The high schools with the most NFL players are the ones that consistently have the biggest impact on the scope of the game today. They’re known for producing the most high-quality, talented, and gifted players that go on to play with some of the best football stars in the world.
The road to the NFL is a long and grueling process that thousands of players hope to achieve every year, but only a select few actually find success at. For most of these players, their journey starts in high school — where they first start attracting recruiters from college campuses.
Those that play well at the high school level will have an opportunity to showcase their talent at the college level. From there, they must grab the attention of NFL scouts and coaches in hopes of getting a call on draft day — which is their real opportunity to make a name for themselves.
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Ranking the Top Football High Schools With the Most NFL Players
Every year, the NFL welcomes a new draft class into the league and while those players often come from a wide range of different backgrounds, we can’t help but notice that some high schools produce more NFL players than others and they do it on a consistent, yearly basis.
There are a number of factors that play a role in this. A lot of the credit goes to the head coaches of these high school football teams, but you also have to understand that some high schools have better competition than others and some have better summer programs in the offseason.
Either way, the high schools with the most NFL players are the ones that college recruiters and NFL scouts spend a majority of their time at. If you want a player that’s ready for the next level, the high schools with the most NFL players are always a great place to start your search.
25. Junipero Serra High School
Total NFL Players: 22 players
Active NFL Players: 6 players
Notable Alumni: Robert Woods, Adoree’ Jackson, Marqise Lee, Paul Richardson, Phil Smith, Deon Figures, Bené Benwikere, Rasheem Green, Duke Ihenacho
Location: Gardena, California
Nickname: Junipero Serra Cavaliers
Robert Woods is arguably the best football player to come from Junipero Serra High School in Gardena, California. He has 552 receptions, 6,843 receiving yards, 33 receiving touchdowns, and 4 rushing touchdowns in 121 NFL games. He currently plays for the Los Angeles Rams.
24. Kiski School
Total NFL Players: 22 players
Active NFL Players: 0 players
Notable Alumni: Hunter Enis, Doc Elliott, Tony Bova, James Clark, Joe Crowley, Paul Riblett,
Location: Saltsburg, Pennsylvania
Nickname: Kiski Cougars
Kiski High School hasn’t produced an NFL player in a long time and currently don’t have any active players in the NFL. Hunter Enis was the last Kiski High School football player to make it to the NFL (1960), but he only lasted two years. Doc Elliott had the most success in the NFL.
23. William M. Raines High School
Total NFL Players: 23 players
Active NFL Players: 0 players
Notable Alumni: Rod Gardner, Jabar Gaffney, Shawn Jefferson, Harold Carmichael, Ken Burrough, Derrick Gaffney, Terry LeCount, Brian Dawkins, Leto Sheppard, Derrick Alexander
Location: Jacksonville, Florida
Nickname: Raines Vikings
William M. Raines High School produced eight receivers with more than 1,000 receiving yards in the NFL — Harold Carmichael had the most with 8,985 yards and 79 touchdowns receiving. On defense, Brian Dawkins recorded 37 interceptions, 36 forced fumbles, and 26 sacks.
22. Glades Central High School
Total NFL Players: 23 players
Active NFL Players: 4 players
Notable Alumni: Travis Benjamin, Cre’von LeBlanc, Jatavis Brown, Clive Walford, Kelvin Benjamin, Santionio Holmes, Fred Taylor, Jessie Hester, Louis Oliver, Jimmy Spencer, Ray McDonald,
Location: Belle Glade, Florida
Nickname: Glades Central Raiders
Glades Central High School has produced several high-quality NFL players. Louis Oliver and Jimmy Spencer had a combined 53 interceptions in the NFL, Fred Taylor had 66 rushing touchdowns, and they had five wide receivers record more than 16 receiving touchdowns.
21. Compton High School
Total NFL Players: 23 players
Active NFL Players: One player
Notable Alumni: Datone Jones, Aaron Craver, Roy Jefferson, Marv Fleming, Walter Roberts, Mike Richardson, Robin Cole
Location: Compton, California
Nickname: Compton Tartar Babies
Compton High School currently has one player, Datone Jones, in the NFL and he has recorded 10 sacks, one interception, and one fumble recovery in his career. Roy Jefferson had the best career, finishing with 451 catches, 7,539 receiving yards, and 52 receiving touchdowns.
