Ohio‘s Gridiron Legacy: 91 Players From Buckeye State to the NFL
As the 2025 NFL season begins with a highly anticipated matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and the Philadelphia eagles on September 4th, a important portion of the league’s talent traces its roots back to Ohio high school football. A thorough review reveals at least 91 NFL players hailing from the state, showcasing Ohio’s enduring contribution to professional football.This concentration of talent underscores the strength of ohio’s football programs and their role in developing athletes who excel at the highest level.
For decades,Ohio has been a breeding ground for NFL stars,with players emerging from both established football powerhouses and smaller,ofen overlooked schools. The impact extends beyond individual success stories; it fuels local pride, drives youth participation in the sport, and contributes to the economic vitality of communities across the state. This list, compiled from available records, highlights the breadth and depth of Ohio’s NFL pipeline, demonstrating a consistent flow of talent into the professional ranks.
Here is a list of 91 NFL players produced from Ohio high schools:
Tommy James: Massillon Washington High School… 1947-56 (DET, CLE, BAL)
Sid Lewis: Canton McKinley High School… 1987 (NYJ)
Steve Luke: Massillon Washington High School… 1975-80 (GNB)
kyle McCarthy: Cardinal Mooney High School… 2010-11 (DEN)
Garland Rivers: Canton McKinley High School… 1987 (CHI)
Mike Stoops: Cardinal Mooney High School… 1987 (CHI)
Ramon Walker: Akron Buchtel High School… 2002-05 (HOU)
Jarrod Wilson: Akron Buchtel High School… 2016-21 (JAX, SFO, NYJ)
Jeff Wilkins: Austintown Fitch High School… 1994-2007 (PHI, SFO, STL)
Horace Gillom: Massillon Washington High school… 1947-56 (CLE)
* Paul Maguire: Youngstown Ursuline High School… 1960-70 (LAC, SDG, BUF)
