina panthers, nfc south

2. Olin Kreutz

Center

Olin Kreutz Career

  • First-team All-Pro (2006)
  • Second-team All-Pro (2005)
  • 6× Pro Bowl (2001–2006)
  • NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
  • 100 greatest Bears of All-Time
  • Consensus All-American (1997)
  • First-team All-Pac-10 (1997)
  • Morris Trophy (1997)

Kreutz was an All-Pro center for the Chicago Bears from 1998 to 2010. Kreutz also played for the New Orleans Saints in 2011. Kreutz is a two-time Pro Bowler and was selected to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 2000s.

Olin Kreetz is known for his powerful blocking ability, which helped lead his teams to many victories over time Kreutz started his career with the Bears in 2001 and has been a mainstay of the team since. 

He was voted to both the Pro Bowl and NFL 2000s All-Decade Team and is considered one of the best centers in the league.

Kreutz also earned First-team All-Pac-10 honors during his time at Oregon State, making him one of only two players ever from that school to do so. 

In addition to being an all around solid player, Kreutz is known for his strong leadership skills on and off the field - which have helped guide Chicago through some difficult times recently.

Also Played For: chcago bears, chicago bears

3. Corey Dillon

Running back

Corey Dillon Career

  • Super Bowl champion (XXXIX)
  • 4× Pro Bowl (1999–2001, 2004)
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (1997)
  • New England Patriots All-2000s Team
  • New England Patriots All-Dynasty Team
  • First-team All-American (1996)

Corey Dillon is a former running back who played for the Cincinnati Bengals, New England Patriots, and Seattle Seahawks in the NFL. He was a Super Bowl champion with the New England Patriots in 2006.

Corey Dillon also had success playing college football at Washington State University where he won two PAC-10 championships and was named an All-American twice. 

After retiring from professional football, Dillon currently resides in Seattle and works as a broadcaster for Fox Sports Northwest covering MLS games and other sports events.

Dillon started out his NFL career with the Indianapolis Colts and played for them from 1997-2001. He was a three-time Pro Bowler (1999-2001, 2004), as well as an All-Rookie Team selection in 1997. 

Dillon signed with the New England Patriots in 2002, where he would play until 2008; during that time, he earned two more Pro Bowl selections (2003, 2005).

In total, Corey Dillon totaled 11,241 rushing yards and 82 touchdowns over his 10+ seasons in the NFL - truly cementing himself as one of the league's all-time greats.

Also Played For: cincinnati bengals

4. Chris Chandler

Quarterback

Chris Chandler Career

  • Indianapolis Colts (1988–1989)
  • Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1990–1991)
  • Phoenix Cardinals (1991–1993)
  • Los Angeles Rams (1994)
  • Houston Oilers (1995–1996)
  • Atlanta Falcons (1997–2001)
  • Chicago Bears (2002–2003)
  • St. Louis Rams (2004)

Chandler was a starting quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts from 1988 to 1989. He then played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Phoenix Cardinals before joining the Rams in 1994.

Chandler retired after playing two seasons with Los Angeles, finishing his NFL career with an overall record of 54-53-1. Chris Chandler had a distinguished NFL career that spanned 15 seasons.

He was primarily a quarterback, but also played wide receiver and running back in his career. He is best known for his time with the Atlanta Falcons, where he led them to two Super Bowl appearances (1998, 2001).

After leaving the Falcons in 2003, Chandler spent three years with the Chicago Bears before retiring from football at the end of the 2004 season.

Also Played For: 2000 nfl season

5. Mark Brunell

Mark Brunell Career

  • Super Bowl champion (XLIV)
  • 3× Pro Bowl (1996, 1997, 1999)
  • NFL passing yards leader (1996)
  • Pride of the Jaguars
  • National champion (1991)
  • Rose Bowl MVP (1991)
  • Rose Bowl Hall of Fame (2015)

Brunell is a former NFL quarterback who played for the Packers, Jaguars, and Redskins. Brunell served as the quarterback's coach for the Lions in 2018. 

In his role with the Lions, Brunell oversees both offense and defense while working to improve player development within each department.

Prior to joining Detroit’s coaching staff, Brunell spent two seasons (2016-2017) as an assistant offensive coordinator with Jacksonville under Doug Marrone. 

Before that, he was an offensive analyst in Cleveland under Hue Jackson from 2014-2015 before rejoining Marrone at Jacksonville later that year as QBs coach/interim OC.

Brunell has also held positions on several other coaching staffs including stints as wide receivers coach (2007–2008), special teams coordinator (2004), and running backs coach (2003). 

He began his NFL playing career with Green Bay after being selected by then-Packers head coach Mike Sherman in the fifth round of the 1993 draft out of Washington Brunell played quarterback for the Jacksonville Jaguars from 1991 to 1999, winning three Super Bowls with the team.

Brunell was inducted into both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Rose Bowl Hall of Fame in 2015. After playing football professionally for more than 20 years, Brunell became an NFL coach in 2021, coaching quarterbacks for Detroit Lions.

Also Played For: jacksonville jaguars

6. Trent McDuffie

Cornerback

Trent McDuffie Career

  • Third-team All-American (2021)
  • First-team All-Pac-12 (2021)
  • Second-team All-Pac-12 (2020)

Trent McDuffie was born on September 13, 2000, in Westminster, California. He attended St. John Bosco High School and played football for the school's Knights before transferring to Washington University in St Louis for his final two years of college.

McDuffie was a first-team All-American selection as a junior at Washington and led the Huskies with six interceptions that season en route to being named the national defensive player of the year by both ESPN and USA Today Sports Coaches Association (USAToday).

The Kansas City Chiefs selected him with their first pick in the 2022 NFL Draft and he has since made an immediate impact at cornerback for them, recording 54 tackles (41 solo) through nine games this season. 

Trent McDuffie is a versatile defender who has played both linebacker and defensive end in the NFL.

He was an All-American at Washington State before being drafted by the Chiefs in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. In his rookie season, Trent recorded 37 tackles and 1 sack while also forcing a fumble and intercepting one pass. 

Trent continued to improve as a starter in year two, recording 54 tackles along with 3 sacks and 6 pass deflections en route to first-team all-conference honors.

Trent registered another strong season in 2023, amassing 69 tackles (11 for loss) with 2 forced fumbles and an interception returned for a touchdown - earning him second-team All-NFL honors again.

Also Played For: kansas city chiefs, st john bosco

7. Warren Moon

Quarterback

Warren Moon Career

  • NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1990)
  • NFL Man of the Year (1989)
  • Second-team All-Pro (1990)
  • 9× Pro Bowl (1988–1995, 1997)
  • 2× NFL passing yards leader (1990, 1991)
  • NFL passing touchdowns leader (1990)
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (1984)
  • Titans/Oilers Ring of Honor
  • Tennessee Titans No. 1 retired
  • Bart Starr Award (1994)
  • Pac-8 Co-Player of the Year (1977)
  • Rose Bowl MVP (1978)
  • Texas Sports Hall of Fame

Warren Moon was a three-time Pro Bowler and led the Houston Oilers to two Super Bowls. He retired in 1993 after playing for the Edmonton Eskimos, Houston Oilers, Seattle Seahawks, and Minnesota Vikings.

In 2006 he was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame. Moon is currently an ESPN analyst and co-host of "NFL Countdown". 

He resides in suburban Los Angeles with his wife Laurie and their four children: sons Kyle (born 1990) and Keegan (born 1992), daughter Kaylee (born 1994), and son Tristan (born 1998).

Warren Moon was a quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings and Seattle Seahawks in the NFL. He won two Super Bowls with each team and was twice named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

 Moon also played in both the Canadian Football League and NCAA Division I college football, winning several awards along the way.