20. Massillon Washington High School
Total NFL Players: 23 players
Active NFL Players: 2 players
Notable Alumni: Jim Houston, Chris Spielman, Tom Hannon, Steve Luke, Gareon Conley, Devin Smith, Horace Gillom, Gerry Allen
Location: Massillon, Ohio
Nickname: Massillon Tigers
Gareon Conley and Devin Smith are the only two active players that came from Massillon High School. They’re known for producing quality defensive players, including Tommy James with 34 interceptions, Chris Spielman with 1,363 tackles, and Jim Houston with 29.5 sacks.
19. South Oak Cliff High School
Total NFL Players: 24 players
Active NFL Players: 0 players
Notable Alumni: Mike Livingston, Karl Sweetan, Wayne Morris, Oscar Roan, Michael Downs, Tim Collier, Rod Jones, Harvey Martin
Location: Dallas, Texas
Nickname: South Oak Cliff Golden Bears
South Oak Cliff High School doesn’t have any active players in the NFL, but they’ve produced some talented players in the past. Harvey Martin’s 114.0 career (unofficial) sacks ranks 32nd all-time, Michael Downs had 35 interceptions, and Wayne Downs had 43 total touchdowns.
18. John Tyler High School
Total NFL Players: 24 players
Active NFL Players: 2 players
Notable Alumni: Earl Campbell, Greg Ward, Kendall Hunter, Charlie Milstead, Aaron Ross, Gary Baxter, Tyus Bowser, Tim Crowder
Location: Tyler, Texas
Nickname: Tyler Lions
John Tyler High School is most known for producing one of the greatest running backs to ever play. Earl Campbell finished his career with 9,407 rushing yards and 74 rushing touchdowns. Tyus Bowser and Greg Ward are the only two active players in the NFL from John Tyler HS.
17. Ball High School
Total NFL Players: 24 players
Active NFL Players: One player
Notable Alumni: Mike Evans, Charles Alexander, Kimble Anders, Whitney Paul, Eric Hill,
Location: Galveston, Texas
Nickname: Ball Tornadoes
Ball High School is best known for producing one of the best wide receivers in the league today — Mike Evans. In 111 games, he has 561 catches, 8,659 yards, and 65 touchdowns. Whitney Paul also had a great career with 47 sacks, 11 interceptions, and two defensive touchdowns.
16. Miami Central High School
Total NFL Players: 25 players
Active NFL Players: 6 players
Notable Alumni: Dalvin Cook, Devonta Freeman, John Miller, Carroll Phillips, Ahmad Thomas, Kevin Pamphile, Travaris Cadet, Willis McGahee, Najeh Davenport, Al Richardson, Bruce Armstrong
Location: Miami, Florida
Nickname: Central Rockets
Miami Central High School has produced six active players in the NFL right now and is known for producing some great running backs — including Dalvin Cook, Willis McGahee, and Devonta Freeman. Al Richardson had a nice career on the defensive end with 21.5 sacks.
15. Crenshaw High School
Total NFL Players: 25 players
Active NFL Players: 4 players
Notable Alumni: Wendell Tyler, Clint Sampson, De’Anthony Thomas, Duane Galloway, Kerry Justin, Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila, Charles DeJurnett, Brandon Mebane, Reggie Lewis
Location: Los Angeles, California
Nickname: Crenshaw Cougars
Crenshaw High School currently has four active players in the NFL, but it’s Wendell Tyler and Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila that are the two legends at this high school. Tyler had 66 total touchdowns in his career, while Gbaja-Biamila had 74.5 sacks and 17 forced fumbles.
14. Abraham Lincoln High School
Total NFL Players: 25 players
Active NFL Players: 0 players
Notable Alumni: Marcus Allen, Akili Smith, Terrell Davis, Dave Grayson, Wally Henry, Lew Barnes, Doug Reed
Location: San Diego, California
Nickname: Lincoln Hornets
Abraham Lincoln High School has produced one of the greatest halfbacks of all-time — Marcus Allen. He recorded over 17,600 total yards and 144 touchdowns in his career. Terrell Davis had 60 rushing touchdowns, Doug Reed had 22.5 sacks, and Dave Grayson had 48 interceptions.
13. Evanston High School
Total NFL Players: 25 players
Active NFL Players: One player
Notable Alumni: Emery Moorehead, Cecil Martin, Damon Jones, Alex Agase, Jim Purnell, Paddy Driscoll, Laurie Walquist
Location: Evanston, Illinois
Nickname: Evanston Wildkits
Evanston High School isn’t known for producing big names in the NFL, but they’ve produced 25 NFL players — enough for 13th in high schools with the most NFL players. Paddy Driscoll and Emery Moorehead are arguably the best Wildkits’ alumni, while Naquan Jones is the latest.
