Winning the Heisman Trophy is a big deal. It shows you’re the best in college football.
But how do these winners fare in the NFL? Some Heisman winners go on to have amazing NFL careers. They become legends, leaving a lasting mark on the game. Others struggle to live up to the hype. This blog post explores the best Heisman winners in NFL history.
We’ll look at those who made a smooth transition from college stardom to professional greatness. These players not only excelled in college but also proved their worth in the NFL. So, let’s dive in and see which Heisman winners truly shined in the big league.
Barry Sanders
Barry Sanders is one of the most memorable Heisman winners to succeed in the NFL. His agility and speed made him a standout player at every level of his career.
College Career
Barry Sanders played for Oklahoma State University. During his junior year, he had a record-breaking season. He rushed for 2,850 yards and scored 44 touchdowns. These achievements earned him the Heisman Trophy in 1988. He left college early to enter the NFL draft.
Nfl Achievements
The Detroit Lions drafted Barry Sanders in 1989. He quickly became one of the top running backs in the league. Sanders rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of his ten seasons. He earned Pro Bowl selections every year. In 1997, he won the NFL MVP award. By the time he retired, he had amassed over 15,000 rushing yards. Barry Sanders was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2004.
Charles Woodson
Charles Woodson is one of the most remarkable Heisman winners who made a significant impact in the NFL. Known for his exceptional skills, he showcased his talent as both a defensive and offensive player, making him a versatile force on the field. Woodson’s career is a testament to his hard work and dedication, earning him a spot among the best in NFL history.
Versatile Player
Charles Woodson stood out due to his versatility. He played as a cornerback, safety, and even contributed to special teams. His ability to adapt to various roles made him invaluable to his teams. Woodson’s skill set allowed him to excel in multiple positions, demonstrating his comprehensive understanding of the game.
Defensive Dominance
Woodson’s defensive prowess was second to none. He had a keen sense for the ball, resulting in numerous interceptions. His defensive stats are impressive:
| Category | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Interceptions | 65 |
| Defensive Touchdowns | 11 |
| Forced Fumbles | 33 |
These numbers highlight Woodson’s ability to change the course of a game. His defensive dominance earned him numerous accolades and a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
- 1998 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year
- 2009 NFL Defensive Player of the Year
- 9-time Pro Bowl selection
Charles Woodson’s career is a shining example of excellence in the NFL. His versatility and defensive skills made him one of the best Heisman winners to ever play in the league.
Roger Staubach
Roger Staubach stands out among the best Heisman winners in NFL history. Known for his leadership and talent, he left a lasting impact on football. He achieved success both on and off the field. His journey from a college star to an NFL legend is inspiring.
Military Service
Roger Staubach attended the U.S. Naval Academy. He won the Heisman Trophy in 1963. After graduation, he served in the Navy. His military service included a tour in Vietnam. His dedication to his country showed his strong character. This experience shaped him as a leader.
Cowboys’ Leader
Staubach joined the Dallas Cowboys in 1969. He quickly became the team’s leader. His calm demeanor and quick thinking set him apart. Fans admired his ability to perform under pressure. He led the Cowboys to two Super Bowl victories. His contributions earned him a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Staubach’s legacy continues to inspire future athletes.
Marcus Allen
Marcus Allen is one of the best Heisman Trophy winners to excel in the NFL. Known for his versatility and skill, Allen made a significant impact during his professional career. He played for the Los Angeles Raiders and the Kansas City Chiefs, achieving numerous accolades along the way. Let’s delve into some key aspects of his NFL career.
Dual Threat
Marcus Allen was known as a dual threat due to his exceptional skills in both running and receiving. This versatility made him a valuable asset for his teams. Allen rushed for over 12,000 yards in his career and added more than 5,000 receiving yards. These stats highlight his ability to contribute in multiple ways.
Here is a table showcasing some of Allen’s key career statistics:
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Rushing Yards | 12,243 |
| Receiving Yards | 5,411 |
| Total Touchdowns | 145 |
Super Bowl Mvp
One of Marcus Allen’s most memorable achievements was winning the Super Bowl XVIII MVP. In this game, Allen showcased his incredible talent. He rushed for 191 yards and scored two touchdowns, including a record-setting 74-yard run. This performance helped the Raiders secure a 38-9 victory over the Washington Redskins.
Allen’s Super Bowl MVP performance is still remembered as one of the best in NFL history.
In summary, Marcus Allen’s versatility and key performances, including his Super Bowl MVP, have solidified his legacy as one of the best Heisman winners in the NFL.
Tim Brown
Tim Brown stands out as one of the best Heisman winners in NFL history. Known for his exceptional skills, Tim made a mark both in college and in the NFL. His versatility and talent on the field earned him a place in the Hall of Fame.
All-purpose Yardage
Tim Brown excelled in all-purpose yardage. He was a threat every time he touched the ball. He could catch, return kicks, and make big plays. Brown’s ability to rack up yards in multiple ways made him unique. He finished his career with over 19,000 all-purpose yards. This impressive stat showcases his versatility and impact on the game.
Hall Of Fame Career
Tim Brown’s NFL career was nothing short of spectacular. He spent most of his career with the Oakland Raiders. During his time with the team, he became one of the most reliable receivers. He was selected to the Pro Bowl nine times. His consistency and excellence earned him a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Tim Brown’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of football players.
