Howard Cross

Class of 2008

Howard Cross Jr. rose from Madison County standout to long-time NFL contributor, building a career defined by consistency, toughness, and reliability at every level.

Born in Huntsville and raised in New Hope, Cross developed into a multi-sport athlete, earning All-County and All-State honors in both football and basketball during his senior year. An excellent student, he balanced athletics with academics, making the honor roll and earning recognition in Who’s Who among high school students.

Cross signed with the University of Alabama in 1987, where he played four varsity seasons under coaches Ray Perkins and Bill Curry. A 6-foot-6 tight end, he became known for his blocking ability and dependable hands. During his time at Alabama, the Crimson Tide posted multiple strong seasons, and Cross emerged as a steady presence in the offense.

Beyond the field, he served as a two-time president of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, reflecting his leadership within the program. As a senior, he received the Charley Compton Award, presented to the team’s outstanding Christian leader.

Selected in the sixth round of the 1989 NFL Draft by the New York Giants, Cross went on to play 13 seasons with the franchise, appearing in a team-record 207 games. While primarily valued for his blocking, he also recorded 201 receptions, 2,194 yards, and 17 touchdowns.

He played in two Super Bowls, including the Giants’ dramatic 20-19 victory over the Buffalo Bills in Super Bowl XXV, where he contributed key first-down receptions.

After retiring from football, Cross transitioned into a career in real estate. His journey reflects durability, leadership, and a commitment to excellence sustained over more than a decade at the professional level.

Disclaimer: This feature was generated with the assistance of AI using provided materials and publicly available information. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, some details may require further verification.