12. Longview High School
Total NFL Players: 25 players
Active NFL Players: 5 players
Notable Alumni: Trent Williams, Chris Ivory, Rickey Watts, Willie Andrews, Josh Scobee, Mike Clark, Bobby Taylor
Location: Longview, Texas
Nickname: Longview Lobos
Longview High School has produced several good players over the past 70 years — three of which started their NFL careers recently. The big name players are Chris Ivory (32 total touchdowns), Josh Scobee (241 field goals), and Trent Williams (138 career starts at LT).
11. Glenville High School
Total NFL Players: 27 players
Active NFL Players: 7 players
Notable Alumni: Frank Clark, Marshon Lattimore, Ted Ginn Jr., Cardale Jones, Donte Whitner, Troy Smith, Chris Chambers, Jonathan Newsome, Richard Bishop, Benny Friedman
Location: Cleveland, Ohio
Nickname: Glenville Tarblooders
Glenville High School has several dominant players in the NFL right now, including Marshon Lattimore and Frank Clark. They’ve also produced two extremely talented receivers in Chris Chambers and Ted Ginn Jr., as well as Donte Whitner (923 tackles), and Richard Bishop.
10. Louisville Male High School
Total NFL Players: 29 players
Active NFL Players: One player
Notable Alumni: Chris Redman, Michael Bush, D.J. Johnson
Location: Louisville, Kentucky
Nickname: Louisville Male Bulldogs
Louisville Male High School has produced 29 NFL players, but none of them went on to have memorable careers. Michael Bush finished with 4,260 yards and 31 touchdowns, Chris Redman had a 4-8 record as a starting quarterback, and D.J. Johnson had 18 interceptions.
9. DeMatha Catholic High School
Total NFL Players: 29 players
Active NFL Players: 4 players
Notable Alumni: Cameron Wake, Ja’Whaun Bentley, Rodney McLeod, Chase Young, Cyrus Kouandjio, Brian Westbrook, Steve Smith, Tony Paige, Josh Wilson, J.B. Brown, Mike Johnson, Bobby Houston
Location: Hyattsville, Maryland
Nickname: DeMatha Catholic Stags
Between Cameron Wake, Ja’Whaun Bentley, Chase Young, and Rodney McLeod, DeMatha Catholic High School has produced some very talented defensive players in the past decade. That’s not all, they’ve also produced Brian Westbrook — 10,275 yards and 71 touchdowns.
8. Hargrave Military Academy
Total NFL Players: 30 players
Active NFL Players: 6 players
Notable Alumni: Leonard Floyd, Shaq Lawson, Jarran Reed, Zach Brown, Condrea Tankersley, Keiland Williams, Torry Holt, Carlos Rogers, Charles Grant, Quinton Coples, Leonard Pope
Location: Chatham, Virginia
Nickname: Hargrave Military Academy Tigers
Speaking of producing stout defensive players in recent years, Hargrave Military Academy has six active defensive players in the NFL. What’s even more impressive is the fact that they produced one of the greatest receivers to ever play, Torry Holt — a Hall of Fame finalist.
7. Canton McKinley High School
Total NFL Players: 30 players
Active NFL Players: 0 players
Notable Alumni: Marion Motley, Joe Morgan, Ray Ellis, Mike Doss, Reggie Corner, Nick Roman, Kenny Peterson
Location: Canton, Ohio
Nickname: Canton McKinley Bulldogs
Despite not having any active players in the NFL right now, Canton McKinley High School can rest easy knowing they produced Marion Motley — one of the strongest running backs in NFL history. He finished his career with 5,827 scrimmage yards and 38 total touchdowns.
6. St. Augustine High School
Total NFL Players: 32 players
Active NFL Players: 5 players
Notable Alumni: Leonard Fournette, Trai Turner, Tyrann Mathieu, Stanley Morgan Jr., Charles Jones, Leroy Hoard, Benjarvus Green-Ellis, Tyrone Hughes, Jackie Wallace, James Hall, Derrick Rodgers, Lonnie Marts, Raynoch Thompson
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Nickname: St. Augustine Purple Knights
St. Augustine High School has produced impressive players all over the place. Trai Turner, Leonard Fournette, and Tyrann Mathieu are all regular starters in today’s game. James Hall (63 sacks) and Leroy Hoard (6,394 yards, 51 touchdowns) were also dominant in their prime.