Also Played For: minnesota vikings, tecmo super bowl

8. Lawyer Milloy

Strong safety

Lawyer Milloy Career

  • Super Bowl champion (XXXVI)
  • First-team All-Pro (1999)
  • Second-team All-Pro (1998)
  • 4× Pro Bowl (1998, 1999, 2001, 2002)
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (1996)
  • New England Patriots All-1990s Team
  • New England Patriots All-2000s Team
  • Unanimous All-American (1995)
  • First-team All-Pac-10 (1995)
  • Jack Tatum Trophy (1995)

Lawyer Milloy was drafted by the New England Patriots in 1996. He spent four seasons with the Patriots, before joining the Buffalo Bills in 2003. In 2005, he joined Atlanta Falcons and played for two more seasons before signing with Seattle Seahawks in 2009.

Lawyer Milloy appeared in all 16 games of his rookie season with Seattle, but injuries limited him to just nine appearances over the following three years. 

He made a return to form during the 2010 campaign and helped lead Seattle to their first-ever Super Bowl victory – which they subsequently lost against Green Bay Packers Lawyer Milloy was a dominant defender in the NFL for nearly two decades.

He played for the Patriots from 1990 to 2002 and was named an All-Pro four times. He also has one Super Bowl championship under his belt, as well as being selected to three Pro Bowls. 

Milloy is best known for his work against quarterbacks, tallying 21 quarterback sacks in his career - fourth all-time behind DeMarcus Ware, Jason Taylor, and Bruce Smith. After retiring from football, he opened up a law firm with his brother and currently works there full-time.

Also Played For: new england patriots

9. Hugh McElhenny

Halfback

Hugh McElhenny Career

  • 5× First-team All-Pro (1952–1954, 1956, 1957)
  • 6× Pro Bowl (1952, 1953, 1956–1958, 1961)
  • NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
  • San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame
  • San Francisco 49ers No. 39 retired
  • First-team All-American (1951)
  • 2× First-team All-Pacific Coast (1950, 1951)

McElhenny was one of the most prolific and successful halfbacks in NFL history. He played for 14 seasons, from 1952 to 1968, amassing over 12,000 yards rushing and receiving and 88 touchdowns.

McElhenny played college football at Washington before being drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in the first round of the 1952 NFL Draft. After a year with the Rams, he joined the Philadelphia Eagles where he remained for six seasons before retiring in 1968.

McElhenny is perhaps best known as a member of two Super Bowl-winning teams – with the Eagles in 1967 and again with his former team, the Rams, in 1970 – but he also had success during other postseason appearances including three NFC Championship Games (two with Philadelphia and one with LAS)and five Pro Bowls overall. 

Following his retirement from playing football, Hugh entered into coaching where he spent several years working primarily with running backs, including stints as head coach of both the Indianapolis Colts(1988–1991)and the San Diego Chargers(1994).

He passed away on June 17th, 2022 at 93 years old after a lengthy battle against Alzheimer's Disease。 Hugh McElhenny was a hall of Famer and five-time first-team All-Pro linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers. He played six seasons with the Detroit Lions before retiring in 1964.

Hugh was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971, and his No. 39 jersey has been retired by the 49ers organization. After retirement from football, he worked as an analyst on NFL telecasts for CBS Sports until his death in 2008 at age 80.

Also Played For: san francisco 49ers

10. Jermaine Kearse

Wide receiver

Jermaine Kearse Career

  • Seattle Seahawks (2012–2016)
  • New York Jets (2017–2018)
  • Detroit Lions (2019)

Jermaine Kearse is a former American football player who played for the Seattle Seahawks and New York Jets in the National Football League. Kearse originally attended Washington University in St.

Louis, but did not play football for the Huskies due to an injury he suffered during his senior year of high school. He then transferred to Washington, where he played wide receiver for two seasons under head coach Rick Neuheisel before being drafted by Seattle in 2012.

After one season with the Seahawks, Kearse was traded to the New York Jets where he had a more successful tenure; serving as their main receiving threat over three seasons from 2017-2018.

Before retiring at age 31 due to injuries sustained in the 2018 playoffs against Philadelphia Eagles (Kearse caught 5 passes for 104 yards and 2 touchdowns).

In 2019, Kearse joined The NFL Network as a program assistant working on various projects related to both football and broadcasting Jermaine Kearse is a former wide receiver for the Detroit Lions and Washington Redskins. 

He was a key part of the Lions' Super Bowl XLVIII victory over the Seattle Seahawks, recording 17 receptions for 255 yards and three touchdowns in that game.

Kearse has also been successful in his career on special teams, helping to make some big plays for Washington over the years. 

He entered the league as an undrafted free agent with Detroit in 2013 and helped them win their first NFL Championship that year before being traded to Washington later that season. 

Kearse has continued his success since joining Washington, setting franchise records for receiving yards (3,290) and touchdown catches (17).

Also Played For: seattle seahawks

11. Jake Locker

Quarterback

Jake Locker Career

  • Freshman All-American (2007)
  • Pac-10 Freshman of the Year (2007)

Jake Locker was drafted 8th overall by the Tennessee Titans in the 2011 NFL Draft. He started all 16 games for the Titans as a rookie and led them to their first playoff appearance since 2003.

In 2013, he struggled with injuries but still managed to play in 13 games and record 3,818 yards passing with 24 touchdowns against 11 interceptions. 

The following year he missed most of training camp due to a foot injury which caused him to miss the entire season opener against Jacksonville Jaguars.

Jake Locker signed with Seattle Seahawks on March 10, 2016, after being released by Tennessee Titans earlier that day Jake Locker was a highly touted quarterback prospect when he played for the University of Tennessee. 

He led his team to a 10-3 record and an appearance in the BCS National Championship game as a freshman but struggled mightily in his sophomore year.

The Titans acquired him in a trade with Seattle during the 2013 offseason and he has since started all 16 games for them twice, completing over 60% of his passes each time while also rushing for over 500 yards and five touchdowns. 

His play has earned him several award nominations, including NFL Comeback Player of the Year honors last season after returning from injuries that sidelined him for most of 2012.

Also Played For: tennessee titans, 2011 nfl draft

12. Lincoln Kennedy

Tackle

Lincoln Kennedy Career

  • First-team All-Pro (2002)
  • Second-team All-Pro (2001)
  • 3× Pro Bowl (2000–2002)
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (1993)
  • Jim Parker Trophy (1992)
  • 2× Morris Trophy (1991, 1992)
  • Consensus All-American (1992)

Lincoln Kennedy was an offensive tackle in the NFL for 13 seasons. He played for the Atlanta Falcons, Oakland Raiders, and Tampa Bay Storm. Kennedy has been a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro Selection.

In 2001, he helped lead the Raiders to their first Super Bowl appearance since 1983. Kennedy is also a member of the Baltimore Ravens' Ring of Honor (2008). 

As a consensus all-American and two-time Morris Trophy winner, Kennedy was one of the most decorated players in college football history.

He played 14 seasons in the NFL, 11 with the Chicago Bears and 3 with the Minnesota Vikings. In 2002, he was elected to his first Pro Bowl and won Second Team All-Pro honors that year as well. 

Lincoln Kennedy is a member of both College Football Hall of Fame (2004) and Pro Football Hall of Fame (2018).

Also Played For: oakland raiders

13. Myles Gaskin

Running back

Myles Gaskin Career

  • High school: Seattle (WA) O'Dea
  • College: Washington (2015–2018)
  • NFL Draft: 2019 / Round
  • Miami Dolphins (2019–present)
  • Roster status: Injured reserve
  • First-team All-Pac-12 (2016)[1], 2× Second-team All-Pac-12 (2017, 2018)[2]
  • Rushing yards: 1,355, Rushing average
  • Rushing yards: 1,355
  • Rushing average: 3.8
  • Rushing touchdowns: 7
  • Receptions: 101
  • Receiving yards: 701
  • Receiving touchdowns: 6

Gaskin was born in Lynnwood, Washington and attended Seattle O'Dea High School. He started his college career at Washington but transferred to Miami after one season.

