American · Oklahoma City, Oklahoma · Born 8 November 1987American college football quarterback who won the 2008 Heisman Trophy at Oklahoma before a successful NFL career spanning multiple teams.
Born in Oklahoma City in 1987, Samuel Jacob Bradford emerged as one of the most promising quarterbacks in college football history during his time at the University of Oklahoma. Growing up in Oklahoma, he developed into a highly recruited high school quarterback before committing to play for the Sooners under head coach Bob Stoops. Bradford's collegiate career reached extraordinary heights during his sophomore season in 2008, when he threw for 4,720 yards and 50 touchdown passes while leading Oklahoma to a Big 12 Championship and an appearance in the BCS National Championship Game. His exceptional performance earned him the Heisman Trophy, making him the second sophomore to win the award. He followed this breakthrough season with another outstanding campaign in 2009, earning consensus All-American honors for the second consecutive year and leading the Sooners to another Big 12 title. The Oklahoma quarterback's remarkable two-year starting career produced 8,403 passing yards and 88 touchdown passes, establishing him as one of the most prolific passers in program history. His 50 touchdown passes in 2008 set a Big 12 record and tied the NCAA single-season mark at the time. Bradford won the Davey O'Brien Award twice, recognizing him as the nation's top quarterback in both 2008 and 2009. He finished as Heisman Trophy runner-up in 2009, making him one of only a handful of players to finish in the top two for the award in consecutive seasons. Bradford's dominance at the collegiate level led to his selection as the first overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Rams. His professional career, however, was hampered by significant knee injuries that prevented him from reaching his anticipated potential. Despite these setbacks, his college achievements remain unparalleled in Big 12 history, representing the most decorated two-year quarterback performance in conference annals and cementing his status as one of Oklahoma's greatest players.
Winning the 2008 Heisman Trophy as Oklahoma's quarterback
How They Played
Pocket passer with strong arm accuracy and excellent decision-making skills
Lasting Impact
One of the most decorated college quarterbacks in history who became the first overall NFL Draft pick in 2010
Career Honours
- Heisman Trophy (2008)
- Big 12 title 2x
- Consensus All-American 2x
- Davey O'Brien Award
| Club | Period | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma Sooners | 2006–2009 | 50 |
American Athletes