What NFL Players Went to BYU: A Look at the University’s Impact on Professional Football
BYU, or Brigham Young University, has long been known for its strong athletic programs, particularly in football. Over the years, the university has produced numerous NFL players who have gone on to have successful careers in the league. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the notable NFL players who attended BYU and their impact on the sport.
1. T.J. Houshmandzadeh
One of the most well-known BYU alumni, T.J. Houshmandzadeh, played wide receiver for the Bengals, Seahawks, and Raiders during his NFL career. Drafted in the second round of the 2001 NFL Draft, Houshmandzadeh spent 11 seasons in the league and was a consistent performer, earning Pro Bowl honors in 2006.
2. Steve Young
Steve Young, a Hall of Famer, is one of the most celebrated BYU graduates. As a quarterback, Young led the BYU Cougars to a national championship in 1984. He was later drafted by the San Francisco 49ers and went on to have a Hall of Fame career in the NFL. Young won two Super Bowls and was named MVP in Super Bowl XXIX.
3. Andy Reid
Andy Reid, a former BYU quarterback, is one of the most successful coaches in NFL history. Reid spent 29 seasons in the league, coaching the Green Bay Packers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Kansas City Chiefs. Under his guidance, the Eagles won the Super Bowl in 2017, and Reid was named Super Bowl MVP.
4. Kellen Moore
Kellen Moore, another BYU quarterback, was a three-time Mountain West Conference Offensive Player of the Year. Moore was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the seventh round of the 2012 NFL Draft but never made it to the active roster. Despite his brief NFL career, Moore’s success at BYU helped to establish the university as a football powerhouse.
5. Joe Flacco
Joe Flacco, who attended BYU on a Mormon mission, played quarterback for the Ravens, Broncos, and Browns. Drafted in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft, Flacco led the Ravens to a Super Bowl victory in 2012. Although his career has been marred by injuries, Flacco has been a consistent starter for his teams.
6. Jimmer Fredette
While not a traditional NFL player, Jimmer Fredette, a BYU basketball star, made a name for himself in the NBA. However, his success on the basketball court has often been overshadowed by the many football players who have come out of BYU. Fredette’s ability to score from anywhere on the court has been a testament to the university’s athletic prowess.
In conclusion, BYU has had a significant impact on the NFL, producing some of the league’s most talented players and coaches. The university’s football program has been a breeding ground for future stars, and its alumni continue to make their mark on the sport. As the years go on, it’s likely that BYU will continue to produce more NFL players who will go on to achieve great success.
