The Best Florida State Football Players of All Time
When you think of the pantheon of iconic college football programs, the Florida State Seminoles. The school is widely known for dominating college football for a span beginning in the late 1980s through the early 2000s. Behind legendary coach Bobby Bowden, the Noles maintained a home in the top-5 of the polls. Despite falling off at the end of Bowden's reign, this era produced some of the greatest players in Florida State history. The school became a de-factor feeding factory for the NFL, with a slew of first round draft picks and a number of other players who became fixtures in the pros.
The Seminoles have won three national championships, seventeen conference titles, and five division titles. The program has also produced three Heisman Trophy winners, and one NEON DEION. Sanders inspired the Tomahawk Chop, one of the most popular cheers that's associated with a particular school. On top of Deion, quarterbacks Charlie Ward, Chris Weinke and recently, Jameis Winston, are all in an elite group of Heisman Trophy winners who also took a national title back to Tallahassee.
Who do you think are the best Seminoles ever, Rankers? Upvote your picks!- 1Cornerback
- Birthplace: Fort Myers, Florida
- Age: 56
- Teams: Dallas Cowboys, Washington Redskins, Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, San Francisco 49ers
Deion Sanders, also known as "Prime Time," was quite possibly the most electrifying player to ever don the garnet and gold for Florida State University. His exceptional speed and remarkable agility made him a force to be reckoned with as a cornerback, while his unparalleled prowess as a return specialist struck fear into the hearts of opponents. Additionally, Sanders paved the way for future dual-sport athletes by excelling in both football and baseball, propelling his status as an influential figure in sports history.
- 2
Dalvin Cook
Florida State's Dalvin Cook showcased his pure speed, agility, and versatility as he wreaked havoc on opposing defenses during his time as a Seminole. With his mind-boggling acceleration and ability to change direction with ease, Cook consistently produced jaw-dropping highlights that left fans in awe while simultaneously demoralizing defenders on their futile attempts to slow him down. His outstanding work ethic and exceptional leadership skills set a new benchmark for future running backs to emulate.
- 3Linebacker
- Birthplace: Pensacola, Florida
- Age: 50
- Teams: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
An embodiment of consistency, professionalism, and success, it's no wonder why Derrick Brooks stands tall among Florida State's renowned linebacking corps. With his uncanny ability to read the opposing offense, Brooks made a significant impact on defense and special teams, elevating the entire team's performance. His on-field passion and off-field humility served as a model for how a student-athlete should approach the game of football.
- 4Running back
- Birthplace: Baton Rouge, Louisiana
- Age: 48
- Teams: Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Atlanta Falcons, Florida State Seminoles football
For Warrick Dunn, being an incredible athlete was just the tip of the iceberg, as his impact on Florida State football, the community, and the world has been nothing short of extraordinary. On the field, Dunn displayed his unique blend of speed, strength, and agility, coupled with a tireless commitment to his team's success. However, it is his remarkable leadership, unwavering dedication to community involvement, and philanthropic work that truly sets him apart from other football greats.
As the quintessential dual-threat quarterback, Charlie Ward dazzled fans and overwhelmed opponents with his cerebral approach to the game, pinpoint passing accuracy, and otherworldly mobility. His skill set kept defensive coordinators awake at night, desperately trying to devise schemes to contain Ward's playmaking abilities. A true pioneer, Ward's legacy at Florida State remains unmatched as he redefined what it meant to be a field general for generations to come.
- 6Return specialist, Wide receiver
- Birthplace: Bradenton, Florida
- Age: 46
- Teams: Cincinnati Bengals
Peter Warrick was an incredibly versatile weapon while wearing the garnet and gold, making life miserable for opposing defenses as he shredded them through the air and on the ground. His elusiveness and ability to change direction on a dime regularly left defenders grasping at air, turning seemingly innocuous plays into game-changing moments. Warrick's highlight-reel performances and fearlessness in clutch situations cemented his status among the pantheon of Florida State football greats.