5. Susan Miller Dorsey High School
Total NFL Players: 33 players
Active NFL Players: 0 players
Notable Alumni: Keyshawn Johnson, Dennis Northcutt, Butch Johnson, Aaron Cox, Lamont Warren, Antonio Chatman, Karim Abdul-Jabbar, Charles Mincy, Bernard Jackson, Rahim Moore, Na’il Diggs, Chris Owens, Chris Mims,
Location: Los Angeles, California
Nickname: Dorsey Dons
Susan Miller Dorsey High School is one of the best football high schools. They’ve produced Chris Mims (42 sacks), Charles Mincy (23 interceptions), Keyshawn Johnson (10,571 yards, 64 touchdowns), and Dennis Northcutt (18 receiving touchdowns, 7 return touchdowns).
4. Miami Northwestern High School
Total NFL Players: 36 players
Active NFL Players: 6 players
Notable Alumni: Amari Cooper, Teddy Bridgewater, Lavonte David, Artie Burns, Tutu Atwell, Deandre Baker, Vernand Morency, Brett Perriman, Antonio Bryant, Marvin Jones
Location: Miami, Florida
Nickname: Miami Northwestern Bulls
Miami Northwestern High School has produced two linebackers with over 1,000 career tackles, three receivers with more than 5,600 receiving yards and at least 30 touchdowns, and one quarterback with 54 career starts (and counting). They know how to develop and it shows.
3. St. Thomas Aquinas High School
Total NFL Players: 42 players
Active NFL Players: 19 players
Notable Alumni: Giovani Bernard, James White, Brian Piccolo, Michael Irvin, Phillip Dorsett, Leonard Hankerson, Rashad Greene, Richard Goodman, Michael Palardy, Major Wright, Lamarcus Joyner, Geno Atkins, Joey Bosa, Nick Bosa, Sterling Palmer
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Nickname: St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders
If you have hopes of playing in the NFL, St. Thomas Aquinas High School is the place to be. Their 19 active players is the most by any high school and it includes the Bosa brothers, Geno Atkins, James White, Asante Samuel Jr., Brandon Linder, Damon Arnette, and more.
2. Long Beach Polytechnic High School
Total NFL Players: 58 players
Active NFL Players: 6 players
Notable Alumni: Leonard Russell, Johnny Morris, DeSean Jackson, Tony Hill, Gene Washington, Stephone Paige, Marcedes Lewis, Juju Smith-Schuster, Earl McCullouch, Samie Parker, Kaelin Clay, Bill Jessup, Mark Carrier, Maquez Pope, Willie McGinest, Brandon Whiting, Jayon Brown, Omar Stoutmire, Jurrell Casey,
Location: Long Beach, California
Nickname: Long Beach Poly Jackrabbits
Perhaps no other high school has produced as many quality wide receivers as Long Beach Polytechnic High School. Nine of their receivers recorded more than 1,000 career receiving yards, including five that recorded more than 5,000 yards and three above 50 touchdowns.
1. Fork Union Military Academy
Total NFL Players: 67 players
Active NFL Players: 13 players
Notable Alumni: Vinny Testaverde, Don Majkowski, Plaxico Burress, Mike Quick, Sonny Randle, Michael Thomas, Rickey Dudley, Josh Morgan, Eddie George, Ernest Wilford, John Hilton, Carlos Hyde, Jacoby Ford, Michael Badgley, Gaines Adams, Dexter Coakley, Robert Jones, Kareem Jackson, Zach Kerr, Antonio Allen, C.J. Spillman
Location: Fork Union, Virginia
Nickname: Fork Union Military Academy Blue Devils
Known for producing running backs and wide receivers, Fork Union Military Academy has produced 67 NFL players and has 13 actively playing right now. Eddie George played high school football here, as well as Plaxico Burress and Vinny Testaverde to name a few.
From High School Hero to NFL Legend, Anything Is Possible
In high school, most players dream of one day stepping foot on an NFL field, wearing an NFL jersey with their last name across the back. A majority of those players will never get to live out this dream, but those that do are the ones that give 110% effort, 100% of the time.
Now that we know the high schools with the most NFL players, you can start to understand which high school programs have a knack for developing quality players — and why so many scouts are eager to visit them. You never know what you might see in a high school game.
