The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) has a rich athletic history, and its football program has been a breeding ground for talented players who have gone on to succeed in the National Football League (NFL). Despite the program’s discontinuation in 2014 and subsequent reinstatement in 2017, UAB has produced a remarkable number of NFL players. In this article, we will delve into the world of UAB football and explore the number of NFL players who have come from this esteemed institution.
A Brief History of UAB Football
Before we dive into the number of NFL players from UAB, it’s essential to understand the program’s history. The UAB Blazers football team was established in 1991 and played their first game in 1991. The team competed in the NCAA Division I-AA (now known as the Football Championship Subdivision) from 1991 to 1995 before moving to the NCAA Division I-A (now known as the Football Bowl Subdivision) in 1996. The Blazers played in the Conference USA (C-USA) from 1999 to 2014, winning two conference championships during that period.
The Discontinuation and Reinstatement of UAB Football
In 2014, the University of Alabama at Birmingham announced that it would be discontinuing its football program due to financial constraints. The decision was met with widespread criticism and disappointment from the UAB community, alumni, and fans. However, in 2015, the university announced that it would be reinstating the football program, thanks in part to a fundraising campaign that raised over $40 million. The Blazers returned to the field in 2017 and have been competing in the C-USA ever since.
UAB’s NFL Pipeline
Despite the program’s discontinuation and reinstatement, UAB has produced a remarkable number of NFL players. According to data from the NFL Players Association, over 50 UAB players have been drafted or signed as free agents by NFL teams since the program’s inception. This number is impressive, considering the program’s relatively short history and the fact that it was discontinued for two years.
Notable UAB Players in the NFL
Some notable UAB players who have gone on to succeed in the NFL include:
- Rodney Hudson, a center who was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the second round of the 2011 NFL Draft and has since played for the Oakland Raiders and Arizona Cardinals.
- Bryan Thomas, a defensive end who was drafted by the New York Jets in the first round of the 2002 NFL Draft and played for the Jets from 2002 to 2011.
- Joe Webb, a quarterback who was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the sixth round of the 2010 NFL Draft and has since played for the Vikings, Carolina Panthers, and Buffalo Bills.
UAB Players in the NFL by Position
Here is a breakdown of UAB players in the NFL by position:
| Position | Number of Players |
|---|---|
| Offensive Line | 12 |
| Defensive Line | 10 |
| Linebacker | 8 |
| Defensive Back | 7 |
| Wide Receiver | 5 |
| Quarterback | 3 |
| Running Back | 2 |
| Tight End | 1 |
UAB’s NFL Draft History
UAB has a rich history of producing NFL draft picks. Since the program’s inception, 24 UAB players have been drafted by NFL teams. The highest draft pick from UAB was Bryan Thomas, who was selected by the New York Jets with the 29th overall pick in the first round of the 2002 NFL Draft.
UAB’s NFL Draft Picks by Round
Here is a breakdown of UAB’s NFL draft picks by round:
- First Round: 1
- Second Round: 2
- Third Round: 3
- Fourth Round: 4
- Fifth Round: 5
- Sixth Round: 4
- Seventh Round: 5
Conclusion
In conclusion, the University of Alabama at Birmingham has a rich athletic history, and its football program has been a breeding ground for talented players who have gone on to succeed in the NFL. Despite the program’s discontinuation and reinstatement, UAB has produced a remarkable number of NFL players, with over 50 players being drafted or signed as free agents by NFL teams. The program’s NFL pipeline is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the UAB coaching staff, players, and administration. As the Blazers continue to compete in the C-USA, it will be exciting to see which players will be the next to make the jump to the NFL.
What is the significance of UAB in the NFL?
The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) has a rich history of producing talented football players who have gone on to successful careers in the National Football League (NFL). The university’s football program has been a breeding ground for top-notch athletes, and its impact on the NFL is undeniable. From the early days of the program to the present, UAB has consistently produced players who have made a name for themselves in the league.
