The Yale University Bulldogs have a rich history of producing talented football players who go on to compete at the highest level in the National Football League (NFL). Despite being an Ivy League school with strict academic standards, Yale has consistently sent players to the NFL, with some achieving great success. In this article, we will explore the notable Yale NFL players, their achievements, and the impact they have had on the sport.
Notable Yale NFL Players
One of the most famous Yale NFL players is Calvin Hill, a running back who played for the Dallas Cowboys, Washington Redskins, and Cleveland Browns from 1969 to 1981. Hill was a four-time Pro Bowl selection and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1998. Another notable Yale player is Gary Fencik, a safety who played for the Chicago Bears from 1976 to 1987. Fencik was a key member of the Bears’ defense during their Super Bowl XX championship season in 1985.
Modern Era Players
In recent years, Yale has continued to produce talented players who have gone on to play in the NFL. Linebacker Foyesade Oluokun is a prime example, having played for the Atlanta Falcons from 2018 to 2021. Oluokun was a key contributor to the Falcons’ defense, starting 30 games and recording over 200 tackles. Another modern-era player is Desmond Bryant, a defensive tackle who played for the Oakland Raiders and Cleveland Browns from 2009 to 2013. Bryant was a starter for both teams and recorded 10.5 sacks in his NFL career.
| Player | Position | NFL Team(s) | Years Played |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calvin Hill | Running Back | Dallas Cowboys, Washington Redskins, Cleveland Browns | 1969-1981 |
| Gary Fencik | Safety | Chicago Bears | 1976-1987 |
| Foyesade Oluokun | Linebacker | Atlanta Falcons | 2018-2021 |
| Desmond Bryant | Defensive Tackle | Oakland Raiders, Cleveland Browns | 2009-2013 |
Impact on the NFL
The Yale NFL players have made a significant impact on the sport, both on and off the field. Calvin Hill was a pioneer for Ivy League players in the NFL, paving the way for future generations of players from academic institutions. Gary Fencik was a key member of the Chicago Bears’ defense during their Super Bowl XX championship season, demonstrating the value of intelligent and athletic players from Ivy League schools.
Academic Excellence
Yale University’s academic standards are among the highest in the country, and the school’s football players are no exception. Many Yale NFL players have gone on to achieve great success in their post-football careers, thanks to the strong educational foundation they received at the university. Business and law are popular career paths for former Yale football players, with many leveraging their athletic experience and network to succeed in these fields.
- Calvin Hill earned an MBA from the University of Denver and went on to work in the financial industry.
- Gary Fencik earned a law degree from the University of Chicago and practiced law in Illinois.
- Foyesade Oluokun is currently pursuing a degree in political science at Yale, demonstrating the importance of academics in the lives of student-athletes.
How many Yale players have been drafted into the NFL?
+According to the NFL, a total of 15 Yale players have been drafted into the league since the draft began in 1936.
What is the most successful Yale NFL player of all time?
+Calvin Hill is widely considered the most successful Yale NFL player, with a 12-year career, four Pro Bowl appearances, and a spot in the College Football Hall of Fame.
In conclusion, the Yale NFL players have made a significant impact on the sport, both on and off the field. From Calvin Hill to Foyesade Oluokun, these players have demonstrated the value of academic excellence and athletic talent, paving the way for future generations of Ivy League players in the NFL.
