Cal football is currently navigating a period of change, now entering just its second year competing in the ACC after moving from the Pac-12. Head coach Justin Wilcox remains firmly in his role, but pressure is mounting for improved results in the latter half of the 2025 season. With hopes of reaching a bowl game for the third consecutive year, the team must overcome recent setbacks, including losses to Texas Tech and UNLV that have affected public expectations and betting odds in California.
Despite challenges, there remains optimism among both players and coaching staff. Achieving a winning conference record for the first time since 2008 would represent a significant accomplishment for Wilcox and the Bears, reaffirming his leadership and the team’s potential to rebound.
Highlighting Former Bears Excelling in the NFL
To inspire current Cal players, it is helpful to spotlight several alumni who have gone on to great success in the NFL. These athletes exemplify the heights attainable and the legacy of Cal football beyond college stadiums.
Aaron Rodgers: A Legendary Career Continues
Aaron Rodgers stands as one of Cal’s most iconic football alumni, recognized as a future NFL Hall of Famer. At 42 years old by season’s end, Rodgers plays for the Pittsburgh Steelers, bringing a wealth of experience as a Super Bowl champion and four-time NFL Most Valuable Player. His journey was far from assured, having been overlooked after high school and briefly quitting football before catching the eye of former Cal coach Jeff Tedford at Butte College. Rodgers shattered records during his two years at Cal and earned MVP honors at the 2003 Insight Bowl, launching a Hall of Fame-worthy career despite ending his college tenure with a loss in the 2004 Holiday Bowl.
Jared Goff: From Early Starter to Pro Bowl Star
Jared Goff made an immediate impact as Cal’s first true freshman quarterback to start a season opener. Over three years with the Golden Bears, he led the team to a bowl victory — a milestone not reached since 2011 — before leaving early for the 2016 NFL Draft. Selected first overall by the Los Angeles Rams, Goff has translated his college promise into an impressive professional career highlighted by four Pro Bowl appearances. Now with the Detroit Lions, he plays a central role in the franchise’s resurgence as a genuine Super Bowl contender.
Keenan Allen: From High School Standout to Elite Receiver
Keenan Allen’s path to the NFL was shaped by a pivotal position switch and recruitment battle. Originally destined to play safety at Alabama, Cal successfully recruited him to play wide receiver alongside his half-brother. Allen set a school record with 205 catches in just three seasons and scored 25 touchdowns. Although he appeared in only one bowl game during his collegiate career—and that ended in a loss to Texas—Allen overcame a serious injury to enter the NFL draft. Drafted in the third round by the San Diego Chargers, he earned several rookie awards and was eventually named the NFL Comeback Player of the Year in 2017. His six Pro Bowl selections and 10,000 receiving yards place him among the franchise’s all-time greats.
Jake Tonges: A Rising Talent Exemplifying Determination
Jake Tonges is a more recent Cal alum making waves in the NFL. After redshirting his true freshman year, Tonges developed his blocking and receiving skills over five years at Cal. Originally from Cincinnati but raised in the Bay Area, he went undrafted in 2022 but signed with the Chicago Bears. His persistence earned him a spot on the San Francisco 49ers roster a year later, where he evolved from a special teams contributor to a key offensive player. During the 2025 season, Tonges stepped up significantly due to George Kittle’s injury, scoring three professional touchdowns and establishing himself as a standout player. His career trajectory embodies the grit and determination associated with the Golden Bears.
Significance of These NFL Stars for Cal Football’s Future
The success of former Cal players in the NFL serves as a powerful motivator for the current team, illustrating tangible examples of where hard work and talent can lead. With leaders like Aaron Rodgers and Jared Goff setting high standards, and rising stars such as Jake Tonges showcasing resilience, the pathway from the University of California to NFL prominence remains alive and well. As Cal continues to adjust to its new conference and strive for winning seasons, these NFL figures highlight the program’s potential to develop top-tier football talent and restore pride in Golden Bears football.
