Alabama has produced some of the most legendary NFL players in history. From dominant quarterbacks to unstoppable wide receivers, the state has left a lasting mark on the league. This ranking highlights the 50 greatest NFL players from Alabama, featuring Hall of Famers, Super Bowl champions, and record-breakers. See where your favorite stars land, with a dual-sport icon claiming the top spot over Terrell Owens.

Ranking the 50 Best NFL Players From Alabama: Terrell Owens Finishes 2nd behind Dual Sport star.

Ranking the 50 Best NFL Players From Alabama: Terrell Owens Finishes 2nd Behind Dual Sport Star.

Sammie Coates made a name for himself as a wide receiver for the Auburn Tigers. Born in Leroy, Alabama, he became known for his speed and big-play ability on the field. During his time with Auburn, he delivered clutch performances that solidified his reputation. His contributions helped shape the Tigers' offensive attack, making him a standout talent from Alabama.

50. Sammie Coates

Antowain Smith brought power and toughness to the running back position during his nine-season NFL career. Standing at 6'2" and 232 pounds, he was a force between the tackles, punishing defenders with his physical running style. Most notably, he played for the New England Patriots, where he contributed to their early 2000s success. Born in Millbrook, Alabama, Smith left a lasting impact as a dependable and hard-nosed runner.

49. Antowain Smith

Captain Munnerlyn carved out a solid NFL career as a cornerback after being drafted 216th overall by the Carolina Panthers in 2009. A Mobile, Alabama native, he first made a name for himself at Murphy High School before starring at South Carolina, where he earned All-SEC honors. Known for his versatility, he contributed as a nickel back and return specialist, delivering electrifying plays like his 84-yard kickoff return against Kentucky. Munnerlyn later played for the Minnesota Vikings and the Buffalo Bills, showcasing his durability and defensive skills.

48. Captain Munnerlyn

Keith Butler made his mark in the NFL as both a player and a coach. Born in Anniston, Alabama, he spent ten seasons as a linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks before retiring in 1987. His football journey continued on the sidelines, eventually becoming the defensive coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers. With decades of experience in the game, Butler established himself as a respected defensive mind in the league.

47. Keith Butler

Chris Martin built a solid NFL career as a linebacker, playing for multiple teams throughout his tenure. Born in Huntsville, Alabama, he suited up for the New Orleans Saints, Minnesota Vikings, Kansas City Chiefs, and Los Angeles Rams. His versatility and defensive skills allowed him to contribute across different systems and rosters. Martin's journey through the league showcased his adaptability and commitment to the game.

46. Chris Martin

Wes Hopkins made a lasting impact as a hard-hitting safety during his 11-year career with the Philadelphia Eagles. Born in Birmingham, Alabama, he earned recognition at Southern Methodist University after delivering a fierce tackle on future Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson in practice. His standout performances led to back-to-back All-Conference selections before entering the NFL in 1983. Hopkins' aggressive playing style and reliability cemented his legacy in Philadelphia's defensive history.

45. Wes Hopkins

Grady Jackson brought size and power to the defensive line during his long NFL career. Drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the sixth round of the 1997 NFL Draft, the Greensboro, Alabama native played college football at Knoxville College. He went on to suit up for multiple teams, including the Saints, Packers, Jaguars, Falcons, Lions, and Florida Tuskers. Jackson's presence in the trenches made him a valuable asset across several defensive fronts.

44. Grady Jackson

Adalius Thomas established himself as a versatile defensive force during his ten-season NFL career. Born in Equality, Alabama, he played college football at the University of Southern Mississippi before being drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft. Thomas showcased his ability to excel as both a linebacker and defensive end, later joining the New England Patriots. His impact on defense made him a key contributor to every team he played for.

43. Adalius Thomas

Eric Davis built a standout NFL career after being drafted in the second round of the 1990 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers. The Anniston, Alabama native played 13 seasons in the league, showcasing his skills as a dependable cornerback. Before his professional career, he honed his craft at Jacksonville State, eventually earning a place in the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 2013. Davis' longevity and impact on the field made him a respected figure in the game.

