On the back of the latest Father’s Day celebrations, now seems an opportune time to take a look back at the fathers and sons who have graced the NFL over the years – a nice detour from assessing the latest NFL odds on the best betting apps, and analysing the 2023 draft implications.
When trawling through the history books, it soon becomes clear that NFL greatness is no stranger to being passed on through the genes. Here we pick out a selection of the best father/son combos to have hit the football news headlines over the years.
The Father: Archie Manning
Taken as the second overall pick in the 1971 Draft by the Saints, Archie went on to enjoy 12 years in New Orleans before rounding out his career with stints in Houston and Minnesota. Only once leading the Saints to a 0.500 record, those struggles were mainly due to a faltering offensive line – leading to Archie becoming one of the most hit QBs in the league. Whilst short on team achievements, Archie’s personal contribution was recognised by 2 Pro Bowl appearances and an induction into the Saints Hall of Fame.
The Sons: Peyton and Eli Manning
Whilst Archie missed out on post-season glory, sons Peyton and Eli more than made up for it; Peyton winning the Superbowl with the Colts in 2006 and th Broncos in 2015, and Eli winning it all with the Giants in 2007 and 2011. Five-time NFL MVP Peyton is already in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and it would be no surprise were Eli to join him when eligible in 2025.
The Father: Ferrel Edmunds
Ferrel Edmunds was a well-regarded tight end in the NFL during the late 80s and early 90s, first with the Miami Dolphins and latterly with the Seattle Seahawks. A two-time Pro Bowl selection whilst with the Dolphins, he ended his career with just shy of 1900 receiving yards.
The Sons: Trey, Terrell and Terrain Edmunds
It seems the Edmunds footballing genes were strong, with all three of Ferrell’s sons currently plying their trade in the NFL. Older brother Trey enjoyed one year with the Saints and four in Pittsburgh as a running back before moving into free agency in 2023. Terrell and Terrain, meanwhile, boast the distinction of being the first brothers to be taken in the first round of the same NFL Draft. Terrell plays at safety for the Steelers, whilst 2-time Pro Bowler Terrain has made the linebacker position his own in Buffalo.
The Father: Oliver Luck
The third QB taken in the 1982 draft, Oliver Luck was a teammate of non-other than Archie Manning during his time with the Houston Oilers. Serving as a backup for the majority of his time in the NFL, Luck Snr is perhaps best known to modern Gridiron fans as the former commissioner of the XFL.
The Son: Andrew Luck
Following a sensational collegiate career – winning the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm, Maxwell, and Walter Camp Awards – Andrew Luck was taken by the Indianapolis Colts as the Number 1 overall pick in the 2012 Draft. Exploding into the NFL with a record-setting rookie season, Luck consistintly remained one of the top perfoemers in the league. Sadly, injuries would take their toll on Luck – who retired in 2019 – leaving many wondering what might have been. Nevertheless, four Pro Bowl appearances and an overall 53-33 record represented a career of which most would be proud.
The Father: Howie Long
A familiar face to NFL fans, courtesy of his work as a TV analyst, Howie Long enjoyed a spectacular career on the field. Taken in the second round in 1981, Howie remained with the Raiders throughout his 13-year career, winning the Superbowl in 1984, in addition to 8 Pro-Bowl appearances and inclusion in the NFL Team of the Decade.
The Son: Chris and Kyle Long
Howie’s ability as a defensive end was certainly passed on to his son Chris. During 11 seasons in the league – with the Rams, Patriots and Eagles – Chris matched his father’s Superbowl win with the Patriots in 2016 and raised him another with the Eagles in 2017. Kyle Long made 3 Pro Bowl appearances during his time as a guard with the Bears, whilst third son Howie Jr. works in player recruitment for his father’s beloved Raiders.
