All over the state of New Jersey, there are passionate football fans. In fact, throughout the nation, NFL fanatics are everywhere, with many of these knowledgeable fans getting behind some of New Jersey’s finest over the years. These inspirational figures are from some much-loved local towns, eventually going on to represent their hometowns in arguably the biggest sporting competition on the planet.
From today’s players to some former heroes, some of New Jersey’s finest have had remarkable journeys in the NFL. For fans who wager on player performance by looking at NFL player props and printing names on the back of their jerseys, these local heroes are hard to ignore. They’re also hugely inspirational figures to any aspiring football players in the state, with their forays in the professional game showing exactly what can be achieved with hard work and dedication.
So, below, we salute a selection of NFL heroes from New Jersey to celebrate their various accomplishments in the sport and give them the recognition they deserve.
Joe Theismann
A former professional who is proud to be from New Brunswick, Joe Theismann had a magical career in the NFL. For more senior NFL fans, Theismann is a name they’ll remember well due to his various exploits with the Washington Redskins. The franchise’s star quarterback rarely let the team down, resulting in a magical Super Bowl XVII victory, while also being a two-time Pro Bowler. Joe Theismann will also be featured on our television screens following his retirement. He is an inspirational figure for many New Jersey locals.
Drew Pearson
Much like the aforementioned Joe Theismann, Drew Pearson had a fantastic career in the NFL. Pearson was born in South River and had a natural talent from an early age. Eventually, he made it to the big time and earned the nickname “Mr. Clutch” for his reliable performances in the biggest encounters. As a result of his match-winning moments, Drew Pearson was also inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Simply put, he’s a true local legend.
Franco Harris
If you’re a proud member of the Burlington County community, then Fort Dix’s very own, Franco Harris, is a former NFL hero you’re undoubtedly aware of. Harris has been inducted into the Hall of Fame due to his exploits on the field, which include winning four Super Bowl championships. A Pittsburgh Steelers legend, Franco Harris, is a local legend who deserves some love.
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Greg Olsen
If you’re from Paterson, you might know Greg Olsen. If you regularly watch the NFL live from the comfort of your sofa, then Olsen may have been overseeing proceedings due to the broadcasting career he has established since retiring from the sport. The three-time Pro Bowler and two-time second-team All-Pro did a great job, making his transition to the media side entirely understandable. Overall, Greg Olsen is a football personality many people from New Jersey will be fully aware of.
Sam Mills
(Image via https://x.com/NFL_DovKleiman)
If you speak to any diehard Carolina Panthers and New Orleans Saints fans, they’ll only have good things to say about Sam Mills. The Neptune City-born former professional was a formidable opponent who always worked hard, led from the front, and showed plenty of heart even in adversity. Mills, a Pro Football Hall of Famer, has also made a positive impression off the field, with his community work and foray into coaching making him an even more likable figure.
Irving Fryar (Mount Holly), Quenton Nelson (Holmdel), and Minkah Fitzpatrick (Old Bridge) also deserve special mention.
