A retrospective look at standout college players who finished second in the Heisman Trophy voting yet went on to achieve significant success in the NFL, proving that runner-up status doesn't limit professional achievement.
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Finished second in 1968 behind O.J. Simpson before leading the Pittsburgh Steelers to four Super Bowl victories. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame and is widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
Finished third in 1985 Heisman voting but became a dual-sport superstar in both the NFL and MLB. His explosive athleticism and cultural impact made him one of the most recognizable athletes of the 1980s and 1990s.
The 1980 Heisman runner-up from UCLA had a highly successful nine-year NFL career. He rushed for over 10,000 yards and was named to the Pro Bowl, establishing himself as one of the most consistent running backs of his era.
Finished third in 1998 Heisman voting before becoming a dominant force in the NFL draft. He won Offensive Rookie of the Year and led the league in rushing multiple times, despite a controversial career trajectory involving personal choices.
Finished second in 1997 Heisman voting behind Charles Woodson. He went on to become one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, winning five NFL MVP awards and Super Bowl XLII with the Indianapolis Colts and Super Bowl 50 with the Denver Broncos.
Though he played in the CFL and USFL before the NFL, Young was a Heisman finalist in 1982. He revolutionized the quarterback position with his mobility and accuracy, winning two Super Bowls with the San Francisco 49ers and leading the league in passer rating multiple times.
The 1982 Heisman runner-up from Penn State enjoyed a productive NFL career with the Seattle Seahawks. He was a key part of the 'Legion of Boom' defense's era, winning the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award in 1983.
Finished fourth in Heisman voting in 1986 but became one of the most electrifying returners and receivers in NFL history. He played 17 seasons with the Los Angeles Raiders, earning two Super Bowl rings and six Pro Bowl selections.
Finished second in 1993 Heisman voting after a stellar career at San Diego State. He transformed the running back position with his receiving prowess, winning Super Bowl XXXIV MVP and earning three NFL Offensive Player of the Year awards.
Finished fourth in 1994 Heisman voting despite leading Penn State to an undefeated regular season. He had a long NFL career spanning over 18 seasons, serving as a starting quarterback for multiple teams and leading them to playoff appearances.
Finished fifth in 1995 Heisman voting before dominating the NFL with the Tennessee Titans. He won the NFL Offensive Player of the Year award in 1996 and rushed for over 1,000 yards in his first six seasons, cementing his legacy as a power runner.
The 1993 Heisman winner also finished as a finalist in other years, but notably, he excelled in the NBA before focusing on football. He played in the NFL for the New York Jets and Atlanta Falcons, showcasing his elite athleticism and leadership on the gridiron.
Finished fifth in 2001 Heisman voting at TCU before becoming a Hall of Fame running back. He set the single-season touchdown record in 2006 with 31 total scores, winning three NFL Offensive Player of the Year awards during his career.
Finished second in 2004 Heisman voting before being selected second overall in the NFL Draft. While his professional career faced injuries and competition, he had notable success as a starting quarterback for the Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals.
Finished second in 2004 Heisman voting (awarded later to USC teammates due to violations) before becoming an NFL Pro Bowler. He was a key weapon for the New Orleans Saints, helping them win Super Bowl XLIV and establishing himself as a dynamic playmaker.
Finished second in 1994 Heisman voting at Florida State before becoming the oldest first-round draft pick in NFL history. He started 26 games as a rookie quarterback for the Carolina Panthers, a remarkable feat for a 29-year-old debutant.
Finished fourth in 1974 Heisman voting before having a lengthy NFL career as a quarterback and punter. He served as a reliable starter for the Dallas Cowboys and later became a well-known broadcaster, covering NFL games for decades.
Though less widely known, Ramsey finished high in Heisman voting at BYU and had a solid NFL career. He started games for the Denver Broncos and other teams, providing depth and experience at the quarterback position during the 1990s.
Finished fourth in 1998 Heisman voting at Purdue before overcoming a devastating shoulder injury. He went on to win Super Bowl XLIV with the New Orleans Saints and broke the all-time passing yards record, proving his resilience and elite talent.
Finished fourth in 1982 Heisman voting before becoming a legendary quarterback for the Denver Broncos. He led the team to two Super Bowl victories, earning Super Bowl MVP honors in his final season and cementing his status as a franchise icon.