Drake Thomas, a former standout linebacker at North Carolina State University, contributed to the Seattle Seahawks’ victory in Super Bowl LX on February 9, 2026. The Seahawks secured the Lombardi Trophy after defeating their opponent in a game that featured several players with ties to North Carolina.
Thomas, who played for the NC State Wolfpack during his collegiate career, played a role in the Seahawks’ defensive efforts throughout the season and in the championship game. His progression from college athlete to Super Bowl champion highlights the presence of North Carolina-trained talent in the NFL’s biggest event.
Alongside Thomas, at least 16 players on the rosters of both the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots held connections to North Carolina through college attendance or roots. This group of athletes included players from various North Carolina universities, underlining the state’s contribution to professional football talent.
Among those with ties to North Carolina appearing in the Super Bowl were also players like Chazz Surratt. Surratt graduated from the University of North Carolina in 2020 and continued his NFL career through several teams, landing with the Seahawks in 2025. His presence alongside other North Carolina alumni expanded the state’s representation on this national stage.
The Seahawks’ Super Bowl victory marked a culmination of contributions from players developed in different collegiate programs, emphasizing the strength and depth of North Carolina’s football training programs. The state ranked fourth overall in a recent assessment of institutions producing NFL talent participating in the Super Bowl.
This championship added to Drake Thomas’ professional achievements after his transition from college football. The win also illustrated the continued pipeline between North Carolina’s college football programs and NFL success. The Seahawks’ preparation, which included leveraging talents like Thomas and Surratt, secured their place as NFL champions in the 2025 season.
