Top 10 Best Educated NFL Players of All-Time

By Jason Bolton March 01, 2024 08:42

The National Football League (NFL) has seen numerous players who have not only excelled on the field but have also distinguished themselves through their educational achievements. These individuals have proven that they are not just athletes, but also scholars, as they pursued higher education and earned impressive academic credentials. Here, we take a closer look at the top 10 best educated NFL players of all-time, highlighting their academic accomplishments and the impact they have made beyond the football field.

1. Myron Rolle

Myron Rolle, a former safety for the Tennessee Titans and Pittsburgh Steelers, is renowned for his exceptional academic achievements. He was a Rhodes Scholar and earned a degree in medical anthropology from Florida State University. Rolle then went on to study at Oxford University, where he obtained a master’s degree in medical anthropology. His dedication to both football and academics exemplifies the ideal of the student-athlete.

2. John Urschel

John Urschel, a retired offensive lineman for the Baltimore Ravens, is another NFL player celebrated for his intellect. Urschel graduated from Penn State with a bachelor’s and master’s degree in mathematics while playing in the NFL. He has since pursued a Ph.D. in mathematics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), showcasing his commitment to scholarly pursuits alongside his football career.

3. Ryan Fitzpatrick

Ryan Fitzpatrick, a veteran quarterback known for his stints with multiple NFL teams, has proven himself to be a highly educated individual. He graduated from Harvard University with a degree in economics, distinguishing himself both on the field and in the classroom. Fitzpatrick’s academic background has earned him respect and admiration, demonstrating that intelligence and athleticism can go hand in hand.

4. Brandon Copeland

Brandon Copeland, a linebacker who has played for the Detroit Lions and New York Jets, is notable for his achievements off the field. In addition to his successful NFL career, Copeland has shown his dedication to education by teaching a financial literacy course at the University of Pennsylvania. Furthermore, he has pursued entrepreneurial ventures and is a respected voice in the realm of personal finance.

5. Andrew Whitworth

Andrew Whitworth, a highly respected offensive tackle for the Los Angeles Rams, is recognized for his academic endeavors. Whitworth graduated from Louisiana State University with a degree in kinesiology, showcasing his commitment to education alongside his football career. His achievements both on and off the field have made him a role model for aspiring student-athletes.

6. Richard Sherman

Richard Sherman, a standout cornerback known for his time with the Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers, is celebrated for his academic accomplishments. Sherman graduated from Stanford University with a degree in communication, demonstrating his dedication to scholarly pursuits. His success in the NFL combined with his academic background has solidified his reputation as a well-rounded and intellectually gifted individual.

7. Kelvin Beachum

Kelvin Beachum, an offensive tackle who has played for several NFL teams, is highly regarded for his commitment to education and community service. Beachum graduated from Southern Methodist University with a degree in economics and has actively contributed to various charitable initiatives. His academic success and philanthropic efforts have made him a respected figure both on and off the field.

8. Alex Smith

Alex Smith, a former quarterback known for his time with the San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs, has demonstrated his dedication to education and leadership. Smith graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in economics and was known for his exemplary work ethic and intelligence on the football field. His academic background and achievements in the NFL have solidified his status as a well-respected figure in the sports world.

9. Mychal Kendricks

Mychal Kendricks, a linebacker who has played for the Philadelphia Eagles and Seattle Seahawks, is recognized for his academic achievements and diverse interests. Kendricks graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a degree in sociology and has pursued entrepreneurial ventures outside of football. His academic accomplishments and entrepreneurial pursuits exemplify his multifaceted talents beyond the gridiron.

10. Nnamdi Asomugha

Nnamdi Asomugha, a former cornerback known for his time with the Oakland Raiders, is celebrated for his commitment to education and philanthropy. Asomugha graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a degree in corporate finance. Beyond his NFL career, he has been actively involved in various charitable endeavors and has emphasized the importance of education and empowerment in underserved communities.

The educational achievements of these NFL players serve as a testament to their dedication, intelligence, and multifaceted talents. Their pursuit of higher education alongside their successful football careers exemplifies the ideal of the scholar-athlete, inspiring the next generation of aspiring student-athletes to prioritize academic excellence alongside their athletic pursuits. These individuals have not only excelled on the field but have also made significant contributions to academia, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy, leaving a lasting impact beyond the game of football.