College Football Legends Who Never Entered the NFL: A Look at Remarkable Athletes

In the history of college football, there have been many players who displayed exceptional talent but never entered the NFL draft. These athletes left an indelible mark on their respective schools and often in the world more broadly. This article explores some of the best college football players who never made it to the NFL, highlighting their achievements, careers, and the reasons behind their choices.

Bill Cleary: A Harvard Hockey Star and Olympic Medalist

Bill Cleary, a Harvard hockey player, stands out as one of the best college football athletes who never entered the NFL. He scored 88 points in just 21 games and went on to win a Silver Medal in the 1956 Winter Olympics and a Gold Medal in the 1960 Winter Olympics, where he was the leading scorer of the Olympic tournament. Incredibly, despite having an offer from the Montreal Canadiens, Cleary chose to pursue a career in the insurance business, instead of following a professional ice hockey path. This decision led him into a coaching career; he coached Harvard and led the team to the 1989 NCAA Championship. Cleary was also named the athletic director at Harvard, where he continued to make significant contributions long after his playing career had ended.

Interestingly, Cleary also had a small role in the film industry, doubling for actor Ryan O’Neal in the movie Love Story. This life journey, from a college hockey star to a respected coach and administrator, showcases his versatility and adaptability.

Donn Moomaw: A Devout Christian and Consensus All-American

Donn Moomaw, a consensus All-American college football player at UCLA in the early 1950s, is another story of a player who did not enter the NFL. Moomaw's refusal to play on Sundays, due to his strong Christian beliefs, played a significant role in his decision. This is a common reason among Christian football players, as many choose to abstain from professional sports that conflict with their faith.

After his playing career, Moomaw went on to become a Presbyterian minister, dedicating his life to serving his community and spreading his faith. While Moomaw may not be considered among the very best in terms of raw talent, his decision to prioritize his beliefs over a professional career leaves an inspiring legacy.

Len Bias: A Promising Basketball Talent with Tragic Mortality

Len Bias, a standout ACC player of the year and a two-time college basketball All-American from the University of Maryland, is another name worth mentioning. At 6'8", Bias was considered one of the most complete forwards to come out of college in 1986. However, his promising future in the NBA was cut short by his untimely death after he was drafted by the Boston Celtics with the second overall pick in 1986. Bias tragically died from cardiac arrhythmia due to a cocaine overdose, causing a significant loss for the basketball world.

Hank Gathers: A Scoring Machine and NCAA Basketball Record Holder

Award-winning basketball player Hank Gathers from Loyola Marymount University in California is a quintessential example of a player who left a lasting impact despite not entering the NFL. As a junior, Gathers led the nation in scoring and rebounds, earning him a projection as an NBA lottery pick. However, fate had other plans. After collapsing during a WCC tournament game and tragically passing away from a heart condition, Gathers left a legacy of athletic prowess and hard work, inspiring future generations of athletes.

Other Notable Athletes

There are several other notable athletes who did not enter the NFL, each with their own unique stories. Chris Kagel of West Point, who was exceptional in both defense and offense, is a prime example. Similar to Sam Stemback, Kagel had a military commitment that kept him from pursuing an NFL career. Earl Manigault, a New York City basketball legend, is another name to consider. Manigault was known to be as good as most pros during his teenage years, showcasing his incredible talent, but his untimely addiction to heroin cut short his promising career.

Wrapping up, these individuals serve as a reminder of the talent and determination that can be found within the college ranks and the various paths that athletes can take in life. While some players go on to achieve great success in the NFL, others may face challenges and challenges that lead them down different paths, each with their own unique story and lessons to share.