NFL demographics: young quarterbacks in the spotlight, Alabama supplier of champions

The NFL released league roster statistics during opening week. And for the fourth season in a row, former players at reigning NCAA champion university, Alabama, are the most numerous. After 2018 (44), 2019 (56), and 2020 (53), they are 54 to start a squad in week 1. They are followed by Ohio State (50), while LSU (47) completes the podium.

In total, 244 different universities are represented across the league, while the 1st University Division (FBS) has only 130 teams. Proof that the hope of evolving in the big league remains for players of minor universities.

Quarterbacks: Young people take power

When it comes to the starting pitchers, confidence continues to be given to the youngsters. 20 of the 32 starting quarterbacks are under 30. For the 14th consecutive season, there is at least one titular rookie in the position of quarterback. It’s the longest streak since at least 1950. 3 of them were starting this weekend (Trevor Lawrence, Zach Wilson and Mac Jones). To these players can be added Trey Lance and Justin Fields, who had playing time in the first week, and who could become in the short or medium term holder in their respective teams. Proof that elders like Brady or Rodgers are not the norm and remain UFOs.

Of the 32 holders, 22 are from the 1st all of the draft. 7 were even the first choice. If nuggets can always come out at the end of the cuvée, we can see that most of this group was already expected in the university ranks. Only three players came from the 6th round and beyond: Tom Brady (6th round), Tyrod Taylor (6th round) and Ryan Fitzpatrick (7th round).

Finally, Texas, considered the heart of football, is the most represented state among these quarterbacks, with 7 (Andy Dalton, Jalen Hurts, Patrick Mahomes, Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray, Matthew Stafford and Ryan Tannehill).

Who are the little ones? The lightest? The heaviest?

Another statistic revealed by the NFL on the templates of the players. A total of 298 players in the squad are less than 6 feet (about 1m83). The Houston Texans have the most “small” players in their ranks, with 18.

310 NFL players weigh less than 200 pounds (about 91 kg). The Bills have the most, with 15. Finally, 355 players weigh over 300 pounds (about 136 kg). The Bears and Bengals are the teams with the most “heavyweights” with 14 each.