Illinois Football: Five Former Illini In The NFL Who Have Had Successful Careers

Honorable Mention: Steve Weatherford

Jan 22, 2012; San Francisco, CA, USA; New York Giants punter Steve Weatherford during the 2011 NFC Championship game against the San Francisco 49ers at Candlestick Park. The Giants won 20-17 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Jason O. Watson-USA TODAY Sports

Okay, let’s be honest. Steve Weatherford is an honorable mention on this list because he is a punter. However, he deserves to at least make the list as an honorable mention.

After going undrafted in the 2006 NFL Draft, Weatherford was picked up and made his debut for the New Orleans Saints. Since then, he has played for five teams over seven years. His best years would start in 2010 during his second season with the New York Jets. This was because Weatherford tie the NFL record for most punts inside the 20 with 42 punts.

Then, in 2011, he signed with the New York Giants after the team let go of Matt Dodge. At the end of that season, Steve Weatherford became something that few players on this list are and that would be a Super Bowl champion. He earned his championship as the New York Giants defeated the New England Patriots in Indianapolis for Super Bowl XVLI.

Overall, Steve Weatherford has recorded 503 punts, 22,087 punt yards, and 43.9 yards per punt during his NFL career.