Gaskin has played for the Dolphins since 2019 and has had a number of impressive seasons, including rushing for over 1,000 yards in 2018 and being voted into the Pro Bowl that year.

Myles Gaskin is an exciting and dynamic running back who has been a first-team All-Pac-12 performer twice. He had a great rookie season with the Seahawks in 2018, rushing for 1,355 yards and seven touchdowns on 101 receptions.

Gaskin was injured in Week 16 of this year's NFL season, but he is expected to make a full recovery in time for next year's campaign.

14. Larry Tripplett

Larry Tripplett Career

  • High school: Los Angeles (CA) Westchester
  • College: Washington
  • NFL Draft: 2002 / Round: 2 / Pick: 42
  • Indianapolis Colts (2002–2005), Buffalo Bills (2006–2007), Seattle Seahawks (2008)
  • Second-team All-Pac-10 (1999), 2× First-team All-Pac-10 (2000, 2001), 2× All-American (2000, 2001)
  • Tackles: 192, Sacks: 8.5, Forced fumbles: 5
  • Tackles: 192
  • Sacks: 8.5
  • Forced fumbles: 5

Larry Tripplett was a defensive tackle for the Indianapolis Colts from 2002 to 2005. He originally attended Westchester High School in Los Angeles, California, before transferring to Washington University in St.

Louis, Missouri. In his six seasons with the Colts, Tripplett made 118 tackles and two sacks while playing alongside stars such as Peyton Manning and Marvin Harrison. 

After leaving the NFL, Tripplett spent a year out of football before signing with the Buffalo Bills in 2007.

However, he only played one game for them before being released later that season due to injury problems. 

Since then, Tripplett has been working as an analyst for CBS Sports Network's coverage of college football games and also runs his own training business called "Tripp Training Systems".

Tripplett was a two-time first team all-pac 10 player and All American in 2000 and 2001. Tripplett spent six seasons with the buffalo bills from 2006 to 2007 before signing on with seattle Seahawk for the 2008 season.

In his six year career, tripplett recorded 192 tackles, 8 sacks, 5 forced fumbles and 1 interception.

He announced his retirement from professional football after the 2016 season having played in just over 100 games since entering into the league as a rookie back in 2005.

Also Played For: 2002 nfl draft

15. Keith Price

Washington Huskies football

Keith Price Career

  • High school: St. John Bosco, (Bellflower, California)
  • College: Washington
  • Undrafted: 2014
  • Passing completions: 33, Passing attempts: 51, Passing yards: 413, TD–INT: 3–1
  • Passing completions: 33
  • Passing attempts: 51
  • Passing yards: 413
  • TD–INT: 3–1
  • Player stats at PFR · CFL.ca

Keith Price attended Washington, where he played defensive back for the Huskies. He was not drafted by any NFL teams after playing in the 2014 preseason but signed with the Seattle Seahawks as a graduate assistant to continue his coaching career.

When head coach Pete Carroll left for the Los Angeles Rams in 2015, Price became Boise State's new interim head coach and led them to an 8-5 record before being hired on full time as their Graduate Assistant Coach in 2016. 

Keith Price started his CFL career with the BC Lions in 2016 and went on to play for San Diego Fleet in 2019.

He was drafted by Boise State in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, but decided to return to Canada to further his coaching career. Keith Price is a graduate assistant coach at Boise State and has helped lead them to back-to-back Mountain West titles.

Also Played For: birmingham iron

16. Rome Odunze

Rome Odunze Career

  • College: Washington (2020–present)
  • Bowl games: 2022 Alamo Bowl
  • High school: Bishop Gorman, (Las Vegas, Nevada)
  • First-team All-Pac-12 (2022)

Odunze was a highly-touted recruit coming out of high school and landed at Washington after spending two years on scholarship at Arizona. 

He has been one of the most productive receivers in the Pac-12, totaling 1,724 receiving yards and 16 touchdowns over his two seasons with the Huskies.

Odunze is known for his big plays; he has caught eight passes for more than 100 yards in each of his two seasons with Washington. He also showed off his punt returning skills last year, averaging 18 yards per return over 25 attempts. 

Odunze will likely be a key contributor for Washington this season as they look to defend their national title tilt against Alabama in January 2019.

Rome Odunze is a 2020 graduate of Washington and was named to the First-team All-Pac-12 for his play at linebacker. Odunze played in all 12 games during his sophomore season, recording 107 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 1 sack. 

He has already racked up over 100 tackles this year as well with 8 sacks through 10 games. Look for Rome to be a key player on defense this season for the Huskies.

Also Played For: bishop gorman

17. Cade Otton

Tight end

Cade Otton Career

  • High school: Tumwater, (Tumwater, WA)
  • College: Washington (2017–2021)
  • NFL Draft: 2022 / Round
  • Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2022–present)
  • Roster status: Active
  • First-team All-Pac-12 (2020)
  • Receptions: 40, Receiving yards
  • Receptions: 40
  • Receiving yards: 379
  • Receiving touchdowns: 2

Cade Otton was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 4th round of the 2022 NFL Draft. He attended Washington University in St. Louis where he played Tight End for the Huskies.

Cade Otton was a two-time All-American and was the MVP of the College Football Playoff National Championship game in 2021. He is currently a rookie with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Cade Otton is known for his athleticism and playmaking ability at Tight End.

He is a member of the United States National Football Team and has played in the World Football Challenge and the International Bowl. Cade Otton is a rising star in the NFL and is expected to have a long and successful career. 

Otton emerged as a dominant receiver for the Trojans in 2018 and was a first-team All-Pac-12 selection.

Otton is a big target with good speed and elusiveness. Otton will need to continue to improve his consistency to become a premier receiver in the NFL. 

Otton is a developmental player who will need time to develop into a top-tier receiver. Otton is a talented player with a bright future in the NFL. Otton is a good candidate to become a starting receiver in the NFL.

Otton will need to continue to work on his route running and ball skills to become a top receiver. Otton is a versatile receiver who can play both in the slot and outside. Otton is a good candidate to make the jump to the NFL as a starter.

18. Mario Bailey

Mario Bailey Career

  • High school: Franklin (Seattle, Washington)
  • College: Washington
  • NFL Draft: 1992 / Round
  • Houston Oilers (1992)*, New York Jets (1993)*, Houston Oilers (1994)*, Frankfurt Galaxy (1995–2000), Orlando Rage (2001), Detroit Fury (2003)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Washington co-MVP (1991), Pac-10 Co-Offensive Player of the Year (1991), Consensus All-American (1991), 2× World Bowl champion (III, VIII), 3× All-NFL Europe (1998, 1999, 2000)

Mario Bailey was a 6th round pick of the Houston Oilers in the 1992 NFL Draft. He played for the Oilers, Jets, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers over the course of his NFL career.

Bailey was a very versatile receiver, capable of playing both in the slot and outside. He finished his career with 1,043 receiving yards and six touchdowns. Bailey retired from the NFL after the 2006 season.

He currently works as an analyst for NFL Network. Bailey was born in Seattle, Washington, in 1970. He attended Franklin High School in Seattle and played college football at Washington. Bailey is married and has two children.

Mario Bailey was one of the most dominant defensive backs in the history of the NFL. He was a two-time All-Pro, three-time World Bowl champion and two-time first-team All-NFL Europe selection. 

Bailey was drafted in the first round of the 1995 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins.

He would spend his entire 11-year career with the team. Bailey was a big part of the Washington Redskins' success in the 1990s. 

The team made three consecutive NFC Championship appearances and won the Super Bowl in 1997. Bailey's best year as a pro came in 1998 when he was named to the All-NFL Europe First Team.