Credit: www.youtube.com
O.j. Simpson
O. J. Simpson, one of the best Heisman winners, made a huge impact in the NFL. His amazing runs and quick moves are unforgettable.
O.J. Simpson is one of the greatest Heisman Trophy winners. His success in college football is legendary. He won the Heisman Trophy in 1968. This award recognized him as the best player in college football. He played for the University of Southern California (USC). His performance on the field was unmatched.
Rushing Records
Simpson’s rushing records are impressive. He set many records during his career. In 1968, he rushed for 1,709 yards. This was a record at the time. He also scored 22 touchdowns that season. His speed and power were remarkable. Simpson continued to break records in the NFL. He became the first player to rush for over 2,000 yards in a season. This happened in 1973. His record stood for many years.
Impact On The Game
Simpson had a huge impact on the game of football. His style of play changed how running backs were viewed. He was fast, strong, and agile. His ability to break tackles was unmatched. Simpson’s success inspired many young players. He showed that hard work and talent lead to greatness. His legacy lives on in the NFL. Many consider him one of the best running backs ever.
Cam Newton
Cam Newton, a dynamic player in NFL history, won the Heisman Trophy in 2010. He brought a unique blend of skills to the quarterback position. Let’s explore how he became one of the best Heisman winners in the NFL.
Dual-threat Quarterback
Cam Newton was known for his ability to both pass and run. His powerful arm and quick feet made him a constant threat on the field. Defenses struggled to contain his versatility. Newton’s size and strength set him apart from other quarterbacks. He could evade tackles and extend plays with ease.
Mvp Season
Newton’s 2015 season with the Carolina Panthers was unforgettable. He led the team to a 15-1 record. His performance earned him the NFL MVP award. Newton threw for 3,837 yards and 35 touchdowns. He also rushed for 636 yards and 10 touchdowns. His dual-threat ability shined that season.
Newton’s leadership and playmaking took the Panthers to Super Bowl 50. Though they didn’t win, his impact was undeniable. Cam Newton’s MVP season remains a highlight of his career.
Credit: www.nbcsports.com
Legacy Of Heisman Winners
The Heisman Trophy is the most prestigious award in college football. Winning it signifies greatness. But what about those who then succeed in the NFL? Their journey from college to the pros often leaves a lasting impact. Let’s explore the legacy of some of the best Heisman winners in NFL history.
Impact On Nfl
Heisman winners like Barry Sanders and Marcus Allen made huge marks in the NFL. Barry Sanders, known for his agility and speed, was a ten-time Pro Bowl player. He rushed for over 15,000 yards in his career. Marcus Allen, another standout, won both the Super Bowl MVP and the NFL MVP. These players showed that Heisman winners could excel at the next level.
Other notable Heisman winners include Tim Brown and Charles Woodson. Tim Brown, a wide receiver, amassed over 14,000 receiving yards. He was also a nine-time Pro Bowl selection. Charles Woodson, a defensive back, won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award. Their careers highlight the versatility and talent of Heisman winners.
Future Prospects
The future looks bright for recent Heisman winners. Kyler Murray and Joe Burrow are two young quarterbacks showing promise. Kyler Murray, known for his dual-threat ability, has already been selected to the Pro Bowl. Joe Burrow, despite a major injury, is showing resilience and skill. Their early success hints at long and productive careers.
There are also high hopes for DeVonta Smith and Derrick Henry. DeVonta Smith, a wide receiver, won the Heisman in 2020. He is now making significant contributions to his NFL team. Derrick Henry, a running back, has already led the NFL in rushing yards multiple times. These players are expected to continue the legacy of excellence.
The legacy of Heisman winners in the NFL is rich and enduring. Their impact is felt on and off the field. Future prospects look promising, ensuring the tradition of greatness continues.
| Player | Position | Key Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Barry Sanders | Running Back | 10-time Pro Bowl, 15,000+ rushing yards |
| Marcus Allen | Running Back | Super Bowl MVP, NFL MVP |
| Tim Brown | Wide Receiver | 14,000+ receiving yards, 9-time Pro Bowl |
| Charles Woodson | Defensive Back | NFL Defensive Player of the Year |
Credit: www.nfl.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Are The Top Heisman Winners In The Nfl?
Several Heisman winners have excelled in the NFL, including Barry Sanders, Charles Woodson, and Marcus Allen. Each has made significant contributions to their teams and the league.
Which Heisman Winner Has The Best Nfl Career?
Barry Sanders is often regarded as having one of the best NFL careers among Heisman winners. His incredible rushing records and consistency set him apart.
Has A Heisman Winner Ever Won A Super Bowl?
Yes, several Heisman winners have won Super Bowls. Notable examples include Marcus Allen and Charles Woodson. Their performances were pivotal.
Are Heisman Winners Successful In The Nfl?
Many Heisman winners achieve success in the NFL. However, success varies. Some become legends, while others struggle to adapt to the professional level.
Conclusion
These Heisman winners have made a big impact in the NFL. Their skills and dedication continue to inspire football fans. Their stories show hard work pays off. They serve as role models for young athletes. The journey from college to the NFL is tough.
Yet, these players have shown it’s possible. They have left a lasting legacy in both college and professional football. Keep watching, as the next Heisman winner may become the next NFL star.
