Indiana's Football Roots Run Deep in the NFL
Think Indiana’s all basketball? Think again. From Friday night lights to Super Bowl Sundays, Hoosier athletes have carved out impressive careers in the NFL. Whether they came from powerhouse high schools like Center Grove and Cathedral or college programs like Purdue and Notre Dame, these athletes are proof that Indiana football talent stacks up with the best.
Let’s dive into some of the biggest names—and the up-and-comers—repping Indiana in the NFL right now.
Carson Steele: From Greenwood to the Super Bowl
One of Indiana’s best underdog stories is Carson Steele, the power-running back from Center Grove. His journey? Legendary.
Dominated Indiana high school football, winning Mr. Football in 2020.
Starred at Ball State and later UCLA.
Went undrafted but grinded through camp with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Made the 53-man roster—and appeared in Super Bowl LIX as a rookie.
Oh, and did we mention he has a pet alligator named Crocky J? You can hear the full story in our exclusive podcast with Carson Steele. From overcoming injuries to surviving roster cuts, Steele’s resilience is classic Hoosier grit.
Indiana-Born NFL Players to Watch
George Karlaftis — West Lafayette → Purdue → Kansas City Chiefs
A first-round pick in 2022, Karlaftis is one of the league's top young pass rushers. His journey from West Lafayette High School to the NFL is pure Indiana hustle.
Drue Tranquill — Fort Wayne → Notre Dame → Kansas City Chiefs
The Carroll High School and Notre Dame grad is a defensive leader on one of the NFL's best teams. Known for his versatility and leadership.
Cam Jones — Indianapolis → Indiana University → Kansas City Chiefs
The former IU linebacker has carved out a role on special teams and defense for the Chiefs, showing classic Hoosier toughness.
Peyton Hendershot — Lizton → Indiana University → Kansas City Chiefs
One of IU’s top tight ends in school history, Hendershot’s story of perseverance took him from Tri-West Hendricks to the Super Bowl.
Indiana Roots in Super Bowl LIX
Last season’s Super Bowl wasn’t just a Chiefs victory—it was an Indiana showcase. Five players with Hoosier roots suited up, including Carson Steele, George Karlaftis, and Drue Tranquill. Check out our full breakdown of Indiana connections in Super Bowl LIX.
Quick Q&A: Indiana in the NFL
Who is the most famous NFL player from Indiana right now?
George Karlaftis has the highest profile nationally, but Carson Steele’s rise from undrafted rookie to Super Bowl champ is Indiana’s favorite underdog story.
Are there any NFL stars from small Indiana towns?
Yes—Karlaftis from West Lafayette, Tranquill from Fort Wayne, and Steele from Greenwood all came from tight-knit communities where football is king.
The Hoosier State’s Gridiron Legacy
From small-town Friday night lights to Super Bowl Sunday, Indiana continues to produce NFL talent that’s tough, humble, and built for the big stage. Whether it’s bruising running backs like Carson Steele or relentless pass rushers like Karlaftis, these athletes carry the Hoosier work ethic with them every Sunday.
Who’s your favorite NFL player from Indiana? Let us know, and we’ll keep celebrating the Hoosier hustle that makes these stories possible.