Top 10 Smartest Football Players With High IQs

Alright, football fans! Ever wondered who the brainiest players are on the gridiron? It's not just about brute strength and lightning speed; some of these athletes are seriously smart. We're diving into the top 10 football players who aren't just amazing on the field, but also boast incredibly high IQs. Get ready to have your mind blown – these guys prove that brawn and brains can definitely go hand in hand!

1. Myron Rolle

Starting off our list strong is Myron Rolle. This guy isn't just a football star; he's a neurosurgery resident! Myron played safety for the Florida State Seminoles and was drafted by the Tennessee Titans. But here’s the kicker: he deferred his NFL career to accept a Rhodes Scholarship to study at Oxford University. Yes, you read that right. While many dream of touchdowns and Super Bowls, Myron was hitting the books, focusing on medical anthropology. After Oxford, he pursued his medical degree at Florida State University College of Medicine and is now deep into neurosurgery.

Myron's story is a testament to his incredible discipline, intelligence, and commitment to both academics and athletics. He excelled in a demanding sport while simultaneously pursuing an even more demanding academic path. His IQ is estimated to be well above average, but what truly sets him apart is his drive and dedication. Imagine going from the intense physical demands of the football field to the intricate and mentally taxing world of brain surgery. That's Myron Rolle for you – a true inspiration and a perfect example of how athletes can achieve greatness both on and off the field. He embodies the idea that intelligence isn't just about scoring high on a test; it's about applying your abilities to make a difference in the world. And Myron is certainly doing that, one surgery at a time.

2. John Urschel

Next up, we have John Urschel. This former Baltimore Ravens offensive lineman isn't your typical football player. While he was busy protecting the quarterback, he was also deep into mathematics. Urschel has a bachelor's and master's degree in mathematics from Penn State University and has even published multiple research papers in peer-reviewed mathematics journals. After retiring from the NFL, he pursued his Ph.D. in mathematics at MIT. Talk about a brainy blocker!

John's passion for math started long before his NFL career. He found solace and intellectual stimulation in numbers and equations. Balancing the rigorous training schedule of a professional athlete with the demands of advanced mathematics is no small feat. Urschel has spoken extensively about the challenges and rewards of pursuing both passions simultaneously. His story is particularly inspiring because it defies the stereotype of the dumb jock. He proves that you can be a fierce competitor on the field and a brilliant academic. His research at MIT focuses on spectral graph theory, numerical linear algebra, and machine learning – topics that are far removed from the world of football. Urschel's dedication to his studies and his ability to excel in two vastly different fields make him a standout example of intellectual prowess in the NFL. He is not only a role model for aspiring athletes but also for anyone who believes in the power of pursuing multiple passions.

3. Ryan Fitzpatrick

Here comes Ryan Fitzpatrick, a Harvard graduate who played quarterback in the NFL for 17 seasons. Known for his impressive beard and even more impressive football IQ, Fitzpatrick is said to have scored incredibly high on the Wonderlic test, a cognitive ability test often used by the NFL to assess players. Beyond the stats, his ability to quickly grasp complex offensive schemes and make smart decisions under pressure made him a valuable asset to any team he played for.

Ryan's journey to the NFL was unconventional. Coming from Harvard, he wasn't initially seen as a top prospect. However, his intelligence, work ethic, and natural leadership abilities quickly set him apart. Throughout his long career, he played for numerous teams, adapting to different coaching styles and offensive systems. This adaptability is a testament to his high football IQ and his ability to learn and process information quickly. Fitzpatrick's success in the NFL proves that intelligence and adaptability can be just as important as physical talent. He has earned the respect of coaches, teammates, and fans alike for his smart play and his unwavering commitment to the game. Even after retiring from football, Fitzpatrick remains a popular figure in the sport, often providing insightful commentary and analysis. His unique perspective, combining his on-field experience with his sharp intellect, makes him a valuable voice in the football world.

4. Greg McElroy

Another quarterback who makes our list is Greg McElroy. He led the Alabama Crimson Tide to a national championship and was known for his exceptional football IQ. Like Fitzpatrick, McElroy also reportedly scored very high on the Wonderlic. His intelligence and understanding of the game were evident in his ability to read defenses and make accurate throws. While his NFL career was relatively short, his smarts were undeniable.

Greg's success in college was largely attributed to his preparation and his ability to understand complex offensive schemes. He was known for his meticulous study habits and his dedication to film study. In the NFL, he faced challenges in terms of physical attributes, but his intelligence allowed him to compete at the highest level. After his playing career, McElroy transitioned to broadcasting, where he provides insightful analysis of college and professional football games. His deep understanding of the game, combined with his articulate communication skills, has made him a popular and respected commentator. He brings a unique perspective to the broadcast booth, drawing on his experiences as a player and his intellectual understanding of the sport. McElroy's journey from the football field to the broadcast booth is a testament to his versatility and his ability to apply his intelligence to different challenges.