He also helped the Redskins make their first Super Bowl appearance in franchise history. After his time with the Redskins, Bailey spent a season with the Orlando Rage. He then spent two seasons with the Detroit Fury before retiring in 2003.

Also Played For: nfl europe

19. Kyler Gordon

Chicago Bears

Kyler Gordon Career

  • High school: Archbishop Murphy, (Everett, Washington)
  • College: Washington (2018–2021)
  • NFL Draft: 2022 / Round
  • Chicago Bears (2022–present)
  • Roster status: Active
  • First-team All-Pac-12 (2021)
  • Total tackles: 71, Forced fumbles
  • Total tackles: 71
  • Forced fumbles: 1
  • Fumble recoveries: 1
  • Pass deflections: 6
  • Interceptions: 3

Kyler Gordon was born on December 17, 1999, in Mukilteo, Washington. He attended Archbishop Murphy High School in Everett, Washington, and played football and basketball.

Gordon played college football at Washington. He was a first-team All-Pac-12 selection as a junior in 2018 and a second-team selection as a senior in 2021. Gordon was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft.

He has appeared in five games for the Bears, making four starts. Gordon is a cornerback and has been primarily used as a nickelback. 

Kyler Gordon was drafted in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears. Kyler Gordon is a talented quarterback who has the potential to be a top player in the NFL.

Kyler Gordon has had a successful career so far and is only getting better. He is a must-watch player. Kyler Gordon is a great leader on and off the field and is always working hard to improve his skills. 

Kyler Gordon is a great passer and has a great understanding of the game. He can make all the throws, and is a great quarterback.

Kyler Gordon is a great player who has the potential to lead his team to victory. He is definitely someone to watch out for.

Also Played For: chicago bears best defensive players, chicago bears best current players

20. Napoleon Kaufman

Running back

Napoleon Kaufman Career

  • High school: Lompoc (CA)
  • College: Washington
  • NFL Draft: 1995 / Round
  • Oakland Raiders (1995–2000)
  • Pac-10 Offensive Player of the Year (1994)
  • Rushing yards: 4,792, Average
  • Rushing yards: 4,792
  • Average: 4.9
  • Touchdowns: 12

Napoleon Kaufman was a running back in the NFL for 14 seasons. Kaufman was drafted in the first round of the 1995 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs. He played for the Chiefs, the Washington Redskins, and the Oakland Raiders.

Kaufman was a three-time Pro Bowler and was named to the All-Rookie Team in 1994. In 2006, he was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a form of cancer. 

He battled the disease for four years before passing away in 2010. Napoleon Kaufman was a popular player and was well-known in the NFL community.

He was inducted into the Chiefs and Redskins Hall of Fame in 2011 and the Oakland Raiders Hall of Fame in 2016. His son, Mychal, is also a professional football player. 

Napoleon Kaufman was an all-around standout for the Oakland Raiders during their six-year stint in the NFL. He was a three-time Pac-10 Offensive Player of the Year, and led the league in rushing yards and touchdowns in 1998.

Kaufman had a knack for finding the open space in the defense, and was a valuable weapon for quarterback Rich Gannon. 

After leaving the Raiders, Kaufman spent a year with the New York Giants, before retiring in 2000. Kaufman spent the 1999 season with the Indianapolis Colts as a backup, and was a member of the Super Bowl XXXIII champion team.

21. Steve Emtman

Defensive tackle

Steve Emtman Career

  • High school: Cheney
  • College: Washington
  • NFL Draft: 1992 / Round
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (1992), Unanimous All-American (1991), Outland Trophy (1991), Lombardi Award (1991), Bill Willis Award (1991), UPI Lineman of the Year (1991), 2× Morris Trophy (1990, 1991), 2× Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year (1990, 1991)
  • Tackles: 134, Sacks
  • Tackles: 134
  • Sacks: 8
  • Interceptions: 1
  • College Football Hall of Fame

Emtman was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the 1992 NFL Draft. He played for the Colts from 1992 to 1994. He then played for the Miami Dolphins from 1995 to 1996.

He then signed with the Washington Redskins in 1997. He played for the Redskins until his retirement in 2002. He was a part of the Redskins' Super Bowl victory in 1992.

Emtman was also a part of the Redskins' NFC Championship victory in 1997 and their victory in the NFC Divisional Playoff game in 1999. He was named to the Redskins' All-Decade Team in the 1990s.

Emtman is a member of the Indianapolis Colts Hall of Fame. He is also a member of the Washington Redskins Hall of Fame. Emtman was a two-time All-American and Morris Trophy winner at Washington. 

He was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the first round of the 1991 NFL Draft and played for them for five seasons before moving to the Spokane Shock of the Arena Football League.

Emtman was an outstanding pass rusher and helped lead the Shock to two Arena Football League championships. He has also played for the Baltimore Ravens and Philadelphia Eagles in the NFL. 

Emtman is a member of the Washington Redskins Hall of Fame. He is married with four children. Emtman is a motivational speaker and has helped many people achieve their goals. He currently works as a football analyst for the NFL Network.

Steve Emtman is one of the most accomplished and respected players in the Arena Football League history.

22. Zion Tupuola-Fetui

Outside linebacker

Zion Tupuola-Fetui Career

  • College: Washington (2018–present)
  • Bowl games: 2019 Las Vegas Bowl
  • High school: Pearl City (Pearl City, Hawai'i)
  • AP Third-team All-American (2020), First team All-Pac 12 (2020)

Zion Tupuola-Fetui is a junior linebacker for the Washington Huskies. He was born in Pearl City, Hawai'i on July 3, 2000. He is 1.91 meters tall and weighs 127 kilograms.

He played high school football at Kealakehe High School in Kealakehe, Hawai'i. He was a two-time all-state selection, and was also a first-team all-conference selection. He signed with the Washington Huskies in December of 2018.

He has not yet played in a game for the Huskies. He will redshirt this season and then play in 2019. Zion Tupuola-Fetui is a junior linebacker for the Washington Huskies. He was a two-time all-state selection and was also a first-team all-conference selection.

He signed with the Washington Huskies in December of 2018 and will redshirt this season before playing in 2019. 

Tupuola-Fetui was a three-time All-Pac-12 selection and a First-team All-American in 2020. He was drafted by the Washington Redskins in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft.

He played college football at Pearl City (Hawaii) and was a member of the Golden Eagles' Division II national championship team in 2019. Tupuola-Fetui is the first Golden Eagle to be drafted by an NFL team. He is currently a rookie cornerback for the Washington Redskins.

23. Jaxson Kirkland

Jaxson Kirkland Career

  • College: Washington (2017–present)
  • Bowl games: 2019 Las Vegas Bowl, 2022 Alamo Bowl
  • High school: Jesuit High School, (Beaverton, Oregon)
  • 3× First-team All-Pac-12 (2020, 2021, 2022)

Jaxson Kirkland is a senior offensive tackle for the Washington Huskies. He was a two-time all- Pac-12 selection and was a first-team All-American in his final season with the Huskies.

Kirkland was also a finalist for the 2017 Outland Trophy and the 2017 Rimington Trophy. In the 2017 NFL Draft, Kirkland was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the fifth round. Kirkland started all 16 games for the Jaguars in 2018 and was a part of their Super Bowl victory.

Kirkland was traded to the Seattle Seahawks in 2020 and played in 10 games for them before being released in early 2021. Kirkland has since signed with the Arizona Cardinals and is currently on their roster. Kirkland was born in Portland, Oregon, and attended Jesuit High School in Beaverton, Oregon.

He has two younger brothers, Ryder and Ryder Jr.

24. Jalen McMillan

Wide receiver

Jalen McMillan Career

  • College:  Washington (2020–present)
  • Bowl games: 2022 Alamo Bowl
  • High school: San Joaquin Memorial High School, (Fresno, California),

Jalen McMillan is a junior wide receiver at Washington. McMillan is a big-time playmaker on the football field, with the ability to make spectacular catches and extend plays.

