Every Heisman winner in the NFL: Lamar Jackson, Tim Tebow lead list of best and worst careers after college

The Heisman Trophy is all about how a player dominated the college game. Awarded to the best overall player in college football on an annual basis, some of the all-time greats in football have held the award at one point or another.

Typically, Heisman winners remain stars throughout their football careers due to their unique talents — the large majority of winners of the award have gone on to play in the NFL.

Some became Pro Football Hall of Famers on top of their college accomplishments. Others were primarily backups once they reached the NFL, unable to dominant the pro game the same way. 

Here's how every Heisman Trophy winner in history fared in their NFL careers. 

MORE: Full list of Heisman Trophy winners

Travis Hunter, Colorado (2024)

• NFL teams: Jacksonville Jaguars (2025-present)
• Career stats: 7 games, 28 receptions, 298 yards, 1 TD, 15 tackles, 3 pass defenses
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

The 2024 Heisman Trophy award winner was one of the most unique ever, as Colorado's two-way star, Travis Hunter, claimed the honor as a wide receiver/cornerback hybrid. Hunter insisted on continuing as a two-way star in the NFL, and the Jacksonville Jaguars have given him that opportunity as a first-round pick.

Hunter's rookie season in the NFL ended prematurely due to injury, but he made some highlight-reel catches and played some cornerback before he was shut down in 2025.

MORE: How Travis Hunter's Heisman season compared to Charles Woodson

Jayden Daniels, LSU (2023)

• NFL teams:  Washington Commanders (2024-present)
• Career stats:  24 games, 4,830 passing yards, 33 passing TDs, 12 INTs, 96.7 rating, 1,169 rushing yards, 8 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades:  2024 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, 1-time Pro Bowl

Jayden Daniels became the Commanders' new franchise quarterback as a first-round pick in 2024, coming off an outstanding run at LSU that included a Heisman Trophy. Immediately, he became a top NFL quarterback.

In his rookie season alone, Daniels led Washington to the NFC Championship game and won Offensive Rookie of the Year.

MORE: Explaining Jayden Daniels vs. Robert Griffin III injury comparisons

Caleb Williams, USC (2022)

• NFL teams:  Chicago Bears (2024-present)
• Career stats:  30 games, 6,449 passing yards, 39 passing TDs, 12 INTs, 87.6 rating, 810 rushing yards, 3 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

Caleb Williams was the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, just ahead of Jayden Daniels, after becoming an elite quarterback prospect at USC and Oklahoma. While he's still early in his career, all signs point to Williams being in the NFL for a long while.

Williams had a strong rookie campaign and followed it up in 2025 by leading the Bears toward a winning record for the first time in years.

MORE: The 7 worst Heisman races ever

Bryce Young, Alabama (2021)

• NFL teams:  Carolina Panthers (2023-present)
• Career stats:  42 games, 7,411 passing yards, 44 passing TDs, 28 INTs, 79.1 rating, 623 rushing yards, 7 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

Bryce Young dominated at Alabama in 2021 en route to the Heisman Trophy, and the Panthers made him the top selection in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Young has struggled at points in his brief career thus far, but he has also flashed his elite skills — in 2025, he was on a strong pace through early action with a career-high 18 touchdown passes.

MORE: How Kirby Smart, Lane Kiffin, Dan Lanning evolved from Nick Saban's 2015 staff

DeVonta Smith, Alabama (2020)

© Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

• NFL teams:  Philadelphia Eagles (2021-present)
• Career stats: 63 games,  308 receptions, 4,011 receiving yards, 27 TDs
• Awards and accolades:  1-time Super Bowl champion

Devonta Smith joined the brief list of wide receivers to win the Heisman Trophy in 2020 with his huge season at Alabama. In 2021, the Eagles drafted him in the first round, and he quickly became a go-to weapon for Jalen Hurts.

Smith won the Super Bowl in 2025 with Philadelphia, becoming one of the NFL's best receivers early in his career.

MORE: Ranking the best Eagles players ever

Joe Burrow, LSU (2019)

• NFL teams:  Cincinnati Bengals (2020-present)
• Career stats:  72 games, 19,451 passing yards, 144 passing TDs, 46 INTs, 100.7 rating, 817 rushing yards, 12 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades:  2-time NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2021, 2024), 2-time Pro Bowl

Joe Burrow proved in college that all he does is win football games, leading LSU to an all-time season in 2019 with a national title and a Heisman Trophy. In the NFL, his success continued.

Burrow led the Cincinnati Bengals to the Super Bowl in 2022 and emerged as one of the faces of the league, regularly putting up gaudy passing numbers when he was healthy. 

MORE Inside Joe Burrow's family tree, including ex-Packer dad Jim

Kyler Murray, Oklahoma (2018)

• NFL teams:  Arizona Cardinals (2019-present)
• Career stats:  87 games, 20,460 passing yards, 121 passing TDs, 60 INTs, 3,193 rushing yards, 32 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades:  2019 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, 2-time Pro Bowl

Kyler Murray's athleticism allowed him to get drafted in the first round of both the NFL and MLB, but he chose to keep playing football, landing with the Cardinals. 

Arizona has struggled to maintain team success in Murray's time as QB1, but he's remained an above-average quarterback — especially due to his rushing upside. Murray has earned two Pro Bowl selections on top of his Rookie of the Year award.

MORE: 16 NFL stars you didn't know were also drafted by MLB teams

Baker Mayfield, Oklahoma (2017)

Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

• NFL teams: Cleveland Browns (2018-21), Carolina Panthers (2022), Los Angeles Rams (2022), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2023-present)
• Career stats:  118 games, 27,432 passing yards, 190 passing TDs, 95 INTs, 1,444 rushing yards, 11 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades:  2-time Pro Bowl

Baker Mayfield became a fan favorite at Oklahoma, winning the 2017 Heisman Trophy before he was the No. 1 pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. Early on, he appeared to be the Browns' answer at quarterback after years of struggles, but after one playoff appearance, he made an exit from Cleveland.

Mayfield revived his NFL career as a member of the Buccaneers, becoming the team's starter and re-establishing himself as one of the best pure passers in the game.

