So You Think You Know Aztecs: How Many San Diego State Stars Made the NFL Leap?
Ever wondered how San Diego State stacks up in the NFL player pipeline? Did their scorching offense translate to the pros, or are they more like a killer local taco stand - amazing, but not quite on the national radar? Well, my friend, fret no more. We're about to dive into the fascinating world of Aztecs in the NFL.
From Aztec Warrior to Gridiron Gladiator: The Stats
Here's the skinny: San Diego State boasts a respectable number of alumni playing on Sundays. While they might not be churning out superstars like a conveyor belt (looking at you, Alabama), the Aztecs have a steady flow of talent making their mark in the NFL.
Now, how many exactly? That depends on where you look. Pro Football Reference claims a hefty 200 players donned NFL jerseys at some point, with a whopping 175 drafted (that's a lot of handshakes with Roger Goodell!).
But wait, there's more! The 2023 season saw a Mountain West-leading 12 Aztecs on active NFL rosters. That's right, twelve proud alumni battling it out on the biggest stage.
So, Who Are These NFL Aztecs?
Maybe stats aren't your thing, you want names! Fear not, here are a few current standouts:
- Matt Araiza: This punting phenom is making waves with his booming leg and even bolder personality.
- Daniel Bellinger: This tight end is a touchdown machine, proving the Aztecs can develop more than just defensive studs.
- Zach Thomas: This versatile offensive lineman is showing he can hold his own against the NFL's best pass rushers.
These are just a few, and there are many more Aztecs making noise in the league.
Fun Fact Friday: The Aztec Advantage
You might be thinking, "Sure, they have some players, but are they any good?" Well, check this out: San Diego State boasts one of the all-time greats in running back Marshall Faulk. This Hall of Famer racked up an impressive 132 Approximate Value on Pro Football Reference, a metric that measures a player's impact on winning. Not too shabby, Aztecs!
So, the answer is: San Diego State might not be an NFL powerhouse, but they consistently develop talented players who contribute at the pro level. They're like a that hidden gem restaurant - you might have to look a little harder, but the reward is worth it.
FAQ: Your Aztec Scouting Guide
How to Spot an Aztec in the NFL? Look for relentless hustle, a chip on their shoulder, and maybe a green and gold towel tucked somewhere.
How to Impress an Aztec Fan? Talk about the glory days of Marshall Faulk or their upcoming opponent's weaknesses. Bonus points for knowing the Aztec fight song.
How to Get Recruited by San Diego State? That's a tougher question. Maybe start with incredible athleticism and a winning mentality.
How Many National Championships Does San Diego State Have in Football? Zero (yet!), but they're building a program known for toughness and development.
How Can I Learn More About San Diego State Football? Google "San Diego State Aztecs Football" or head over to their official website - go Aztecs!
