The University of Alabama has long been a powerhouse in college football, producing some of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Many of these athletes go on to have successful careers in the NFL, but not every star from Tuscaloosa makes it to the next level. Some players dominate in college yet never get drafted or sign with a professional team. Others may have had the potential but chose different paths after their time at Alabama. Here’s a look at 15 Alabama football stars who, despite their impressive collegiate careers, never played in the NFL.

1. Harry Gilmer (Coaching Career Instead)

Harry Gilmer was a standout quarterback for Alabama in the 1940s, leading the team to multiple bowl appearances. While he was drafted into the NFL, he never played due to injuries and instead pursued a career in coaching.

2. Major Ogilvie (Chose a Different Path)

A key part of Bear Bryant’s wishbone offense in the late 1970s, Ogilvie helped Alabama win back-to-back national titles. Despite his talent, he never pursued a professional football career.

3. Andrew Zow (Successful but Undrafted)

Zow was a four-year starter at quarterback from 1998-2001 and played a pivotal role in Alabama’s offense. However, he went undrafted and never played in the NFL.

4. Trent Richardson (Short Stint, No Lasting Impact)

Richardson technically played in the NFL but never made a lasting impact. A former Heisman finalist, he struggled with consistency and quickly faded from the league.

5. Blake Sims (One-Year Wonder)

Sims had an outstanding senior season in 2014, leading Alabama to the College Football Playoff. However, his lack of prototypical size and arm strength kept him out of the NFL.

6. Tyler Watts (Injuries Cut Career Short)

A strong dual-threat quarterback, Watts was expected to have an NFL future. Unfortunately, injuries and inconsistent passing limited his chances.

7. Shaun Alexander (Not a True Bust, But Career Ended Quickly)

Alexander was an Alabama legend, but his NFL career, while initially successful, was short-lived due to injuries, leaving many wondering what could have been.

8. Prince Wimbley (College Standout, But No NFL Shot)

A dynamic receiver in the early 1990s, Wimbley never got a real opportunity in the pros despite his playmaking ability.

9. LaBryan Ray (Injury-Prone Star)

A highly touted defensive lineman, Ray struggled with injuries at Alabama, which hurt his draft stock and ultimately his NFL career.

10. Chris Capps (Solid But Not Elite)

An offensive lineman for the Crimson Tide, Capps was a dependable player but lacked the elite skills necessary for the pros.

11-15. More Notable Names

Other Alabama stars who never played in the NFL include Freddie Kitchens, Brodie Croyle (who had a short stint but never established himself), Kenneth Darby, Mike Shula, and Santonio Beard.

Not every college football star makes it to the next level, but their legacy at Alabama remains strong.