Young Athletes follow their fathers into the NFL

The 2024 NFL draft has become a notable family affair with several young athletes following in their fathers’ NFL footsteps. Marvin Harrison Jr., Joe Alt, Kris Jenkins, Jonah Elliss, and Luke McCaffrey are among those drafted who have close familial ties to former pro football stars. Marvin Harrison Jr. and Joe Alt made history by becoming the 10th and 11th families since 1967 to see both father and son drafted in the first round. Harrison was picked fourth overall by Arizona while Alt went fifth to the Los Angeles Chargers.

Jonah Elliss, selected by the Denver Broncos in the third round, has a deep connection to the NFL with his father, Luther Elliss, previously the league’s highest-paid defensive tackle, and his three brothers also in the league. Kris Jenkins, chosen by the Bengals, continues the legacy of his father, a two-time All-Pro defensive tackle, and his uncle, a Super Bowl champion. Luke McCaffrey, picked by the Washington Commanders, is another example, with a father who starred in the NFL and a brother currently playing.

As the draft continues, more players with NFL lineage, such as Frank Gore Jr., Brenden Rice, and Jeremiah Trotter Jr., are anticipated to be selected, showcasing the enduring impact of football families in the league.

Source: AP News