MORE: Ranking the best QBs taken with picks 1-32, from Peyton Manning to Lamar Jackson

Lamar Jackson, Louisville (2016)

• NFL teams:  Baltimore Ravens (2018-present)
• Career stats:  111 games, 21,654 passing yards, 181 passing TDs, 52 INTs, 6,410 rushing yards, 34 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades: 2-time MVP (2019, 2023), 3-time First-Team All-Pro, 4-time Pro Bowl

Lamar Jackson burst onto the national scene at Louisville with his unreal athleticism and dual-threat skills, and to the surprise of some, those skills have translated over to the NFL — and then some. Quickly after earning the Ravens' starting quarterback job, Jackson became a sensation.

By his second season, Jackson was an MVP, and he won the honor again in 2023. The former Heisman Trophy winner remained a dominant quarterback in the NFL.

MORE: What is Lamar Jackson's record vs. Patrick Mahomes?

Derrick Henry, Alabama (2015)

• NFL teams: Tennessee Titans (2016-23), Baltimore Ravens (2024-present)
• Career stats:  149 games, 12,448 rushing yards, 116 rushing TDs, 1,801 receiving yards, 5 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades: 2020 NFL Offensive Player of the Year, 1-time First-Team All-Pro, 3-time Second-Team All-Pro, 5-time Pro Bowl

Derrick Henry may be the most powerful player the running back position has ever seen. That won him a Heisman at Alabama, and he continued to run through defenders in the NFL, first in Tennessee, later in Baltimore.

Henry has climbed the all-time ranks in career rushing, regularly contending for the NFL's rushing titles on an annual basis. "King Henry" has put himself in rare air not just as a Heisman-winning running back, but one who then excelled in the NFL.

MORE: Derrick Henry's unreal high school football career revisited

Marcus Mariota, Oregon (2014)

• NFL teams:  Tennessee Titans (2015-19), Las Vegas Raiders (2020-21), Atlanta Falcons (2022), Philadelphia Eagles (2023), Washington Commanders (2024-present)
• Career stats:  102 games, 17,573 passing yards, 106 passing TDs, 62 INTs, 89.6 rating, 2,411 rushing yards, 19 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

Marcus Mariota won the Heisman in 2014 for the Oregon Ducks, cementing himself as one of the nation's top quarterbacks before becoming the No. 2 pick in the 2015 NFL Draft. He landed with the Titans but only played with the team for a few years.

Despite some solid play, including a 26-touchdown 2016 season, Mariota leaned into a backup role after his time in Tennessee, without any accolades and with one playoff appearance.

MORE: Revisiting Lee Corso's best 'College GameDay' moments

Jameis Winston, Florida State (2013)

• NFL teams:  Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2015-19), New Orleans Saints (2020-23), Cleveland Browns (2024), New York Giants (2025-present)
• Career stats:  107 games, 24,792 passing yards, 156 passing TDs, 113 INTs, 1,320 rushing yards, 12 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades:  1-time Pro Bowl

Jameis Winston earned his reputation as a precise passer with a big arm at Florida State, winning the 2013 Heisman Trophy. He hasn't fully panned out as the No. 1 pick since then, but he also has put together a solid NFL career.

Turnovers have hurt Winston often, but without them, he became one of the most entertaining quarterbacks in the sport. Winston went from top selection to backup in the NFL.

MORE: What are the most valuable franchises in the NFL?

Johnny Manziel, Texas A&M (2012)

(Getty Images)

• NFL teams:  Cleveland Browns (2014-15)
• Career stats:  15 games, 1,675 passing yards, 7 passing TDs, 7 INTs, 259 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

Johnny Manziel was a captivating passer at Texas A&M, winning the 2012 Heisman, but his NFL career did not pan out. The Browns took him in the first round, but he wouldn't play in the league for three seasons.

Manziel dealt with various off-the-field issues during his time in Cleveland, and the Browns eventually cut ties with him. He later played in other pro leagues.

MORE: What is Johnny Football doing today after NFL flameout?

Robert Griffin III, Baylor (2011)

• NFL teams:  Washington Commanders (2012-15), Cleveland Browns (2016), Baltimore Ravens (2018-20)
• Career stats:  56 games, 9,271 passing yards, 43 passing TDs, 30 INTs, 1,809 rushing yards, 10 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades:  2012 Offensive Rookie of the Year, 1-time Pro Bowl

As the 2011 Heisman winner and 2012 No. 2 pick, expectations were high for Robert Griffin III, who landed in Washington. Initially, he lived up to them with an outstanding rookie season.

Griffin was an up-and-coming dual threat quarterback who won Rookie of the Year in 2012, but injuries derailed his trajectory from there. He fell out of favor in Washington, then took on a few backup roles.

MORE: How injuries impacted Robert Griffin III's NFL career

Cam Newton, Auburn (2010)

• NFL teams: Carolina Panthers (2011-19, 2021), New England Patriots (2020)
• Career stats:  148 games, 32,382 passing yards, 194 passing TDs, 123 INTs, 85.2 rating, 5,628 rushing yards, 75 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades:  1-time MVP (2015), 2015 Offensive Player of the Year, 2011 Offensive Rookie of the Year, 1-time First-Team All-Pro, 3-time Pro Bowl

Cam Newton becoming one of the best rushing quarterbacks ever wasn't by accident, as the 2010 Heisman winner was a star at Auburn, then for the Panthers. In 2015, he had an outstanding campaign that included an MVP award and trip to the Super Bowl.

Newton established himself as one of the most talented quarterbacks ever, but between injuries and turnover issues, his career didn't track toward Canton as anticipated. Eventually, he fell into a backup role, but he still made a few highlights before his final season in 2021.

MORE: Breaking down every Heisman winner by school

Mark Ingram II, Alabama (2009)

• NFL teams:  New Orleans Saints (2011-18, 2021-22), Baltimore Ravens (2019-20), Houston Texans (2021)
• Career stats:  156 games, 8,111 rushing yards, 65 rushing TDs, 2,125 receiving yards, 10 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  3-time Pro Bowl 

Mark Ingram became a steady weapon in the NFL after his Heisman Trophy and strong Alabama career. Between New Orleans and Baltimore, he was an effective runner who posted three 1,000-yard rushing seasons.

Ingram was never quite a superstar in the pros, but he was as solid as it got for an NFL running back for over a decade, including three Pro Bowl nods.

MORE: Ranking the 16 greatest Alabama players of all time

Sam Bradford, Oklahoma (2008)

• NFL teams:  St. Louis Rams (2010-14), Philadelphia Eagles (2015), Minnesota Vikings (2016-17), Arizona Cardinals (2018)
• Career stats:  83 games, 19,449 passing yards, 103 passing TDs, 61 INTs, 84.5 rating, 340 rushing yards, 2 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades:  2010 Offensive Rookie of the Year

In 2008, Sam Bradford became just the second sophomore to win the Heisman. Eventually, his success at Oklahoma led to opportunity in the NFL, and he wound up playing nine seasons in the league.