He was a big part of Washington's team that made it to the College Football Playoff in 2017. McMillan is a hard worker and has developed into one of the best receivers in the nation.

He is a versatile player who can play both in the slot and outside. McMillan is a dangerous receiver with the potential to do great things for the Washington Huskies. He is a valuable member of the team and will help lead them to future success.

McMillan is a highly talented player who is sure to make a big impact in the college football world. He is a highly skilled receiver with a lot of potential and is sure to be a big asset for Washington in the future.

25. Jake Browning

Quarterback

Jake Browning Career

  • High school: Folsom (Folsom, California)
  • College: Washington (2015–2018)
  • Undrafted: 2019
  • Minnesota Vikings (2019–2021)*, Cincinnati Bengals (2021–present)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Reserve/futures
  • First-team All-Pac-12 (2016)[1], Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year (2016)[1]

Jake Browning was born on April 11, 1996 in Folsom, California. He attended Folsom High School and played for the football team there. Browning played college football for Washington.

He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2019 NFL Draft. Browning has started for the Bengals in a few games so far this season. Browning is a Quarterback and is 26 years old. He has played for the Washington Redskins in the NFL.

Browning has a good record so far in the NFL. Jake Browning is currently playing for the Cincinnati Bengals. Browning is one of the most decorated quarterbacks in NCAA history. He is a two-time Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year and a three-time All-American.

Browning was drafted by the Washington Redskins in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft. He was traded to the Seattle Seahawks in September of that year. 

Browning was named the Seahawks starting quarterback in Week 5 of the 2016 NFL season. He led the Seahawks to the NFC Championship Game, where they lost to the Green Bay Packers.

Browning was traded to the Minnesota Vikings in September of 2018. He was named the Vikings starting quarterback in Week 1 of the 2019 NFL season. 

Browning has appeared in 46 NFL games, including 43 as a starter. He has completed 1,812 of 3,937 passes for 27,252 yards and 206 touchdowns. He has also rushed for 572 yards and six touchdowns.

Browning is a two-time NFC North Champion and a two-time NFC Championship Game participant. Browning was named the MVP of the NFC Championship Game by the Associated Press. 

Browning is a three-time member of the Pro Bowl (2018, 2019, 2020). Browning was named the AP Offensive Player of the Year for 2019.

26. Marques Tuiasosopo

Quarterback

Marques Tuiasosopo Career

  • High school: Woodinville (WA)
  • College: Washington
  • NFL Draft: 2001 / Round
  • As player, Pop Warner Trophy (2000), Pac-10 Offensive Player of the Year (2000), Rose Bowl MVP (2001)
  • TD–INT: 2–7, Passing yards
  • TD–INT: 2–7
  • Passing yards: 554
  • Completion percentage: 54.4
  • Passer rating: 48.1
  • Rushing yards: 79

Marques Tuiasosopo is a former NFL player and offensive coordinator. He was born in Long Beach, California and played for the Oakland Raiders, the New York Jets, and the Oakland Raiders.

He has also coached for the Jets and the Raiders. Tuiasosopo played tight end for the Raiders and was a two-time Pro Bowler. He has also coached tight ends for the Jets and the Raiders. He is currently the offensive coordinator for the Rice Owls.

Tuiasosopo was named the interim head coach of the Raiders in 2018. He has also been the offensive coordinator for the Washington Huskies. 

Tuiasosopo was fired as the offensive coordinator of the Raiders in 2018. Marques Tuiasosopo is a highly respected assistant strength and conditioning coach for the Washington Redskins.

He has worked for UCLA, Washington, and USC, and most recently served as interim head coach for the USC Trojans. 

Tuiasosopo is known for his expertise in the tight end position. He has a wealth of coaching experience, and is expected to help Rice compete for conference and national titles in the coming years.

27. Bishop Sankey

Running back

Bishop Sankey Career

  • High school: Spokane (WA) Gonzaga Prep
  • College: Washington
  • NFL Draft: 2014 / Round
  • Tennessee Titans (2014–2015), New England Patriots (2016)*, Kansas City Chiefs (2016), Minnesota Vikings (2016–2017), San Diego Fleet (2019), Toronto Argonauts (2019–2020)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Second-team All-American (2013), First-team All-Pac-12 (2013)
  • Rushing yards: 762, Rushing average
  • Rushing yards: 762
  • Rushing average: 3.8
  • Rushing touchdowns: 3
  • Receptions: 32
  • Receiving yards: 272
  • Receiving touchdowns: 1

Bishop Sankey was drafted by the Tennessee Titans in the 2014 NFL Draft. He played for the Titans in 2014 and 2015, before being traded to the New England Patriots in 2016.

Sankey played for the Kansas City Chiefs in 2016 and 2017, before being released by the Vikings in December 2017. He signed with the Tennessee Titans in February 2018. Sankey has played in 78 career games, rushing for 3,686 yards and 25 touchdowns.

He has also caught 34 passes for 273 yards and one touchdown. Sankey is a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro. 

He is a member of the United States National Team. Sankey was born in Wadsworth, Ohio, in 1992. Bishop Sankey was born in San Diego and attended college at Vanderbilt University.

Sankey played for the San Diego Fleet in the Arena Football League for two seasons and was named Second-team All-American in 2013. 

Sankey was drafted by the Tennessee Titans in the fourth round of the 2013 NFL Draft and played for the Titans for four seasons before being traded to the Seattle Seahawks in the middle of the 2017 season.

Sankey played for the Seattle Seahawks for one season before being traded to the New York Jets in the middle of the 2018 season. Sankey signed with the Toronto Argonauts in the off-season and is looking to return to the NFL.

28. Sonny Sixkiller

Quarterback

Sonny Sixkiller Career

  • High school: Ashland (OR)
  • College: Washington
  • Undrafted: 1973
  • Philadelphia Bell (1974), The Hawaiians (1975)

Sonny Sixkiller is a retired American football quarterback who played in the National Football League. He played for the Los Angeles Rams and the Washington Redskins.

Sixkiller was born in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, on September 6, 1951. He played college football at the University of Oklahoma. Sixkiller was drafted by the Rams in the eleventh round of the 1973 NFL Draft.

He played for the Rams from 1973 to 1978. He was traded to the Redskins in 1978. He played for the Redskins from 1978 to 1984. He was named the Washington Redskins' MVP in 1983. Sixkiller was drafted by the Canadian Football League's Edmonton Eskimos in 1984.

He played for the Eskimos from 1984 to 1985. He retired from football in 1985. Sixkiller was inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 1988. 

Sonny Sixkiller is a Native American basketball player who has played in the NBA. Sonny Sixkiller was born on the North American continent and raised on the Navajo Nation.

Sonny Sixkiller attended Ashland High School in Oregon and then played college basketball at Washington. Sonny Sixkiller was undrafted in 1973 but signed with the Philadelphia Bell of the American Basketball Association. 

Sonny Sixkiller played for the Hawaiians of the World Basketball Association in 1975. Sonny Sixkiller played in the NBA for the Philadelphia 76ers, the Seattle SuperSonics, and the Memphis Grizzlies.

Sonny Sixkiller has won two championships with the Philadelphia 76ers (1974, 1983) and one with the Seattle SuperSonics (1978). 

Sonny Sixkiller was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006. Sonny Sixkiller currently plays for the Sioux Falls Skyforce of the NBA Development League.

29. Ron Holmes

Defensive tackle

Ron Holmes Career

  • High school: Timberline (Lacey, Washington)
  • College: Washington
  • NFL Draft: 1985 / Round
  • Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1985–1988), Denver Broncos (1989–1992)
  • First-team Consensus All-American (1984), Morris Trophy (1984)
  • Games Played: 101, Sacks
  • Games Played: 101
  • Sacks: 36.5
  • Fumble Recoveries: 5

Ron Holmes was born in 1963 in Fort Benning, Georgia, and attended Timberline High School in Lacey, Washington. Holmes was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the 1985 NFL Draft, and spent 10 seasons with the team.

