The Best Former NFL Players Turned Actors, Ranked

Professional football requires a level of physical discipline and charisma that often translates well to the entertainment industry. Many athletes have attempted to trade their helmets for scripts with varying degrees of success over the decades. The individuals on this list proved they possessed the talent to sustain careers in Hollywood long after leaving the gridiron. These are the gridiron stars who successfully made the leap from the stadium to the screen.

Brett Favre

Brett Favre is a Hall of Fame quarterback known for his time with the Green Bay Packers. He made a memorable transition to film with his appearance in the comedy hit ‘There’s Something About Mary’. Favre played himself as the former boyfriend of the title character in a role that became a pop culture staple. His ability to poke fun at his own fame made the cameo a highlight of the movie.

Mike Ditka

Mike Ditka is a legendary figure in football history as both a player and a coach for the Chicago Bears. He utilized his tough persona to land roles in various films and television shows. His performance in the soccer comedy ‘Kicking & Screaming’ allowed him to display his comedic timing alongside Will Ferrell. Ditka usually plays variations of himself but always commands attention on screen.

Dan Marino

Dan Marino is considered one of the greatest quarterbacks to never win a Super Bowl during his time with the Miami Dolphins. He achieved cinematic immortality with his significant role in the comedy ‘Ace Ventura: Pet Detective’. Marino played himself as the victim of a kidnapping plot that drove the narrative of the film. His banter with Jim Carrey remains one of the most quoted exchanges in sports comedy history.

Michael Strahan

Michael Strahan was a dominant defensive end for the New York Giants before becoming a media personality. He has taken on acting roles that showcase his charisma and physical presence. Strahan appeared in the film ‘Magic Mike XXL’ where he surprised audiences with his comedic performance. He also starred in the sitcom ‘Brothers’ which highlighted his potential as a leading man in television comedy.

Joe Namath

Joe Namath was the first true rock star of the NFL during his time as a quarterback for the New York Jets. He parlayed his Super Bowl fame into a career in Hollywood during the late sixties and seventies. Namath starred in films like ‘C.C. and Company’ and made numerous television appearances on variety shows. His charm on the field translated naturally to his romantic lead roles.

Bob Golic

Bob Golic played as a defensive tackle for the Cleveland Browns and Los Angeles Raiders during a lengthy NFL career. He found success on television as a lovable tough guy in various sitcoms. Golic is best known for playing the resident advisor Mike Rogers in ‘Saved by the Bell: The College Years’. He successfully moved from tackling running backs to delivering punchlines for a younger audience.

Dick Butkus

Dick Butkus terrorized offenses as a linebacker for the Chicago Bears and is often cited as the most feared tackler in history. He softened his image considerably when he transitioned to acting in television sitcoms. Butkus played a regular role in the series ‘My Two Dads’ and the basketball show ‘Hang Time’. His imposing size combined with a grumpy heart of gold became his signature character type.

Joe Anoa’i

Joe Anoa’i is better known as Roman Reigns in the world of professional wrestling but he started as a football player signed by the Minnesota Vikings and Jacksonville Jaguars. He has recently begun a transition into Hollywood action films. He appeared alongside Dwayne Johnson in the blockbuster ‘Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw’. His physical stature and screen presence suggest a promising future in the action genre.

Vernon Davis

Vernon Davis was a prolific tight end for the San Francisco 49ers who won a Super Bowl with the Denver Broncos. He retired from football to pursue acting and producing with serious dedication. Davis has appeared in films such as ‘Muti’ alongside Morgan Freeman and ‘A Day to Die’ with Bruce Willis. He is currently building a resume that focuses on action and thriller genres.

Isaiah Mustafa

Isaiah Mustafa was a practice squad wide receiver for several NFL teams before finding fame in entertainment. He became a household name as the main character in a series of viral commercials for Old Spice. Mustafa transitioned to serious acting with a major role in the horror sequel ‘It Chapter Two’. He also starred as a werewolf in the supernatural series ‘Shadowhunters’.