UAB’s success in producing NFL players can be attributed to the university’s commitment to excellence in athletics. The football program has a strong reputation for developing players who are not only skilled on the field but also possess the dedication and work ethic required to succeed at the highest level. As a result, UAB has become a go-to destination for NFL scouts and coaches looking for talented players to join their teams.
How many NFL players have come from UAB?
According to recent statistics, over 100 UAB players have been drafted or signed as free agents by NFL teams since the program’s inception. This number is a testament to the university’s ability to produce top-level talent and its reputation as a pipeline to the NFL. From defensive backs to wide receivers, UAB has produced players who have excelled in various positions on the field.
The number of UAB players in the NFL is a source of pride for the university and its alumni. It demonstrates the program’s commitment to developing players who are capable of competing at the highest level. As the program continues to grow and evolve, it is likely that even more UAB players will make their way to the NFL, further solidifying the university’s reputation as a breeding ground for top talent.
Who are some notable NFL players from UAB?
Some notable NFL players from UAB include Roddy White, a wide receiver who played for the Atlanta Falcons, and Bryan Thomas, a defensive end who played for the New York Jets. Other notable players include Darius Johnson, a wide receiver who played for the Atlanta Falcons, and Isaiah Buggs, a defensive tackle who currently plays for the Pittsburgh Steelers. These players are just a few examples of the many talented athletes who have come out of UAB’s football program.
These players have not only made a name for themselves in the NFL but have also served as role models for young athletes at UAB. They demonstrate the potential for success that exists within the program and inspire current players to work towards their own goals of making it to the NFL. As UAB continues to produce talented players, it is likely that we will see even more notable athletes emerge from the program.
What positions have UAB players typically played in the NFL?
UAB players have typically played a variety of positions in the NFL, including defensive back, wide receiver, and defensive line. The university’s football program has a strong reputation for developing players who are skilled in these areas, and many UAB players have gone on to excel in these positions at the professional level.
The versatility of UAB players has made them attractive to NFL teams, who are always looking for athletes who can contribute in multiple ways. Whether it’s a defensive back who can cover receivers or a defensive lineman who can rush the quarterback, UAB players have consistently demonstrated the ability to make an impact on the field. As the program continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see UAB players excelling in even more positions in the NFL.
How has UAB’s football program contributed to the NFL?
UAB’s football program has contributed to the NFL in a number of ways, including providing talented players, developing coaches, and serving as a pipeline for scouts and coaches to discover new talent. The program’s commitment to excellence has made it a go-to destination for NFL teams looking for players who are ready to compete at the highest level.
The impact of UAB’s football program on the NFL extends beyond just the players who have come out of the program. The university’s coaches and staff have also played a significant role in shaping the league, with many going on to coach or work in front offices for NFL teams. As the program continues to grow and evolve, it is likely that we will see even more contributions from UAB to the NFL.
What is the future outlook for UAB players in the NFL?
The future outlook for UAB players in the NFL is bright, with many talented athletes currently in the program who are likely to make their way to the league in the coming years. The university’s commitment to excellence in athletics, combined with its strong reputation for developing players, makes it an attractive destination for NFL scouts and coaches.
As the program continues to grow and evolve, it is likely that we will see even more UAB players making their way to the NFL. The university’s focus on developing players who are not only skilled on the field but also possess the dedication and work ethic required to succeed at the highest level will continue to make it a pipeline for top talent. With its strong reputation and commitment to excellence, UAB is likely to remain a major player in the NFL for years to come.
How can UAB continue to produce NFL players?
UAB can continue to produce NFL players by maintaining its commitment to excellence in athletics and continuing to develop players who are skilled on the field and possess the dedication and work ethic required to succeed at the highest level. The university’s focus on recruiting top talent, combined with its strong coaching staff and facilities, will continue to make it an attractive destination for athletes who are looking to make it to the NFL.
Additionally, UAB can continue to produce NFL players by building on its strong reputation and relationships with NFL teams. By providing a pipeline for scouts and coaches to discover new talent, the university can continue to send players to the league and maintain its reputation as a breeding ground for top-level athletes. With its strong program and commitment to excellence, UAB is well-positioned to continue producing NFL players for years to come.