Once Every Spring Thursday, 32 players hear their name called in the NFL Draft's first round. They are, for the most part, 32 of the best college football players and prospects from the previous season. 

And every now and then a player from outside the FBS is taken. And every once and while a player from the NCAA Division II level eventually hears their name by the end of the weekend. It's a reminder that talent in college football doesn’t stop at the Power Five and FBS level. 

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For decades, NCAA Division II has produced stars who dominated Saturdays and proved they belonged on Sundays.

This list expands the all-time greats from the Division II to 32 players, mirroring the an NFL Draft round. It blends production, awards, longevity and pro impact into one complete ranking.

Some names became household legends. Others built their legacy in smaller stadiums with massive numbers and unforgettable seasons.

Together, they form a full first round of Division II excellence — a reminder that elite football talent can come from anywhere.

Here are the 32 best Division II Football Players

32. Tom Collins, Indianapolis, DB (1982–1985)

Tom Collins owns one of the most important defensive records in Division II history. His career interceptions mark speaks for itself. He closes out this first-round-style list with elite ball production.

31. Chris George, Glenville State, WR (1993–1994)

Chris George’s peak production was off the charts. His record-level receiving season still stands out across divisions. He’s one of the most overlooked stars in Division II history.  George’s 1993 receiving season was incredible 117 receptions for 1,876 yards and 15 TD (10 games) and is listed among the leaders for receiving yards per game (187.6).

30. Eric Czerniewski, Central Missouri, QB (2006–2010)

Eric Czerniewski anchored a high-powered offense with big-time production. His Harlon Hill win and standout season totals highlight his place among top quarterbacks.

29. Zach Zebrowski, Central Missouri, QB (2023–2024)

Zach Zebrowski is the face of the modern era. Back-to-back Harlon Hill wins and elite production put him on a historic track. His story is still being written. He signed with the Edmonton Elks of the Canadian Football League. 

28. Ronald Moore, Pittsburg State, RB (1989-1992)

Ronald Moore’s record-setting performances stand out decades later. His ability to dominate in big moments, including championship settings, defines his legacy. Moore finished his collegiate career as the school’s all-time rushing leader with 4,299 yards and 52 touchdowns. He rushed for a school record 2,585 yards and 39 touchdowns as a senior in 1992

27. Bernard Scott, Abilene Christian, RB (2007–2008)

Bernard Scott delivered one of the most explosive seasons ever. His Harlon Hill campaign showcased elite speed and scoring ability. His peak was undeniable. He won the Harlon Hill Trophy in 2008 and finished with 2,277 rushing yards and 38 rushing TDs along with plus 631 receiving yards and four receiving TDs. 

26. Joique Bell, Wayne State, RB (2006–2009)

Joique Bell’s path defined perseverance. A Harlon Hill winner, he turned Division II success into a meaningful NFL career, which included a stretch with the Detroit Lion from 2011-2015. He was a four-time First-Team All-GLIAC selection. He rushed for 2,084 yards and 29 touchdowns when he won the Harlon Hill in 2009. 

25. Vincent Jackson, Northern Colorado, WR (2001-2004)

Vincent Jackson paired size with production. His Division II success translated into a strong NFL career. He was a matchup problem at every level. Jackson played in the NFL from 2005 to 2016 and was a three-time Pro Bowl wide receiver. Northern Colorado moved to FCS in 2006. Jackson had 540 receptions with 9,080 yards and 57 touchdowns in the NFL. 

24. Dallas Mall, Bentley, WR (2001–2004)

Dallas Mall found the end zone — a lot. His touchdown production is among the best in Division II history. He was a constant scoring threat.In fact, no one in college football history caught more than Mall, who had 78 touchdown receptions in at Bentley. He was a four-time All-Northeast-10 first-team selection. He broke Randy Moss' freshman touchdown record when he caught 24 in 2001. 

23. Caleb Murphy, Ferris State, Edge (2020–2022)

Caleb Murphy’s 2022 season was historic. His ability to live in the backfield made him one of the most disruptive defenders ever. His dominance was impossible to ignore. In 2022 he recorded 97 tackles with 27 tackles for loss and 13 quarterback sacks as a senior with six fumble recoveries. He had 15 the year before. He played played for the Los Angeles Chargers in 2025. 

22. Matt Judon, Grand Valley State, Edge (2010–2015)

Matt Judon brought relentless pressure. His sack production and Gene Upshaw Award highlight his dominance. His continued NFL success reinforces his place among Division II’s best defenders. Judon was drafted 146 overall in the fifth round by the Baltimore Ravens and has 72 career sacks in the NFL and four Pro Bowl selections. 

21. Jaleel McLaughlin, Notre Dame (OH), RB (2018–2019)

Jaleel McLaughlin made an immediate impact with 302 rushing yards in his first game.  His explosive production and ability to lead the nation in key categories stand out. Even in a short window, he was elite. He finished his career at Youngstown State after finishing in the top three of the Harlon Hill voting in back-to-back seasons. He has played for the Denver Broncos the last three seasons with 1,093 rushing yards. 