In 2001, he was signed by the Buffalo Bills, and spent two seasons with them before retiring. Holmes died on October 27, 2011, after a long battle with cancer. Holmes was a standout defensive lineman at the University of Utah.

He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 1985 NFL Draft. He spent four seasons with the Buccaneers before moving on to the Denver Broncos. 

He played in 101 games and recorded 36.5 sacks. Holmes retired in 1992. Holmes was inducted into the Utah Sports Hall of Fame in 2002.

He currently works as an assistant football coach at Westminster Christian School in Salt Lake City. Holmes has been married to his wife, Peggy, for 33 years. Holmes has two children, son Ron Jr. and daughter Rebecca.

30. Danny Shelton

Defensive tackle

Danny Shelton Career

  • High school: Auburn (Auburn, Washington)
  • College: Washington (2011–2014)
  • NFL Draft: 2015 / Round: 1 / Pick: 12
  • Cleveland Browns (2015–2017), New England Patriots (2018–2019), Detroit Lions (2020), New York Giants (2021), Kansas City Chiefs (2022–present)*
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Active
  • 2× Super Bowl champion (LIII, LVII), First-team All-American (2014)[1], First-team All-Pac-12 (2014)[2]
  • Total tackles: 278, Sacks: 6.0, Forced fumbles: 1, Pass deflections: 2
  • Total tackles: 278
  • Sacks: 6.0
  • Forced fumbles: 1
  • Pass deflections: 2

Shelton was a standout defensive tackle for the Washington Huskies from 2011-2014. He was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft and spent two seasons with the Browns before being traded to the New England Patriots in 2018.

Shelton has made 79 tackles, four sacks, and one interception in his three-year NFL career. Shelton is scheduled to join the Detroit Lions in 2020. 

Shelton is a key player for the New York Giants who has won two Super Bowls with the team. Shelton was a first-team All-American and first-team All-Pac-12 player in his final season at Washington.

Shelton is an athletic defensive tackle who can play both the run and the pass. Shelton is an important part of the Giants' defense and will be a key player in 2021. 

\Shelton is a versatile player who can play in any defensive scheme. Shelton is a strong player who can push the pocket and stop the run. Shelton is a physical player who can knock opponents off of the ball.

Shelton is a hard worker who is always trying to improve his game. Shelton is a team player who is always looking to help his team win.

31. Jeff Jaeger

Jeff Jaeger Career

  • High school: Kent-Meridian, (Kent, Washington)
  • College: Washington
  • NFL Draft: 1987 / Round
  • Cleveland Browns (1987-1988), Los Angeles/Oakland Raiders (1989–1995), Chicago Bears (1996–1999)
  • First-team All-Pro (1991), Pro Bowl (1991), NFL scoring leader (1993), PFWA All-Rookie Team (1987), Consensus All-American (1986)
  • Field goal attempts: 309, Field goals
  • Field goal attempts: 309
  • Field goals: 229
  • Extra point attempts: 327
  • Extra points: 321

Jeff Jaeger is a kicker for the Chicago Bears. He was drafted in 1987 by the Cleveland Browns and played for them for two seasons. He then went on to play for the Los Angeles/Oakland Raiders, the Chicago Bears, and finally the Seattle Seahawks.

He is considered one of the best kickers in NFL history and has made over 500 field goals in his career. 

Jeff Jaeger was born on November 26, 1964 in Tacoma, Washington. He is 58 years old and stands 5'11" in height and weighs 191 pounds. Jeff Jaeger has two children and currently resides in the Seattle, Washington area.

Jaeger was an All-Pro and NFL scoring leader in the early 1990s. He was also consensus All-American in 1986. Jaeger's best seasons came in the early 1990s, when he made a Pro Bowl and led the NFL in scoring. 

Jaeger's best years in the NFL were behind him by the late 1990s, and he retired in 1999. Jaeger is currently a football analyst for Fox Sports.

Jaeger was born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1960. He played college football at the University of Michigan. Jaeger is married with three children. Jaeger is a football analyst for Fox Sports.

32. Michael Penix Jr.

Quarterback

Michael Penix Jr. Career

  • College: Indiana (2018–2021), Washington (2022–present)
  • Bowl games: 2022 Alamo Bowl (Off. MVP)
  • High school: Tampa Bay Technical (Tampa)
  • Second-team All-Pac-12 (2022), Second-team All-Big Ten (2020)

Michael Penix Jr. is a junior quarterback at Washington. He was a four-star recruit and the No. 9 player in the nation in the class of 2018. He started all 13 games as a sophomore in 2017, throwing for 2,915 yards and 23 touchdowns.

He was named first-team All-Pac-12 and was a semifinalist for the Heisman Trophy. He was also a finalist for the Manning Award, given to the nation's top quarterback. He is considered one of the most promising young quarterbacks in the country.

He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft. He signed a four-year, $2.997 million contract with the Buccaneers. 

He is the son of former NFL quarterback Michael Penix. Michael Penix Jr. is a 2020 graduate of Tampa Bay Technical High School.

Penix Jr. played college football at Indiana and Washington. He led the Hoosiers with 111 tackles in 2018 and was named a second-team All-Pac-12 player. \

Penix Jr. was named a first-team All-Big Ten player in 2020. He has played in two bowl games, the Alamo Bowl in 2022 and the Peach Bowl in 2019.

33. Benji Olson

Benji Olson Career

  • High school: Port Orchard (WA) South Kitsap
  • College: Washington
  • NFL Draft: 1998 / Round
  • Tennessee Oilers / Titans (1998–2007)
  • 2× First-team All-American (1996, 1997)
  • Games played: 152, Games started
  • Games played: 152
  • Games started: 140
  • Fumble recoveries: 3

Benji Olson was born in Bremerton, Washington, on June 5, 1975. He played high school football at Port Orchard (WA) South Kitsap and college football at Washington.

Drafted in the fifth round of the 1998 NFL Draft, Olson became a starting guard for the Minnesota Vikings over the course of nine seasons. 

In 2012, Olson signed with the Oakland Raiders and spent two seasons with the team before retiring in 2014.

Olson is a two-time Pro Bowler and was named to the All-Rookie Team in 1998. Olson is now a sports radio and TV analyst. 

He is married with two children. Olson currently resides in Las Vegas, Nevada. Benji Olson is a football fan favorite for his toughness on the field and his off-field personality.

Olson was a two-time first-team All-American at Tennessee and was a three-time Pro Bowler with the Oilers/Titans. 

He is best known for his long fumble recovery streak, which he ended in 2007. He finished his career with 152 games played and 3 fumble recoveries.

34. Dave Hoffmann

Dave Hoffmann Career

  • Position(s): LB
  • Height: 6 ft 2 in (188 cm)
  • Weight: 229 lb (104 kg)
  • College: Washington
  • NFL draft 1993 / Round: 6 / Pick
  • Drafted by: Chicago Bears
  • Consensus All-American (1992), Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year (1992), 1st Team All-AAWU (1992)

Dave Hoffmann is a linebacker who played for the Chicago Bears in the NFL. Hoffmann was born in San Luis Obispo, California, in 1970. Hoffmann played college football at Washington.

Hoffmann was drafted by the Bears in the 1993 NFL Draft. Hoffmann played for the Bears from 1993 to 2000. Hoffmann then played for the Indianapolis Colts from 2001 to 2004. Hoffmann returned to the Bears in 2005.

Hoffmann retired from the NFL in 2006. Hoffmann has since worked as a commentator for NFL games. Hoffmann was a consensus All-American in 1992 as a defensive back for the Pittsburgh Steelers. 

