Texas and South Florida High Schools Dominate NFL Kickoff Weekend Rosters

Texas leads the nation in producing NFL talent, with 199 players representing the state on Kickoff Weekend rosters, followed by Florida (179), California (165), and Georgia (143). Nine cities produced at least five NFL players each, with Bradenton, Fla., topping the list at 20 players. Atlanta, Ga., and Miami, Fla., tied for second-most with 18 players each, followed by Detroit, Mich., with 16.

IMG Academy in Bradenton produced the highest number of NFL players for the 2025 NFL Kickoff Weekend. South Florida remains a powerhouse for NFL talent, as all three high schools with the most NFL players originate from the region: IMG Academy (17), American Heritage (9), and St. Thomas Aquinas (9).

Overall, NFL players come from high schools in 46 states and the District of Columbia, as well as four countries—Australia, Canada, Germany, and the United States—and a U.S. territory (American Samoa). These totals are based on the 1,730 players on Kickoff Weekend rosters (see charts below).

Additionally, the NFL is celebrating record-breaking growth in football participation across all levels of the game. From youth flag leagues to high school and college programs, football is experiencing a powerful resurgence in the United States, fueled by the NFL’s collaboration with its 32 clubs and partners.

“It’s great to see all football partners working together to drive growth across youth tackle, high school, flag, and college football,” said Roman Oben, NFL Vice President of Football Development.

Youth & NFL FLAG

According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), youth flag football has grown significantly, with participation among ages 6–17 increasing 40% since 2019. Flag football has had one of the fastest five-year growth rates for both the 6–12 and 13–17 age groups. Participation among girls jumped by 89% since 2019, making it one of the fastest-growing sports for girls.

SFIA’s President & CEO, Todd Smith, commented:

“SFIA’s 2024 data revealed remarkable traction among youth players, especially females, due to increased resources, support, and expanded opportunities. This momentum excites us for the continued success of flag football.”

NFL FLAG, the youth league for ages 5–17 operated by RCX Sports, continues rapid growth, with approximately 760,000 participants last year and over 650,000 already this year. Girls' participation is especially strong, thanks in part to dedicated divisions and the High School Girls Division at the NFL FLAG Championships.

High School Football

Boys’ 11-player high school football participation has increased 5.7% since 2021–22, surpassing 1,029,000 participants in 2024, according to the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS). The number of schools sponsoring football reached its second-highest total ever, with 14,269 programs nationwide.

Girls’ flag football has exploded, expanding 388% since 2021 to nearly 69,000 participants. More than 30 states now offer flag football as a sanctioned or pilot program, and more are expected to follow.

“The rapid growth of girls’ flag football is one of the best stories in recent years,” said NFHS CEO Karissa Niehoff. “With official rules, state championships, and surging participation, the sport has unlimited potential.”

College Football

According to the National Football Foundation (NFF), college football continues to expand, now with 777 colleges and universities sponsoring teams—a net gain of 10 in the last five years. Four new programs launched this fall, with seven more set for 2026.

NFF Chairman Archie Manning said:

“Football’s growth isn’t just about love for the game—it’s proof of its unique ability to inspire education, create community, and energize school spirit.”

Over 100 colleges offered women’s flag football in spring 2024 across NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA, with more than 50 additional programs expected next season. Community and junior college tackle football remains strong with 123 teams nationwide, and collegiate sprint football—full-contact for players weighing 178 pounds or less—counts 16 teams in two leagues.

Since 1978, NCAA football participation has grown by nearly 200 programs, with youth and high school numbers also surging. International participation is also increasing through the NFL’s Global Markets Program and International Player Pathway.

States With Most NFL Players

High School Cities with Most NFL Players

High Schools with the Most NFL Players

NOTE: To obtain a complete list of NFL players' high schools, states and hometowns, click here.​