College football's active coaches who have produced the most all-time NFL Draft selections
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- Kirk Ferentz has produced 94 all‑time NFL Draft selections, the most among active FBS coaches, with early picks like Dallas Clark and recent picks Lukas Van Ness and Jack Campbell in 2023.
- Dabo Swinney amassed 86 draft picks, including 18 first‑round selections such as Trevor Lawrence, Deshaun Watson and seven defensive linemen, highlighting Clemson’s staff continuity.
- Kirby Smart’s Georgia program generated 76 draft picks, with five defensive first‑rounders in 2022, two the next year, and three more last spring, underscoring his recruiting prowess.
- James Franklin has overseen 66 draft picks at Penn State, with seven first‑rounders since 2021—including Abdul Carter and Micah Parsons—showing rapid talent development.
Why it matters: College programs with high‑draft coaches attract more top recruits, boosting ticket sales and donor contributions, while programs with lower draft output risk losing talent and funding.
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