Bradford, the 2010 No. 1 pick to the Rams, never panned out as a star passer, but he did have a few solid seasons in St. Louis and Minnesota.

MORE: How Heisman Trophy winners have performed at NFL Combine

Tim Tebow, Florida (2007)

• NFL teams:  Denver Broncos (2010-11), New York Jets (2012), New England Patriots (2013), Philadelphia Eagles (2015), Jacksonville Jaguars (2021)
• Career stats:  35 games, 2,422 passing yards, 17 passing TDs, 9 INTs, 75.3 rating, 989 rushing yards, 12 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

Tim Tebow was a fascinating football figure in the late 2000s, as he found a ton of success in college, winning two national championships and a Heisman Trophy. But after being the 25th pick in the 2010 draft to the Broncos, he struggled to catch on despite some early highlights.

Tebow started 11 games for Denver in the 2011 season, but after being traded to the Jets, he became a backup for some years to come, including an attempt to come back as a tight end in 2021.

MORE: Inside Florida's head coaching history

Troy Smith, Ohio State (2006)

• NFL teams:  Baltimore Ravens (2007-09), San Francisco 49ers (2010), Pittsburgh Steelers (2012)
• Career stats:  20 games, 1,734 passing yards, 8 passing TDs, 5 INTs, 230 rushing yards, 3 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

In 2006, quarterback Troy Smith had a huge senior season at Ohio State with 2,542 yards and 30 touchdowns through the air. That led to a Heisman Trophy and Smith being taken in the fifth round of the draft.

However, Smith only started two games for the Ravens, the team that drafted him. He was a backup in Baltimore for a few years, started six games for the 49ers and then moved on from the NFL.

MORE: Madden covers by year, from Eddie George to Christian McCaffrey

Reggie Bush, USC (2005)

• NFL teams:  New Orleans Saints (2006-2010), Miami Dolphins (2011-12), Detroit Lions (2013-14), San Francisco 49ers (2015), Buffalo Bills (2016)
• Career stats:  134 games, 5,490 rushing yards, 36 rushing TDs, 3,598 receiving yards, 18 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  1-time Super Bowl champion, 1-time First-Team All-Pro

Reggie Bush became a superstar running back at USC, including two All-American selections and a Heisman Trophy, becoming one of the best college weapons ever. He remained elite as an NFL second-round pick, helping the Saints win the Super Bowl in 2010.

Bush was an effective weapon in the NFL, but he never quite reached a "star" ceiling outside of a 2008 All-Pro selection as a punt returner. Still, his speed was fully on display in his NFL career.

MORE: Revisiting the Bills' four consecutive Super Bowl appearances

Matt Leinart, USC (2004)

• NFL teams: Arizona Cardinals (2006-09), Houston Texans (2010-11), Oakland Raiders (2012), Buffalo Bills (2013)
• Career stats:  33 games, 4,065 passing yards, 15 passing TDs, 21 INTs, 70.2 rating, 89 rushing yards, 2 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

A college football Hall of Famer, Matt Leinart had a dominant USC career that included a Heisman Trophy, and a perfect season with a national title. His NFL career didn't bring the same success.

He started for the Cardinals as a rookie but struggled with interceptions, and by 2008, he was a backup. Leinart went on to play for other squads as a backup as well.

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Jason White, Oklahoma (2003)

• NFL teams:  Tennessee Titans (2005)
• Career stats:  N/A
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

Jason White won the 2003 Heisman Trophy thanks to his 3,846 yards and 40 touchdowns as a passer at Oklahoma, and he remained a top college quarterback in 2004. But with reports of knee injuries, he went undrafted.

White signed a deal with the Titans but did retire due to knee ailments shortly after.

MORE: How does NIL money work in college football?

Carson Palmer, USC (2002)

• NFL teams:  Cincinnati Bengals (2003-10), Oakland Raiders (2011-12), Arizona Cardinals (2013-17)
• Career stats:  182 games, 46,247 passing yards, 294 passing TDs, 187 INTs, 87.9 rating, 474 rushing yards, 8 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades:  1-time Second-Team All-Pro, 3-time Pro Bowl

Carson Palmer enjoyed a long NFL career as a starter in Cincinnati, Oakland and Arizona, never surrendering a starting quarterback role as a gunslinger-style passer. The 2002 Heisman winner at USC wasn't quite elite, but he was a steady presence in the NFL for years.

With three Pro Bowl selections and three playoff trips, Palmer ranks among plenty of all-time leaders in various numbers thanks to his long pro career.

MORE: Lane Kiffin's timeline of controversial coaching exits

Eric Crouch, Nebraska (2001)

• NFL teams:  St. Louis Rams (2002), Green Bay Packers (2003-04), Kansas City Chiefs (2005)
• Career stats:  N/A
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

While Eric Crouch was a star quarterback at Nebraska, winning various awards including the Heisman in 2001, he was a third-round pick in the NFL who was initially drafted as a wide receiver.

Crouch never caught on at any position, moving on to the CFL in 2005.

MORE: Ranking the 16 greatest Chiefs players of all time

Chris Weinke, Florida State (2000)

• NFL teams:  Carolina Panthers (2001-06), San Francisco 49ers (2007)
• Career stats:  29 games, 3,904 passing yards, 15 passing TDs, 26 INTs, 62.2 rating
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

Chris Weinke had a fascinating athletic career, starting out in the MLB minor leagues, enrolling at Florida State at age 25, then becoming a Heisman trophy winner as a quarterback. Drafted by the Panthers in the fourth round of the 2001 draft, Weinke started, but struggled as a rookie.

After that year, Weinke was a backup in Carolina and San Francisco to finish out his football career, before taking up coaching; he is now coaching at Georgia Tech.

MORE: Breaking down the oldest players ever drafted in the NFL

Ron Dayne, Wisconsin (1999)

• NFL teams:  New York Giants (2000-04), Denver Broncos (2005), Houston Texans (2006-07)
• Career stats:  96 games, 3,722 rushing yards, 28 rushing TDs, 340 receiving yards, 0 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

One of the NCAA's all-time leading rushers, Ron Dayne was outstanding at Wisconsin; his 2,034 rushing yards won the Heisman in 1999. After heading to the Giants in the 2000 NFL Draft, he had a few solid seasons, but he never broke 1,000 rushing yards in a season.

