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The Unlikely NFL Stars from Basketball Schools
When examining the institutions that produce the most NFL draft picks, it is common to come across names like Notre Dame, USC, and Ohio State, which have long-established reputations in college football.
Occasionally, however, a school renowned for its basketball program will produce a top-tier NFL prospect. The North Carolina Tar Heels, known primarily for their basketball success, have seen one of their alumni, Drake Maye, projected to be a top-10 pick.
Notable NFL Legends from Basketball Powerhouses
George Blanda
Kentucky Wildcats
Draft: 1949
Pick: No. 119
Following a successful college career at Kentucky, Blanda embarked on an illustrious 26-year professional journey that spanned across four teams and two leagues. Earning recognition as both a kicker and quarterback, Blanda’s prime years were with the Houston Oilers, leading them to two AFL titles. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1981, he remains a revered figure in football history.
Sonny Jurgensen
Duke Blue Devils
Draft: 1957
Pick: No. 43
Jurgensen made his mark on both offense and defense at Duke before focusing on quarterback in the NFL. Over his extensive career, he amassed over 32,000 passing yards and 255 touchdowns, earning five Pro Bowl selections. Jurgensen was enshrined in the Hall of Fame in 1983.
Lawrence Taylor
North Carolina Tar Heels
Draft: 1981
Pick: No. 2
A defensive juggernaut, Taylor was named Defensive Player of the Year in his rookie season following his time at North Carolina. Garnering multiple accolades, including league MVP in 1986, he secured his place in history with nine All-Pro selections, three Defensive Player of the Year Awards, and two Super Bowl victories. Taylor’s legacy was cemented with his Hall of Fame induction in 1999.
Antwaan Randle El
Indiana Hoosiers
Draft: 2002
Pick: No. 62
While known as an NFL wide receiver, Randle El showcased his versatility as Indiana University’s quarterback from 1998 to 2001. His quarterback skills came to the forefront during a memorable moment in Super Bowl XL, where he connected with Hines Ward for a critical touchdown pass, aiding the Pittsburgh Steelers in their championship triumph.
Gale Sayers
Kansas Jayhawks
Draft: 1965
Pick: No. 4
Despite being limited to four full seasons due to injuries, Sayers left an indelible mark on the NFL, leading the league twice in total rushing yards. His career included Pro Bowl honors every completed season, culminating in 39 touchdowns over 65 games. The 1977 Hall of Fame class welcomed him among its distinguished members.
Howie Long
Villanova Wildcats
Draft: 1981
Pick: No. 48
Though Villanova’s football program may be less recognized, Long emerged as one of the NFL’s premier defensive linemen during his 13-season tenure with the Las Vegas Raiders. Boasting eight Pro Bowl appearances and a Super Bowl victory, Long’s enshrinement in the Hall of Fame in 2001 solidified his legacy in the sport.
Troy Aikman
UCLA Bruins
Draft: 1989
Pick: No. 1
After transferring to UCLA from Oklahoma, Aikman excelled, ultimately becoming the top pick in the 1989 NFL draft. His 12-year career with the Dallas Cowboys yielded three Super Bowl victories and six Pro Bowl selections, culminating in his induction into the Hall of Fame in 2006.
Rondé Barber
Virginia Cavaliers
Draft: 1997
Pick: No. 66
A model of consistency for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Barber started in over 230 games, including a streak of 215 consecutive regular-season appearances. Garnering All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors multiple times, Barber played a pivotal role in the Buccaneers’ Super Bowl triumph and received his Hall of Fame induction in 2024.
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