Top 20 Heisman Trophy Winners — Ranked by Career Impact
Here's a definitive countdown of the Heisman winners who made the biggest waves beyond college football.
- Chris Graciano
- 4 min read
It is a great honor to win the Heisman. It does not, however, guarantee success for the remainder of their careers. While some champions quickly faded, others went on to become NFL greats. The 20 Heisman Trophy winners who had the biggest influence after graduating from college are listed here, arranged according to their use of their notoriety and skill.
20. Ty Detmer (1990)
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At BYU, Detmer put up record-shattering numbers. Though his NFL career was modest, he later made his mark as a coach and mentor.
19. Archie Griffin (1974, 1975)
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The only two-time Heisman winner, Griffin was a college football legend. His pro career with the Bengals didn’t match expectations, but his legacy off the field — especially in Ohio — remains massive.
18. Eric Crouch (2001)
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Crouch dazzled at Nebraska with his dual-threat abilities. Although the NFL didn’t work out, he stayed in football through broadcasting and coaching.
17. Rashaan Salaam (1994)
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Salaam’s one shining season at Colorado was unforgettable. Injuries and personal struggles limited his pro impact, but his college dominance left a lasting memory.
16. Robert Griffin III (2011)
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RGIII was electric at Baylor and started hot in the NFL with Rookie of the Year honors. Injuries stalled his rise, but he transitioned into a respected sports analyst.
15. Billy Sims (1978)
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A punishing runner at Oklahoma, Sims made an instant impact in Detroit. A devastating knee injury cut his NFL career short, but he’s still beloved by fans.
14. Gino Torretta (1992)
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Torretta led Miami to glory, but his pro career fizzled quickly. He’s had more staying power in media and financial services.
13. Johnny Manziel (2012)
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“Johnny Football” electrified college football like few ever have. His NFL stint was chaotic and short, but he became a pop culture icon.
12. Desmond Howard (1991)
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Known for his Heisman pose and punt returns, Howard carved out a niche in the NFL. He earned Super Bowl MVP honors with the Packers.
11. Doug Flutie (1984)
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Flutie’s Hail Mary made him a household name. Though undersized, he succeeded in the CFL and had a solid NFL run, proving doubters wrong.
10. Carson Palmer (2002)
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Palmer’s steady NFL career included Pro Bowls and playoff runs. He brought stability to struggling franchises and was a true team leader.
9. O.J. Simpson (1968)
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On the field, Simpson was a dominant force and broke records as a pro. Off the field, his later life became infamously controversial.
8. Bo Jackson (1985)
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Bo knew everything — from football to baseball. A once-in-a-generation athlete, his NFL career was cut short, but his myth grew bigger.
7. Charles Woodson (1997)
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The only defensive player to win the Heisman, Woodson thrived in the NFL. He won a Super Bowl and became one of the most respected defensive backs of all time.
6. Earl Campbell (1977)
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Campbell ran with unmatched fury and left defenses battered. His NFL years with the Oilers were filled with rushing titles and MVP honors.
5. Marcus Allen (1981)
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Allen transitioned from college star to NFL legend with ease. He earned both a Heisman and Super Bowl MVP — one of the few to ever do so.
4. Cam Newton (2010)
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Cam’s lone year at Auburn was legendary, and he carried that magic to the pros. He won an NFL MVP and led the Panthers to a Super Bowl.
3. Tony Dorsett (1976)
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Dorsett’s speed and grace translated perfectly to the NFL. He broke the 99-yard rushing touchdown record and delivered a Hall of Fame career.
2. Barry Sanders (1988)
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Sanders’ college numbers seemed unreal, and he was just as good in the NFL. His elusive runs made defenders look silly, and he retired at his peak.
1. Roger Staubach (1963)
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“Captain America” served in the Navy before joining the Cowboys and leading them to greatness. A two-time Super Bowl champ and consistent leader, Staubach defined poise and class.