Kern County maintains long history of producing professional football talent

As the NFL season kicks off, Bakersfield communities are reflecting on the region's history of sending players to the professional level. High school coaches in the area attribute this success to a combination of community support and a competitive work ethic instilled in local athletes. Former players including Frank Gifford, Cody Kessler, Jared Norris, Jordan Love, and Jeff Buckey are cited as notable examples of talent originating from Kern County. Many former professionals have returned to the region to coach at local high schools, such as David Carr and Darren Carr at Bakersfield Christian High School and Michaels Stewart at Bakersfield High School. This cycle of athletes moving to the professional ranks and returning to mentor local youth continues to support the growth of football throughout the 661 area code.

• 4:49 PMYahoo Sports — NFL Kickoff: From Kern County to the National Football League