Which State is the Most Athletic? A Data-Driven Look
When it comes to producing elite athletes, some states simply dominate the competition. From the NFL Draft to the NBA and MLB, certain regions consistently produce top-tier talent. Based on the most recent draft data across multiple sports, one state stands above the rest—Florida.
Florida: The King of the NFL Draft
For the second consecutive year, Florida led the nation in NFL Draft selections, with 30 players chosen in 2024. This marks the fifth time in the last seven drafts that Florida has held the top spot. Notable players from the Sunshine State in this year’s draft include:
- Terrion Arnold
- JC Latham
- J.J. McCarthy
- Quinyon Mitchell
- Michael Penix Jr.
- Dallas Turner
Additionally, IMG Academy in Bradenton, FL, continues to be a powerhouse. The elite prep program has produced 21 draft picks since 2018, with three players selected in 2024 alone.
How Other States Compare in the NFL Draft
- Texas - 24 players selected, with standouts like Jonathon Brooks, Byron Murphy II, and T’Vondre Sweat.
- Georgia - 23 players chosen, featuring stars like Javon Bullard and Ladd McConkey.
- California - 18 selections, led by Brock Bowers and Caleb Bullock.
- Louisiana & New Jersey - 11 players each.
- Alabama, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio - 10 players each.
While Texas and Georgia are closely trailing Florida in total selections, the Sunshine State’s dominance remains evident.
NBA Draft: California & Texas Lead, Florida Holds Strong
Basketball talent also thrives in key regions. In the 2024 NBA Draft, California and Texas each had seven players selected, the most in the country. However, Florida was not far behind with three picks, including Zach Edey and Terrence Shannon Jr. from IMG Academy.
Notable NBA Draft Numbers:
- California - 7 selections, including Jared McCain and Bronny James.
- Texas - 7 picks, led by Ron Holland and Tristen Newton.
- Florida - 3 players, with IMG Academy producing multiple picks.
- Georgia & Kansas - 3 selections each.
MLB: California Reigns Supreme, Florida and Texas Compete
Baseball is another sport where specific states shine. The MLB has seen California dominate, producing nearly a quarter of all active American-born players. However, Florida and Texas remain close behind, consistently developing elite baseball talent.
- California has the most active MLB players, including Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole.
- Florida has produced over 600 MLB players, with stars like Trea Turner and Pete Alonso.
- Texas is a baseball hotbed, developing Hall of Famers like Nolan Ryan and Clayton Kershaw.
- Georgia has a strong baseball culture, producing legends like Buster Posey and Dansby Swanson.
Conclusion: Florida Takes the Crown
When evaluating the most athletic state, the numbers don’t lie. Florida consistently ranks at the top across multiple sports, leading the NFL Draft, competing in the NBA Draft, and remaining a powerhouse in MLB development. With year-round warm weather, top-tier training facilities, and elite prep schools like IMG Academy and St. Thomas Aquinas, Florida provides the ideal environment for athletic development.
While Texas and California are strong contenders, and Georgia and Louisiana continue to produce elite talent, Florida’s dominance in football, basketball, and baseball makes it the undisputed leader in American athletics.
