Every great sports town has its legends, and here in MetroWest and greater Milford, the gridiron has produced some truly unforgettable players. Now, as we gear up for our nation's 250th anniversary, USA TODAY Sports is honoring the 250 greatest American sports figures of all time—and we need your voice to crown our local king. Who is the all-time best football player to come from our community?
The Daily News has narrowed it down to 11 standout athletes who not only dominated on the high school field but also carried that fire to college and beyond. These players defined an era, shattered records, and put our small corner of Massachusetts on the map. From state championships to NFL stardom, each name on this list has a story worth celebrating.
Let's meet the contenders. First up is a quarterback who rewrote the record books. Leading his team to an undefeated season and a state championship, he set the state's career touchdown record with 147 and joined an elite club of just five players to surpass 10,000 career yards. His athleticism wasn't limited to football—he also scored 1,000 points on the basketball court. After a standout postgrad year, he's now taking his talents to Merrimack College.
Then there's the defensive back who made history at the Shriners All-Star Game, hauling in 150 receiving yards and a touchdown. He went on to become Boston University's all-time leader in career receptions (228), receiving yards (3,579), and touchdowns (32). Drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the fourth round, he played 10 seasons in the NFL, earning the prestigious Byron "Whizzer" White Man of the Year Award. Over 169 games, he amassed 583 receptions for 8,001 yards and 46 touchdowns with the Colts, Buffalo, and Washington.
And we can't forget the Heisman Trophy winner. As a senior at Boston College, he took home the Maxwell, Walter Camp, and Davey O'Brien Awards. Though drafted into the NFL, he chose the USFL instead, leaving a legacy that still echoes through the sport.
These are just a few of the legends on our list. Now it's your turn to decide who deserves the crown. Vote now and help us honor the best football player to ever come from MetroWest and greater Milford. The debate starts here.