The Stars Who Came from the SEC

Many NFL players started their career back in college. In fact, the majority of them did. But we’ve seen some big NFL names who began in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) college football league. So, we’ve taken a look at which teams might be supplying the next future stars, the biggest SEC names of present and past and what the bookies have to say about it.

College Football Igniting the Sparks of NFL Success

It goes without saying that college football is essential to the ongoing success of the NFL. Nowadays college football is seen as the second tier of American Football and has gained massive popularity. Not just because it’s the birthing pool of fresh NFL talent but because thousands of supporters are still supporting their local college team, helping bring people together in celebration of the beautiful sport.

The SEC consists of South and Southeastern United States, with fourteen members. It’s also widely regarded as one of the most accomplished conferences due to its unprecedented reputation for winning, with 43 national football championships. It’s no wonder then that some of the biggest NFL stars made their start in the SEC. Let’s have a look at them.

Big Names of the Past

Let’s start way back in the 1930s, with Don Hutson, revered as a significant threat in the wide receiver position, both while playing at college and in the NFL. He’s known as the father of the modern pass route and during his time with the Green Bay Packers, let them to four Championship Games, winning three.

Bo Jackson is the only athlete in history to be named an All-Star in both American Football and Baseball. At 6’1, he was big, fast, and a nightmare for defenders. In his Auburn career, he rushed for 4,303 yards and 43 touchdowns. And he was a dream for Nike too during his time in the NFL, with “Bo Knows” becoming a popular slogan for the brand.

Finally, we look at Hershel Walker, who led Georgia to an undefeated season and won three SEC titles. During his time in the NFL, he played for the Vikings, Eagles, and Giants, names that sum up his imposing figure and prowess on the field. Commonly referred to as the greatest running back in the history of College Football, he’s got his name and stats unbeaten in the history books.

Big Names Right Now

While some of the biggest names in the NFL who stemmed from the SEC have entered the twilight of their careers, we’re still graced with some big players. Such as Cam Newton, quarterback for the New England Patriots, after starting his career at Florida. In his rookie year, he broke all-time rookie records for passing and rushing yards and is the first NFL quarterback to throw for 400 yards in his first game (sorry Peyton Manning!).

Stephon Gilmore has become one of the most recognizable defense players, rising through the ranks during his time at Buffalo Bills, before signing for the New England Patriots in 2017. He’s also taken away the 2019 AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award, the first Patriots cornerback since 2009 to win the award.

And lastly, we’ve got to mention Dak Prescott, the Cowboys’ starting quarterback. He’s set rookie records; he’s helped his team succeed in their conference, and he was named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. Suffice to say, a lot of SEC players are really showing their worth right now.

At the moment, these record-breaking players are definitely being coveted by the bookies, and top sportsbooks like BetOnline have great odds on who will perform even better for their teams in the upcoming season.

Big Names of the Future

It’s not just about the odds on the existing players; it’s about the new ones entering the NFL for the first time this season. And boy have the bookies been busy. The SEC set a record with 40 players drafted from the conference through the first three rounds! Of course, we’ve had a look at the top players to watch out for.

Jaylen Waddle, the former SEC Freshman of the Year, is ready to step up as wide receiver. Known for his speed and ability to blitz through defenders, it’s likely he’ll be in the first round of the draft.

Likewise, Patrick Surtain II, son of All-Pro Patrick Surtain I has been tearing it up in the conference league. Forty-two tackles, two interceptions, eight pass breakups, and three forced fumbles are a great resume to have on the field, so when the time comes, he’d be a great addition to any squad.

With All-American honors and the prestigious Fred Biletnikoff Award for being the top wide receiver in 2019, Ja’Marr Chase will undoubtedly be a top choice for many NFL squads. He’s dangerous in offense and is unrivaled when it comes to getting open and catching the most difficult of passes.

It’s an exciting time for the SEC right now, with current alums already thriving in the NFL. And judging by the new talent, we can expect a lot more.

The Stars Who Came from the SECto SEC Football

Top of this Page