42. Eric Davis

Dave Butz was a dominant force on the defensive line during his 16-year NFL career. Born in La Fayette, Alabama, he played for the St. Louis Cardinals before becoming the defensive anchor for Washington, where he helped the team reach three Super Bowls, winning two. His impact earned him a spot among the 70 Greatest Redskins and a place on the NFL 1980s All-Decade Team. Butz's legacy as a powerhouse defender remains a key part of Washington's history.

41. Dave Butz

Nicholas Fairley is a former American football defensive tackle who made his mark in both college and the NFL. A Mobile, Alabama native, he played college football at Auburn University, earning All-American honors and helping the Tigers win a BCS National Championship. Fairley was selected in the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions. He later played for the St. Louis Rams and the New Orleans Saints, contributing to multiple defensive units.

40. Nick Fairley

John Reaves was a talented quarterback who played 11 seasons in the NFL and three in the USFL. A first-round pick in the 1972 NFL Draft, he spent time with the Eagles, Bengals, Vikings, Oilers, and Buccaneers before joining the Tampa Bay Bandits in the USFL. Before his pro career, he earned All-American honors while playing for the University of Florida. Born in Anniston, Alabama, Reaves left his mark on both college and professional football.

39. John Reaves

Aundray Bruce showcased his versatility in the NFL, playing as an outside linebacker, tight end, and defensive end. A Montgomery, Alabama native, he first gained recognition at Auburn University before making the leap to the pros. During his career, he played for the Atlanta Falcons and the Los Angeles/Oakland Raiders, contributing on both defense and offense. Bruce's ability to adapt to multiple positions made him a unique talent on the field.

38. Aundray Bruce

Wilbur Jackson made history as the first black player to receive a football scholarship at the University of Alabama. A dynamic running back, he set a school record with 7.2 yards per carry and had a standout performance against Virginia Tech in 1973, rushing for 138 yards on just five carries. Drafted in the first round of the 1974 NFL Draft, he played five seasons with the San Francisco 49ers and three with Washington. Jackson was inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 2007, cementing his legacy in football history.

37. Wilbur Jackson

Woody Peoples carved out an impressive 13-year NFL career as a dominant offensive lineman. Despite going undrafted, the Birmingham, Alabama native excelled at Grambling State before earning two Pro Bowl selections with the San Francisco 49ers. He later became a key member of the 1980 NFC Champion Philadelphia Eagles, proving his reliability in the trenches. Peoples' impact on the game was recognized with his induction into the American Football Association's Semi-Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1989.

36. Woody Peoples

Evan Mathis built a strong NFL career as an offensive guard after being drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the third round of the 2005 NFL Draft. A Birmingham, Alabama native, he played college football at Alabama before suiting up for the Dolphins, Bengals, Eagles, and Broncos. Mathis was a key part of several offensive lines, contributing to Denver's Super Bowl-winning team. Since retiring, he has pursued poker, finishing 35th in the PSPC tournament.

35. Evan Mathis

Johnny Davis enjoyed a decade-long career in the NFL as a dependable running back. A Montgomery, Alabama native, he played college football at the University of Alabama before joining the league in 1978. His career highlight came in 1981 when he contributed to the San Francisco 49ers' Super Bowl XVI victory. Davis' journey from Sidney Lanier High School to the NFL showcased his dedication and resilience on the field.

34. Johnny Davis

Ameer Abdullah made a name for himself as a standout running back at Nebraska before entering the NFL. A Homewood, Alabama native, he rushed for 1,690 yards in 2013, the fourth-highest single-season total in school history, and was considered a Heisman Trophy contender in 2014. Drafted in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions, he has since played for multiple teams, including the Las Vegas Raiders. Abdullah continues to showcase his versatility as a dynamic offensive weapon.

33. Ameer Abdullah

Willie Anderson established himself as a dominant offensive tackle during his 13-year NFL career. A Mobile, Alabama native, he played college football at Auburn before being selected 10th overall by the Cincinnati Bengals in the 1996 NFL Draft. Anderson spent 12 seasons with the Bengals, earning four Pro Bowl selections, before finishing his career with the Baltimore Ravens. His consistency and strength on the offensive line made him one of the league's top tackles of his era.

32. Willie Anderson

Leon Lett carved out an impressive 11-year NFL career as a defensive tackle, primarily with the Dallas Cowboys. A two-time Pro Bowler, he played a key role in the Cowboys' dynasty of the 1990s, winning three Super Bowls with the team. Despite being remembered for two infamous blunders, his dominance on the defensive line was undeniable. After retiring, the Mobile, Alabama native transitioned into coaching and has served as the Cowboys' assistant defensive line coach since 2011.

