The college football landscape is abuzz with the news of Charles Woodson Jr.'s commitment to Michigan, the alma mater of his father, Pro Football Hall of Famer Charles Woodson. This development has sparked a wave of nostalgia, excitement, and existential crisis among fans, as it reminds us of the fleeting nature of youth and the passage of time. But it's not just Woodson Jr. who has captured the attention of college football enthusiasts. The sons of other former NFL stars are also making their mark on the sport, either on rosters or as committed recruits.
One such example is Brayden Jacobs, the son of former bruising Giants running back Brandon Jacobs. Standing at 6' 7" and weighing 355 pounds, Brayden is an imposing figure on the offensive line. He has already shown flashes of his potential, starting in four games for Clemson last year. With some turnover on the Clemson line, Brayden could be an important member of the Tigers' roster this season, and who knows, he might even channel his father's skills at fullback.
Another notable figure is Christian Harrison, the son of former All-Pro safety Rodney Harrison. Christian has transferred to Arkansas, where he will play for first-year coach Ryan Silverfield. A skilled cover corner, Christian has clearly inherited his father's physicality near the line of scrimmage, a trait that served his father well during his decorated 15-year career with the Chargers and Patriots.
Bryce Young, the son of former defensive end and tackle Bryant Young, is also making waves at Notre Dame. With his father's Hall of Fame career and 89.5 sacks under his belt, Bryce is poised for a breakout year with the Fighting Irish. He has bulked up and worked closely with the coaching staff to refine his pass-rushing skills, and his consistency could be a key factor in Notre Dame's success.
Kennedy Urlacher, the son of former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher, is another standout. Kennedy looks poised to start for USC at strong safety in 2026, and he will get a chance to lay down the boom like his father once did for the Bears. Brian Urlacher's resume, which includes eight Pro Bowls, four All-Pro nominations, and a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, speaks for itself.
The McCown family is also well-represented in college football. Owen McCown, the son of former NFL quarterback Josh McCown, has blossomed into one of the better passers in the country after transferring from Colorado. In the last two seasons, he has completed 65.1% of his passes for a combined 6,419 passing yards, 55 touchdowns, and 17 interceptions while leading the Roadrunners to bowl game wins.
Honorable mentions include Devin Fitzgerald, the son of Larry Fitzgerald, Kaydon Finley, the son of Jermichael Finley, Thomas Davis Jr., the son of Thomas Davis, Jerome Bettis Jr., the son of Jerome Bettis, Cole Leinart, the son of Matt Leinart, Chris Henry Jr., the son of Chris Henry, London Bironas, the son of Rob Bironas, and Dylan Raiola, the son of Dominic Raiola. These young athletes are following in their fathers' footsteps, bringing a sense of continuity and tradition to college football.
Looking ahead, there are five more names to watch for future seasons of college football. Sam Ngata, the son of former All-American interior defensive lineman Haloti Ngata, is committed to Oregon and is part of a talented 2027 recruiting class. Gunner Rivers, the son of former eight-time Pro Bowler Philip Rivers, has committed to NC State, following in his father's footsteps. Cooper Witten, the son of former Cowboys and Raiders tight end Jason Witten, has committed to Oklahoma, where his father is now the tight ends coach.
Duece Jones-Drew, the son of former UCLA running back Maurice Jones-Drew, is another name to watch. He will be arriving at UCLA at an exciting time with new coach Bob Chesney at the helm, and he will have lofty goals to strive for, such as his father's single-game program record of 322 rushing yards.
Finally, Dez Bryant Jr., the son of former three-time Pro Bowler Dez Bryant, is already receiving offers from multiple Power 4 schools. Listed at 5'10" and 165 pounds, Dez Jr. ran a 4.46 40-yard dash and posted a 9'2" broad jump at the Under Armour Next Camp in March. His father, while proud, has given him some tough love coaching on social media.
In conclusion, the sons of former NFL stars are making their mark on college football, bringing a sense of tradition and continuity to the sport. As these young athletes continue to develop and excel, they will undoubtedly leave their own unique legacy, just as their fathers did before them.
