States that Produce the Most NFL Draft Picks Over the Last Decade
The NFL draft serves as the primary source of new players, allowing teams to build their roster with young hungry talent, without breaking the bank. Scouts spend countless hours watching film and prepping for the opportunity to select players based on their ranking and needs.
Since 2015, there have been a total of 1,472 draft picks in the NFL. This includes players from all states across the country, but some states are considered to be a hotspot, producing a significantly higher number of higher quality prospects compared to other states.
Below are the top ten states with the most NFL draft picks since 2015, what each state is most known for, and a few stars in the NFL that come from each state.
Top 10 States that Produce the Most NFL Draft Picks Over the Last Decade
10. Illinois – 72 Draft Picks
- Known for producing talented quarterbacks and offensive linemen in the NFL.
- Notable names from Illinois in the NFL: Dick Butkus, Tony Romo.
9. Pennsylvania – 81 Draft Picks
- Known for producing top defensive players and wide receivers in the NFL.
- Notable names from Pennsylvania in the NFL: Saquon Barkely, Micah Parsons
8. Alabama – 90 Draft Picks
- Known for producing top running backs and defensive players in the NFL.
- Notable names from Alabama in the NFL: Derrick Henry, Devonta Smith.
7. North Carolina – 96 Draft Picks
- Known for producing successful college football coaches who have gone on to have success in the NFL.
- Notable names from North Carolina in the NFL: Bill Cowher, Sean McVay.
6. Louisiana – 103 Draft Picks
- Known for producing top defensive players, specifically linebackers and defensive linemen.
- Notable NFL players from Louisiana: Devin White (Tampa Bay Buccaneers), Jamal Adams (Seattle Seahawks)
5. Ohio – 108 Draft Picks
- Known for producing top offensive linemen and quarterbacks.
- Notable NFL players from Ohio: Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals), Taylor Decker (Detroit Lions)
4. Georgia – 217 Draft Picks
- Known for producing top running backs and wide receivers.
- Notable NFL players from Georgia: Nick Chubb (Cleveland Browns), AJ Green (Arizona Cardinals)
3. California – 230 Draft Picks
- Known for producing top skill position players, including quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, and tight ends.
- Notable names from California in the NFL: Aaron Rodgers
2. Texas – 289 Draft Picks
- Known for producing top quarterbacks and offensive linemen in the NFL.
- Notable names from Texas in the NFL: Drew Brees, Patrick Mahomes.
1. Florida – 311 Draft Picks
- Known for producing top defensive players, particularly in the secondary.
- Notable NFL players from Florida: Jalen Ramsey (Los Angeles Rams), Joey Bosa (Los Angeles Chargers)
