Who are the Top Football Players Born in Maine?

By Jason Bolton December 27, 2023 08:51

Football is a sport that captures the hearts of millions around the world. Every state in the United States has produced talented football players, and Maine is no exception. Despite being a small state with a population of just over 1.3 million, Maine has produced a number of notable football players who have made their mark on the sport. In this article, we will explore some of the top football players born in Maine.

Patrick Ricard

Patrick Ricard, born on May 27, 1994, in Spencer, Maine, is a professional football player who currently plays as a fullback and defensive lineman for the Baltimore Ravens in the National Football League (NFL). Ricard attended the University of Maine, where he played college football for the Black Bears. In 2017, he signed with the Baltimore Ravens as an undrafted free agent and quickly made an impact on the team. Ricard's versatility and work ethic have made him a valuable asset to the Ravens.

John Huard

John Huard, born on February 16, 1946, in Waterville, Maine, is a former professional football player and coach. Huard played college football at the University of Maine and was later drafted by the Denver Broncos in the 1969 NFL Draft. He played as a linebacker for the Broncos and the Boston Patriots during his professional career. After retiring as a player, Huard went on to become a successful football coach at the college level.

Matt Mulligan

Matt Mulligan, born on January 18, 1985, in Bangor, Maine, is a former professional football player who played as a tight end in the NFL. Mulligan played college football at the University of Maine and was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Miami Dolphins in 2008. He went on to play for several teams in the NFL, including the New York Jets, St. Louis Rams, Tennessee Titans, and Detroit Lions. Mulligan's physicality and blocking ability made him a valuable asset to the teams he played for.

Justin Strzelczyk

Justin Strzelczyk, born on January 11, 1968, in McCandless, Pennsylvania, was a professional football player who spent his entire career with the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL. While Strzelczyk was not born in Maine, he moved to the state with his family at a young age and attended high school there. He went on to play college football at the University of Maine before being drafted by the Steelers in the 1988 NFL Draft. Strzelczyk played as an offensive lineman and was known for his toughness and dedication to the game.

Michael James

Michael James, born on July 4, 1983, in Portland, Maine, is a former professional football player who played as a wide receiver in the NFL. James played college football at the University of Maine and was signed as an undrafted free agent by the San Diego Chargers in 2007. He went on to play for the Chargers and the New England Patriots during his professional career. James' speed and agility made him a threat on the field and a valuable asset to his teams.

Jeremy LeSueur

Jeremy LeSueur, born on November 18, 1981, in Augusta, Maine, is a former professional football player who played as a cornerback in the NFL. LeSueur played college football at the University of Michigan and was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the 2004 NFL Draft. He went on to play for the Broncos, the Arizona Cardinals, and the Oakland Raiders during his professional career. LeSueur's athleticism and coverage skills made him a valuable asset to the teams he played for.

Nick DiSalvo

Nick DiSalvo, born on February 23, 1974, in Portland, Maine, is a former professional football player who played as an offensive lineman in the NFL. DiSalvo played college football at the University of New Hampshire and was signed as an undrafted free agent by the New England Patriots in 1997. He went on to play for the Patriots, the New York Jets, and the Detroit Lions during his professional career. DiSalvo's size and strength made him a formidable presence on the offensive line.

Maine may be a small state, but it has produced some talented football players who have made their mark on the sport. From Patrick Ricard's versatility to John Huard's coaching success, these players have showcased their skills at both the college and professional levels. Whether it's on offense or defense, the football players born in Maine have proven that talent can emerge from unexpected places. Their contributions to the sport serve as an inspiration to aspiring football players from the state and beyond.