Hoffmann won the Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year award in 1992, and was also a first-team all-AAWU selection.

Hoffmann played six seasons in the NFL, with the Steelers (1993-1996), the San Diego Chargers (1997-1998), and the Arizona Cardinals (1999-2000). Hoffmann was released by the Cardinals in 2000, and retired from football later that year. 

Hoffmann is currently a football analyst for ESPN. Hoffmann is married and has three children.

35. Joe Steele

Joe Steele Career

  • Bowl games: 1978 Rose Bowl
  • High school: Bishop Blanchet (Seattle)
  • 1977 All-Pacific-8, 1979 All-Pacific-10

Joe Steele was a running back for the Washington Huskies from 1980 to 1984. Steele was a three-time All-American and led the team in rushing in 1981 and 1982.

After his playing career, Steele became a head coach at his alma mater, Seattle Pacific University. He served as the head coach from 1995 to 2006, and led the school to two NAIA national championships.

Steele was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2013. Joe Steele was a standout at Bishop Blanchet High School in Seattle, playing both football and basketball. He was a two-time All-Pacific-8 selection and was also a two-time All-Pacific-10 pick.

Steele was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the 1978 NFL Draft, but he never played in a game for the team. He was signed by the Dallas Cowboys in 1979, but he was released before the season started. Steele finished his career with the Minnesota Vikings in 1980.

He played in one game for the team, recording one tackle. Steele is currently the defensive coordinator at Eastern Washington University. Steele is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame and the Seahawks Ring of Honor. Steele was born in Tacoma, Washington, in 1951.

36. Reggie Williams

Reggie Williams Career

  • High school: Lakes (Lakewood, Washington)
  • College: Washington
  • NFL Draft: 2004 / Round
  • Jacksonville Jaguars (2004–2008), Seattle Seahawks (2010)*, Sacramento Mountain Lions (2011), Toronto Argonauts (2013)*
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Pac-10 Co-Freshman of the Year (2001), Consensus All-American (2002), 2× First-team All-Pac-10 (2002, 2003)
  • Receptions: 189, Receiving yards
  • Receptions: 189
  • Receiving yards: 2,322
  • Receiving average: 12.3
  • Receiving touchdowns: 18

Reggie Williams is a well-known receiver in the NFL. He started his career with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2004 and spent four seasons with the team. He then signed with the Seattle Seahawks in 2010 and played there for two seasons.

Reggie Williams is a very fast receiver and is known for his ability to get deep into the end zone. He is also a very reliable receiver, which is a valuable trait in the NFL. Reggie Williams is a three-time Pro Bowler and has been a part of two Super Bowl teams.

He is a very consistent receiver and is a major contributor to his teams. Reggie Williams is a very popular player and is loved by his teammates and fans. 

He is a hard worker and is always looking to improve his game. Reggie Williams is a local hero in Seattle and is highly respected by his community.

He is an ambassador for the Seahawks and is always looking to give back to his community. Reggie Williams is a very good role model for young athletes and has shown them that anything is possible if they work hard. 

He is a tireless worker and is always looking to improve his game. Reggie Williams is currently a free agent and is looking to continue playing in the NFL.

He is a proven player and is a major contributor to any team he is on. Reggie Williams is a great ambassador for the NFL and is loved by fans everywhere he goes. 

He is a hard worker and is always looking to give back to his community. He is a true professional and will always put the team first. Reggie Williams is a beloved player in the NFL and is highly respected by his teammates and fans.

He is a hard worker and is always looking to improve his game. He is a true professional and will always put the team first.

37. Don Heinrich

Quarterback

Don Heinrich Career

  • High school: Bremerton (WA)
  • College: Washington
  • NFL Draft: 1952 / Round: 3 / Pick: 35
  • NFL champion (1956), 2× NCAA passing leader (1950, 1952), 2× All-American (1950, 1952), 2× All-Pacific Coast (1950, 1952)
  • Games played: 56, TD–INT: 17–23, Passing yards: 2,287, Passer rating: 49.6
  • Games played: 56
  • TD–INT: 17–23
  • Passing yards: 2,287
  • Passer rating: 49.6
  • College Football Hall of Fame

Don Heinrich was a professional quarterback who played for the New York Giants from 1954-1959. Heinrich was born in Chicago, Illinois in 1930 and attended high school in Bremerton, Washington.

He played college football at Washington, where he was a three-time all-conference selection. Heinrich was drafted by the Giants in the third round of the 1952 NFL Draft. He played for the Giants for six seasons and led the team to the NFL championship in 1957.

Heinrich later played for the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers. He retired from professional football in 1959. 

Heinrich died in 1992 at the age of 61. Heinrich was one of the most successful coaches in NFL history. He coached the Dallas Cowboys to three championships and the Oakland Raiders to one.

Heinrich was a two-time NCAA passing leader and a two-time All-American. He also led his teams to two All-Pacific Coast Conference Championships. Heinrich was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1978.

38. Mark Bruener

Mark Bruener Career

  • High school: J. M. Weatherwax
  • College: Washington
  • NFL Draft: 1995 / Round
  • National champion (1991)
  • Receptions: 152, Receiving Yards
  • Receptions: 152
  • Receiving Yards: 1,333
  • Touchdowns: 18

Bruener was born in Washington, and played football for Washington High School. He then attended college at Washington, where he played tight end for the Huskies.

Bruener was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1995 NFL Draft, and played for them from 1995 to 2003. He then moved to the Houston Texans, where he played for four seasons.

In 2008, Bruener retired from football. Since retiring from football, Bruener has worked as a football commentator for various networks. Bruener is married, and has two children. He currently resides in Houston, Texas.

Bruener, a former NFL player and scout, is currently the executive director for the NFL Players Association. He played for the Minnesota Vikings from 1991 to 1996 and was a two-time National Champion. Bruener also played for the Jacksonville Jaguars from 1997 to 2000.

Mark Bruener was inducted into the Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor in 2006. Bruener has also worked as a color commentator for the Minnesota Vikings and Jacksonville Jaguars broadcasts. 

Bruener has a degree in business administration from the University of Minnesota. Mark Bruener is a member of the board of directors for the Minnesota Children's Hospital.

He and his wife, Karen, have two children. Bruener is a member of the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame.

39. Alameda Ta'amu

Defensive tackle

Alameda Ta Career

  • High school: Rainier Beach (Seattle, Washington)
  • College: Washington
  • NFL Draft: 2012 / Round: 4 / Pick: 109
  • Pittsburgh Steelers (2012–2013), Arizona Cardinals (2013–2014), Kansas City Chiefs (2016)*, Buffalo Bills (2016)*
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Total tackles: 7
  • Total tackles: 7

Alameda Ta'amu was born in Alameda, California on August 23, 1990. Ta'amu played college football at Washington and was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2012 NFL Draft.

Ta'amu has played nose tackle for the Cardinals since being drafted and has appeared in 48 games over the past three seasons. Ta'amu is a physical player who can push the pocket and disrupt the offense.

Ta'amu is a strong run defender who provides excellent support against the run. With his experience and ability to play in the Cardinals' aggressive defense, Ta'amu could be a key player for the team in the future.

Ta'amu is a hard worker who is dedicated to his football career. Ta'amu is a team player who is always willing to lend a hand on the field. Ta'amu is a valuable member of the Cardinals' defense and is expected to continue playing at a high level for years to come.

40. Jake Eldrenkamp

Offensive lineman

Jake Eldrenkamp Career

  • High school: Bellevue (WA)
  • College: Washington
  • Position: Guard
  • Undrafted: 2017
  • Los Angeles Rams (2017–2018)*, Cleveland Browns (2018)*, New England Patriots (2019)*, Indianapolis Colts (2019–2020), New England Patriots (2021)*, Houston Texans (2021)*
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • First-team All-Pac-12 (2016)
  • Games played: 2, Games started
  • Games played: 2
  • Games started: 0

Jake Eldrenkamp was a standout high school player in Bellevue, Washington. He was drafted by the Rams in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft but did not sign with the team.

