How does the number of NFL picks correlate to the prestige of a college?

Hey, I've been wondering about something. When colleges get to brag about how many of their former students have made it into the NFL, does that reputation help attract more football players? And does this correlate at all with the academic prestige of the school or is it more about the school's sports reputation? Would love if someone could bring clarity to this!

The number of NFL draft picks from a college can definitely play a role in attracting prospective football players. The opportunity to play at a school known for producing professional players could be compelling for athletes with professional aspirations.

The correlation between a school's NFL draft picks and its academic prestige varies significantly. Many schools known for having a high number of draft picks, like Alabama or LSU, also have solid academic profiles, though they may not be on par with institutions like Harvard or Stanford. Other schools, like Notre Dame or Stanford, have both a strong history of NFL draft picks and a high academic reputation.

It's important to note, however, that academic prestige and athletic prowess often serve different purposes and attract different students. A school's academic achievements may not be a significant factor for aspiring NFL players focused primarily on athletic training and exposure, though it certainly could be a secondary consideration.

Equally, a student focused on academics may not consider the school's record of NFL draft picks in their decision-making process—unless they are also interested in a vibrant sports culture or opportunities to watch high-level college football.

In conclusion, while there is some correlation between these two factors, they also function separately. A school's history of NFL picks does attract more football players and contributes to its reputation in sports. However, it doesn't necessarily equate directly to academic prestige, which is typically determined by a different set of criteria.