Kent State’s Football Legacy: A Storied Pipeline to the NFL
Kent State University has a rich history of producing exceptional football talent, with over 50 players making it to the National Football League (NFL) in the program’s 100+ year existence. As the 2022-23 season kicks off, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the Kent State legends who graced the fields of Dix Stadium before making their mark in the professional ranks.
From record-breaking quarterbacks to trailblazing defensive standouts, these players have left an indelible legacy on the game. Let’s take a closer look at five of the most celebrated Kent State alumni who have gone on to achieve greatness in the NFL.
Julian Edelman: From Golden Flash to Super Bowl Hero
Julian Edelman transferred to Kent State his sophomore year and immediately made his mark as the starting quarterback. Over the next three seasons, Edelman led the team in both rushing and passing yards, breaking the single-season total offense record previously held by Josh Cribbs.
Edelman’s versatility and playmaking ability caught the eye of the New England Patriots, who selected him in the 2nd round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Though he was drafted as a wide receiver, Edelman’s background as a quarterback proved invaluable, as he became a key cog in the Patriots’ dynamic offense. Over the course of 12 seasons in New England, Edelman won three Super Bowl championships, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest Kent State alumni to ever play in the NFL.
James Harrison: From Undrafted to Defensive Player of the Year
James Harrison had a humble start at Kent State, walking on to the football team as a linebacker in 1998 without seeing any game action that year. Over the next three seasons, however, Harrison blossomed into a dominant force, leading the Mid-American Conference (MAC) in sacks his senior year.
Despite going undrafted, Harrison signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2004 and went on to have a stellar NFL career. He set the franchise record for all-time sacks and became the only undrafted player in league history to win the Defensive Player of the Year award, cementing his status as one of the most fearsome linebackers of his era. Harrison’s perseverance and tenacity exemplify the Kent State spirit, and his success story continues to inspire aspiring players from the program.
Josh Cribbs: The All-Purpose Dynamo
Josh Cribbs is one of the most prolific offensive players in Kent State history, holding the school’s all-time records for rushing touchdowns, pass completions, and total points scored. During his four-year career with the Golden Flashes, Cribbs amassed an incredible 10,839 yards of total offense, showcasing his versatility as a dual-threat quarterback.
Cribbs’ dynamic playmaking ability caught the eye of the Cleveland Browns, who signed him as an undrafted free agent in 2005. In the NFL, Cribbs made his name as a premier kick returner, setting a franchise record for return yards in his rookie season and tying the league record for most touchdowns from kick returns in a single season. Cribbs’ electrifying performances on special teams cemented his status as a Kent State legend and one of the most exciting players to ever grace the gridiron.
Antonio Gates: The Basketball Player Turned Superstar Tight End
Antonio Gates may not have played football in college, but his athletic prowess was evident during his four-year basketball career at Kent State. As a member of the school’s historic 2001 “Cinderella” team, Gates honed his skills and earned a reputation as a dominant interior presence.
Despite being discouraged from pursuing a career in the NBA, Gates decided to take a chance on football, signing with the San Diego Chargers as an undrafted free agent in 2003. His transition to the tight end position was an immediate success, as Gates went on to become one of the most prolific pass-catchers in NFL history. He holds the Chargers’ all-time records for receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns, and is the league’s all-time leader in touchdown catches by a tight end. Gates’ remarkable journey from basketball standout to Hall of Fame-caliber tight end is a testament to the exceptional athletic talent that has emerged from the Kent State program.
Jack Lambert: The Legendary Linebacker
Jack Lambert is widely regarded as one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history, and his collegiate career at Kent State laid the foundation for his Hall of Fame success. During his time with the Golden Flashes, Lambert led the team to its first and only Mid-American Conference (MAC) championship in 1972, earning the conference’s Defensive Player of the Year award and leading the league in tackles.
Lambert’s tenacity and hard-hitting style caught the attention of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who selected him in the 2nd round of the 1974 NFL Draft. Over the next decade, Lambert became the backbone of the Steelers’ legendary “Steel Curtain” defense, winning four Super Bowl titles and earning 10 Pro Bowl selections. His impact on the game was so profound that he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990, solidifying his status as one of the most iconic and influential Kent State alumni to ever play in the NFL.
A Continuous Legacy of Excellence
The stories of these five Kent State legends are just a small sample of the incredible talent that has emerged from the university’s football program over the years. With over 50 players making it to the NFL, the Golden Flashes have established themselves as a consistent pipeline of elite talent, producing standouts at every position.
Beyond the individual accomplishments, Kent State has also been honored to be the alma mater of legendary college football coaches like Nick Saban and Lou Holtz, further cementing the school’s status as a breeding ground for football excellence.
As the current Kent State football team takes the field, they do so with the knowledge that they are carrying on a proud tradition of excellence. The Kent Football League community takes great pride in celebrating the achievements of these Kent State alumni, and looks forward to seeing the next generation of Golden Flashes make their mark on the gridiron.
Honoring the Greats: The Kent State Athletics Hall of Fame
The Kent State Athletics Hall of Fame has been an integral part of preserving and celebrating the university’s rich football legacy, inducting over 50 players over the decades. The most recent addition to this prestigious group is former NFL running back Dri Archer, further reinforcing the program’s ability to develop elite-level talent.
Beyond the players, the Hall of Fame also honors the legendary coaches who have left an indelible mark on the Kent State football program. Names like Nick Saban and Lou Holtz are revered not just for their success at the collegiate level, but for the countless players they’ve helped shape and the profound impact they’ve had on the sport as a whole.
As the Kent Football League community continues to celebrate the achievements of its past and present stars, the Kent State Athletics Hall of Fame stands as a constant reminder of the enduring legacy of Kent State football. It is a testament to the unwavering commitment, tireless work ethic, and unparalleled talent that have defined the program for generations.
The Next Chapter: Anticipation and Excitement for the Kent Football League
With the Kent Football League season well underway, the local football community is abuzz with anticipation and excitement. Fans eagerly await the chance to see the next generation of Kent State stars take the field, hoping to catch a glimpse of the next Julian Edelman, James Harrison, or Jack Lambert.
The passion and dedication of the Kent Football League faithful is unparalleled, as they come together to support their local teams and cherish the rich history of the sport in their community. Whether it’s the intensity of a heated derby match or the thrill of a last-minute, game-winning play, the heartbeat of the Kent football community is ever-present, fueling the dreams and aspirations of the next wave of local legends.
As the season progresses and the league reaches its climactic moments, the Kent Football League community will undoubtedly be there to celebrate the achievements of its teams and players, while also looking ahead to the future. The legacy of Kent State football may be storied, but the excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead is palpable, as the Kent Football League continues to carve out its own place in the annals of the sport.
