Calvin Johnson — Georgia Tech (ACC) (2004-2006)
Even though he cut his own career short when he retired at 30 years old, Calvin Johnson has a stout enough resume, so he is considered as Georgia Tech’s best football player of all time. “Megatron” had a stellar career while with the Yellow Jackets and he holds practically all of the major school records that a receiver can hold. In 2007, he became the highest NFL Draft pick in the school’s history, going second overall. He lived up to his pick, setting and tying many NFL records in spite of only playing nine seasons prior to his retirement in 2016. Other Georgia Tech football standouts include Maxie Baughan and Demaryius Thomas.
Calvin Johnson — Georgia Tech (ACC) (2004-2006)
Dick Butkus — Illinois (Big Ten) (1962-1964)
It is very difficult to pick a GOAT football player the the University of Illinois has produced. Between Ray Nitschke and Red Grange, you have two of the most legendary players in gridiron history — though the tough-as-nails Dick Butkus is our pick. The star offensive lineman and linebacker for the Fighting Illini, Butkus was a consensus All-American twice and was the 1963 Big Ten MVP. In an NFL career which only lasted nine seasons because of injuries, Butkus was prolific, making eight Pro Bowls, being named to eight All-Pro teams, and being named the Defensive Player of the Year in the NFL.
Dick Butkus — Illinois (Big Ten) (1962-1964)
