BYU Cougars in the NFL: 165 Players & Counting

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[
  {
    "Name": "Chris Matau",
    "Position": "G",
    "Seasons": "1",
    "Years": "1987-1987",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Jason Mathews",
    "Position": "T",
    "Seasons": "11",
    "Years": "1994-2004",
    "Draft Info": "Indianapolis Colts / 3rd / 67th pick / 1994"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Trevor Matich",
    "Position": "C-G-T",
    "Seasons": "12",
    "Years": "1985-1996",
    "Draft Info": "New England Patriots / 1st / 28th pick / 1985"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Nyle McFarlane",
    "Position": "HB",
    "Seasons": "1",
    "Years": "1960-1960",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Kaipo mcguire",
    "Position": "WR",
    "Seasons": "2",
    "Years": "1997-1998",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Jim McMahon",
    "Position": "QB",
    "Seasons": "15",
    "Years": "1982-1996",
    "Draft Info": "Chicago Bears / 1st / 5th pick / 1982"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Tim mctyer",
    "position": "DB",
    "Seasons": "3",
    "Years": "1997-1999",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Mat Mendenhall",
    "Position": "DE",
    "Seasons": "2",
    "Years": "1981-1982",
    "Draft Info": "Washington Redskins / 2nd / 55th pick / 1980"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Itula Mili",
    "Position": "TE",
    "Seasons": "9",
    "Years": "1998-2006",
    "Draft Info": "Seattle Seahawks / 6th / 174th pick / 1997"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Dax Milne",
    "Position": "WR",
    "Seasons": "2",
    "Years": "2021-2022",
    "Draft Info": "Washington Football Team / 7th / 258th pick / 2021"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Brian Mitchell",
    "Position": "DB",
    "Seasons": "3",
    "Years": "1991-1993",
    "Draft Info": "Atlanta Falcons / 7th / 172nd pick / 1991"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Larry moore",
    "Position": "C-G",
    "Seasons": "8",
    "Years": "1998-2005",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Kyle Morrell",
    "Position": "DB",
    "Seasons": "1",
    "Years": "1986-1986",
    "Draft info": "Minnesota Vikings / 4th / 106th pick / 1985"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Rob Morris",
    "Position": "LB",
    "Seasons": "8",
    "Years": "2000-2007",
    "Draft Info": "Indianapolis Colts / 1st / 28th pick / 2000"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Kai Nacua",
    "Position": "FS",
    "Seasons": "3",
    "Years": "2017-2021",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Puka Nacua",
    "Position": "WR",
    "Seasons": "2",
    "Years": "2023-2024",
    "Draft Info": "Los Angeles Rams / 5th / 177th pick / 2023"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Spencer Nead",
    "Position": "FB",
    "Seasons": "1",
    "Years": "2003-2003",
    "Draft Info": "New England Patriots / 7th / 234th pick / 2003"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Gifford Nielsen",
    "Position": "QB",
    "Seasons": "6",
    "Years": "1978-1983",
    "Draft Info": "Houston Oilers / 3rd / 73rd pick / 1978"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Reed Nilsen",
    "Position": "C",
    "Seasons": "1",
    "Years": "1947-1947",
    "Draft Info": "Detroit Lions / 16th / 136th pick / 1947"
  },
  {
    "Name": "david Nixon",
    "Position": "LB",
    "Seasons": "3",
    "Years": "2009-2011",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Ronnie OBard",
    "Position": "DB",
    "Seasons": "1",
    "Years": "1985-1985",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Bart Oates",
    "Position": "C",
    "seasons": "11",
    "Years": "1985-1995",
    "Draft info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Brad Oates",
    "Position": "T-G",
    "Seasons": "6",
    "Years": "1976-1981",
    "Draft Info": "St. Louis Cardinals / 3rd / 83rd pick / 1976"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Phil Odle",
    "Position": "WR",
    "Seasons": "3",
    "Years": "1968-1970",
    "Draft Info": "Detroit Lions / 5th / 120th pick / 1968"
  },
  {
    "name": "Hans Olsen",
    "Position": "DT",
    "Seasons": "1",
    "Years": "2001-2001",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Orrin olsen",
    "Position": "C",
    "Seasons": "1",
    "Years": "1976-1976",
    "Draft Info": "Kansas City Chiefs / 8th / 222nd pick / 1976"
  },
  {
    "name": "Robert Parker",
    "Position": "RB",
    "Seasons": "1",
    "years": "1987-1987",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Dennis Patera",
    "Position": "K",
    "Seasons": "1",
    "years": "1968-1968",
    "Draft Info": "San Francisco 49ers / 17th / 449th pick / 1968"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Craig Patterson",
    "Position": "DE-NT",
    "Seasons": "1",
    "Years": "1991-1991",
    "draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Evan Pilgrim",
    "Position": "G",
    "Seasons": "5",
    "years": "1996-2000",
    "Draft Info": "Chicago Bears / 3rd / 87th pick / 1995"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Dennis Pitta",
    "Position": "TE",
    "Seasons": "6",
    "Years": "2010-2016",
    "Draft Info": "Baltimore Ravens / 4th / 114th pick / 2010"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Owen Pochman",
    "Position": "K",
    "Seasons": "2",
    "Years": "2001-2003",
    "Draft Info": "New England patriots / 7th / 216th pick / 2001"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Brady Poppinga",
    "Position": "LB",
    "Seasons": "8",
    "Years": "2005-2012",
    "Draft Info": "green Bay Packers / 4th / 125th pick / 2005"
  },
  {
    "Name": "glen Redd",
    "Position": "LB",
    "Seasons": "5",
    "Years": "1981-1986",
    "Draft Info": "New Orleans Saints / 6th / 166th pick / 1981"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Ryan Rehkow",
    "Position": "P",
    "Seasons": "1",
    "Years": "2024-2024",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Gabe Reid",
    "Position": "TE",
    "Seasons": "3",
    "Years": "2003-2006",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "spencer Reid",
    "Position": "LB",
    "Seasons": "2",
    "Years": "1998-1999",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Dallas Reynolds",
    "position": "G",
    "Seasons": "4",
    "Years": "2012-2015",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Rodney Rice",
    "Position": "DB",
    "Seasons": "2",
    "years": "1989-1990",
    "Draft Info": "New England patriots / 8th / 210th pick / 1989"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Golden Richards",
    "Position": "WR",
    "Seasons": "7",
    "Years": "1973-1979",
    "Draft Info": "Dallas Cowboys / 2nd / 46th pick / 1973"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Bill Ring",
    "Position": "RB",
    "Seasons": "6",
    "Years": "1981-1986",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Burle Robison",
    "Position": "E-C",
    "Seasons": "1",
    "Years": "1935-1935",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Steve Rogers",
    "Position": "T",
    "Seasons": "1",
    "Years": "1987-1987",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Todd Shell",
    "Position": "LB",
    "Seasons": "4",
    "Years": "1984-1987",
    "draft info": "San Francisco 49ers / 1st / 24th pick / 1984"
  },
  {
    "Name": "vai Sikahema",
    "Position": "RB",
    "Seasons": "8",
    "Years": "1986-1993",
    "Draft Info": "St. Louis Cardinals / 10th / 254th pick / 1986"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Vic Sooto",
    "position": "LB",
    "Seasons": "3",
    "Years": "2011-2013",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Daniel Sorensen",
    "Position": "S",
    "Seasons": "10",
    "Years": "2014-2023",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "name": "Jeff Staggs",
    "position": "LB-DE",
    "Seasons": "8",
    "Years": "1967-1974",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Vince Stroth",
    "Position": "T-G-TE",
    "Seasons": "3",
    "Years": "1985-1988",
    "Draft Info": null
  },
  {
    "Name": "Kingsley Suamataia",
    "Position": "OL",
    "Seasons": "1",
    "Years": "2024-2024",
    "Draft Info": "kansas City Chiefs / 2nd / 63rd pick / 2024"
  },
  {
    "Name": "Naufahu Tahi",
    "Position": "RB",
    "Seasons": "4",
    "years": "2007-2010",
    "Draft Info": null
  }
]