5. Sam Acho

Sam Acho isn't just a former NFL linebacker; he's also a published author and a motivational speaker. Acho graduated from the University of Texas with degrees in business and marketing and has always emphasized the importance of education and using his platform to make a positive impact. His intelligence shines through in his thoughtful commentary and his commitment to social justice. He is also an author with his book "Let the World See You".

Sam's impact extends far beyond the football field. He is actively involved in numerous charitable organizations and uses his platform to advocate for education, healthcare, and social justice. His book, "Let the World See You", encourages young people to embrace their unique identities and to use their voices to make a difference. Acho's commitment to service and his passion for making a positive impact on the world are truly inspiring. He is a role model for athletes and for anyone who believes in the power of using their talents and resources to help others. Acho's story is a reminder that success is not just about personal achievement but also about contributing to the greater good.

6. Richard Sherman

Moving on, we have Richard Sherman, one of the most outspoken and intelligent cornerbacks in NFL history. A Stanford graduate with a degree in communications, Sherman was known for his exceptional play on the field and his articulate and insightful interviews off the field. His ability to analyze plays and anticipate opponents' moves was a key factor in his success.

Richard's intelligence was evident in his ability to dissect opposing offenses and to anticipate their every move. He was a master of film study and spent countless hours analyzing game footage to identify patterns and tendencies. His intelligence, combined with his physical skills and his unwavering confidence, made him one of the most dominant defensive players of his era. Sherman's impact on the game extends beyond his on-field performance. He is a vocal advocate for player rights and has used his platform to speak out on issues of social justice. His willingness to challenge the status quo and to advocate for change has made him a respected and influential figure in the sports world.

7. Lorenzo Alexander

Lorenzo Alexander, a former NFL linebacker, is another example of an athlete who excels both on and off the field. He holds a degree in marketing from the University of California, Berkeley, and is known for his business acumen and his community involvement. Alexander's intelligence and leadership qualities made him a respected figure in the locker room and in the community.

Lorenzo's commitment to education and his passion for giving back to the community have made him a role model for young people. He has established numerous charitable initiatives and has worked tirelessly to support underserved communities. Alexander's story is a reminder that success is not just about personal achievement but also about using your talents and resources to make a positive impact on the world. His dedication to service and his commitment to excellence have made him a true leader both on and off the field. Alexander's journey is an inspiration to anyone who believes in the power of education and the importance of giving back.

8. Case Keenum

Case Keenum, a former NFL quarterback, holds a degree in business administration from the University of Houston. He is known for his resilience, his leadership abilities, and his ability to perform under pressure. Keenum's intelligence and his understanding of the game have been key factors in his success. He is currently the quarterbacks coach at Liberty University.

Case's success in college and the NFL is a testament to his hard work, his dedication, and his unwavering belief in himself. He has overcome numerous obstacles throughout his career and has consistently proven his ability to compete at the highest level. Keenum's story is a reminder that success is not always about natural talent but also about perseverance, determination, and a strong work ethic. His journey is an inspiration to anyone who has faced adversity and has had to overcome challenges to achieve their goals.

9. Eric Decker

Eric Decker, a former NFL wide receiver, graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in communications. Decker was known for his strong work ethic, his dedication to his craft, and his ability to connect with fans. His intelligence and his understanding of the game made him a valuable asset to any team he played for.

Eric's success in the NFL is a testament to his hard work, his dedication, and his ability to make the most of his opportunities. He has consistently proven his ability to perform at a high level and has earned the respect of coaches, teammates, and fans alike. Decker's story is a reminder that success is not always about natural talent but also about hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence. His journey is an inspiration to anyone who dreams of achieving their goals through hard work and dedication.

10. Cooper Kupp

Last but certainly not least, we have Cooper Kupp. This Super Bowl champion and Los Angeles Rams wide receiver graduated from Eastern Washington University with a degree in economics. Known for his exceptional route-running and his incredible hands, Kupp's high football IQ allows him to read defenses and make adjustments on the fly, making him a nightmare for opposing cornerbacks.

Cooper's success in the NFL is a testament to his hard work, his dedication, and his unwavering belief in himself. He has overcome numerous obstacles throughout his career and has consistently proven his ability to perform at the highest level. Kupp's story is a reminder that success is not always about natural talent but also about perseverance, determination, and a strong work ethic. His journey is an inspiration to anyone who has faced adversity and has had to overcome challenges to achieve their goals. Kupp's remarkable journey from a small-town college to Super Bowl stardom is a testament to his exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and intellectual approach to the game.

So, there you have it – a list of football players who prove that being smart is just as important as being athletic. These guys have shown that with hard work, dedication, and a sharp mind, you can achieve anything, both on and off the field! Keep an eye on these brainy athletes – they're sure to continue making waves in the world of football and beyond!