20. Franklyn Quiteh, Bloomsburg, RB (2010–2013)

Franklyn Quiteh delivered consistency and explosion. With three 2,000-yard seasons and a 2013 Harlon Hill Trophy shows his dominance. He was one of the most productive backs of his era. He left college as the No. 3 rusher of all time in Division II. 

19. Dusty Bonner, Valdosta State, QB (2000–2001)

Dusty Bonner’s peak was as good as it gets. Back-to-back Harlon Hill wins and elite efficiency define his short but dominant run. He maximized every opportunity. His college career started as a back up to Tim Couch at Kentucky before heading to Valdosta State where he threw for 8,163 yards with 107 touchdowns, winning the Harlon Hill award in 2000 and 2001 and entered the D2 Hall of Fame in 2013. 

18. Jimmy Terwilliger, East Stroudsburg, QB (2003–2006)

Jimmy Terwilliger’s numbers stack up with anyone. His passing production and award-winning career make him one of the most prolific quarterbacks Division II has seen. The current head coach of East Stroudsburg was the first quarterback in DII history with 3,000 yards of total offense in each of his four seasons. He is 43-27 in six seasons as the head coach at his alma mater. 

17. Chris Hatcher, Valdosta State, QB (1991–1994)

Chris Hatcher led one of the most explosive offenses of his era. His passing numbers and Harlon Hill win highlight his impact. He consistently produced at a high level across multiple seasons. He threw for threw for 11,363 yards and 121 touchdowns in hi career. He went to become the winningest coach in Valdosta State history with a 76-12 record and won the championship in 2004. After three more head coaching stops, including a 10-year stretch at Samford, Hatcher is the "Chief of Staff" at Tulane. 

16. Luis Perez, Texas A&M–Commerce, QB (2017)

The "Spring King" Luis Perez’s 2017 season was electric. He lit up defenses en route to the Harlon Hill Trophy and nearly 5,000 passing yards and won the national championship. His peak performance earns him a spot among the greats. He was the XFL Championship Game MVP in 2023, a about six years after he was a back-to-back All-Lone Star Conference selection. Texas A&M-Commerce moved to the FCS in 2022. 

15. Jessie Tuggle, Valdosta State, LB (1983–1986)

The "Hammer" Jessie Tuggle was a tackling machine. His record-setting college production translated into a long, productive NFL career. He remains one of the best linebackers ever to come through Division II. He was a five-time Pro Bowler who played 14 years for the Atlanta Falcons. He had 340 tackles with Valdosta State and was the GSC Defensive Player of the Year in 1986. 

14. Rod Smith, Missouri Southern, WR (1988–1994)

Rod Smith turned Division II production into a stellar NFL career. His consistency as a receiver and ability to perform on the biggest stages define his legacy. Few have matched his complete résumé. He was one of John Elway's favorite targets during two Super Bowl runs and made three Pro Bowls during an NFL career that included 68 touchdowns 11,389 yards. At Missouri Southern he was two-time All-MIAA selection and his No. 9 is retired. He finished his career with 3,043 receiving yards with 153 catches and 34 touchdown grabs. He is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame. 

13. Jason Vander Laan, Ferris State, QB (2012–2015)

Jason Vander Laan was built differently. A quarterback who could dominate on the ground, he forced defenses to adjust every snap. His unique style and winning résumé make him one of the most memorable players. He won two Harlon Hill Trophys (2014 and 2015)  and his No. 15 is retired by Ferris State. He set a NCAA record for most rushing yards by a quarterback with 5,953 yards. Of those, 1,607 yards came in 2013. 

12. Curt Anes, Grand Valley State, QB (1999–2002)

Curt Anes didn’t just put up numbers — he won. Leading Grand Valley State to a national title, he paired production with team success. That balance defines his place among the elite quarterbacks. In his career, which includes the 2002 Harlon Hill Trophy, he passed for 10,768 yards and 115 touchdowns. 

11. John Matocha, Colorado Mines, QB (2019–2023)

John Matocha’s touchdown numbers jump off the page. His efficiency and scoring ability made him one of the most dangerous quarterbacks of the modern era. A Harlon Hill winner, he delivered at every level. He won the Harlon Hill as a junior and was a finalist as a senior. He passed for 15,006 yards for Colorado Mines with 162 touchdowns. 

10. Brian Shay, Emporia State, RB (1995–1998)

Brian Shay was a production machine. Massive rushing totals and a 1998 Harlon Hill Trophy headline his résumé. His consistency and workload made him one of the most reliable backs Division II has seen. He had 6,958 rushing yards and 9,301 all-purpose yards. He 

9. Jahri Evans, Bloomsburg, OL (2002–2005)

Jahri Evans dominated and is one of the greatest offensive linemen in Division II history. A multiple-time All-American, he carried that excellence into a standout NFL career. He’s the gold standard for Division II offensive linemen. He went to six Pro Bowls, a four-time All-Pro and was a member of the Hall of Fame's All 2010s Team. He played 11 season with the New Orleans Saints at right guard and won a Super Bowl. He is in Bloomsburgh's Hall of Fame and was the 108th pick in the 2006 NFL Draft. 

