The SEC Conference has been a powerhouse in college football since its inception, but the period since 2000 has seen some of the most exceptional talents in the conference’s history. From Heisman Trophy winners to National Champions, the SEC has produced numerous players who have left an indelible mark on the sport. The task to create a list of “the best” is quite daunting, but here’s a look at some of the best players to grace SEC fields since 2000.
Quarterbacks
Tim Tebow (Florida, 2006-2009) stands out as one of the most iconic players in SEC Conference history. Tebow won the Heisman Trophy in 2007 and led the Gators to two national championships. His combination of passing ability and bruising running style revolutionized the quarterback position in the SEC. While he didn’t have the same NFL success, Tebow in the 90s was a machine.
Cam Newton (Auburn, 2010) only played one season in the SEC Conference, but his impact was profound. Newton won the Heisman Trophy and led Auburn to a National Championship in 2010. His dual-threat capabilities made him nearly unstoppable both at the college level and for much of his career in the NFL.
Johnny Manziel (Texas A&M, 2012-2013) burst onto the scene in 2012, becoming the first freshman to win the Heisman Trophy. “Johnny Football” electrified crowds with his improvisational skills and ability to make plays out of nothing. His time in the NFL wasn’t great, and he failed to make a dent in the CFL either.
Running Backs
Derrick Henry (Alabama, 2013-2015) was a dominant force for the Crimson Tide. Henry won the Heisman Trophy in 2015, rushing for 2,219 yards and 28 touchdowns. His combination of size, speed, and power made him one of the most feared runners in SEC history. He’s had an incredible run in the NFL, pun intended, now spending his time giving an accomplice to Baltimore Ravens MVP candidate Lamar Jackson.
Leonard Fournette (LSU, 2014-2016) was a physical marvel during his time at LSU. Despite battling injuries, Fournette’s impact on the field was undeniable. His 2015 season, where he rushed for 1,953 yards and 22 touchdowns, is considered one of the best by a running back in SEC history.
Mark Ingram (Alabama, 2008-2010) became Alabama’s first Heisman Trophy winner in 2009. Ingram’s tough running style and ability to break tackles made him a key part of Alabama’s resurgence under Nick Saban.
Wide Receivers
Julio Jones (Alabama, 2008-2010) was a game-changing talent for the Crimson Tide. Jones’ combination of size, speed, and route-running ability made him nearly impossible to cover. He played a crucial role in Alabama’s 2009 national championship run.
A.J. Green (Georgia, 2008-2010) was one of the most gifted receivers in SEC history. Green’s acrobatic catches and ability to stretch the field made him a constant threat for the Bulldogs. Despite missing part of his junior season, Green finished his career as one of Georgia’s all-time leading receivers.
Amari Cooper (Alabama, 2012-2014) set numerous Alabama and SEC receiving records during his career. Cooper won the Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s top receiver in 2014 and was a finalist for the Heisman Trophy. His career in the NFL finally has him with an elite quarterback in Buffalo Bills star Josh Allen.
Offensive Linemen
Barrett Jones (Alabama, 2009-2012) was one of the most versatile linemen in SEC history. Jones won the Outland Trophy as the nation’s top interior lineman in 2011 and the Rimington Trophy as the top center in 2012. His ability to excel at multiple positions along the line was crucial to Alabama’s success.
Andrew Whitworth (LSU, 2002-2005) anchored LSU’s offensive line during one of the most successful periods in program history. Whitworth was a two-time first-team All-SEC selection and played a key role in LSU’s 2003 national championship.
Luke Joeckel (Texas A&M, 2010-2012) won the Outland Trophy in 2012 as Texas A&M transitioned into the SEC. Joeckel’s pass protection skills were crucial in allowing Johnny Manziel to work his magic in the backfield.
Defensive Linemen
Jadeveon Clowney (South Carolina, 2011-2013) was one of the most dominant defensive players in SEC history. Clowney’s combination of size, speed, and power made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. His hit against Michigan in the 2013 Outback Bowl remains one of the most iconic plays in college football history.
Glenn Dorsey (LSU, 2004-2007) was the anchor of LSU’s dominant defense that led to a national championship in 2007. Dorsey won the Nagurski Trophy, Lombardi Award, Outland Trophy, and Lott Trophy in 2007, cementing his status as one of the best defensive players in SEC history.
Myles Garrett (Texas A&M, 2014-2016) was a force off the edge for the Aggies. Garrett’s exceptional athleticism and pass-rushing ability made him one of the most feared defensive players in the SEC during his career. The NFL has been no different with Garrett anchoring the Browns defense after Cleveland drafted him first overall in 2017 NFL Draft, though trade rumors have been swirling.
Linebackers
Patrick Willis (Ole Miss, 2003-2006) was a tackling machine for the Rebels. Willis won the Butkus Award and Lambert Trophy as the nation’s top linebacker in 2006. His sideline-to-sideline play and hard-hitting style made him one of the best defenders in SEC history.
Rolando McClain (Alabama, 2007-2009) was the heart of Alabama’s defense during their 2009 national championship run. McClain won the Butkus Award in 2009 and was a key part of Nick Saban’s defensive resurgence at Alabama.
Roquan Smith (Georgia, 2015-2017) was the leader of Georgia’s defense that led them to the national championship game in 2017. Smith’s speed and instincts made him one of the most impactful linebackers in recent SEC Conference history.
Defensive Backs
Patrick Peterson (LSU, 2008-2010) was not only a shutdown corner but also a dangerous return man. Peterson won the Bednarik Award and Thorpe Award in 2010, showcasing his ability to impact the game in multiple ways.
Eric Berry (Tennessee, 2007-2009) was one of the most versatile defensive backs in SEC history. Berry won the Thorpe Award in 2009 and finished his career as one of the most productive safeties in conference history.
Tyrann Mathieu (LSU, 2010-2011) earned the nickname “Honey Badger” for his tenacious play and ability to create turnovers. Mathieu was a finalist for the Heisman Trophy voting in 2011, a rare feat for a defensive player.
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 Best Players in the ACC Conference Since 2000
The SEC has consistently produced top-tier talent across all positions since 2000. While this list highlights some of the standout performers, it’s by no means exhaustive. The conference’s rich tradition of excellence has seen numerous players make significant impacts both in college and at the professional level.
What sets many of these players apart is not just their individual achievements, but their contributions to team success. Many led their teams to SEC Conference Championships and National Titles. Their performances often defined seasons and careers, creating lasting memories for fans across the Southeast and beyond.
As the SEC continues to evolve, with new members joining and the landscape of college football changing, the conference remains a breeding ground for exceptional talent. The legacy left by these players has set a high bar for future generations, ensuring that the SEC Conference will continue to be a showcase for some of college football’s best and brightest stars.
The impact of these players extends beyond their college careers. Many have gone on to successful NFL careers, further cementing the SEC’s reputation as a conference that produces pro-ready talent. Their success at the next level serves as inspiration for current and future SEC athletes, maintaining a cycle of excellence that has defined the conference for decades.
In conclusion, the SEC since 2000 has been graced by some of college football’s most talented and impactful players. From record-setting quarterbacks to dominant defenders, these athletes have not only excelled individually but have also elevated their teams and the conference as a whole. Their performances have created a lasting legacy, ensuring that the SEC remains the premier conference in college football.
