Football is often celebrated as a sport defined by power, size, and physical dominance. Yet, at the highest level of competition, true athleticism transcends physical stature.
Throughout the history of the National Football League, many players have shattered expectations — proving that heart, skill, and determination can overcome any height disadvantage.
Below is a look at some of the shortest NFL players—both past and present—who have made an indelible mark on the game. (All height measurements are drawn from official NFL Scouting Combine data.)
The Shortest NFL Player of All Time: Jack Shapiro (5’1”)
At just 5 feet 1 inch and 119 pounds, Jack Shapiro stands as the shortest player ever to set foot in an NFL game. His brief but memorable stint came in 1929 when he played a single game for the Staten Island Stapletons.
Born in 1907 to Russian immigrant parents, Shapiro faced adversity from the start. His father opposed his interest in football, prompting young Jack to forge his father’s signature to join the team.
Weighing only 85 pounds at the time, Shapiro’s passion drove him to become a three-year high school starter before advancing to college and eventually the pros.
Reflecting on his unlikely journey decades later, he once said, “When I get to heaven, I’ll tell my father what I did, and I know he will forgive me.”
The Shortest Active NFL Player: Deuce Vaughn (5’5”)
Currently, Deuce Vaughn holds the title of the shortest active player in the NFL at 5 feet 5 inches.
A standout at Cedar Ridge High School in Round Rock, Texas, Vaughn shattered records early, setting the school’s single-season rushing record before committing to Kansas State University.
Despite his size, his explosive speed and agility earned him Big 12 Freshman of the Year honors in 2020.
During his college career, Vaughn amassed an impressive 4,854 yards from scrimmage across three seasons. In the 2023 NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys selected him in the sixth round (212th overall)—making him the shortest player drafted since the league began recording official measurements in 2003.
After limited playtime as a rookie, Vaughn has gradually seen increased action in the 2024–25 season, continuing to prove that stature doesn’t dictate success.
The Shortest Quarterbacks In The NFL: Kyler Murray And Bryce Young (5’10”)
In a league dominated by towering quarterbacks, Kyler Murray and Bryce Young share the distinction of being the shortest active quarterbacks, both officially measured at 5 feet 10⅛ inches.
Each athlete’s journey mirrors the other’s in remarkable ways — both were Heisman Trophy winners, both were first overall picks in their respective NFL drafts (Murray in 2019, Young in 2023), and both have proven that leadership and precision can outweigh physical height.
Kyler Murray, a multi-sport phenom, was also drafted in the first round of Major League Baseball’s 2018 draft — making him the first athlete ever to be selected in the opening round of both the MLB and NFL drafts.
Bryce Young, a five-star recruit from California and the top quarterback prospect of his class, starred at Alabama before being drafted by the Carolina Panthers, who traded significant assets to secure him.
Together, these two dynamic passers are reshaping perceptions of what an NFL quarterback “should” look like.
Modern Undersized Stars Making an Impact
While height can be an advantage, it’s far from a necessity for greatness. These modern NFL players—each under 5’8”—are redefining athletic excellence on their own terms.
Deuce Vaughn – 5’5” (Dallas Cowboys)
Despite receiving just six scholarship offers, Vaughn silenced doubters by becoming a record-setting rusher at Kansas State. As his high school coach, Sam Robinson, said, “All he will do for you is score touchdowns.”
J.J. Taylor – 5’5¼” (Houston Texans)
A former Mr. Football honoree in California, J.J. Taylor, overcame an early college injury to carve out a career as a return specialist. Though undrafted in 2020, he earned his place with the New England Patriots before joining the Houston Texans, where his speed and resilience continue to shine.
Jakeem Grant – 5’5⅞” (Atlanta Falcons)
Known for his jaw-dropping speed—reportedly running a 4.10-second 40-yard dash—Grant made his name as a dynamic return specialist with the Miami Dolphins, earning two All-Pro selections and a Pro Bowl nod in 2021. Despite injury setbacks, he remains one of the most electrifying athletes in the league.
Deonte Harty – 5’6⅜” (Baltimore Ravens)
Once overlooked by Division I programs, Deonte Harty proved himself at Division II Assumption College before earning First-Team All-Pro honors as a rookie with the New Orleans Saints. Now with the Ravens, Harty’s story epitomizes perseverance.
Tarik Cohen – 5’6½” (Retired)
Nicknamed “The Human Joystick,” Tarik Cohen dazzled fans with his elusive running style before devastating injuries cut his career short. A small-town hero turned NFL sensation, Cohen’s story remains a powerful lesson in resilience and heart.
Jaret Patterson – 5’6½” (Los Angeles Chargers)
Underrated and underrecruited, Patterson transformed his underdog status into motivation, breaking multiple records at Buffalo University before reaching the NFL.
Boston Scott – 5’6¾” (Former Eagles RB)
Cut from his middle school team, Boston Scott became a fan favorite in Philadelphia for his standout performances against the Giants, earning the nickname “The Giant Killer.”
Rondale Moore – 5’7” (Atlanta Falcons)
A former four-star recruit, Rondale Moore lit up Purdue University with his explosive playmaking. Drafted by the Cardinals in 2021, he’s since brought speed and versatility to every roster he’s joined.
Devin Singletary – 5’7” (Houston Texans)
The FAU all-time leading rusher, Singletary, has proven time and again that compact players can deliver big performances. As he put it best: “If you can play football, you can play football.”
Clyde Edwards-Helaire – 5’7¼” (Kansas City Chiefs)
From Louisiana State University to Super Bowl champion, Clyde Edwards-Helaire exemplifies determination. His stellar collegiate run during LSU’s championship season made him a first-round pick — and a source of inspiration for smaller athletes everywhere.
Other Notable Short NFL Players
Some additional undersized athletes who continue to defy stereotypes include:
Greg Dortch (WR, 5’7”), Blake Grupe (K, 5’7”), Jaleel McLaughlin (RB, 5’7”), Marcus Jones (DB, 5’8”), Devon Achane (RB, 5’8”), and many more who prove that grit outweighs height in the NFL.
FAQ
Who Is The Shortest Quarterback Ever Drafted In The First Round?
Kyler Murray made history as the shortest quarterback ever drafted in the first round, going No. 1 overall in 2019 to the Arizona Cardinals.
Who Is The Shortest Running Back In The NFL?
Deuce Vaughn currently holds that title, but past legends like Darren Sproles and Tarik Cohen also stood around 5’6″ to 5’7″ and left a lasting legacy in the league.
Has A Short Player Ever Won The Heisman Trophy?
Yes. Both Kyler Murray and Bryce Young, who stand just 5’10”, have won the Heisman Trophy for their stellar college performances before being selected as No. 1 overall picks.
What Is The Average Height Of An NFL Player?
The average height of an NFL player is approximately 6 feet 2 inches, depending on position. Quarterbacks and linemen are typically taller, while running backs and receivers vary more widely.
Do Shorter NFL Players Have An Advantage?
Yes — shorter players often have a lower center of gravity, making them harder to tackle and more agile. Many elite running backs and receivers use this to their advantage.
Who Are Some Successful Short NFL Players Today?
Top examples include Deuce Vaughn, Boston Scott, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Devin Singletary, and Rondale Moore — all under 5’8″ yet thriving in the league.
Can someone Under 6 Feet Make It To The NFL?
Absolutely. Height is not a deal-breaker. Determination, athletic ability, and football IQ matter far more — as proven by stars like Kyler Murray, Darren Sproles, and Tarik Cohen.