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Some extra little nuggets of information that might interest you, there are only seven states in the US with more than 100 active players in the NFL right now — Alabama (100), Louisiana (100), Ohio (115), Georgia (188), California (288), Texas (297), and Florida (336).
20 of the Best High School Football Players Ever
Every year, the football community welcomes a new class of high school recruits looking to be named one of the best high school football players ever. Some of those players will earn that right, while others will fall short. Either way, they’re all fighting for a potential shot at the NFL.
High school is an important time for any football player that wants to make it at the next level. It’s where young football players can display their talent to college and professional scouts. As for the best high school football players ever, they know how to grab attention and they do it often.
Of all the high school football players to ever suit up, there are a select few that did it better than anyone else — but have you ever wondered who those players are? You’ll likely recognize a majority of the names, but there might be some that you’ve never heard of or forgotten about!
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Who Are the Best High School Football Players Ever?
The best high school football players ever were known for creating mismatches and dominating at the high school level. Some of them went on to have great college careers, some of them enjoyed success in the NFL, and others saw their dominance come to an end after high school.
No matter where they ended up or how far their football careers took them, the best high school football players ever will be remembered for what they did in their youth years. They not only exceeded expectations at that level, but they set the bar for future high school football recruits.
As we reminisce about the best high school football players ever, know that there are a lot of names that we could’ve chosen for our list. There are a lot of factors to consider, but we’ve put together some of the most dominant, influential, and impactful high school football players ever.
20. QB/WR Terrelle Pryor
High School: Jeannette High School
College: Ohio State University
NFL Teams: Oakland Raiders, Cleveland Browns, Buffalo Bills, New York Jets, Washington Redskins
NFL Stats: 51 games played, 30 games started, 3-7 record as QB, 1,994 passing yards, 9 passing touchdowns, 12 interceptions, 115 receptions, 1,563 receiving yards, 7 receiving touchdowns, 646 rushing yards, 4 rushing touchdowns
Terrelle Pryor was a star athlete at Jeannette High School, starring in both football and basketball. He became the first high school football player in the state of Pennsylvania to rush for 4,000 yards and pass for 4,000 yards. He had the size, the speed, the power, and the IQ.
His athleticism showed throughout his career. He had a stellar three-year career at Ohio State University before being drafted by the Oakland Raiders in 2011. While he never found success as a quarterback, he switched positions and recorded 1,000 yards as a receiver in 2016.
19. WR Dorial Green-Beckham
High School: Hillcrest High School
College: University of Missouri
NFL Teams: Philadelphia Eagles, Tennessee Titans
NFL Stats: 31 games, 68 receptions, 141 targets, 941 yards, 6 touchdowns
Dorial Green-Beckham was a monster of a receiver at Hillcrest High School, totaling 300 receptions, 6,356 yards, and 74 touchdowns in his three years of varsity football. He averaged 21.2 yards per reception and 135.2 yards per game over 4 games played at Hillcrest.
He spent two years at the University of Missouri, but was dismissed after his sophomore season due to legal problems. In 2015, he was drafted 40th overall by the Tennessee Titans, but he would only play two years in the league before never stepping foot on the field ever again.
18. LB Derrick Brooks
High School: Washington High SChool
College: Florida State University
NFL Teams: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NFL Stats: 224 games, 1,713 tackles, 68 tackles for loss, 13.5 sacks, 24 forced fumbles, 4 fumble recoveries, 25 interceptions, 7 defensive touchdowns, 84 passes defensed
Derrick Brooks was known for his stout play as a safety at Washington High School. He was recruited to play college ball at Florida Stateand was eventually switched to an outside linebacker during his freshman season — a move that helped spur his Hall of Fame career.
Drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 1995 NFL Draft, Brooks spent his entire 14-year career with the team. He currently ranks third all-time in solo tackles and sixth all-time in combined tackles. He was later inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2014.
17. RB Emmitt Smith
High School: Escambia High School
College: University of Florida
NFL Teams: Dallas Cowboys, Arizona Cardinals
NFL Stats: 226 games, 4,409 rushes, 18,355 rushing yards, 164 rushing touchdowns, 515 receptions, 3,224 receiving yards, 11 receiving touchdowns
Emmitt Smith is one of the best high school football players ever for his efforts at Escambia High School. Over his four-year high school career, Smith ran for 8,804 yards and 106 touchdowns. He led his team — which had never won a title — to two state championships.
