When it comes to the National Football League (NFL), it's natural to think of universities like Ohio State, Alabama, or USC as the breeding grounds for future professional football players. However, there are a few surprises in the mix. One such surprise is Yale University, a prestigious Ivy League institution known for its academic excellence rather than its athletic prowess. While Yale may not be the first name that comes to mind when thinking about NFL players, the university has indeed produced its fair share of talent on the football field. In this article, we will explore the notable NFL players who have emerged from the hallowed halls of Yale.
Calvin Hill
Calvin Hill is perhaps the most famous Yale alumnus to have found success in the NFL. Born on January 2, 1947, in Baltimore, Maryland, Hill attended Yale University from 1965 to 1969. During his time at Yale, he was a standout football player, earning All-Ivy League honors in three consecutive seasons. Hill was an exceptional running back known for his speed, agility, and power.
After his successful college career, Hill was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the first round of the 1969 NFL Draft. He quickly made an impact in the NFL, winning the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award in 1969. Hill went on to have a successful career, playing for the Cowboys, Washington Football Team, and the Cleveland Browns. He was a four-time Pro Bowl selection and won two Super Bowl championships with the Cowboys. Hill retired from professional football after the 1981 season.
Gary Fencik
Another notable NFL player from Yale is Gary Fencik. Born on June 11, 1954, in Chicago, Illinois, Fencik attended Yale University from 1973 to 1976. He was a standout defensive back during his college years, earning All-Ivy League honors in 1975 and 1976.
Fencik was selected by the Chicago Bears in the 10th round of the 1976 NFL Draft. Despite being a late-round pick, Fencik quickly established himself as one of the best safeties in the league. He played his entire 12-year NFL career with the Bears, becoming a key member of the famous "Monsters of the Midway" defense. Fencik was a two-time Pro Bowl selection and played a vital role in the Bears' victory in Super Bowl XX.
Dick Jauron
Dick Jauron is another NFL player who attended Yale University. Born on October 7, 1950, in Swampscott, Massachusetts, Jauron played college football at Yale from 1968 to 1972. He was a standout running back and defensive back, earning All-Ivy League honors in 1971 and 1972.
Jauron was selected by the Detroit Lions in the fourth round of the 1973 NFL Draft. He played in the NFL for eight seasons, primarily as a defensive back. After his playing career, Jauron transitioned into coaching and had a successful career as a head coach in the NFL, most notably with the Chicago Bears and the Buffalo Bills.
Eric Johnson
Eric Johnson is a more recent example of a NFL player from Yale. Born on September 18, 1979, in Needham, Massachusetts, Johnson attended Yale University from 1998 to 2002. He was a standout tight end during his college years, earning All-Ivy League honors in 2000 and 2001.
Johnson was selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the seventh round of the 2001 NFL Draft. He played in the NFL for seven seasons, primarily with the 49ers and the New Orleans Saints. Johnson had a productive career, recording over 2,800 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns.
While Yale University may not be known for its football program, it has produced several notable NFL players over the years. Calvin Hill, Gary Fencik, Dick Jauron, and Eric Johnson are just a few examples of the talented athletes who have emerged from Yale's Ivy League campus. These individuals have not only excelled in the NFL but have also demonstrated that academic excellence can go hand in hand with athletic achievement. Their success serves as a testament to the diverse talents and opportunities that can be found within the walls of Yale University.
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