Dayne spent time in New York, Denver and Houston, playing eight years in the NFL.

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Ricky Williams, Texas (1998)

• NFL teams:  New Orleans Saints (1999-2001), Miami Dolphins (2002-03, 2005, 2007-10), Baltimore Ravens (2011)
• Career stats:  147 games, 10,009 rushing yards, 66 rushing TDs, 2,606 receiving yards, 8 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  1-time First-Team All-Pro, 1-time Pro Bowl

Ricky Williams won the Heisman in 1998 as a superstar at Texas, and he did hit similar peaks while in the NFL. His 2002 season included a First-Team All-Pro selection with a league-high 1,853 rushing yards for the Dolphins.

Williams played for over a decade in the NFL, becoming one of Miami's deadliest weapons, but after time away from football for a suspension, he wasn't as effective.

MORE: Ranking the 13 greatest Ravens of all time

Charles Woodson, Michigan (1997)

• NFL teams:  Oakland Raiders (1998-2005, 2013-15), Green Bay Packers (2006-12) 
• Career stats:  254 games, 1,205 tackles, 65 interceptions, 155 PD, 155 forced fumbles, 20.0 sacks
• Awards and accolades:  1-time Super Bowl champion, 2009 Defensive Player of the Year, 1998 Defensive Rookie of the Year, 4-time First-Team All-Pro, 4-time Second-Team All-Pro, 9-time Pro Bowl

Simply put, Charles Woodson is one of the best defenders ever, and that can be said of his college and pro careers. He became the first defensive player to win the Heisman in 1997, and in the NFL, he stamped himself as a superstar corner.

Woodson won a Super Bowl in Green Bay, won a Defensive Player of the Year award and has been inducted into the College and Pro Football Halls of Fame.

MORE: The 16 greatest Michigan players ever

Danny Wuerrfel, Florida (1996)

• NFL teams:  New Orleans Saints (1997-99), Green Bay Packers (2000), Chicago Bears (2001), Houston Texans (2002), Washington Commanders (2002)
• Career stats:   24 games, 2,123 passing yards, 12 passing TDs, 22 INTs, 56.4 rating, 189 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

Danny Wuerffel led the NCAA in touchdown passes in 1995 and 1996 for Florida, winning the Heisman in 1996 en route to a national title. While he had a decorated college career, Wuerffel had limited playing time in the NFL.

A fourth-round pick in 1997, Wuerffel was primarily a backup at his various stops.

MORE: Ranking the 15 greatest Commanders players ever, from Sean Taylor to Darrell Green

Eddie George, Ohio State (1995)

• NFL teams:  Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans (1996-2003), Dallas Cowboys (2004)
• Career stats:  141 games, 10,441 rushing yards, 68 rushing TDs, 2,227 receiving yards, 10 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  1996 Offensive Rookie of the Year, 1-time First-Team All-Pro, 1-time Second-Team All-Pro, 4-time Pro Bowl

Eddie George was just as entertaining in the NFL for some time as he was in college — the 1995 Heisman winner at Ohio State had seven 1,000-yard rushing seasons in his nine years in the NFL.

Primarily leading the Titans' offense, George earned plenty more individual honors after his strong college career.

MORE: Ohio State coaching records vs. Michigan

Rashaan Salaam, Colorado (1994)

• NFL teams:  Chicago Bears (1995-97), Oakland Raiders (1999), Cleveland Browns (1999), Green Bay Packers (1999), San Francisco 49ers (2003)
• Career stats:  33 games, 1,684 rushing yards, 13 rushing TDs, 120 receiving yards, 1 receiving TD
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

Rashaan Salaam became the fourth college player ever to tally more than 2,000 rushing yards in a season in 1994, winning the Heisman Trophy at Colorado.

After being a first-round pick by the Bears, Salaam dealt with injuries and other off-the-field issues, unable to continue his star trajectory after 1,074 rushing yards as a rookie.

MORE: Full list of RBs to win the Heisman

Gino Torretta, Miami (1992)

• NFL teams:  Minnesota Vikings (1993), Detroit Lions (1994), San Francisco 49ers (1995–96), Seattle Seahawks (1996–97), Indianapolis Colts (1997), Kansas City Chiefs (1999)
• Career stats:  2 games, 41 passing yards, 1 passing TD, 1 INT, 12 rushing yards
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

In 1992, Gino Torretta won the Heisman as the quarterback for Miami, also a member of the Hurricanes' two national title teams around that time.

After being a seventh-round pick, he couldn't catch on anywhere, never becoming an NFL starter.

MORE: Revisiting the severe neck injury that ended Sterling Sharpe's NFL career

Desmond Howard, Michigan (1991)

• NFL teams:  Washington Redskins (1992-94) Jacksonville Jaguars (1995) Green Bay Packers (1996), Oakland Raiders (1997-98), Green Bay Packers (1999), Detroit Lions (1999–2002)
• Career stats:  156 games, 1,597 receiving yards, 7 receiving TDs, 2,895 punt return yards, 7,959 kick return yards, 8 kick return TDs
• Awards and accolades:  1-time Super Bowl champion, 1-time Super Bowl MVP, 1-time First-Team All-Pro, 1-time Pro Bowl

Desmond Howard was successful in both college and the NFL, but in different ways. At Michigan, he won the 1991 Heisman as a wide receiver with his dominance.

In the NFL though, Howard was an elite special teams player, winning MVP honors in Super Bowl XXXI after returning a kickoff for a 99-yard touchdown.

MORE: Ranking the greatest Packers players of all-time

Ty Detmer, BYU (1990)

• NFL teams:  Green Bay Packers (1992-95), Philadelphia Eagles (1996-97), San Francisco 49ers (1998), Cleveland Browns (1999-2000), Detroit Lions (2001-03), Atlanta Falcons (2004-05)
• Career stats:  54 games, 6,351 passing yards, 34 passing TDs, 35 INTs, 177 rushing yards, 3 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

Ty Demter broke through in 1990 with the Heisman Trophy at BYU, breaking plenty of program records along the way. He became a ninth-round pick in the NFL Draft.

Detmer only had two seasons as a full-on starter, which came with the Eagles in 1996 and 1997. He struggled with interceptions but had a long career as a backup.