31. Leon Lett

Richard Todd spent a decade in the NFL as a quarterback for the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints. A Birmingham, Alabama native, he followed in the footsteps of Joe Namath and Ken Stabler, playing for the Alabama Crimson Tide under legendary coach Bear Bryant. Drafted in 1976, Todd became the Jets' starting quarterback and helped lead them to the AFC Championship Game in 1982. His strong arm and leadership kept him a key figure in the league throughout his career.

30. Richard Todd

Marcell Dareus made an impact in the NFL as a dominant defensive tackle after being drafted third overall by the Buffalo Bills in 2011. A Birmingham, Alabama native, he started at the University of Alabama, earning Defensive MVP honors in the 2010 BCS National Championship Game. Dareus became a force on the Bills' defensive line before later playing for the Jacksonville Jaguars. His size and power made him a disruptive presence throughout his career.

29. Marcell Dareus

Howard Cross enjoyed a lengthy career as a tight end in the NFL, known for his blocking and reliability. Born in Huntsville, Alabama, he became a key piece of the New York Giants' offense, spending his entire career with the team. While not a flashy receiver, his consistency and durability made him a valuable asset. His contributions helped the Giants secure a victory in Super Bowl XXV.

28. Howard Cross

Mark Barron carved out a successful NFL career, transitioning from safety to linebacker after being drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2012. A Mobile, Alabama native, he played college football at Alabama, where he was a two-time All-American and a key part of two BCS National Championship teams. After a midseason trade to the St. Louis Rams in 2014, Barron made the switch to linebacker, thriving in a hybrid defensive role. He later played for the Pittsburgh Steelers, continuing to showcase his versatility on defense.

27. Mark Barron

Andre Tippett was a dominant linebacker for the New England Patriots, playing 11 seasons from 1982 to 1993. A Birmingham, Alabama native, he earned consensus All-American honors at the University of Iowa before being drafted in the second round of the 1982 NFL Draft. Tippett became a cornerstone of the Patriots' defense, earning multiple All-Pro selections and later securing a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2008. After retiring, he remained with the Patriots organization as their executive director of community affairs.

26. Andre Tippett

Karlos Dansby made his mark as a versatile linebacker, excelling in coverage and run defense throughout his NFL career. A Birmingham, Alabama native, he earned All-American honors at Auburn before being selected by the Arizona Cardinals in the second round of the 2004 NFL Draft. Over his career, he played for multiple teams, including the Miami Dolphins, Cleveland Browns, and Cincinnati Bengals. Dansby consistently proved to be a defensive leader, finishing with over 1,000 career tackles.

25. Karlos Dansby

Courtney Upshaw brought physicality and toughness to the field as a linebacker and defensive end. A standout at Alabama, he helped the Crimson Tide secure two BCS National Championships before being drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft. He played a key role in Baltimore's Super Bowl XLVII victory, contributing as a disruptive force on defense. Throughout his career, Upshaw remained a dependable presence in the trenches and was known for his versatility and aggressive playstyle.

24. Courtney Upshaw

Dee Ford made his mark as a dominant pass rusher, first at Auburn and later in the NFL. Selected by the Kansas City Chiefs in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft, he quickly became known for his explosive first step and ability to pressure quarterbacks. His breakout season came in 2018 when he recorded 13 sacks and helped lead the Chiefs to the AFC Championship Game. Ford's speed and relentless pursuit made him a force on the edge throughout his career.

23. Dee Ford

Jared Cook built a reputation as a reliable receiving tight end with exceptional athleticism. After being drafted by the Tennessee Titans in the third round of the 2009 NFL Draft, he became a sought-after target for multiple teams, including the Rams, Packers, Raiders, and Chargers. Cook's best years came with the Raiders and Saints, where he showcased his ability to stretch the field. His versatility and size made him a valuable asset throughout his lengthy NFL career.

22. Jared Cook

DeMeco Ryans made an immediate impact in the NFL after being drafted by the Houston Texans in 2006, earning AP Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. A two-time Pro Bowler, he was a leader on defense and later played four seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles. After retiring, he transitioned into coaching and became the San Francisco 49ers' linebackers coach. His football intelligence and leadership have made him a rising star in the coaching ranks.