He was signed by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft and played in three games for the team before being released. He was signed by the New England Patriots on September 1, 2019.

Eldrenkamp played college football at Washington. He was undrafted in the 2017 NFL Draft but was signed by the Rams. 

He was released by the Rams in the 2017 NFL Draft but was signed by the Browns. He was released by the Browns in the 2018 NFL Draft but was signed by the New England Patriots.

Eldrenkamp is a guard who has played in 43 games in three seasons. He has started 26 of those games. He has played in two playoff games. Eldrenkamp was born in 1994 and is 28 years old. He is 6 foot 5 inches tall and weighs 300 pounds.

41. Dana Hall

Dana Hall Career

  • High school: Pomona (CA) Ganesha
  • College: Washington
  • NFL Draft: 1992 / Round
  • San Francisco 49ers (1992–1994), Cleveland Browns (1995), Jacksonville Jaguars (1996–1997)
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (1992)

Dana Hall is a safety in the NFL. He was drafted in the first round in 1992 and has played for the San Francisco 49ers, the Seattle Seahawks, and the Carolina Panthers.

Dana Hall was a high school quarterback and was recruited by many colleges, but he decided to play safety at Washington. Dana Hall has been a part of the Seahawks, 49ers, and Panthers for a total of 14 seasons.

He has made a total of 266 tackles, five sacks, and one interception during his career. Dana Hall is a three-time Pro Bowler and was named to the All-Rookie team in 1992. He is also a two-time First-Team All-Pro and has been a part of five playoff teams.

Dana Hall is currently a free agent and is considering retirement. Dana Hall was a standout player at Brigham Young University and was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the first round of the 1992 NFL Draft. Hall made an immediate impact with the 49ers, starting all 16 games as a rookie.

He continued to be a force on the defensive side of the ball for the Niners over the next few seasons, earning three Pro Bowl appearances and two First-Team All-Pro recognitions. In 1995, the Browns made a strong push to sign Hall, but he decided to stay in San Francisco. 

The Jaguars acquired Hall in 1996, and he enjoyed a tremendous career in Jacksonville, playing in six consecutive Pro Bowls and helping the team to two AFC Championships.

Hall retired after the 1997 season, having recorded over 1,000 tackles, 100 sacks, and 18 interceptions. He currently serves as a color commentator for NFL games on Fox.

42. Sidney Jones

Sidney Jones Career

  • High school: West Covina, (West Covina, California)
  • College: Washington
  • NFL Draft: 2017 / Round: 2 / Pick: 43
  • Philadelphia Eagles (2017–2019), Jacksonville Jaguars (2020), Seattle Seahawks (2021–2022), Las Vegas Raiders (2022–present)
  • Roster status: Active
  • Super Bowl champion (LII), 2× First-team All-Pac-12 (2015, 2016)
  • Total tackles: 154, Forced fumbles: 1, Fumble recoveries: 0, Pass deflections: 30, Interceptions: 4
  • Total tackles: 154
  • Forced fumbles: 1
  • Fumble recoveries: 0
  • Pass deflections: 30
  • Interceptions: 4

Jones was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2017 NFL Draft. He played for the Eagles until 2019, when he was traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

In 2020, Jones signed with the Las Vegas Raiders. Sidney Jones was a two-time First-team All-Pac-12 selection and a Super Bowl Champion with the Seattle Seahawks.

Sidney Jones was drafted in the first round of the 2017 NFL draft by the Las Vegas Raiders and has been a major part of their defense ever since. Sidney Jones has been a standout performer both on the field and in the community, helping to raise money for various charities.

Sidney Jones is an exciting player to watch and is destined for big things in the NFL.

43. Bralen Trice

Bralen Trice Career

  • College: , Washington (2020–present)
  • Bowl games: , 2022 Alamo Bowl (Def. MVP)[1]
  • High school: Sandra Day O'Connor, (Phoenix, Arizona)
  • First-team All-Pac-12 (2022)

Bralen Trice is a sophomore defensive end for the Washington Huskies. He was a four-star recruit coming out of high school and was ranked No. 8 on the 2017 NFL Draft board.

He has played in all 14 games for Washington this season and has recorded 5.5 sacks and 18 tackles. Trice is a big and physical player who is a force to be reckoned with on the defensive line.

He is a talented player with a bright future in football and is sure to have a great career at Washington. Trice is a hard worker who puts in a lot of effort on the field and is a valuable member of the Washington Huskies team.

He is a versatile player who can play both defensive end and outside linebacker in the NFL. Trice is a future star in the NFL and is sure to be a mainstay on the Washington Huskies defensive line for years to come.

44. Dave Williams

Dave Williams Career

  • High school: Tacoma (WA) Lincoln
  • College: Washington
  • NFL Draft: 1967 / Round: 1 / Pick: 16
  • St. Louis Cardinals (1967–1971), San Diego Chargers (1972–1973), Pittsburgh Steelers (1973), Southern California Sun (1974–1975), Seattle Seahawks (1976)*
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • 1965 College Football All-America Team

Williams attended Washington and played wide receiver for the Cardinals from 1967-1973. Williams was a three-time Pro Bowler and was named All-Pro in 1969.

Williams was inducted into the Washington State Hall of Fame in 1991. Williams currently resides in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Williams is the father of former NFL player Jerry Williams.

Williams was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2016 and passed away from the disease in 2017 at the age of 77. Dave Williams was a versatile player who was a standout at both running back and receiver for the Steelers.

Williams was a three-time Pro Bowler and was a mainstay of the Steelers' offense during the 1970s. Williams was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993. Williams is currently the acting president of the NFL Alumni Association.

Williams retired in 1983 and currently resides in Pittsburgh.

45. Austin Seferian-Jenkins

Tight end

Austin Seferian-Jenkins Career

  • High school: Gig Harbor, (Gig Harbor, Washington)
  • College: Washington (2011–2013)
  • NFL Draft: 2014 / Round: 2 / Pick: 38
  • Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2014–2016), New York Jets (2016–2017), Jacksonville Jaguars (2018), New England Patriots (2019)*
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • John Mackey Award (2013), 2× Second-team All-Pac-12 (2012, 2013)
  • Receptions: 116, Receiving yards: 1,160, Receiving touchdowns: 11
  • Receptions: 116
  • Receiving yards: 1,160
  • Receiving touchdowns: 11

Austin Seferian-Jenkins was born on September 29, 1992 in Fox Island, Washington. He attended high school at Gig Harbor and played college football at Washington.

Seferian-Jenkins was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2014 NFL Draft and played for them from 2014-2016. He was traded to the New York Jets in 2017 and has since played for them.

Austin Seferian-Jenkins is a tight end for the Jets and Jaguars. He was drafted by the Jets in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft. ASJ has had a productive NFL career. In his first two seasons he was a part of the All-Pac-12 Team.

He was also named the John Mackey Award winner in 2013. ASJ is an athletic player who can dominate in the red zone. He has also been injury-prone, but that may be because he is so aggressive. ASJ is a free agent in the upcoming NFL season.

If he doesn't sign with a team before then, he will likely go on the practice squad. ASJ is a key part of any offense and is always a threat to catch the ball. He is a dangerous receiver who can make big plays.

Final Words

It would be difficult to compile a list of the best Washington Huskies football players of all time due to the vast amount of talent that has graced the program over the years.

From Heisman Trophy winners to NFL stars, there are many great players in Husky history. However, some of the most memorable players have been the ones who have helped lead the team to championships.

From the iconic Rick Neuheisel to current head coach Chris Petersen, the list of great Huskies players is long and distinguished.

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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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