MORE: Inside the Manning football family tree

Andre Ware, Houston (1989)

• NFL teams:  Detroit Lions (1990-93), Minnesota Vikings (1994), Jacksonville Jaguars (1995), Oakland Raiders (1999)
• Career stats:  14 games, 1,112 passing yards, 5 passing TDs, 8 INTs, 63.5 rating, 217 rushing yards
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

Andre Ware became a star at Houston, winning the Heisman in 1989 for the Cougars before heading to Detroit in the first round of the 1990 NFL Draft.

While he is a College Football Hall of Famer, Ware eventually reached the CFL after struggling in the NFL.

MORE:  Who is on the Mount Rushmore of Bay Area sports?

Barry Sanders, Oklahoma State (1988)

MPS-Imagn Images

• NFL teams:  Detroit Lions (1989-98)
• Career stats:  153 games, 15,269 rushing yards, 99 rushing TDs, 2,921 receiving yards, 10 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  1-time MVP (1997), 2-time Offensive Player of the Year, 1989 Offensive Rookie of the Year, 6-time First-Team All-Pro, 4-time Second-team All-Pro, 10-time Pro Bowl

One of the best running backs to ever touch a football, Barry Sanders was just as big a star in the NFL as he was at Oklahoma State. His 1988 Heisman season remains one of the greatest individual campaigns by a running back in college football history.

With the Lions, Sanders never stopped dominating opposing defenses, with a pair of OPOY trophies and an induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

MORE: Examining Frank Gore's place in NFL history

Tim Brown, Notre Dame (1987)

• NFL teams:  Los Angeles / Oakland Raiders (1988–2003), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2004)
• Career stats:  255 games, 14,934 receiving yards, 100 receiving TDs, 190 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD
• Awards and accolades:  2-time First-team All-Pro, 9-time Pro Bowl (1988, 1991, 1993–97, 1999, 2001)

Tim Brown was the first wide receiver to win the Heisman Trophy. His NFL was just as incredible, becoming one of the best receivers ever for his years of dominance with the Raiders.

Brown can be found all over all-time leaderboards, a Pro Football Hall of Famer.

MORE: Which brothers are in the NFL Hall of Fame?

Vinny Testaverde, Miami (1986)

• NFL teams:  Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1987-92), Cleveland Browns (1993-95), Baltimore Ravens (1996-97) New York Jets (1998–2003, 2005), Dallas Cowboys (2004), New England Patriots (2006), Carolina Panthers (2007)
• Career stats:  233 games, 46,233 passing yards, 275 passing TDs, 267 INTs, 1,661 rushing yards, 15 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades:  2-time Pro Bowl

Vinny Testeverde had one of the longest careers of any NFL quarterback ever. Over his 21 seasons, he became one of the most well-known figures in the league while climbing up all-time charts.

Testeverde found most of his success with the Jets and was also the 1986 Heisman winner at Miami.

MORE: History of Miami quarterbacks in the NFL

Bo Jackson, Auburn (1985)

• NFL teams:  Los Angeles Raiders (1987-90)
• Career stats:  38 games, 2,782 rushing yards, 16 rushing TDs, 352 receiving yards, 2 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  1-time Pro Bowl

Injuries cut Bo Jackson's football career well-short, but there's no doubt he was one of the most talented players ever. Also an MLB star, Jackson became an icon for his unreal athleticism.

After winning a Heisman at Auburn in 1985, Jackson was a Pro Bowl running back for the Raiders before his career was cut short.

MORE: How Ohio State's Bo Jackson is related to NFL legend

Doug Flutie, Boston College (1984)

• NFL teams:  Chicago Bears (1986-87), New England Patriots (1987-89, 2005), Buffalo Bills (1998–2000), San Diego Chargers (2001-04)
• Career stats:  91 games, 14,715 passing yards, 86 passing TDs, 68 INTs, 1,634 rushing yards, 10 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades:  1-time Pro Bowl, 1998 Comeback Player of the Year

Doug Flutie was a professional quarterback for 21 seasons, but not all of that was in the NFL. After winning the 1984 Heisman at Boston College, Flutie was in the NFL for 12 years.

Flutie spent time as a starter for New England, Buffalo and the Chargers.

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Mike Rozier, Nebraska (1983)

• NFL teams:  Houston Oilers (1985-90), Atlanta Falcons (1990-91)
• Career stats:  92 games, 4,462 rushing yards, 30 rushing TDs, 715 receiving yards, 1 receiving TD
• Awards and accolades:  2-time Pro Bowl

Playing at Nebraska, running back Mike Rozier won the Heisman in 1983, then played in the USFL.

However, Rozier then headed to the NFL, becoming a solid running back for the Oilers and Falcons.

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Herschel Walker, Georgia (1982)

• NFL teams: Dallas Cowboys (1986-89, 1996-97), Minnesota Vikings (1989-91), Philadelphia Eagles (1992-94), New York Giants (1995)
• Career stats:  187 games, 8,225 rushing yards, 61 rushing TDs, 4,859 receiving yards, 21 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  2-time Second-Team All-Pro, 2-time Pro Bowl

One of the most iconic running backs ever, Herschel Walker went from Georgia Heisman winner to Cowboys star.

The fifth-round pick would earn two Pro Bowl nods as a member of some of Dallas' top teams in that era.

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Marcus Allen, USC (1981)

• NFL teams: Los Angeles Raiders (1982-92), Kansas City Chiefs (1993-97)
• Career stats:  222 games, 12,243 rushing yards, 123 rushing TDs, 5,411 receiving yards, 21 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  1-time Super Bowl champion, 1-time Super Bowl MVP,  1-time MVP, 
• 1985 Offensive Player of the Year, 1982 Offensive Rookie of the Year, 1993 Comeback Player of the Year, 2-time First-team All-Pro, 1-time Second-team All-Pro, 6-time Pro Bowl

Yet another Heisman Trophy winner who is among the best running backs of all-time, Marcus Allen accumulated just about every award one player can grab in his football career.

The Pro Football and College Hall of Famer won the Heisman in 1981, an NFL MVP in 1985 and a Super Bowl ring with the Raiders.

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George Rogers, South Carolina (1980)

• NFL teams:  New Orleans Saints (1981-84), Washington Commanders (1985-87)
• Career stats:  92 games, 7,176 rushing yards, 54 rushing TDs, 368 receiving yards
• Awards and accolades: 1-time Super Bowl champion, 1981 Offensive Rookie of the Year, 1-time First-team All-Pro, 2-time Pro Bowl 

George Rogers was the top selection in the 1981 NFL Draft, an easy decision for the Saints after he won the 1980 Heisman Trophy.