After a successful three-year career at the University of Florida, Smith went on to become one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. His 18,355 rushing yards and 164 rushing touchdowns are both the most all-time, cementing himself as a one-of-a-kind running back.
16. LB Dick Butkus
High School: Chicago Vocational High School
College: University of Illinois
NFL Teams: Chicago Bears
NFL Stats: 119 games, 11.0 sacks, 27 fumble recoveries, 22 interceptions, 1 safety, 1 defensive touchdown
Dick Butkus will go down as one of the most intimidating and fearsome linebackers in football history. He knew he wanted to play football ever since he was in the fifth grade, the same year he decided to attend Chicago Vocational High School to play under coach Bernie O’Brien.
He played fullback, punter, kicker, and linebacker in high school, center and linebacker in college, and eventually ‘invented’ the middle linebacker position in the NFL. He was known for his fierce tackling, ability to force turnovers, unmatched effort, and fearless attitude on the field.
15. CB Dre Kirkpatrick
High School: Gadsden High School
College: University of Alabama
NFL Teams: Cincinnati Bengals, Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers
NFL Stats: 119 games, 365 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 3 fumble recoveries, 13 interceptions, 72 passes defensed, 2 defensive touchdowns
Dre Kirkpatrick was one of the most sought after high school cornerbacks of all-time. He recorded 193 tackles, 17 interceptions, 36 passes defensed, 2.0 sacks, and 6 total touchdowns in his high school career, being named ASWA 6A Back of the Year after his senior season.
On National Signing Day, Kirkpatrick announced he would be attending the University of Alabama. After a three-year college career, Kirkpatrick was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft. He spent his first eight years in the league with the team.
14. S Jabrill Peppers
High School: Paramus Catholic High School, Don Bosco Prep
College: University of Michigan
NFL Teams: Cleveland Browns, New York Giants
NFL Stats: 61 games, 333 tackles, 21 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, 5 fumble recoveries, 4 interceptions, 25 passes defensed, 1 defensive touchdown
Jabrill Peppers played both defensive back and running back at Paramus Catholic High School and Don Bosco Prep. From 2011-2014, he totaled 3,059 rushing yards, 43 rushing touchdowns, 842 receiving yards, 17 receiving touchdowns, 134 tackles, and 7 interceptions in varsity.
After high school, Peppers attended the University of Michigan and played three seasons for them. The Cleveland Browns drafted him in the first round and he has since been traded to the New York Giants. He has recorded at least one interception in each of his first four seasons.
13. QB John Elway
High School: Granada Hills Charter
College: Stanford University
NFL Teams: Denver Broncos
NFL Stats: 234 games, 148-82-1 record, 51,475 yards, 300 touchdowns, 226 interceptions, 56.9% completion percentage, 3,407 rushing yards, 33 rushing touchdowns
John Elway is one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play and his success on the football field dates back to his high school days at Granada Hills Charter High School. He recorded 5,711 passing yards and 49 passing touchdowns throughout his four-year high school career.
After receiving over 60 scholarship offers as the top-recruited player out of high school, Elway played college ball at Stanford University and was the No. 1 draft pick in 1983. He enjoyed a 16-year Hall of Fame career with the Denver Broncos, throwing 300 touchdowns in the process.
12. LB Ronald Powell
High School: Rancho Verde High School
College: University of Florida
NFL Teams: New Orleans Saints
NFL Stats: 14 games, 2 tackles
Ronald Powell was the No. 1 high school football recruit in 2010 after an incredible senior season that included 80 tackles, 13 sacks, and 28 tackles for loss. He was also named MVP of the U.S. Army All-American Bowl before accepting a scholarship at the University of Florida.
Powell spent five years at Florida, playing four years and spending one year as a medical redshirt. By the 2014 NFL Draft, he was the 15th-ranked outside linebacker prospect and was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the fifth round. He was out of the league by 2017.
11. QB Trevor Lawrence
High School: Cartersville High School
College: Clemson University
NFL Teams: Jacksonville Jaguars
NFL Stats: 8 games, 2-6 record, 1,821 yards, 8 touchdowns, 9 interceptions, 59.5% completion percentage, 2 rushing touchdowns
Trevor Lawrence won 41 straight high school games from his sophomore season to his senior season. He totaled 13,902 passing yards, 161 passing touchdowns, 21 interceptions, 707 rushing yards, and 11 rushing touchdowns in a productive four-year high school football career.
