The Unstoppable 53: 25+ Division 2 Football Players Dominating The NFL In 2024
The narrative of the NFL is often dominated by powerhouse Division I programs, but the truth is that professional football's talent pool runs far deeper. As of the start of the 2024 NFL season, a significant number of players who began their careers at the NCAA Division II level are not only on active rosters but are essential contributors and, in many cases, bona fide superstars. This phenomenon proves that pure football talent, grit, and an unmatched work ethic can shatter the perceived ceiling of "small school" football.
The journey from a Division II field to the bright lights of the NFL is a testament to scouting diligence and player perseverance. While the number of D2 players drafted each year is small—the 2024 NFL Draft saw only one D2 player selected—the pipeline is heavily reliant on the Undrafted Free Agent (UDFA) market. These players often arrive with a chip on their shoulder and a relentless drive to prove they belong, a mentality that has led to some of the league's most compelling success stories.
The 2024 Roster: Notable Division II Players Currently in the NFL
The 2024 NFL season features approximately 46 to 53 former Division II players on active 53-man rosters, with many more on practice squads. This list highlights some of the most impactful and recently active athletes who successfully made the jump from the D2 ranks to the highest level of professional football, showcasing the diverse range of positions and schools represented.
- Austin Ekeler, RB: Western Colorado
- Adam Thielen, WR: Minnesota State
- Kenny Moore II, CB: Valdosta State
- Matthew Judon, LB: Grand Valley State
- Tyreek Hill, WR: University of West Alabama
- Kyle Dugger, S: Lenoir-Rhyne
- Zach Sieler, DE: Ferris State
- Grover Stewart, DT: Albany State
- EJ Speed, LB: Tarleton State
- Ryan Jensen, C: CSU Pueblo
- Greg Zuerlein, K: Missouri Western
- Brandon Williams, DT: Missouri Southern
- John Brown, WR: Pittsburg State University
- Deonte Harty (Harris), WR/KR: Assumption
- C.J. Ham, FB: Augustana (SD)
- Joshua Williams, CB: Fayetteville State
- Gregory Junior, CB: Ouachita Baptist
- Sam Roberts, DL: Northwest Missouri State
- Dareke Young, WR: Lenoir-Rhyne
- Christian Matthew, CB: Valdosta State
- Michael Jerrell, OL: Findlay (2024 Draft Pick)
- John Cominsky, DT: Charleston (WV)
- Erik Harris, S: Cal U (PA)
- Mike Rigerman, TE: Findlay
- Xavier Wade, CB: Ferris State
The D2-to-NFL Blueprint: Undrafted Free Agent Success Stories
While Division I players are often scouted from their freshman year, the path for a Division II athlete is typically more challenging, relying heavily on standout performances at the NFL Combine, Pro Days, and the Senior Bowl. Many of the biggest stars from D2 entered the league not through the draft, but as Undrafted Free Agents (UDFAs), a testament to their ability to prove themselves against long odds.
Adam Thielen: The Ultimate Walk-On Story
Adam Thielen’s journey from Minnesota State to the NFL is legendary. He was a walk-on at Minnesota State and went completely undrafted in 2013. Thielen had to pay a $200 fee just to attend a regional combine. His perseverance paid off, turning a long-shot tryout into a spot on the Minnesota Vikings' practice squad, and eventually becoming a Pro Bowl wide receiver. His career exemplifies the potential hidden within the D2 ranks and the importance of a relentless, self-made attitude.
Austin Ekeler: From Western Colorado to Fantasy Superstar
Austin Ekeler, a running back from Western Colorado, is another prime example of a D2 UDFA success story. Despite playing at a smaller school, Ekeler's explosive athleticism and versatility were undeniable. He signed with the Los Angeles Chargers as an undrafted free agent in 2017 and quickly developed into one of the most dynamic, dual-threat running backs in the league, becoming a fantasy football staple and a crucial offensive weapon.
The Pro Bowl Pipeline: Judon and Moore II
The D2 talent pool isn't just producing role players; it's producing elite talent. Linebacker Matthew Judon, from Grand Valley State, has been a dominant pass-rusher and a multiple-time Pro Bowl selection. Similarly, cornerback Kenny Moore II, who played at Valdosta State, has emerged as one of the NFL's premier slot cornerbacks and a Pro Bowl selection. These players prove that the talent evaluation process in the NFL is truly a meritocracy, regardless of the college logo on the helmet.
The 2024 NFL Draft and the Future of D2 Talent
The 2024 NFL Draft continued the tradition of D2 players hearing their names called, albeit briefly. The sole Division II player drafted was Michael Jerrell, an offensive lineman from the University of Findlay, who was selected in the 6th round by the Seattle Seahawks. This selection was a significant moment for both Jerrell and the D2 community, highlighting that NFL teams are willing to invest draft capital in small-school players who possess the requisite size, athleticism, and technique.
The low draft numbers, however, do not reflect the true talent making the league. The majority of D2 players find their way onto rosters through the UDFA route, proving their worth during rookie minicamps and training camp battles. The success of players like cornerback Kader Kohou (Texas A&M-Commerce), who went undrafted and quickly became a starter for the Miami Dolphins, serves as the modern blueprint for D2 prospects.
Key Division II Schools Producing NFL Talent
While the talent is spread across the country, certain Division II programs have established themselves as consistent feeders of NFL-caliber talent. These schools often have strong coaching staffs and a history of developing players who can compete at the next level.
- Grand Valley State: Known for producing top-tier defensive talent like Matthew Judon.
- Valdosta State: A consistent powerhouse that has sent multiple players, including Kenny Moore II and Christian Matthew, to the NFL.
- Ferris State: A recent national champion that has seen players like Zach Sieler and Xavier Wade make the leap.
- Lenoir-Rhyne: Home of two current active NFL players, safety Kyle Dugger and wide receiver Dareke Young, showcasing their ability to find and develop exceptional athletes.
- Northwest Missouri State: A perennial D2 contender that continues to send talent like defensive lineman Sam Roberts to the professional ranks.
The presence of these players underscores a critical truth about professional football: talent is everywhere. The Division II level provides a proving ground for athletes who may have been overlooked by larger programs but possess the physical tools and mental toughness required to succeed in the NFL. Their stories are a powerful reminder that hard work and dedication can bridge any gap, turning a small-school dream into a big-league reality.
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