Rogers also had a standout NFL career that included a title in Washington, the OROY award and over 7,000 career rushing yards.

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Charles White, USC (1979)

• NFL teams:  Cleveland Browns (1980-84), Los Angeles Rams (1985-88)
• Career stats:  108 games, 3,075 rushing yards, 23 rushing TDs, 860 receiving yards, 1 receiving TD
• Awards and accolades:  1987 Comeback Player of the Year, 1-time First-team All-Pro, 1-time Pro Bowl

A two-time All-American and the 1979 Heisman Trophy winner in college, Charles White then went on to play for the Browns and Rams in the NFL.

While he wasn't a key contributor for the first chunk of his career, he did lead the league in rushing in 1987.

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Billy Sims, Oklahoma (1978)

• NFL teams:  Detroit Lions (1980-84)
• Career stats:  60 games, 5,106 rushing yards, 42 rushing TDs, 2,072 receiving yards, 5 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  1980 Offensive Rookie of the Year, 1-time First-team All-Pro, 1-time Second-team All-Pro, 3-time Pro Bowl

Billy Sims was on a Hall of Fame trajectory in his first four NFL seasons; the 1978 Heisman winner at Oklahoma won Rookie of the Year, then emerged as one of the league's premiere running backs.

However, Sims' career was cut short by injury after three 1,000-yard seasons for the Lions.

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Earl Campbell, Texas (1977)

• NFL teams:  Houston Oilers (1978-84), New Orleans Saints (1984-85)
• Career stats:  115 games, 9,407 rushing yards, 74 rushing TDs, 806 receiving yards
• Awards and accolades:  1979 MVP, 3-time Offensive Player of the Year, 1978 Offensive Rookie of the Year, 3-time First-team All-Pro, 5-time Pro Bowl

Considered one of the best power running backs ever, Earl Campbell went from Texas' Heisman winner to a bonafide NFL star.

Campbell was yet another Heisman winner who was inducted into both the College and Pro Football Halls of Fame.

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Tony Dorsett, Pittsburgh (1976)

• NFL teams:  Dallas Cowboys (1977-87), Denver Broncos (1988)
• Career stats:  173 games, 12,739 rushing yards, 77 rushing TDs, 3,554 receiving yards, 13 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades: 1-time Super Bowl champion, 1977 Offensive Rookie of the Year

Tony Dorsett led Pitt to a national championship in 1976, also winning the Heisman Trophy along the way.

He then remained with the Cowboys for a majority of his NFL career, winning a Super Bowl.

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Archie Griffin, Ohio State (1974, 1975)

• NFL teams:  Cincinnati Bengals (1976-82)
• Career stats:   98 games, 2,808 rushing yards, 7 rushing TDs, 1,607 receiving yards, 6 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

Famously the only player to win two Heisman Trophies, Archie Griffin remains an all-time college football legend. He was then a first-round pick by the Bengals.

The running back played seven years in the NFL, but he wasn't quite the star he was at Ohio State.

MORE: Ranking the 15 greatest Ohio State players of all time

John Cappelletti, Penn State (1973)

• NFL teams:  Los Angeles Rams (1974-78), San Diego Chargers (1980-83)
• Career stats:  105 games, 2,951 rushing yards, 24 rushing TDs, 1,233 receiving yards, 4 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

John Cappelletti remains Penn State's lone Heisman Trophy winner, an honor he earned in 1973 as a superstar running back for the Nittany Lions.

In the NFL, Cappelletti was a solid weapon for the Rams and Chargers for nearly a decade.

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Johnny Rodgers, Nebraska (1972)

• NFL teams:  San Diego Chargers (1977-78)
• Career stats:  17 games, 234 receiving yards, 49 rushing yards
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

A College Football Hall of Famer, Johnny Rodgers was a star running back and receiver at Nebraska, winning college football's top individual honor in 1972.

Rodgers primarily played in the CFL, but he did have a brief NFL stint with the Chargers.

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Pat Sullivan, Auburn (1971)

• NFL teams:  Atlanta Falcons (1972-75), Washington Redskins (1976), San Francisco 49ers (1977)
• Career stats:  30 games, 1,155 passing yards, 5 passing TDs, 16 INTs, 36.5 rating, 55 rushing yards
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

Long before he was a head coach at Samford University and TCU, Pat Sullivan won the 1971 Heisman for the Auburn Tigers as a quarterback.

However, Sullivan had limited action in the NFL and struggled with turnovers before his coaching career began.

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Jim Plunkett, Stanford (1970)

Mandatory Credit: Dick Raphael-USA TODAY Sports

• NFL teams:  New England Patriots (1971-75), San Francisco 49ers (1976-77), Oakland / Los Angeles Raiders (1978–86)
• Career stats:  157 games, 25,882 passing yards, 164 passing TDs, 198 INTs, 1,337 rushing yards, 14 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades:  2-time Super Bowl champion, 1-time Super Bowl MVP, 1980 Comeback Player of the Year, 1971 AFC Rookie of the Year

The top selection in the 1971 NFL Draft out of Stanford, Jim Plunkett became a star at Stanford, then won a pair of Super Bowls.

Plunkett's two titles came as a member of the Raiders; he and Eli Manning are the only eligible quarterbacks with two Super Bowl wins as a starter not to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

MORE: Ranking the 18 greatest Patriots players of all time

Steve Owens, Oklahoma (1969)

• NFL teams:  Detroit Lions (1970-74)
• Career stats:  53 games, 2,451 rushing yards, 20 rushing TDs, 861 receiving yards, 2 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  1-time Pro Bowl

A running back at Oklahoma, Steve Owens then was taken by the Lions in the first round of the 1970 NFL Draft.

He played just five NFL seasons, all in Detroit; he had 1,035 rushing yards in his second season, but otherwise struggled to stay healthy.

MORE: Why did Jackson Arnold transfer away from Oklahoma?

O.J. Simpson, USC (1968)

(Getty Images)

• NFL teams:  Buffalo Bills (1969-77), San Francisco 49ers (1978-79)
• Career stats:  135 games, 11,236 rushing yards, 61 rushing TDs, 2,142 receiving yards, 14 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  1973 MVP, 1973 Offensive Player of the Year, 5-time First-team All-Pro, 5-time Pro Bowl

Regarded as one of the most talented running backs ever, O.J. Simpson went from USC star and Heisman winner, to Bills star and MVP.

