John Roper (American football)

John Alfred Roper (born October 4, 1965 in Houston, Texas) is a former American football linebacker in the National Football League for the Chicago Bears, Dallas Cowboys, and the Philadelphia Eagles. He played college football at Texas A&M University and was drafted in the second round of the 1989 NFL Draft.

At Texas A&M, Roper Lettered from 1985-1988. Roper was one of the best to play defensively in Texas A&M history according to his coach, Jackie Sherrill. In 1987, Roper was the Southwest Conference Defensive Player of the Year, as well as an All-American. Twice Roper was All-SWC. In his four years as an Aggie, they compiled a record of 36 wins and just 12 losses: three times they were conference champions; and twice they were victorious in the Cotton Bowl. Roper, a Consensus All-American, was at the heart of that success. Before heading to the NFL from Texas A&M, Roper began a tradition that became known all across college football. It was during his career the famed moniker of the “Wrecking Crew” was born.

Roper's career Tackles for a Loss of 68 while at Texas A&M ranked him 8th in the NCAA at the conclusion of his college football career, but currently rank him 14th. In addition, Roper's career Sacks of 36 while at Texas A&M ranked him 9th in the NCAA at the conclusion of his college football career, but currently rank him 24th.