Why Did Fletcher Cox Turn Down Football Giants Like LSU and Alabama? The Answer Will Surprise You!

Fletcher Cox may have become a household name in the NFL, but his journey to stardom began with a decision that left many college football fans scratching their heads. Coming out of Yazoo City High School in Mississippi, Cox was a standout multi-sport athlete—excelling not just in football, but also in basketball and track. As one of the top defensive line prospects in the country, he had his pick of powerhouse college programs. LSU, Alabama, Auburn, and Ole Miss all came calling with scholarship offers. But instead of choosing a nationally renowned football juggernaut, Cox surprised everyone by committing to Mississippi State.

So why did he do it?

According to interviews and archived recruiting profiles, Cox’s decision was rooted in something deeper than just fame or flashy facilities. Mississippi State offered him the chance to stay close to home, grow at his own pace, and make a name for himself without being lost in a roster full of five-star athletes. The Bulldogs saw him not just as another recruit—but as a cornerstone for their defensive future. That sense of trust and belief resonated with Cox and played a key role in his commitment.

While programs like Alabama and LSU had a long track record of producing NFL talent, Cox wasn’t swayed by hype. He wanted to be somewhere he could develop, play early, and be a leader. At Mississippi State, he found just that. Under head coach Dan Mullen and defensive coordinator Manny Diaz, Cox quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a dominant force on the Bulldogs’ defensive line. In 2011, he was named an All-American by Pro Football Weekly, solidifying his status as a top NFL prospect.

In 2012, his bet on Mississippi State paid off when he was drafted 12th overall in the first round by the Philadelphia Eagles. Over the next 12 seasons, he would go on to win a Super Bowl, make six Pro Bowl appearances, and earn four All-Pro honors—all while staying loyal to the team that drafted him.

In hindsight, Cox’s decision may have seemed unconventional, but it was undeniably the right one. He chose substance over flash, development over prestige—and it led to an NFL career many players only dream of. Sometimes, the path to greatness isn’t paved by the biggest names or flashiest programs. Sometimes, it’s built on loyalty, vision, and belief in yourself—just ask Fletcher Cox..