Marshawn Lynch

Marshawn Lynch was a powerful running back for the Seattle Seahawks known for his unique personality. He has brought that same unpredictable energy to roles in film and television. Lynch delivered a hilarious improvisational performance in the crime comedy series ‘Murderville’. He also appeared in the comedy film ‘Bottoms’ and the sci-fi drama ‘Westworld’.

Brian Bosworth

Brian Bosworth was a linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks who garnered massive media attention for his flamboyant style. He capitalized on his fame to launch an action movie career in the nineties. His debut film ‘Stone Cold’ has become a cult classic among fans of the genre. Bosworth continues to act in various projects and often references his colorful past.

Bill Goldberg

Bill Goldberg played defensive tackle for the Atlanta Falcons before becoming an icon in professional wrestling. He used his massive physique to secure roles in films like ‘The Longest Yard’ and ‘Universal Soldier: The Return’. Goldberg played the villainous Santa in the horror comedy ‘Santa’s Slay’. His acting career often utilizes his ability to perform intense physical stunts.

Lawrence Taylor

Lawrence Taylor is widely regarded as the greatest defensive player in NFL history from his time with the New York Giants. He delivered a powerful performance as a linebacker in the Oliver Stone film ‘Any Given Sunday’. Taylor brought an authenticity to the role that only a veteran player could provide. He continues to make appearances in films and documentaries regarding his life and career.

Terry Bradshaw

Terry Bradshaw won four Super Bowls as the quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers before becoming a broadcaster. He has enjoyed a steady acting career with roles in romantic comedies. Bradshaw played a major supporting role in ‘Failure to Launch’ as the father of Matthew McConaughey’s character. He also starred in the comedy ‘Father Figures’ and brings a distinct southern charm to his work.

Thomas Q. Jones

Thomas Q. Jones rushed for over ten thousand yards during his NFL career with teams like the Chicago Bears and New York Jets. He reinvented himself as a serious actor with a role in the Marvel series ‘Luke Cage’. Jones played the character Comanche and impressed critics with his dramatic range. He continues to work steadily in television dramas such as ‘P-Valley’.

Matthew Willig

Matthew Willig was an offensive tackle who played for multiple teams including the Rams and Panthers over a fourteen-year career. He is now a successful character actor known for playing imposing villains. Willig appeared as the Inhuman Lash in the series ‘Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’ and had a role in ‘Birds of Prey’. His height and unique look have kept him busy in the fantasy and sci-fi genres.

Nnamdi Asomugha

Nnamdi Asomugha was an All-Pro cornerback for the Oakland Raiders who has achieved critical acclaim as an actor and producer. He delivered a powerful performance in the drama ‘Crown Heights’ which earned him an Independent Spirit Award nomination. Asomugha also starred in the romance film ‘Sylvie’s Love’ alongside Tessa Thompson. He is considered one of the most serious dramatic talents to emerge from the NFL.

Brad William Henke

Brad William Henke played on the defensive line for the Denver Broncos and appeared in a Super Bowl before injuries ended his career. He transformed into a celebrated character actor best known for his role as Desi Piscatella in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Henke brought a terrifying intensity to the role that anchored a major season arc. He also appeared in films like ‘Split’ and ‘Fury’ before his passing.

John Matuszak

John Matuszak was a defensive end for the Oakland Raiders known for his wild lifestyle and massive size. He immortalized himself in pop culture history by playing Sloth in the adventure film ‘The Goonies’. Matuszak endured hours of makeup application to bring the beloved character to life. He also had roles in ‘North Dallas Forty’ and ‘Caveman’ during the eighties.

Bubba Smith

Bubba Smith was a dominant defensive end for the Baltimore Colts who transitioned into a comedy icon. He is best known for playing the soft-spoken giant Moses Hightower in the ‘Police Academy’ film franchise. Smith used his immense height for comedic effect and became a fan favorite in the series. He enjoyed a long career in television commercials and sitcom guest spots.

Fred Dryer

Fred Dryer played defensive end for the New York Giants and Los Angeles Rams before becoming a television star. He is one of the few NFL players to land a lead role in a long-running dramatic series. Dryer starred as Detective Sergeant Rick Hunter in the crime drama ‘Hunter’ for seven seasons. His success paved the way for other athletes to carry their own shows.