Simpson was inducted into both the College and Pro Football Halls of Fame.

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Gary Beban, UCLA (1967)

• NFL teams:  Washington Commanders (1968-69), Denver Broncos (1971)
• Career stats:  5 games, 18 rushing yards
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

UCLA quarterback Gary Beban won the Heisman Trophy in 1967, and then was taken in the second round of the 1968 draft by Washington.

He'd play in just five NFL games, retiring after the 1971 season.

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Steve Spurrier, Florida (1966)

• NFL teams: San Francisco 49ers (1967-75), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1976)
• Career stats:  106 games, 6,878 passing yards, 40 passing TDs, 60 INTs, 60.1 rating
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

Before he was a well-known head coach at South Carolina, Florida and more, Steve Spurrier was a Heisman winner for the Gators, then a first-round draft choice.

He spent eight years quarterbacking for the 49ers, but he was also a punter.

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Mike Garrett, USC (1965)

• NFL teams:  Kansas City Chiefs (1966-70), San Diego Chargers (1970-73)
• Career stats:  104 games, 5,35481 rushing yards, 35 rushing TDs, 2,010 receiving yards, 13 receiving TDs 
• Awards and accolades:  1-time Super Bowl champion

Most of Mike Garrett's professional production came before the AFL-NFL merger, and he was a top running back for the Chiefs in the AFL.

Garrett, the 1965 Heisman winner, later became an athletic director at his alma mater, USC.

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John Huarte, Notre Dame (1964)

• NFL teams:  New York Jets (1965), Boston Patriots (1966-67), Philadelphia Eagles (1968),  Kansas City Chiefs (1969-71), Chicago Bears (1972)
• Career stats:  24 games, 230 passing yards, 1 passing TD, 22.4 rating
• Awards and accolades:  1-time Super Bowl champion

The 1964 Heisman winner at Notre Dame, John Huarte, went on to play in the AFL and NFL.

Huarte won a Super Bowl with the Chiefs.

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Roger Staubach, Navy (1963)

• NFL teams:  Dallas Cowboys (1969-79)
• Career stats:  131 games, 22,700 passing yards, 153 passing TDs, 109 INTs, 83.4 rating, 2,264 rushing yards, 20 rushing TDs
• Awards and accolades: 2-time Super Bowl champion, 1-time Super Bowl MVP, 1-time NFL Man of the Year, 1-time Second-team All-Pro, 6-time Pro Bowl 

Roger Staubach became a star at Navy, then continued that in his NFL career with the Cowboys.

A participant in five Super Bowls, including four as the starting passer, Staubach is also one of the only players to win a Heisman Trophy and Super Bowl MVP.

MORE: Ranking the 18 greatest Dallas Cowboys of all time

Terry Baker, Oregon State (1962)

• NFL teams:  Los Angeles Rams (1963-65)
• Career stats:  18 games, 210 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD, 302 receiving yards, 2 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

Terry Baker won a Heisman Trophy at Oregon State in 1962, but he also led the basketball team to the Final Four in 1963.

As the No. 1 pick by the Rams in the 1963 NFL Draft, he eventually departed for the CFL.

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Ernie Davis, Syracuse (1961)

• NFL teams:  Cleveland Browns (1962)
• Career stats:  N/A
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

Ernie Davis won the Heisman at Syracuse in 1961, and he was taken first overall by Washington, then traded to Cleveland in the following NFL Draft.

However, Davis would never play in an NFL game. He was diagnosed with leukemia that same year and died at age 23 without playing a professional game.

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Billy Cannon, LSU (1959)

• NFL teams:  Houston Oilers (1960-63), Oakland Raiders (1964-69), Kansas City Chiefs (1970)
• Career stats:  133 games, 2,455 rushing yards, 17 rushing TDs, 3,656 receiving yards, 47 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades: 3-time AFL champion, 2-time AFL Championship MVP, 2-time First-team All-AFL, 2-time Second-team All-AFL, 2-time AFL All-Star (1961, 1969)

A halfback and tight end, Billy Cannon did it all for LSU en route to the 1958 Heisman Trophy. He was then selected first overall in the 1960 NFL Draft, but he first played in the AFL, becoming one of the league's top talents.

Cannon played one season in the actual NFL for the Chiefs in 1970.

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John David Crow, Texas A&M (1957)

• NFL teams:  Chicago / St. Louis Cardinals (1958-64), San Francisco 49ers (1965-68)
• Career stats:  125 games, 4,963 rushing yards, 38 rushing TDs, 3,699 receiving yards, 35 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  2-time First-team All-Pro, 1-time Second-team All-Pro, 4-time Pro Bowl 

Playing for the Texas A&M Aggies in 1957, John David Crow won the Heisman, long before he became a coach and college administrator.

Over his 11 NFL seasons, Crow was a four-time Pro Bowl selection.

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Paul Hornung, Notre Dame (1956)

• NFL teams:  Green Bay Packers (1957-62, 1964-66), New Orleans Saints (1967)
• Career stats:  104 games, 3,711 rushing yards, 50 rushing TDs, 1,480 receiving yards, 12 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  1-time Super Bowl champion, 4-time NFL champion, 1961 MVP, 2-time First-team All-Pro, 1-time Second-team All-Pro, 2-time Pro Bowl

One of the most famously versatile players ever, Paul Hornung was a halfback, kicker and quarterback. That led him to the 1956 Heisman at Notre Dame, as well as a successful NFL career.

Hornung won the first Super Bowl with the Packers in 1967, also named the NFL's 1961 MVP.

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Howard Cassady, Ohio State (1955)

• NFL teams:  Detroit Lions (1956-61), Cleveland Browns (1962), Philadelphia Eagles (1962), Detroit Lions (1963)
• Career stats: 84 games ,  1,229 rushing yards, 6 rushing TDs, 1,601 receiving yards, 18 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades: 1-time   NFL champion 

Howard Cassady won the 1955 Heisman Trophy for the Ohio State Buckeyes, then played in the NFL for seven seasons.

The halfback and split end won an NFL championship with the Lions.

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Alan Ameche, Wisconsin (1954)

• NFL teams:  Baltimore Colts (1955-60)
• Career stats:  70 games, 4,045 rushing yards, 40 rushing TDs, 733 receiving yards, 4 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades: 2-time NFL champion, 1955 NFL Rookie of the Year, 1-time First-team All-Pro, 3-time Second-team All-Pro, 4-time Pro Bowl 

"The Iron Horse" won the Heisman in 1954 for Wisconsin, then was a Pro Bowl selection in each of his first four NFL seasons.

