The first NFL player born in the 1990s made history on day one
In short: Randall Cobb didn't just enter the league; he broke a generational barrier. In his very first game, he became the first athlete born in the 1990s to play in the NFL, while simultaneously tying an all-time record for the longest kickoff return in league history.
Randall Cobb's journey to the NFL was defined by versatility. A multi-sport standout at Alcoa High School in Tennessee, he excelled as a quarterback, basketball player, and track star—clocking a career-best 10.75 seconds in the 100-meter dash. This athletic range translated to his collegiate career at the University of Kentucky, where he was an SEC All-Freshman team selection. Under coach Joker Phillips, Cobb became known as a premier leader, eventually tying the school record for career touchdowns with 32.
Drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 2011, Cobb's rookie season was historic. On September 8, 2011, he recorded a 108-yard kickoff return against the New Orleans Saints, tying a record set by Ellis Hobbs in 2007. That play was later named Play of the Year at the NFL Honors banquet. Cobb set a Packers record by becoming the initial rookie to score touchdowns on both punt and kick returns during one year.
Cobb's professional career spanned 13 seasons across four teams: the Packers, Cowboys, Texans, and Jets. He was a primary playmaker during the Packers' peak years, notably leading the NFL in combined net yards in 2012—a staggering 2,342 yards including rushing, receiving, and returns. Despite injuries like a broken fibula in 2013 and various soft-tissue issues later in his career, he remained a reliable slot receiver for high-profile offenses until his retirement.
His legacy is one of extreme production and adaptability. From scoring four touchdowns in a single game against Auburn as a junior to securing NFC North titles with late-game catches, Cobb navigated the transition from a dynamic special teams weapon to a seasoned veteran. He eventually helped the Houston Texans offset the loss of DeAndre Hopkins before concluding his long tenure in professional football.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Randall Cobb (American football)
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