Defying Heights: The 19 5’8″ NFL Players (2024)
In the colossal world of the NFL, where towering figures and physical prowess often dominate the spotlight, there exists a group of players who challenge the norm with their remarkable skill and agility, despite not fitting the traditional mold of an NFL athlete in terms of height.
Our extensive research of nearly 1,700 players from Week 1 NFL rosters has unveiled a surprising and inspiring fact: 19 players stand at 5’8″, a height that’s often overlooked in a league where the average player towers well above six feet.
These 19 players not only excel in their respective positions but also bring a distinct flavor to the game, proving that greatness in the NFL is not confined to a specific physical blueprint.
5’8″ NFL Players
| Name | Pos | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Khalil Dorsey | CB | Detroit Lions |
| Marcus Jones | CB | New England Patriots |
| Cairo Santos | K | Chicago Bears |
| De’Von Achane | RB | Miami Dolphins |
| Keaton Mitchell | RB | Baltimore Ravens |
| Anthony McFarland | RB | Pittsburgh Steelers |
| Michael Carter | RB | New York Jets |
| JaMycal Hasty | RB | Jacksonville Jaguars |
| Trayveon Williams | RB | Cincinnati Bengals |
| Jaylen Warren | RB | Pittsburgh Steelers |
| Ar’Darius Washington | S | Baltimore Ravens |
| Deven Thompkins | WR | Tampa Bay Buccaneers |
| Derius Davis | WR | Los Angeles Chargers |
| Kalif Raymond | WR | Detroit Lions |
| Brandon Powell | WR | Minnesota Vikings |
| Wan’Dale Robinson | WR | New York Giants |
| DeAndre Carter | WR | Las Vegas Raiders |
| Demario Douglas | WR | New England Patriots |
| Olamide Zaccheaus | WR | Philadelphia Eagles |
These 19 players reveal an intriguing pattern in their positional distribution. While they represent a diverse array of roles on the field, including two cornerbacks, one kicker, and one safety, there’s a noticeable concentration in specific offensive positions: seven are running backs and eight are wide receivers.
This trend underscores the unique advantages that a 5’8″ stature can offer in these roles. Running backs at this height often benefit from a lower center of gravity, making them more elusive and harder to tackle, while wide receivers can leverage their agility and acceleration to create separation from defenders.
The predominance of players in these positions speaks to how certain physical attributes, like agility and speed, can be maximized in the NFL, even in a landscape often dominated by larger athletes.
Player Bios
Here is a little more information on a few of the standout players at this size.
De’Von Achane
Height: 5’8″
Position: Running Back
Team: Miami Dolphins
College: Texas A&M (2020–2022)
NFL Draft: 2023 / Round: 3 / Pick: 84
De’Von Achane, a running back for the Miami Dolphins, emerged as a standout player during his time at Texas A&M University. With exceptional speed and agility, Achane excelled both as a rusher and a receiver, showcasing his versatility.
His impressive college career, highlighted by leading the SEC in rushing yards per attempt and being named the MVP of the 2021 Orange Bowl, led to his selection in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft by the Dolphins.
Marcus Jones
Height: 5’8″
Position: Cornerback
Team: New England Patriots
College: Troy, Houston
Marcus Jones, a cornerback for the New England Patriots, had a successful college career at Troy and Houston, where he was recognized for his skills both as a return specialist and a cornerback.
His versatility on the field earned him the Paul Hornung Award as the nation’s most versatile player and a place on the Associated Press All-America first team. Selected in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Jones quickly made a mark in the NFL, leading the league in punt return yards during his rookie season.
Cairo Santos
Height: 5’8″
Position: Placekicker
Team: Chicago Bears
College: Tulane (2010–2013)
Cairo Santos, a placekicker for the Chicago Bears, hails from Brazil and has made a significant impact in the NFL. At Tulane University, he won the Lou Groza Award and was a consensus All-American.
Santos, undrafted in 2014, began his NFL career with the Kansas City Chiefs and has played for various teams, including a notable tenure with the Bears. Known for his accuracy, Santos is a trailblazer as the first Brazilian-born player in NFL history.
Final Thoughts
The stories of these 19 NFL players standing at 5’8″ are not just about their height but about the immense talent, determination, and versatility they bring to the field.
Players like De’Von Achane, Marcus Jones, and Cairo Santos exemplify the unique skills and capabilities that can thrive in the NFL, regardless of physical stature.
These athletes challenge the conventional norms of the game, proving that success in the NFL is not solely a function of size but of heart, skill, and relentless dedication.
