The Greatest Mississippi State Football Players of All Time

Mississippi State University has been a breeding ground for some of the finest talents in college football, with players who have not only left a mark on the Bulldogs' history but also gone on to achieve significant success in the NFL. Here, we delve into the careers of some of the best Mississippi State football players, highlighting their time at the university and their lasting impact.

Jackie Parker (1952-1953)

Jackie Parker was one of the earliest stars for Mississippi State, playing quarterback during the early 1950s. In just two seasons, Parker set an impressive array of records that stood for decades. His 1952 season was particularly notable, where he led the NCAA in points scored with 120. Parker was a two-time All-SEC selection and his versatility and athleticism were key to his success. After college, Parker became a legend in the Canadian Football League, but his foundational years at Mississippi State laid the groundwork for his storied career.

Tom "Shorty" McWilliams (1944-1948)

Tom McWilliams, also known as "Shorty," was an all-around player who excelled at defensive back and halfback. Between 1944 and 1948, with a brief hiatus to play for the Army Black Knights in 1945, McWilliams was a four-time All-SEC First Team member. His accolades include SEC Player of the Year in 1944, and he was a significant factor in Mississippi State's offensive and defensive plays. His legacy is preserved in both the Mississippi Sports and Mississippi State Sports Halls of Fame.

Art Davis (1951-1954)

Art Davis played as both a halfback and defensive back from 1951 to 1954. He was a standout athlete, known for his resilience, notably playing with injuries in crucial games. Davis was named SEC Player of the Year in 1954, SEC Best Offensive Back in 1954, and SEC Best Defensive Back in 1955. His career at Mississippi State was decorated with All-American honors and numerous awards, making him one of the most celebrated players in the school's history.

D.D. Lewis (1967-1969)

From 1967 to 1969, D.D. Lewis was a dominant force at linebacker for the Bulldogs. His three-year tenure included leading the team in tackles each season, earning him the SEC Defensive Player of the Year in 1967 alongside All-SEC honors. Lewis's professional career with the Dallas Cowboys further solidified his status as one of the best linebackers from Mississippi State, contributing to two Super Bowl wins.

Johnie Cooks (1977-1981)

Johnie Cooks played linebacker from 1977 to 1981, leaving a legacy with his defensive prowess. He amassed 392 tackles, ranking him fifth in school history, and 24 sacks, placing him fourth. His accolades at Mississippi State included All-SEC and All-American honors, and he was the Defensive MVP of the 1981 Hall of Fame Bowl. Cooks was drafted second overall by the Baltimore Colts in 1982, highlighting his college success.

Dak Prescott (2012-2015)

Dak Prescott's impact on Mississippi State football from 2012 to 2015 is monumental. After redshirting his freshman year and serving as a backup in 2013, he took over as the starting quarterback in 2014, leading the Bulldogs to their first-ever No. 1 ranking in the College Football Playoff poll. His record-setting performances included breaking 10 school records, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities with both his passing and rushing. His leadership and performance paved the way for his NFL career with the Dallas Cowboys.

Fletcher Cox (2009-2011)

From 2009 to 2011, Fletcher Cox was a disruptive force on the defensive line, earning All-American honors and first-team All-SEC recognition. His time at Mississippi State prepared him for a stellar NFL career with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he became a key player in their Super Bowl LII victory, earning multiple Pro Bowl nods and All-Pro selections.

Jeffery Simmons (2016-2018)

Jeffery Simmons was a standout defensive lineman from 2016 to 2018, culminating in him receiving the Conerly Trophy for Mississippi's best college football player in 2018. His defensive skills were recognized with two First-Team All-SEC selections, and his professional career with the Tennessee Titans has continued to highlight his talent, earning him Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors.

Chris Jones (2013-2015)

Chris Jones, during his time at Mississippi State from 2013 to 2015, was known for his versatility on the defensive line. His performances led to his selection by the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL draft, where he has since played a pivotal role in their Super Bowl successes, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections.

Montez Sweat (2015-2018)

Montez Sweat terrorized SEC offenses from 2015 to 2018 with his edge-rushing capabilities. His final seasons were particularly dominant, leading to his selection in the first round of the NFL Draft by the Washington Commanders. Sweat has continued to be a force in the NFL, known for his sack totals and defensive impact.

Darius Slay (2010-2012)

Known as "Big Play Slay," Darius Slay was an exceptional cornerback for Mississippi State from 2010 to 2012. His ability to make game-changing plays led to his selection in the second round of the NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions, and later, success with the Philadelphia Eagles, including All-Pro and Pro Bowl recognitions.

Anthony Dixon (2006-2009)

Anthony Dixon was one of the most productive running backs in Mississippi State history from 2006 to 2009, setting records for rushing touchdowns and yards. His hard-nosed running style made him a fan favorite and a significant contributor to the Bulldogs' offense.

Kylin Hill (2017-2019)

Kylin Hill's career from 2017 to 2019 included winning the C Spire Conerly Trophy in 2019, recognizing him as Mississippi's best college football player. His ability to lead the SEC in rushing yards during his senior year underscored his talent and impact on the field.

Elgton Jenkins (2014-2018)

Elgton Jenkins played offensive line from 2014 to 2018, showcasing his skills at guard, tackle, and center. His versatility and talent translated well into the NFL, where he has been a key player for the Green Bay Packers, earning recognition for his blocking.

The legacy of these players at Mississippi State is not just in their individual achievements but in how they've elevated the program's reputation, setting standards for future generations. Each player brought something unique to the Bulldogs, from record-breaking performances to leadership on and off the field, contributing to the rich tapestry of Mississippi State football history.