What is the most significant factor contributing to BYU’s consistent pipeline of NFL players?

The Brigham Young University (BYU) Cougars have a rich history of producing top-tier talent, and this tradition continues strong in the National Football League (NFL). With a consistent flow of players making their mark in professional football, the BYU football program has cemented its place as a breeding ground for NFL stars. This article delves into the compelling story of BYU Cougars in the NFL, highlighting key players and the enduring success that links Provo to the professional gridiron.

The Growing Pipeline: BYU’s Presence in the Pros

The presence of BYU players in the NFL is undeniable. Year after year, former Cougars are drafted, signed as free agents, or find their way into professional football.this consistent flow is a testament to the quality of coaching, training, and player progress at BYU.As of 2025, nearly 20 former Cougars players are active on NFL rosters.

Key players and Notable Achievements

Several BYU alumni have achieved significant success in the NFL, becoming household names and earning accolades for their exceptional skills. here are some of the most well-known and the positions they played:

• Quarterbacks: BYU has a historic presence quarterbacks, producing numerous success stories in the NFL landscape.
• Offensive Linemen: Known for their blocking prowess and creating space for their teams to move the ball.
• Defensive Standouts: Many BYU players have proven their defense to be the best in the game, including successful linebackers and defensive backs.

The Impact on BYU Football and Recruiting

The success of BYU players in the NFL has a direct impact on the university’s football program. it:

• Boosts recruiting: Prospective student-athletes are drawn to programs with a proven track record of developing NFL talent.
• Enhances Program Reputation: Success in the NFL elevates a program’s prestige and credibility.
• Financial Benefits: Generated revenue for the BYU football program with the successes of NFL players.

Analyzing the Data: BYU to the NFL

Let’s review some interesting numbers regarding BYU’s contributions to the NFL.

Statistic	Details
Active NFL Players (2025)	Approx. 20
Total Players Drafted	Over 165
Prominent positions	Quarterback, Offensive line, Linebacker

The Role of Coaching and Development

A consistent pipeline from college to the pros doesn’t happen by chance.Effective coaching staff, dedicated training programs, and a positive team culture provide the foundation for success. BYU’s coaching staff is instrumental in:

• Player Development: Refining players’ skills and preparing them for the NFL.
• Strategic Training: The program to maximize player performance.
• Building a Strong Culture: Creates character and teamwork.

Looking Ahead: The Future of BYU in the NFL

The future for the BYU Cougars in the NFL looks shining. With strong recruiting, innovative training methods, and a supportive coaching system, BYU is poised to continue its reputation.

Anticipated Draft Picks: Each year, scouts and NFL teams look forward.

Program Investment: BYU continues to invest in its football program to ensure.

maintaining the Standard: BYU is committed to success to see the Cougars thrive in the NFL for years to come.