This list highlights elite track and field athletes who successfully transitioned to professional football, leveraging their explosive speed, agility, and power to excel on the field in the NFL or CFL.
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The legendary Olympic sprinter and long jumper played three seasons in the USFL with the Tampa Bay Bandits. Although his football career was relatively brief compared to his track dominance, he showcased impressive speed and athleticism during his time as a wide receiver.
An All-American long jumper at USC who won a silver medal at the 1976 Olympics, Marquart enjoyed a 12-year NFL career. He played as a tight end and fullback, known for his reliable hands and versatility in both offensive and special teams roles.
Before establishing himself as a reliable cornerback for the Indianapolis Colts, Moore was a decorated collegiate sprinter. He utilized his exceptional speed and quick reflexes, developed on the track, to excel in coverage and special teams at the professional level.
Former Florida State standout Darden was a dual-sport athlete who competed in track while playing football. His elite speed from the sprinting events proved crucial in his NFL journey, allowing him to serve as a dynamic punt returner and deep threat receiver.
McKenzie ran track in high school and college, honing the acceleration needed for professional football. He transitioned to become a solid NFL receiver and return specialist, known for his ability to make plays in space and his reliable hands in the slot.
An Olympic silver medalist in the 4x100 relay, Goodwin played wide receiver for the 49ers, Cowboys, and Titans. His Olympic-level speed allowed him to stretch the field effectively, although he often served in return specialist roles to maximize his explosive capabilities.
Before becoming a starting cornerback for the Tennessee Titans, Coleman was a standout sprinter at Louisiana Tech. His background in track provided him with the lateral quickness and recovery speed necessary to cover elite wide receivers in the NFL.
While primarily known as an NFL long snapper, Dozier was also a high-level decathlete in college. His versatility and athletic foundation from track and field contributed to his longevity and success as a specialized player in the professional league.
The former NFL wide receiver and returner held the NCAA record for fastest speed in collegiate football history. His track background was integral to his playmaking ability, allowing him to break tackles and return punts for touchdowns in the professional ranks.
Though he focused primarily on football in college, Lockett's early athletic foundation included track events that built his elite speed. He has become one of the NFL's most prolific slot receivers and returners, leveraging his acceleration to create separation.
The Heisman Trophy winner was a standout sprinter in high school, running the 100-meter dash. His raw speed, cultivated through track training, was a defining feature of his NFL career, allowing him to break long runs and dominate as a feature back.
Harvin was a state champion in track events before becoming an NFL superstar. His unique blend of sprinter speed and football agility allowed him to excel as a runner, receiver, and returner, making him one of the most dynamic offensive weapons in league history.
Hill was a top-tier sprinter in high school, competing in the 100-meter dash before focusing on football. His track-derived speed has made him a generational talent in the NFL, dominating as a receiver and return specialist with unmatched acceleration.
Hester was a state champion in the 400-meter dash during his high school track career. This speed translated perfectly to football, where he became the greatest kick returner in NFL history, scoring multiple touchdowns on special teams.
Before his NFL career as a punter, Price was a standout track athlete in college. His leg strength and technique, refined through track training, allowed him to compete at a high level in the NFL, demonstrating the utility of track metrics for placekicking and punting.
Cribbs was a multi-sport athlete who excelled in track events before becoming an NFL return specialist. His speed and vision, honed on the track, led to him being named the NFL's all-time leading punt return touchdown scorer, revolutionizing the role.
While known for football, Hamlin was a standout track athlete in high school, competing in sprints and hurdles. His athleticism and speed, developed during his track years, contributed to his defensive skills and ability to cover wide receivers in the NFL.
Johnson was not a track star by profession but utilized track-like drills and speed training to enhance his football performance. His success highlights how track-derived conditioning and speed can significantly boost an athlete's impact on the football field.
Moss was a dominant sprinter in high school, breaking school records in the 100 and 200-meter dashes. This raw speed was the cornerstone of his NFL career, allowing him to stretch defenses and become one of the most feared deep threats in league history.
Beckham was a track star in high school, winning state championships in sprint events. His explosive speed and agility, developed through track training, have made him one of the most dynamic and highlight-reel-worthy receivers in the NFL.