He was one of the most recruited quarterbacks of all-time after breaking the Georgia state record for passing yards and touchdowns — previously held by Deshaun Watson. After an incredible career at Clemson University, he was drafted first overall in the 2021 NFL Draft.
10. WR Randy Moss
High School: DuPont High School
College: Marshall University
NFL Teams: Minnesota Vikings, San Francisco 49ers, New England Patriots, Oakland Raiders, Tennessee Titans
NFL Stats: 218 games, 982 receptions, 1,741 targets, 15,292 yards, 156 touchdowns, 15.6 yards per reception
Randy Moss played football, basketball, track, and baseball at DuPont High School. He was the football team’s kicker, punter, returner, wide receiver, and safety. He led his team to state championships in 1992 and 1993, earning West Virginia Football Player of the Year in 1994.
After a successful college career at Marshall University, Moss was drafted 21st overall by the Minnesota Vikings in 1998. Over the next 15 years, Moss established himself as one of the greatest wide receivers to ever play, catching for over 15,000 yards and 156 touchdowns.
9. Peyton Manning
High School: Isidore Newman School
College: University of Tennessee
NFL Teams: Indianapolis Colts, Denver Broncos
NFL Stats: 266 games, 186-79 record, 71,940 yards, 539 touchdowns, 251 interceptions, 65.3% completion percentage, 667 rushing yards, 18 rushing touchdowns
Peyton Manning will go down as one of the best high school football players ever after leading the Isidore Newman School to a 34-5 record as starting quarterback. He tallied 7,207 yards and 92 touchdowns in his three-year high school career, earning a lot of attention along the way.
After receiving dozens of scholarships, Manning chose to attend the University of Tennessee and went on to become their all-time leading passer. He was selected No. 1 overall by the Colts in 1998, won two Super Bowls in his day, and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2021.
8. Adrian Peterson
High School: Palestine High School
College: University of Oklahoma
NFL Teams: Minnesota Vikings, Arizona Cardinals, Washington Redskins, Detroit Lions, Tennessee Titans
NFL Stats: 181 games, 3,202 rushes, 14,841 rushing yards, 119 rushing touchdowns, 302 receptions, 2,471 receiving yards, 6 receiving touchdowns
Adrian Peterson wasn’t eligible to play high school football as a sophomore, so he only played varsity football his junior and senior years at Palestine High School. Still, he was able to rack up over 5,000 rushing yards and 54 rushing touchdowns in his two-year high school football career.
After a successful three-year career at the University of Oklahoma, Peterson was drafted seventh overall in the 2007 NFL Draft. He has put together a Hall of Fame career and continues to tear up opposing defenses to this day — despite being 36 years old in his 15th NFL season.
7. Vince Young
High School: Madison High School
College: University of Texas
NFL Teams: Tennessee Titans, Philadelphia Eagles
NFL Stats: 60 games, 31-19 record, 8,964 yards, 46 touchdowns, 51 interceptions, 57.9% completion percentage, 1,459 rushing yards, 12 rushing touchdowns
Vince Young was treated like LeBron James in high school. He was on every television station, everyone was talking about him, and he received more attention than most pro athletes. Young tallied 3,819 yards and 59 touchdowns as a senior and nearly 13,000 total yards in his career.
After high school, Young attended the University of Texas — leading them to a Rose Bowl victory in 2004 and a National Championship in 2005. He was drafted by the Tennessee Titans third overall in 2006, but never found his footing at the next level and threw too many interceptions.
6. Robert Nkemdiche
High School: Grayson High School
College: University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)
NFL Teams: Arizona Cardinals, Miami Dolphins, Seattle Seahawks
NFL Stats: 35 games, 56 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery, 3 passes defensed, 10 quarterback hits
Robert Nkemdiche was a three-sport athlete at Grayson High School, excelling in track and field, football, and basketball. He played both defensive end and running back for the school’s varsity squad, racking up 59 total tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and 7.0 sacks his senior season.
After tallying 41 career sacks in high school, Nkemdiche attended Ole Miss and only recorded 6.0 sacks and 16 tackles for loss in his three-year college career. Still, he was drafted 29th overall by the Arizona Cardinals in 2016 and is still trying to make a name for himself in the NFL.
