NFL

Remembering 5 of the Shortest NFL Players of All Time 

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While it’s tough for small basketball players to make it in the NBA, there have been a few exceptions over the years. Earl Boykins and Muggsy Bogues come to mind.

Overall, though, basketball players are generally tall athletes. The same applies in the NFL, with many football players being large in stature and having the physical prowess needed to execute the hardest of hits. We have seen some short players make it in the sport, though. 

While the NFL is a league of giants, we’ve also been exposed to some underdogs who have bucked the trend and made their own way in one of the most lucrative sports in the world. Sure, facing some of the biggest NFL players in history, such as Aaron Gibson and Terrell Brown, was a challenge for any professional, but these short kings clearly feared no one.

With that in mind, let’s take a brief look at five of the shortest NFL players of all time. Some players are still playing today, while others are former professionals many fans will recall. 

Trindon Holliday – 5’5” 

Kicking things off at 5-foot-5 is Trinton Holliday, who will always be remembered fondly as a highly talented wide receiver and return specialist.

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The former Denver Bronco’s career did fizzle out somewhat after the New York Giants cut him, but he still managed four years in professional football.

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Jakeem Grant Sr. – 5’6”

An active player who was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the sixth round of the 2016 NFL Draft, Jakeem Grant Sr. is a player desired by many NFL teams.

His electrifying speed and agility have enabled him to stand out in some of the sport’s biggest encounters. His ability to make big plays in critical moments helped him establish a strong reputation in the sport.

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Unfortunately, Grant has been largely sidelined since 2021 due to various injuries and is now a free agent.

Jacquizz Rodgers – 5’7”

A highly talented running back who exhibited his pace numerous times while playing for the Falcons, Jacquizz Rodgers might only be 5-foot-7, but he made a massive impact on the field for the Atlanta Falcons.

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Rodgers’ clear strength and amazing speed enabled him to become a real force for his team.

Jack Shapiro – 5’1”

Officially the shortest player the NFL has ever seen, Jack Shapiro managed to defy the odds and make it in a land of behemoths.

Stretching back to 1929, the miniature beast played for the Staten Island Stapletons and became a fan favorite despite only playing one professional game. His size was surely mocked then, but Shapiro’s determination to mix it with the best is admirable.

Deuce Vaughn – 5’5”

Currently playing for the Dallas Cowboys, Deuce Vaughn’s talent is obvious. Although he is just 5-foot-5, Vaughn is a running back with game-winning ability.

In his second year as a pro, his versatility is an undoubted plus point, but he is also hard to tackle, given his agility. Using his low center of gravity to his advantage, the 23-year-old is a player NFL fans will get to know even more in the future. 

Honorable Mentions

Those just short of making the cut are Boston Scott (5’6”), Rondale Moore (5’7”), Devin Singletary (5’7”), Greg Dortch (5’7″), Tre Tucker (5’8″), and Jaelon Darden (5’8″). 

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The Lead Staff

Articles collaborated by members of theleadsm.com staff. Covering a wide array of sports topics for nearly a decade.

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