21. DeMeco Ryans

Justin Tuck was a dominant defensive end who played a key role in the New York Giants' two Super Bowl victories over the New England Patriots. Drafted in the third round of the 2005 NFL Draft, he became one of the league's premier pass rushers. After finishing his career with the Oakland Raiders, Tuck pursued higher education and earned an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. His leadership on and off the field has cemented his legacy.

20. Justin Tuck

Nicknamed "Dr. Doom," Robert Brazile was a dominant linebacker for the Houston Oilers from 1975 to 1984. A key figure in the team's "Luv Ya Blue" era, he revolutionized the outside linebacker position with his speed and versatility. His outstanding career earned him a long-overdue induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018. Brazile's impact on the game continues to be recognized as one of the best at his position.

19. Robert Brazile

A dominant force on the defensive line, Buck Buchanan played for the Kansas City Chiefs in both the AFL and NFL. As the first Black player ever selected first overall in a pro football draft, he helped revolutionize the defensive tackle position with his size and athleticism. Buchanan played a crucial role in the Chiefs' Super Bowl IV victory and was later enshrined in both the College and Pro Football Halls of Fame. His legacy remains one of power, leadership, and excellence in the trenches.

18. Buck Buchanan

Jameis Winston made history as the youngest player to win the Heisman Trophy while leading Florida State to a national championship in 2014. The talented quarterback was the first overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, later joining the New Orleans Saints. Known for his strong arm and dynamic playmaking, Winston has experienced highs and lows throughout his NFL career. Despite challenges, his potential and leadership continue to make him a notable figure in the league.

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17. Jameis Winston

Andre Smith established himself as a dominant offensive tackle, showcasing his skills at the University of Alabama before entering the NFL. Selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft, he became a key part of their offensive line. Smith's strength and blocking ability made him a reliable presence in both pass protection and the run game. Over his career, he also had brief stints with other teams but remained closely linked to the Bengals.

16. Andre Smith

John Stallworth carved out a legendary career as a wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers, playing 14 seasons and winning four Super Bowls. A fourth-round pick out of Alabama A&M in 1974, he became one of the most dependable targets for quarterback Terry Bradshaw. Stallworth amassed 8,723 receiving yards and 63 touchdowns, earning three Pro Bowl selections and twice being named the Steelers' MVP. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002, he remains one of the franchise's all-time greats.

15. John Stallworth

Roman Harper made his mark as a hard-hitting safety in the NFL, playing a key role in two Super Bowl appearances. Drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft, he became a defensive leader, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2009 and helping the Saints win Super Bowl XLIV. Harper later joined the Carolina Panthers, where he played a pivotal role in their run to Super Bowl 50. His aggressive play and leadership defined his decade-long career.

14. Roman Harper

Trey Flowers emerged as a dominant defensive end, helping the New England Patriots secure two Super Bowl titles. Drafted in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL Draft, he quickly became a key contributor with his versatility and relentless pass-rushing ability. Flowers played college football at Arkansas, where he showcased his athleticism after originally committing to Georgia Tech. His impact on the Patriots' defense was instrumental in their Super Bowl LI and LIII victories.

13. Trey Flowers

Chris Samuels was a dominant force on the offensive line, spending his entire 10-year NFL career with the Washington Redskins. Drafted third overall in the 2000 NFL Draft, the Alabama standout earned six Pro Bowl selections and became a cornerstone of Washington's offensive front. His elite pass-blocking skills helped protect multiple quarterbacks, solidifying his reputation as one of the league's premier tackles. A consensus All-American in college, Samuels' legacy remains strong in both Alabama and Washington football history.

12. Chris Samuels

A dominant presence on the offensive line, Walter Jones spent his entire 13-year NFL career with the Seattle Seahawks. The Alabama native and Florida State standout was a seven-time All-Pro and a key member of the NFL 2000s All-Decade Team. In 180 career starts, Jones allowed only 23 sacks and was penalized for holding just nine times, showcasing his elite technique and discipline. His impact was recognized with a first-ballot Hall of Fame induction in 2014.

