Record 2025 NFL Rosters Feature 74 Former College Players Across Multiple Programs

The 2025 NFL season has officially kicked off, showcasing a broad presence of former college football players across various teams. Clemson leads the ACC with 32 former players on NFL rosters, including recent draftees like safety R.J. Mickens and running back Will Shipley. North Carolina boasts 17 former Tar Heels on active rosters, with additional players on practice squads and injured lists, highlighting talents such as quarterbacks Sam Howell and Drake Maye. BYU alumni continue to make significant impacts in the NFL, notably Kyle Van Noy, a veteran pass rusher for the Baltimore Ravens, and Puka Nacua, a record-setting receiver for the Los Angeles Rams. Syracuse also contributes key defensive veterans like linebacker DeAndre Franklin, who recently earned his first Pro Bowl selection. Additionally, players with South Dakota ties remain influential, with 20 connected players in the NFL, including Chiefs linebacker Cole Cochrane and Browns cornerback Christian Harden, reflecting a growing presence from the region.