Ed Marinaro

Ed Marinaro was a running back for the Minnesota Vikings who found his true calling in television acting. He starred as Officer Joe Coffey in the acclaimed police drama ‘Hill Street Blues’ for several seasons. Marinaro later gained a new generation of fans as the football coach in the comedy series ‘Blue Mountain State’. His handsome looks and charm made him a natural for television drama.

Howie Long

Howie Long is a Hall of Fame defensive end for the Raiders who successfully crossed over into action films. He starred alongside John Travolta as the villain in the blockbuster ‘Broken Arrow’. Long also took the lead role in the action film ‘Firestorm’ where he played a smokejumper. He remains a prominent figure in media as a studio analyst.

Bernie Casey

Bernie Casey was a Pro Bowl wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams. He built an impressive acting resume that spanned decades and included both serious drama and comedy. Casey played the CIA agent Felix Leiter in the James Bond film ‘Never Say Never Again’. He also showed his comedic chops as the fraternity head U.N. Jefferson in ‘Revenge of the Nerds’.

Woody Strode

Woody Strode was one of the first black players in the modern NFL and became a trailblazing actor in Hollywood. He starred in the epic film ‘Spartacus’ where he fought Kirk Douglas in the gladiator arena. Strode was a favorite of director John Ford and had a key role in the western ‘The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance’. His dignity and physical presence made him a screen legend.

Merlin Olsen

Merlin Olsen was a defensive tackle for the Los Angeles Rams and a member of the fearsome foursome. He became a beloved television actor playing Jonathan Garvey on ‘Little House on the Prairie’. Olsen later starred in his own drama series ‘Father Murphy’ which ran for two seasons. His gentle on-screen demeanor contrasted sharply with his violent profession on the football field.

Fred Williamson

Fred Williamson played defensive back for the Chiefs and Raiders and earned the nickname The Hammer. He became an icon of the blaxploitation genre in the seventies with films like ‘Black Caesar’. Williamson directed and produced many of his own action films and maintained a prolific career. He later appeared in ‘From Dusk Till Dawn’ as a vampire killer.

Alex Karras

Alex Karras was a defensive tackle for the Detroit Lions who became a successful sitcom dad. He is best known for playing George Papadopolis in the long-running series ‘Webster’. Karras also delivered a legendary performance as the brute Mongo in the Mel Brooks comedy ‘Blazing Saddles’. His ability to play both gentle giants and terrifying tough guys was unique.

John David Washington

John David Washington was signed to the St. Louis Rams practice squad and played in NFL Europe before becoming an A-list actor. He starred in the Spike Lee film ‘BlacKkKlansman’ which earned him a Golden Globe nomination. Washington then led the cast of the Christopher Nolan blockbuster ‘Tenet’. He has quickly established himself as one of the most talented actors in Hollywood today.

Terry Crews

Terry Crews was a linebacker for several NFL teams including the Rams and Chargers before becoming a comedy superstar. He is widely adored for his role as Sergeant Terry Jeffords in the sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. Crews also starred in the cult comedy ‘Idiocracy’ as President Camacho. His high-energy performances and physical comedy have made him a household name.

Carl Weathers

Carl Weathers played linebacker for the Oakland Raiders before creating some of the most iconic characters in film history. He is world-famous for playing Apollo Creed in the ‘Rocky’ franchise alongside Sylvester Stallone. Weathers also starred in ‘Predator’ and had a memorable role in ‘Happy Gilmore’. He recently captivated audiences as Greef Karga in ‘The Mandalorian’ series.

Jim Brown

Jim Brown is often cited as the greatest football player of all time and he retired early to become a movie star. He starred in the classic war film ‘The Dirty Dozen’ where he displayed immense screen presence. Brown broke racial barriers as one of the first black action heroes in films like ‘100 Rifles’. His acting career proved that athletes could command the screen with the same authority they held on the field.

Which former player do you think had the best movie role? Share your thoughts in the comments.