TIPsters do great things. Our alumni have gone on to change the world as entrepreneurs, doctors, scientists, professors, authors—and football players.
That’s right, some major NFL stars were once exactly where you are today: TIP students exploring all of their different interests and trying to find out where their talents can take them. Well, it turns out their talents took them to play professional football! Not only that, but they play at the highest level: TIP alumni have at least two Heisman Trophies and three Super Bowl rings!
Here are just a few of the TIPsters who are currently playing quarterback in the NFL.
Sam Bradford
Sam Bradford (seen in the photo above) grew up in Oklahoma before attending the University of Oklahoma. He led the Sooners to two Big 12 championships and a national championship game, and for his efforts won the Heisman Trophy after his sophomore season. The St. Louis Rams selected him first overall in the NFL draft. In 2015, Bradford was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles for Nick Foles—another former TIPster, making it the only known TIP for TIP trade in NFL history. Bradford now plays for the Minnesota Vikings and set the record for completion percentage in a season in 2016—breaking the record of our next TIP alum.
Drew Brees
After attending Purdue University, Drew Brees was drafted by the San Diego Chargers. He made the Pro Bowl in 2004 before being traded to the New Orleans Saints in 2006. Brees led them to a Super Bowl title in 2009, racking up plenty of accolades along the way, including a Pro Bowl selection, All-Pro honors, and a Super Bowl MVP trophy. Brees’s success hasn’t slowed down either: he broke six NFL records in the 2011 season, including most passing yards in a season. Brees is currently third in all-time passing yards, touchdowns, completions, and attempts.
Andrew Luck
Andrew Luck had a sterling college career at Stanford University, setting numerous school and conference records. He was so impressive, in fact, that some NFL fans wanted their team to purposefully lose to increase their odds of getting to draft Luck! He was eventually selected first overall by the Indianapolis Colts, and he broke the record for passing yards by a rookie. Luck has continued his impressive run, setting records for most fourth-quarter comebacks by a quarterback and most passing yards through his first three seasons.
Eli Manning
Eli Manning is part of football royalty. His father, Archie Manning, was an NFL star and his older brother, Peyton Manning, is one of the all-time greats. But Eli has held his own. The University of Mississippi graduate was the first overall pick in 2004 and has gone on to impressive success with the New York Giants. He led them to two Super Bowl victories, earning the MVP award in both games. He’s also been named to four Pro Bowls and has set numerous Giants records.