5. Ernie Sims
High School: North Florida Christian High School
College: Florida State University
NFL Teams: Detroit Lions, Dallas Cowboys, Indianapolis Colts, Philadelphia Eagles
NFL Stats: 109 games, 623 tackles, 26 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, 6 forced fumbles 3 fumble recoveries, 1 interception, 11 passes defensed
Ernie Sims began his varsity football career in eighth grade, which is a rare feat for a middle schooler. He led his team to four-straight state championships from 1998-2001. As a senior in 2002, he had 133 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, six forced fumbles, and seven fumble recoveries.
He eventually chose to play college ball at Florida State and had a successful three-year career on campus. The Detroit Lions selected him ninth overall in 2006 and he would spend his first four years with them. He was never really a standout player and only lasted 8 years in the NFL.
4. Ron Powlus
High School: Berwick High School
College: University of Notre Dame
NFL Teams: Tennessee Oilers, Detroit Lions, Philadelphia Eagles
NFL Stats: n/a
Ron Powlus was easily one of the best high school football players ever and received a lot of attention from scouts. During his three years as a starting high school quarterback, he threw for 7,339 yards and 62 touchdowns, earning a number of national prep player of the year awards.
After high school, Powlus spent four years as the Notre Dame Fighting Irish’s starting quarterback. He totaled 7,602 passing yards and 52 touchdowns — setting a number of school passing records along the way. Unfortunately, his success didn’t follow him into the NFL.
3. Marcus Dupree
High School: Philadelphia High School
College: University of Oklahoma
NFL Teams: Los Angeles Rams
NFL Stats: 15 games, 251 rushing yards, 1 rushing touchdown, 6 receptions, 46 receiving yards
Perhaps no running back has ever had as dominant of a high school career as Marcus Dupree. In his four years at Philadelphia High School, Dupree totaled 7,355 rushing yards and 87 total touchdowns. 2,995 of those yards and 36 of those touchdowns came in his senior season.
Dupree decided to attend the University of Oklahoma under head coach Barry Switzer. He had a successful freshman season with 1,144 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. Unfortunately, his sophomore season didn’t quite go as planned and he barely received a shot at the NFL.
2. Rashan Gary
High School: Paramus Catholic High School
College: University of Michigan
NFL Teams: Green Bay Packers
NFL Stats: 40 games, 84 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 11.5 sacks, 32 quarterback hits, 1 forced fumble, 2 fumble recoveries, 1 pass defensed
Rashan Gary was a highly-touted defensive tackle that dominated the high school football scene for four years. He spent his junior and senior seasons at Paramus Catholic High School, finishing his senior year with 55 tackles, 13.5 sacks, 29 tackles for loss, and 4 forced fumbles.
After being named Defensive Player of the Year and MVP of the Under Armour All-America Game with three sacks, Gary had a successful career at the University of Michigan. He was drafted by the Packers 12th overall and is now a regular starter along the defensive line.
1. Jadeveon Clowney
High School: South Pointe High School
College: University of South Carolina
NFL Teams: Houston Texans, Seattle Seahawks, Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns
NFL Stats: 91 games, 274 tackles, 83 tackles for loss, 35.5 sacks, 98 quarterback hits, 10 forced fumbles, 7 fumble recoveries, 1 interception, 4 defensive touchdowns, 18 passes defensed
Jadeveon Clowney is easily one of — if not the — best high school football players ever. He played defensive end at South Pointe High School and wreaked havoc on the defensive line for three years. He recorded 306 tackles and 52.5 sacks in his junior and senior seasons.
After high school, Clowney attended the University of South Carolina and enjoyed a successful three-year career on campus. He was drafted by the Houston Texans first overall in 2014, but has struggled to produce consistently ever since. He has recorded 35.5 sacks in the NFL.
Not All NFL Greats Were the Best High School Football Players Ever
The players listed above found a great deal of success playing high school football and most of them continued that success into college and eventually the pros. With that said, not all NFL players received that type of attention out of high school — they had to earn their keep differently.
Some of the greatest players that were overlooked in high school include Khalil Mack, Jimmy Garoppolo, Aqib Talib, Carson Wentz, T.Y. Hilton, Cooper Kupp, Josh Allen, J.J. Watt, Jason Kelce, Clay Matthews, Aaron Rodgers, Antonio Brown, and Adam Thielin.
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Whether you make noise in high school or turn heads in college, making it to the NFL isn’t easy. Even once you make it to the NFL, sustaining a successful career is even harder. That’s why we appreciate all the hard work these players dedicate to being the best player possible.
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