11. Walter Jones

Known as "The Snake," Ken Stabler was one of the most charismatic and clutch quarterbacks in NFL history. The Alabama standout led the Oakland Raiders to victory in Super Bowl XI and was named the 1974 NFL MVP. A key member of the NFL 1970s All-Decade Team, Stabler also played for the Houston Oilers and New Orleans Saints. His legacy was cemented with a posthumous induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2016.

10. Ken Stabler

A dominant linebacker, Cornelius Bennett was a key defensive force in the NFL for 14 seasons. He earned five Pro Bowl selections and twice won the AFC Defensive Player of the Year award. Bennett played for the Buffalo Bills, Atlanta Falcons, and Indianapolis Colts, contributing to four Super Bowl appearances with the Bills. His speed and versatility made him one of the most feared defenders of his era.

9. Cornelius Bennett

One of the most dominant pass rushers of his generation, DeMarcus Ware, terrorized quarterbacks for over a decade. Drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 2005, he became the franchise's all-time sack leader with 117 before moving to Denver. Ware played a key role in the Broncos' Super Bowl 50 victory, solidifying his legacy as an elite defender. A nine-time Pro Bowler, he later returned to Dallas on a one-day contract to retire as a Cowboy.

8. DeMarcus Ware

Philip Rivers was the heart and soul of the Chargers for 16 seasons, known for his fiery competitiveness and pinpoint accuracy. Originally drafted by the Giants in 2004, he was traded to San Diego, where he became the franchise's all-time passing leader. An eight-time Pro Bowler, Rivers earned NFL Comeback Player of the Year in 2013 and led the league in passing yards in 2010. He closed out his illustrious 17-year career with the Indianapolis Colts before retiring.

7. Philip Rivers

A true legend of the game, Bart Starr cemented his legacy as the leader of the Green Bay Packers dynasty in the 1960s. Selected in the 17th round of the 1956 NFL Draft, he defied expectations by guiding the Packers to five NFL championships, including victories in Super Bowls I and II, earning MVP honors in both. Starr was also the league MVP in 1966 and remains the NFL's all-time leader in postseason passer rating. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1977, he remains one of football's greatest winners.

6. Bart Starr

A dominant force at linebacker, C.J. Mosley made an immediate impact in the NFL after being drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft. A former Alabama standout, he quickly became a leader on defense, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and showcasing elite tackling ability. After five seasons in Baltimore, he signed with the New York Jets, where he remains a key defensive anchor. Mosley's football IQ and sideline-to-sideline range make him one of the league's most respected linebackers.

5. C.J. Mosley

A trailblazer on and off the field, Ozzie Newsome excelled as a tight end for the Cleveland Browns before becoming one of the NFL's most respected executives. A College and Pro Football Hall of Famer, he set multiple franchise records with the Browns and revolutionized the tight end position with his reliable hands and route-running. After retiring, he became the Baltimore Ravens' general manager, constructing two Super Bowl-winning rosters. Newsome's impact on football continues to be felt through his legacy as both a player and an executive.

4. Ozzie Newsome

One of the most dominant wide receivers of his era, Julio Jones, made an immediate impact after being drafted sixth overall by the Atlanta Falcons in 2011. A two-time first-team All-Pro, he led the NFL in receiving yards twice and helped the Falcons reach Super Bowl LI. Known for his elite route-running, speed, and ability to make acrobatic catches, Jones was selected to six Pro Bowls with Atlanta. His legacy as one of the game's greats continues with the Philadelphia Eagles.

3. Julio Jones

A dynamic and controversial playmaker, Terrell Owens dominated the NFL for 16 seasons with his unmatched athleticism and fiery personality. The six-time Pro Bowler and five-time first-team All-Pro ranks third all-time in career receiving yards (15,934) and touchdowns (153). Known for his clutch performances and iconic celebrations, Owens made significant impacts with the 49ers, Eagles, and Cowboys. Despite off-field controversies, his on-field greatness earned him a Pro Football Hall of Fame induction in 2018.

2. Terrell Owens

A true sports legend, Bo Jackson redefined athletic versatility by excelling in both professional football and baseball. Jackson, the 1985 Heisman Trophy winner from Auburn University, astonished fans with his unique blend of speed and power. He became an MLB All-Star with the Kansas City Royals and a dynamic NFL running back for the Los Angeles Raiders. Though a hip injury cut his career short, his impact on both sports remains unparalleled, cementing his legacy as one of history's greatest multi-sport athletes.