The state of Texas, with 192 players, produced the most players of any state on NFL Kickoff Weekend Rosters, followed by Florida (185), California (159) and Georgia (148). There were 22 players from Bradenton (Fla.) high schools on Kickoff Weekend rosters, the most of any city. Rounding out the top five cities with the most NFL players on Kickoff Weekend rosters in 2026 were Miami (Fla.) with 21 players, Atlanta (Ga.) with 17 players and Detroit (Mich.) and Las Vegas (Nev.) each with 14 players. IMG Academy in Bradenton (Fla.) produced the most NFL players on 2026 NFL Kickoff Weekend rosters. South Florida continues to produce a plethora of NFL talent, as the top three high schools with the most NFL players hail from the region.
Overall, NFL players represent high schools in 45 states and the District of Columbia, four countries — Australia, Canada, Nigeria and the United States — and a U.S. territory (American Samoa). The totals are based on the 1,735 players on Kickoff Weekend rosters (charts available at the bottom of this release).
Additionally, the National Football League today celebrated record-breaking growth in football participation at every level of the game. From youth tackle to high school and college programs, the sport is thriving in the United States, fueled by collaboration between the NFL, its 32 clubs, and leading partners.
“It’s exciting to see partners across every level of football working together to strengthen and grow the game, from youth and high school programs to the college ranks,” said Terry Fontenot, NFL Vice President of Football Development.