Overview of NFL Celebrities on Dancing with the Stars
Multiple NFL players have appeared on the long-running ABC competition Dancing with the Stars, joining the show as professional celebrity contestants rather than as professional partners. These seasons typically featured a pairing of a current or retired football player with a pro dancer, competing in weekly routines judged on technique, performance, and consistency. Below is a verified breakdown of notable participants, their seasons, partners, placements, and key outcomes based on official results and network announcements.
Notable NFL Contestants and Seasons
The following table summarizes confirmed NFL contestant appearances on Dancing with the Stars, including season number, celebrity partner, final placement, and whether they won. All details reflect announced results; unaired performances or canceled seasons are not included.
| Contestant | Season | Professional Partner | Final Placement | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hines Ward | Season 12 (Fall 2010) | Kym Johnson | 1st | Winner |
| Akbar Gbaja-Biamila | Season 15 (Fall 2012) | Witney Carson | 9th | Eliminated |
| Rashad Jennings | Season 24 (Fall 2017) | Emma Slater | 2nd | Runner-up |
| DeMarcus Ware | Season 21 (Fall 2015) | Tristan MacManus | 9th | Eliminated |
| Jared Cotter | Season 14 (Fall 2012) | Edyta Sliwinska | 9th | Eliminated |
| James Van Der Beek | Season 17 (Fall 2013) | Valentin Chmerkovskiy | 8th | Eliminated |
| Billy Dee Williams | Season 12 (Fall 2010) | Edyta Sliwinska | 7th | Eliminated |
Champion: Hines Ward
Season 12 winner Hines Ward partnered with Kym Johnson and claimed the mirrorball trophy. Ward was the first—and so far only—NFL player to win the competition. His victory was widely celebrated and remains a high-profile example of a football player succeeding in a dance-centric competition.
Notable Near-Misses and Early Exits
Rashad Jennings placed as runner-up in Season 24, while others such as DeMarcus Ware and Akbar Gbaja-Biamila were eliminated in the later middle rounds. These appearances kept NFL athletes in the public eye and demonstrated varying levels of comfort with choreography and performance under live television conditions.
Format and Judging on Dancing with the Stars
Each celebrity is paired with a professional dancer who leads rehearsals, designs choreography, and performs alongside them throughout the competition. Points are awarded by a panel of judges based on technique, musicality, and presentation, while audience votes determine which couples advance each week. Scores are typically presented as cumulative totals, with the lowest-scoring couple facing elimination.
Training, Preparation, and Physical Considerations
NFL athletes bring athleticism, timing, and discipline to the show, but many lack formal dance training. Producers typically assign intensive rehearsal schedules, and partners often tailor routines to highlight strengths while minimizing technical weaknesses. Injury prevention and physical recovery are common considerations given the demanding rehearsal hours and high-impact choreography.
Public and Media Reception
Viewer reactions to NFL contestants are often positive, with audiences highlighting their humility, work ethic, and surprising grace on the dance floor. Media coverage tends to focus on standout performances, mentorship moments with pro partners, and how contestants handle elimination or victory. These appearances can boost a player's public profile beyond football, leading to speaking engagements, endorsements, and increased fan engagement.
Comparison with Other Sports Athletes
Compared with gymnasts, figure skaters, or NBA players, NFL contestants often face a steeper learning curve in dance technique. However, their competitive drive and physical coordination can yield strong early performances, particularly in rhythm-based dances. Over time, technical polish and partnership chemistry usually determine long-term success more than raw athleticism.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
The inclusion of NFL players on Dancing with the Stars reflects the show’s role as a cross-sport entertainment platform. Hines Ward’s win remains a benchmark for football-player participants, and later appearances have kept the format fresh. The show’s producers continue to view athletes as valuable cast members who attract multi-sport audiences and deliver compelling underdog narratives.
How to Follow Future Seasons
New celebrity cast announcements typically appear in late summer or early fall ahead of the fall premiere. You can track contestant progress through official recaps, score breakdowns, and exclusive interviews. Staying engaged with the show’s official social channels provides the quickest updates on NFL participant journeys each season.