In the grand spectacle of Super Bowl LIX, held on February 9, 2025, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, the Florida State Seminoles’ legacy was prominently showcased through the exceptional performances of four distinguished alumni. These former Seminoles—defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi and defensive tackle Fabien Lovett Sr. of the Kansas City Chiefs, along with defensive end Josh Sweat and wide receiver Johnny Wilson of the Philadelphia Eagles—played pivotal roles in a game that culminated in a decisive 40-22 victory for the Eagles.
Derrick Nnadi: A Veteran’s Pursuit of a Fourth Ring
Derrick Nnadi, a stalwart on the Chiefs’ defensive line, entered Super Bowl LIX with the rare opportunity to secure his fourth championship ring. Having previously contributed to the Chiefs’ victories in Super Bowls LIV, LVII, and LVIII, Nnadi’s presence was anticipated to be a cornerstone for Kansas City’s defense. Throughout the 2024 regular season, Nnadi recorded 17 total tackles, underscoring his role as a consistent and reliable force in the interior defensive line. His journey from Florida State, where he lettered from 2014 to 2017 and earned All-ACC honors in his final three seasons, to becoming a seasoned NFL veteran, exemplifies his dedication and impact on the field. citeturn0search0
Fabien Lovett Sr.: A Rookie’s Inaugural Super Bowl Experience
Fabien Lovett Sr., in his rookie season with the Chiefs, experienced the Super Bowl stage as a member of Kansas City’s practice squad. Although he did not see game action, Lovett’s journey to this pinnacle is noteworthy. At Florida State, Lovett distinguished himself as a two-time All-ACC performer and served as a team captain in his senior year, showcasing leadership and talent that the Chiefs recognized in bringing him into their fold. citeturn0search0
Josh Sweat: A Defensive Powerhouse for the Eagles
On the opposing sideline, Josh Sweat emerged as a formidable force for the Philadelphia Eagles. Making his second Super Bowl appearance in three seasons, Sweat’s performance in Super Bowl LIX was nothing short of spectacular. In the first half alone, he amassed four tackles, 1.5 sacks, and two quarterback hits, significantly disrupting the Chiefs’ offensive rhythm. His relentless pressure contributed to the Eagles’ defense holding Kansas City to a mere 23 total yards and forcing two interceptions in the first half. Sweat’s journey from Florida State, where he played from 2015 to 2017, recording 138 tackles and 14.5 sacks, to becoming a Pro Bowl selection in 2021, underscores his development into one of the league’s premier defensive ends. citeturn0search4
Johnny Wilson: A Rookie’s Contribution to Championship Glory
Rookie wide receiver Johnny Wilson also made his mark for the Eagles. Drafted in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Wilson appeared in 19 games during the season, including five starts. While his regular-season contributions included five receptions for 38 yards and a touchdown, his presence added depth to the Eagles’ receiving corps. At Florida State, Wilson was an All-ACC performer in both of his seasons and set the Cheez-It Bowl and FSU bowl records with 202 receiving yards in a victory over Oklahoma. His transition to the professional level has been marked by steady development and contributions to the Eagles’ successful campaign. citeturn0search0
A Legacy of Seminoles in the Super Bowl
The participation of these four former Seminoles in Super Bowl LIX continues Florida State University’s rich tradition of producing NFL talent that excels on football’s grandest stage. This year marks the 13th consecutive Super Bowl featuring Florida State representation and the 43rd out of 59 Super Bowls all-time. Collectively, Florida State alumni have made 99 Super Bowl appearances and earned 50 Super Bowl rings. Notably, this streak includes nine consecutive years with at least one Seminole on the winning team, highlighting the program’s sustained excellence in developing championship-caliber players. citeturn0search0
Historical Context: Seminoles’ Super Bowl Impact
Florida State’s influence on the Super Bowl extends beyond mere participation. The university is one of eight college programs with multiple Super Bowl MVPs. Pro Football Hall of Famer Fred Biletnikoff was named MVP of Super Bowl XI after recording four catches for 79 yards in the Oakland Raiders’ 32-14 victory over the Minnesota Vikings. Additionally, Dexter Jackson earned MVP honors in Super Bowl XXXVII by securing two interceptions in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ 48-21 win over the Raiders. These accolades underscore the significant impact that Florida State alumni have had in the NFL’s championship history. citeturn0search0
The Path from Tallahassee to the NFL
The journey from playing at Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee to competing under the bright lights of the Super Bowl is a testament to the rigorous training and development that Florida State provides its athletes. The university’s football program has a storied history of preparing players for professional success. As of 2025, Florida State has sent 304 players to the National Football League since 1951, including 47 first-round draft picks. This pipeline of talent reflects the program’s commitment to excellence and its role as a breeding ground for NFL-caliber players. citeturn0search18
Derrick Nnadi: Chasing History
For Derrick Nnadi, Super Bowl LIX represented an opportunity to join an elite group of NFL players. A victory would have secured his fourth Super Bowl ring, placing him alongside JT Thomas, who played on the famed Pittsburgh Steelers ‘Steel Curtain’ defense, as the only Seminoles with four Super Bowl victories. Entering this weekend, only 37 players in NFL history have played on four Super Bowl-winning teams, and only three college programs have multiple alumni with four Super Bowl rings. Although the Chiefs fell short, Nnadi
