Chael Sonnen and 7 UFC Fighters Who Could Play in the NFL

The sport of mixed martial arts is built upon not only some of the world's greatest fighters, but athletes as well.

Specifically, in the Ultimate Fighting Championship there are many fighters who could have pursued a career in something other than mixed martial arts.

One of these careers is playing for the National Football League.

While not every fighter could have made it in the sport of football, there are a few exceptions.

So, the following slides display seven UFC fighters who could make the NFL and the positions they'd play.

Let's take a look.

FB: Brendan Schaub

While Brendan Schaub never actually participated in an actual NFL game, he did spend time on the Buffalo Bills practice team.

Schaub played the fullback position at the University of Colorado and would certainly be the lead blocker for the UFC squad.

A heavyweight fighter in the UFC, Schaub would be a large 6'4'' fullback.

WR: Jon Jones

Despite having never pursued a career in football, Jon Jones may very well be the most athletic fighter in the UFC today.

"Bones" Jones is the current light heavyweight champion and would be an explosive 6'4'' wide receiver.

While Jones may have to add some additional weight, his athleticism could lead to a successful career in the NFL.

DT: Brock Lesnar

Brock Lesnar is one of the few mixed martial artists who has had experience in the National Football League.

During the 2004 NFL season, Lesnar spent time with the Minnesota Viking despite never having more than a minimal impact on the team.

Lesnar played defensive tackle and would certainly maintain that position as he is well over the heavyweight limit of 265 pounds.

FS: Clay Guida

If there's one fighter similar to Troy Polamalu in the UFC, it's certainly Clay Guida.

Guida has established himself as one of the best 155-pound fighters in the UFC and is a spitting image of Polamalu in terms of his appearance and energy.

Guida's takedowns also resemble Polamalu's tackling skills, as well as his speed.

LB: Chael Sonnen

While Chael Sonnen may weigh in at 185 pounds and fight in the UFC middleweight division, fans shouldn't be fooled.

Sonnen, a former wrestler at the University of Oregon could easily work his way up to an impressive 230-pound linebacker.

The outspoken Sonnen has the trash-talk for the NFL, and if his skill set can back it up he could lead the way for all UFC fighters at the linebacker position.

DT: Matt Mitrione

Matt Mitrione is another UFC fighter with minimal experience in the NFL as he spent time with Minnesota Vikings and the New York Giants.

Mitrione, a former Purdue University graduate played defensive tackle during his stint in the NFL.

While Mitrione may have trimmed down to make the heavyweight division requirements, he weighed an eye-opening 300 pounds during his playing days.

K: Jose Aldo

Not only is Jose Aldo one of the better fighters in the UFC today, but one of the better soccer players as well.

While Aldo never truly pursued a career in football, his kicking skills could very well lead him to a successful career in the NFL.

Aldo, also a smaller-built fighter, fits the role of a kicker.