The ACC Conference has been a powerhouse in college football, producing numerous talented players who have gone on to have successful careers in the NFL. Since 2000, the ACC Conference has seen an incredible array of talent across various positions. Let’s explore some of the best players who have graced ACC fields in the past two decades.
Quarterbacks
- Lamar Jackson (Louisville, 2015-2017)
Lamar Jackson’s electrifying play at Louisville earned him the Heisman Trophy in 2016. His dual-threat capabilities revolutionized the quarterback position, as he passed for 9,043 yards and rushed for 4,132 yards in his college career. Jackson’s ability to make plays with both his arm and legs made him nearly unstoppable at the college level. Of course the Baltimore Ravens star quarterback has continued his excellence in the NFL. - Deshaun Watson (Clemson, 2014-2016)
Watson led Clemson to two national championship games, winning one in 2016. His poise under pressure and ability to make clutch plays set him apart. Watson finished his Clemson career with 10,163 passing yards and 90 touchdowns, along with 1,934 rushing yards and 26 rushing touchdowns. This followed him into the NFL, though his career has taken a turn for the worse as the Cleveland Browns quarterback has struggled to regain his old form. - Jameis Winston (Florida State, 2013-2014)
In his two years as a starter, Winston led Florida State to a national championship and won the Heisman Trophy. His 2013 season was particularly impressive, as he threw for 4,057 yards and 40 touchdowns, showcasing his strong arm and decision-making skills.
Running Backs
- Dalvin Cook (Florida State, 2014-2016)
Cook was a dominant force in the ACC, rushing for over 1,000 yards in each of his three seasons at Florida State. He finished his college career with 4,464 rushing yards and 46 touchdowns, demonstrating his explosiveness and ability to break tackles. - C.J. Spiller (Clemson, 2006-2009)
Spiller was a versatile threat for Clemson, excelling as both a runner and receiver. He amassed 3,547 rushing yards, 1,420 receiving yards, and scored 51 total touchdowns during his college career. His speed and agility made him a constant big-play threat. - Andre Williams (Boston College, 2010-2013)
Williams had a breakout senior season in 2013, rushing for 2,177 yards and 18 touchdowns. His power running style and durability made him one of the most productive backs in ACC Conference history.
Wide Receivers
- Calvin Johnson (Georgia Tech, 2004-2006)
“Megatron” was a physical marvel at Georgia Tech, using his size and speed to dominate opposing defenses. Johnson finished his college career with 2,927 receiving yards and 28 touchdowns, showcasing the skills that would make him one of the NFL’s best receivers. - DeAndre Hopkins (Clemson, 2010-2012)
Hopkins was a reliable target at Clemson, finishing his career with 3,020 receiving yards and 27 touchdowns. His route-running ability and sure hands made him a favorite target for Clemson quarterbacks. Now DeAndre Hopkins and Patrick Mahomes are making an excellent duo for the Kansas City Chiefs. - Peter Warrick (Florida State, 1996-1999)
While Warrick’s career began before 2000, his impact extended into the new millennium. He was a dynamic playmaker, finishing his career with 3,517 receiving yards and 32 touchdowns, and was a key part of Florida State’s 1999 national championship team.
Defensive Players
- Julius Peppers (North Carolina, 1999-2001)
Peppers was a dominant force on the defensive line, finishing his career with 30.5 sacks and 53 tackles for loss. His combination of size, speed, and athleticism made him nearly unblockable at the college level. - Derwin James (Florida State, 2015-2017)
James was a versatile defensive back who could impact the game in multiple ways. Despite missing most of the 2016 season due to injury, he finished his career with 186 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and three interceptions, showcasing his ability to play both in the box and in coverage. - Luke Kuechly (Boston College, 2009-2011)
Kuechly was a tackling machine at Boston College, leading the nation in tackles in both 2010 and 2011. He finished his college career with an incredible 532 tackles, demonstrating his instincts and ability to diagnose plays quickly.
Offensive Linemen
- Quenton Nelson (Notre Dame, 2014-2017)
While Notre Dame was only part of the ACC in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Nelson’s impact on college football can’t be ignored. He was a dominant guard who rarely allowed pressures or sacks, paving the way for Notre Dame’s rushing attack. - Rodney Hudson (Florida State, 2007-2010)
Hudson was a three-time first-team All-ACC selection at guard for Florida State. His technique and strength made him one of the best interior linemen in ACC history.
Special Teams
- Sebastian Janikowski (Florida State, 1997-1999)
Janikowski’s career began before 2000, but his impact was felt well into the new millennium. He won two Lou Groza Awards as the nation’s best kicker and was known for his incredibly strong leg.
Impact and Legacy
These players not only excelled during their time in the ACC but also went on to have significant impacts in the NFL. Their performances helped elevate the ACC’s reputation as a conference that produces top-tier talent across all positions.
Lamar Jackson and Deshaun Watson, in particular, have changed the way the quarterback position is played, both in college and in the NFL. Their ability to make plays with both their arms and legs has inspired a new generation of dual-threat quarterbacks.
On the defensive side, players like Julius Peppers and Luke Kuechly set the standard for their respective positions. Peppers’ versatility as a defensive end who could rush the passer and drop into coverage influenced how teams use edge defenders. Kuechly’s instincts and tackling ability made him the prototype for the modern middle linebacker.
The success of these players at the professional level has also helped ACC Conference schools in recruiting. Top high school prospects see the conference as a path to NFL success, which in turn helps maintain the ACC’s high level of play.
Also Read:
The Best Players in the SEC Conference Since 2000
The Best Players in the Big Ten Conference Since 2000
The Best Players in the Big 12 Conference Since 2000
The ACC has produced an impressive array of talent since 2000, with players who have excelled at every position on the field. From Heisman Trophy winners like Lamar Jackson and Jameis Winston to defensive stalwarts like Julius Peppers and Luke Kuechly, the conference has consistently developed players who have gone on to star at the highest levels of football.
These players have not only achieved individual success but have also contributed to their teams’ achievements, leading to conference championships and national titles. Their performances have helped establish the ACC Conference as one of the premier conferences in college football, capable of competing with the SEC, Big Ten, and other Power Five conferences.
As college football continues to evolve, the ACC is well-positioned to continue producing top talent. The legacy of these great players serves as inspiration for current and future ACC athletes, ensuring that the conference will remain a breeding ground for football excellence for years to come.
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