There was a time when Pennsylvania – western Pennsylvania, in particular – sent an inordinate number of football players to the NFL. The state still produces its fair share of NFL players, including three from the WPIAL this year, but it’s well behind the leaders.
The NFL released drafted players by state and Texas (32) led the way followed closely by Florida (30) and California (26). Pennsylvania was seventh with seven.
Ohio doubled that amount with 14 and two Ohio high schools produced two players. Glenville High School in Cleveland produced two fourth picks in Willie Henry and Cardale Jones. Walsh Jesuit, in nearby Stow, Ohio, produced fourth-rounder Connor Cook and sixth-rounder Drew Kaser.
The three players from the WPIAL selected were Tyler Boyd (Clairton), Nick Kwiatkowski (Bethel Park) and Quinton Jefferson (Woodland Hills).
Woodland Hills remains one of the most successful high school football programs in the country. In 2010, the Wolverines had six players in the NFL, the most of any high school in the country. If Jefferson makes it with the Seahawks and Rontez Miles and Darrin Walls can remain with the Jets (or any other team), Woodland Hills will have four players in the NFL next season. Rob Gronkowski, of course, is a shoe-in to remain in the NFL with the Patriots.
Woodland Hills has produced 10 NFL players, all since 1997. You might be surprised to know which Pennsylvania High School has produced the most NFL players.
The Kiski School has sent 21 players onto the NFL, but none since 1962.
Monessen is tied for second with 14, but none since Jamie Reader in 2001.
McKeesport is fourth with 13 and Aliquippa and Central Catholic are tied for sixth with 11 apiece.
McKeesport hasn’t had an active player since Mike Logan and Brandon Short in 2006.
Aliquippa and Central Catholic each have one active player in Darelle Revis and Stephen Wisniewski.
Seton La Salle and Seneca Valley are well-represented with active players, with Bruce and Gino Gradkowski and Don Barclay and Brandon Fusco.
First Published: May 11, 2016, 12:12 p.m.