Alan Ameche scored the winning touchdown in overtime in the 1958 NFL Championship Game against the New York Giants.

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Johnny Lattner, Notre Dame (1953)

• NFL teams:  Pittsburgh Steelers (1954)
• Career stats: 12 games, 237 rushing yards, 5 rushing TDs, 305 receiving yards, 2 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  1-time Pro Bowl

Another of Notre Dame's many Heisman winners, Johnny Lattner claimed the honor in 1953.

He would play just one season in the NFL for the Steelers.

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Billy Vessels, Oklahoma (1952)

• NFL teams:  Baltimore Colts (1956)
• Career stats:  12 games, 215 rushing yards, 2 rushing TDs, 177 receiving yards, 1 receiving TD
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

Billy Vessels had an elite college career, including a 1950 national title at Oklahoma and his 1952 Heisman Trophy. 

Vessels chose to play football in the WIFU and lost time due to military service, but eventually played one season for the Colts.

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Vic Janowicz, Ohio State (1950)

• NFL teams:  Washington Redskins (1954-55)
• Career stats:  22 games, 410 rushing yards, 4 rushing TDs, 148 receiving yards, 3 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

The 1950 Heisman Trophy winner, Vic Janowicz was then selected by Washington in the seventh round of the 1952 NFL Draft.

The College Football Hall of Famer was one of the few athletes in the post-World War II era to play in both the NFL and MLB.

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Leon Hart, Notre Dame (1949)

• NFL teams:  Detroit Lions (1950-57)
• Career stats:  92 games, 2,499 receiving yards, 26 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades: 3-time NFL champion, 1-time Pro Bowl, 1-time First-team All-Pro

Leon Hart had a loaded football career, first winning three national titles and a Heisman Trophy at Notre Dame.

Then, he won three championships and an All-Pro selection in the NFL —  he is the most recent of only two linemen ever to win the Heisman Trophy.

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Doak Walker, SMU (1948)

• NFL teams:  Detroit Lions (1950-55)
• Career stats:  67 games, 1,520 rushing yards, 12 rushing TDs, 2,539 receiving yards, 21 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  2-time NFL champion, 4-time First-team All-Pro, 5-time Pro Bowl

A halfback and kicker at SMU, Doak Walker now has his own college award named after him, given to the best running back in the country. However, he also earned the Heisman in 1948.

Walker is also a Pro Football Hall of Famer for his accomplishments as a Lion for five seasons.

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Johnny Lujack, Notre Dame (1947)

• NFL teams:  Chicago Bears (1948-51)
• Career stats:  45 games, 6,295 passing yards, 41 passing TDs, 54 INTs
• Awards and accolades:  1-time First-team All-Pro, 2-time Pro Bowl 

A former quarterback and safety, Johnny Lujack was a unanimous All-American in both 1946 and 1947, leading Notre Dame to national championships both years and winning the 1947 Heisman Trophy.

He had one All-Pro season as a member of the Bears in the NFL.

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Glenn Davis, Army (1946)

• NFL teams:  Los Angeles Rams (1950–51)
• Career stats:  23 games, 616 rushing yards, 4 rushing TDs, 682 receiving yards, 5 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades: 1-time   NFL champion, 1-time Pro Bowl

Glenn Davis won three national championships at Army, then continued his success with the Rams as an NFL champion.

The halfback also served time in the military.

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Les Horvath, Ohio State (1944)

• NFL teams:  Los Angeles Rams (1947-48), Cleveland Browns (1949)
• Career stats: 
• Awards and accolades:  1-time AAFC champion

Les Horvath was the first Ohio State player to win the Heisman Trophy, beginning a legacy of all-time Buckeyes.

Horvath played a few NFL seasons, including winning an AAFC title with the Browns.

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Frank Sinkwich, Georgia (1942)

• NFL teams:  Detroit Lions (1943-44), New York Yankees (1946-47), Baltimore Colts (1947)
• Career stats:  35 games, 1,090 rushing yards, 7 rushing TDs, 
• Awards and accolades:  1944 MVP, 1-time First-team All-Pro, 1-time Second-team All-Pro 

The first ever SEC player to win the Heisman, Frank Sinkwich claimed the honor in 1942.

Sinkwich also won a national title with Georgia in college, and he won an MVP in the NFL.

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Bruce Smith, Minnesota (1941)

• NFL teams: Green Bay Packers (1945-48), Los Angeles Rams (1948)
• Career stats:  31 games, 560 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD, 79 receiving yards, 1 receiving TD
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

Bruce "Boo" Smith won the 1941 Heisman Trophy at Minnesota. 

He then went on to play in the NFL for the Packers and Rams.

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Tom Harmon, Michigan (1940)

• NFL teams:  New York Americans (1941), Los Angeles Rams (1946-47)
• Career stats:  22 games, 542 rushing yards, 3 rushing TDs, 288 receiving yards, 3 receiving TDs
• Awards and accolades:  N/A

Michigan star Tom Harmon had a packed Wolverines career that included leading the nation in scoring and being a consensus All-American in both 1939 and 1940, winning the 1940 Heisman Trophy and the Maxwell Award.

After serving in the Air Force, Harmon played pro football for the Rams. 

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Davey O'Brien, TCU (1938)

• NFL teams:  Philadelphia Eagles (1939-40)
• Career stats:  22 games, 2,614 passing yards, 11 passing TDs, 34 INTs, 41.8 rating
• Awards and accolades:  1-time First-team All-Pro, 1-time NFL All-Star 

In 1938, Davey O'Brien became the first quarterback to win the Heisman Trophy. He then became the first Heisman trophy winner to play in the NFL.

O'Brien played two seasons for the Eagles, later becoming a College Football Hall of Famer.

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Heisman Trophy winners who didn't play in the NFL

Here's the list of Heisman Trophy winners who did not play in the NFL.

• Jay Berwanger, Chicago (1935)
• Larry Kelley, Yale (1936)
• Clint Frank, Yale (1937)
• Nile Kinnick, Iowa (1939)
• Angelo Bertelli, Notre Dame (1943)
• Doc Blanchard, Army (1945)
• Dick Kazmaier, Princeton (1951)
• Pete Dawkins, Army (1958)
• Joe Bellino, Navy (1960)
• Charlie Ward, Florida State (1993)

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