8. Adam Vinatieri, South Dakota State, K (1991–1994)

Adam Vinatieri’s case is simple — winning. His Division II career was strong, but his NFL legacy is historic. The league’s all-time leading scorer earns his place among the greatest to ever come from this level. He kicked for 24 years in the NFL and won four Super Bowls and is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His career started at South Dakota State where he punted and kicked. He finished his college career as the program's leading scorer with 185 points. South Dakota State joined the FCS in 2004. 

7. Darrell Green, Texas A&M–Kingsville, DB (1978-1982)

One of the greatest football players to ever play, Green is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the College Football Hall of Fame And the Texas A&M-Kingsville Hall of Fame. He revolutionized the defensive back position in the 1980s with his speed and played his entire NFL career with Washington, winning two Super Bowls, winning the 1996 Man of the Year Award and making seven Pro Bowls, three first team All-Pro Teams. At Texas A&M-KIngsville, then known as Texas A&I, he was the Lone Star Conference  MVP in 1982. He had four interceptions and 56 tackles his senior year. He was taken 28th overall pick in 1983 draft, taken right after Dan Marino in a draft that included nine hall of famers. 

6. Andre Reed, Kutztown, WR (1981–1984)

Andre Reed built his foundation at Kutztown before becoming an NFL legend. His production came in a tougher passing era, which makes it even more impressive. His pro résumé elevates him firmly into the top tier. Reed is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and a seven time Pro Bowler and famously played for the Buffalo Bills. He was the 86th pick in 1985. He had 142 receptions and 2,020 yards and 14 touchdowns at Kutztown. Kutztown plays its home games in Andre Reed Stadium. 

5. Tyson Bagent, Shepherd, QB (2018–2022)

Tyson Bagent piled up numbers that may never be matched. His record-breaking total offense and sustained dominance separate him from other quarterbacks. Even in a pass-heavy era, his production stands out. He won the Harlon Hill award in 2021. He owns the record for: 

• Most completions: 1,147
• Most passing yards: 17,034
• Most touchdowns: 159
• Most total yard: 17,213

He started four games for the Chicago Bears in 2023 and has been with the Bears for three years. 

4. Shannon Sharpe, Savannah State, TE (1986–1989)

Arguably the greatest tight end of all -time, Shannon Sharpe was torching defenses at Savannah State. His production and versatility were ahead of their time. His legendary NFL career cements his place near the top. Sharpe, who's brother Sterling is also a Hall of Famer, is a Pro Football Hall of Famer who also was a teammate with Rod Smith on two Denver Super Bowl teams. He won another with the Ravens during his 14 year career. 

Sharpe was the SIAC Player of the Year in 1987 and his No. 2 is retired at Savannah State. He was a three-time First Team All-Conference player. He had 192 receptions for 3,744 yards and 40 touchdowns.

3. John Randle, Texas A&M–Kingsville, DL (1988–1989)

John Randle’s motor never stopped. A dominant defensive force in college, he became one of the NFL’s all-time greats. That rare combination of Division II disruption and pro greatness makes him the top defender here. Randle is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and College Football Hall of Fame. He was inducted into the Texas A&M-Kingsville Hall of Fame in 1997 and had 34 sacks over his last two seasons.  

2. Johnny Bailey, Texas A&M–Kingsville, RB (1986–1989)

Johnny Bailey was a do-it-all force in an era that didn’t inflate stats. His all-purpose dominance and return ability made him a nightmare matchup. His Hall of Fame résumé and NFL success lock him in at No. 2. He is the only three-time Harlon Hill Trophy winner. He made the Javalina's Hall of Fame in 1996 and is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame. He followed Tony Dorsett as the second college football running back with more than 6,000 yards when he rushed for 6,320 yards in his career. He was drafted 228th overall and made the 1992 Pro Bowl with then Phoenix Cardinals. 

1. Danny Woodhead, Chadron State, RB (2004–2007)

Danny Woodhead didn’t just dominate Division II — he redefined it. His record-setting rushing totals and unmatched consistency make him the clear No. 1. Add in two Harlon Hill Trophies and a long NFL career, and his résumé stands alone.

Woodhead is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame and a four-time Harlon Hll Finalist. He recorded 9,259 all-purpose yards and is the all-time leading scorer in Division II history with 654 points with 109 touchdowns. Only Barry Sanders had more yards in college. He rushed for 7,441 yards in his career. 

Woodhead was undrafted but played nine years in the NFL, including four with the San Diego Chargers. 

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