You might know their stats, their teams, and their biggest plays, but did you know some NFL stars are also family? Many families have etched their surnames in NFL history, producing multiple generations of star players. Prepare to be inspired as we celebrate 15 football families that prove that talent sometimes runs in the genes.
Howie, Kyle, and Chris Long
As a Hall of Fame player for the Raiders, Howie Long set a high standard for his sons, Chris and Kyle. Chris entered the NFL first in 2008, followed by Kyle in 2013. Both brothers had successful football stints, with Chris winning two Super Bowls. Howie’s experience and advice definitely helped his sons adapt to the NFL’s demands.
Matt and Tim Hasselbeck
Though retired, these two brothers built outstanding football careers that are worth acknowledging. Matt Hasselbeck led the Seahawks to a Super Bowl appearance and made three Pro Bowls during his quarterback tenure. The younger brother, Tim, was also a quarterback for seven teams during his eight seasons in the NFL.
Brian and Bob Griese
With Bob Griese, the Miami Dolphins won two Super Bowls in the 1970s. This opened doors for Bob’s son Brian, who enjoyed a prosperous 11-year NFL run. Brian has also groomed his nephew Jack for the league, following in his father’s footsteps. The young running back plays for the University of Virginia and might carry Griese’s NFL journey to the third generation.
Travis and Jason Kelce
While Jason has retired, Travis remains a formidable tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs. Since joining the league in 2013, Travis has won three Super Bowl championships and achieved Pro Bowl status nine times. His relationship with pop legend Taylor Swift also boosted his team’s influence. Jason, his older brother, was equally successful, albeit on a smaller scale.
Derek and David Carr
Draft day excitement ran high for the Carr family, not once but twice. David was the first overall pick in 2002, paving the way for his younger brother Derek in 2014. But Derek outshone his brother’s NFL career and became a four-time Pro Bowler and a Sammy Baugh award winner. Despite David’s less-than-stellar performance, Derek credits him with his NFL success.
J.J. and T.J. Watt
The Watt brothers have redefined family excellence in the NFL. J.J. joined the league first, earning five All-Pro titles, then T.J. followed suit with the Defensive Player of the Year award back in 2021. This good fortune extends to a third sibling, Derek, who is part of the Los Angeles Chargers.
Bryan Cox Sr. and Jr.
Intensity personified—that’s Bryan Cox Sr. on the field. Bryan Cox Sr. was known for his intense play as a linebacker, making three Pro Bowl selections and one Super Bowl victory. Currently, he’s a defensive line coach for the New York Giants. His son, Bryan Jr., played for three NFL teams before switching to Canada’s Saskatchewan Roughriders in 2023.
Phil, Chris, and Matt Simms
During his 14-year NFL reign, Phil Simms led the Giants to two Super Bowl wins, becoming a Super Bowl MVP and two-time Pro Bowler. This set the stage for his sons, Chris and Matt, who have had commendable NFL careers. Phill’s son-in-law, Brian Toal, is also a retired linebacker, so don’t be shocked to see more future players from this family.
Joe, Nate, and Nick Montana
Family expectations can suffocate, especially when your father is Joe “Cool” Montana. Joe is one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, winning four Super Bowls with the San Francisco 49ers. Nonetheless, his sons, Nate and Nick, faced immense pressure living up to his legacy as neither was drafted into the NFL.
Stefon Diggs and Trevon Diggs
Born November 29, 1993, Stefon played wide receiver for the Buffalo Bills. He was traded to the Bills from the Minnesota Vikings in 2020 and has since earned multiple Pro Bowl selections. The brother, Trevon, born September 20, 1998, is a cornerback for the Dallas Cowboys, where he was drafted in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Darren and Jamie Sharper
Darren Sharper’s five Pro Bowl selections and Super Bowl win with the Saints highlighted his time on the field. But post-retirement, he was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment for assault charges. His older brother Jamie might not match his achievements, but he’s a respected former NFL linebacker and coach.
Bob and Mike Golic
Before Bob and Mike Golic became media personalities, they were defensive tackles in the NFL. Bob played for the Patriots, Browns, and Raiders, while Mike spent eight years with the Oilers, Eagles, and Miami Dolphins. The Golics’ love for football and broadcasting indeed runs in the family, as Mike’s son, Jr., also retired from playing offensive guard.
Champ and Boss Bailey
Defensive excellence found its poster child in Champ Bailey, who passed it on to his younger brother, Rodney. Champ is one of the NFL’s premier cornerbacks and a Pro Football Hall of Famer. His younger brother, Rodney “Boss” Bailey, joined the league as a linebacker in 2003. Although their careers differed, the Baileys left a huge mark on the NFL landscape.
Kellen Winslow Sr. and Jr.
Kellen Winslow Sr. reshaped what it meant to be a tight end during his Hall of Fame career with the Chargers. Since 1979, he has been an expert player and earned his first pro-bowl title a year post-drafting. This influence helped his son, Kellen Jr., join the NFL as a highly touted prospect in 2004.
Anthony Dorsett Sr. and Jr.
From 1977’s rookie of the year winner, Tony Dorset quickly upgraded to Super Bowl champion. Anthony Dorsett Sr.’s Hall of Fame career with the Dallas Cowboys raised a daunting bar for his son, Anthony Jr. While Jr. didn’t match his father’s tenacity, he spent 14 years as an NFL defensive back.
15 NFL Stars You Didn’t Know Were Related