Football season nears as former Cougs shine in the NFL

By Communications staff, Washington State University
Closeup of Kyle Williams and WSU teammates during a home football game against Portland State.
Wide receiver Kyle Williams, drafted by the New England Patriots, will be one of fourteen former Cougs playing in the NFL this year. (Photo by Robert Hubner, WSU Photo Services)

Football season is just around the corner, with the Cougs set to kick off their 2025 campaign later this month against Palouse rival Idaho. As fans prepare for the home opener, they may also want to check in on former Washington State standouts now playing in the NFL.

Fourteen Cougs are continuing their football careers at the next level, including quarterback Gardner Minshew II, now with the Kansas City Chiefs. Known for his signature mustache and playmaking style, Minshew has started 46 NFL games across four teams and enters his seventh season in the league.

Other notable Cougs include linebacker Frankie Luvu, who earned All-Pro Second Team honors last season with the Washington Commanders, and offensive tackle Abraham Lucas, a fourth-year starter with the Seattle Seahawks.

For the full list of WSU players in the NFL and where they’re playing this season, check out Cougs in the NFL on the Washington State Athletics website.

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