Rashad Jennings ran for 3,772 yds on the ground in 93 games played in his career. His average yards per carry sits at 4.1 and he carried the ball 930 total times. He’s rushed for 23 TD’s. Jennings averaged 40.6 yards on the ground per game in his pro football career.
Jennings was handed the ball 0 different times to the tune of 0.0 yards per carry. During his 0 games played in his last year, Rashad Jennings gained 0.0 yards per game and got into the endzone 0 times on the ground. His longest run that season was 0 yds. Rashad Jennings’ journey to becoming an NFL star is a story of perseverance, dedication, and hard work. Born on March 26, 1985, in Forest, Virginia, Jennings overcame numerous obstacles to achieve his dream of playing in the National Football League. Throughout his career, he made a name for himself as a talented running back, and his story continues to inspire many aspiring athletes.
Early Life and High School
Growing up, Jennings faced several challenges. He struggled with asthma and obesity, which made it difficult for him to excel in sports initially. Despite these hurdles, he was determined to play football and dedicated himself to improving his health and skills.
Jennings attended Jefferson Forest High School in Forest, Virginia, where he began to make a mark on the football field. His performance on the high school team attracted attention, but his academic struggles limited his college football opportunities. Still, Jennings remained focused on his goal and worked hard to improve both his grades and athletic performance.
College Football Career
Jennings began his college football journey at the University of Pittsburgh in 2005. During his freshman year, he showed promise as a running back, rushing for over 400 yards and scoring one touchdown. However, he decided to transfer to Liberty University to be closer to his family, where he could also have more opportunities to shine on the field.
At Liberty, Jennings truly flourished. He became a standout player, earning multiple All-Big South Conference honors and setting several school records. By the time he graduated, Jennings had rushed for over 3,600 yards and scored 42 touchdowns, making him one of the top running backs in Liberty’s history.
NFL Draft and Early Career
In the 2009 NFL Draft, Rashad Jennings was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the seventh round. Being picked in the later rounds didn’t deter him; instead, it fueled his determination to prove himself. Jennings made his NFL debut that same year and quickly showed his potential as a powerful running back.
Jacksonville Jaguars
During his time with the Jaguars, Jennings played as a backup to Maurice Jones-Drew, another talented running back. Despite limited playing time, he made the most of his opportunities, contributing significantly in several games. Jennings’ stats during his tenure with the Jaguars included over 1,300 rushing yards and six touchdowns.
Oakland Raiders
In 2013, Jennings signed with the Oakland Raiders as a free agent. This move provided him with more playing time and the chance to showcase his skills as a starting running back. Jennings excelled in this role, rushing for over 700 yards and six touchdowns in his first season with the Raiders. His performance caught the eye of other NFL teams, leading to the next chapter in his career.
New York Giants and Breakthrough
Jennings joined the New York Giants in 2014, where he enjoyed some of his most productive years as an NFL running back. As a key player in the Giants’ backfield, he delivered solid performances and became known for his versatility and reliability. During his time with the Giants, Jennings accumulated over 2,000 rushing yards and scored 10 touchdowns.
Memorable Moments
One of Jennings’ most memorable performances came in a game against the Buffalo Bills in 2015. He rushed for 107 yards and a touchdown, helping the Giants secure a crucial victory. His ability to perform under pressure and contribute to his team’s success further solidified his reputation as a talented running back.
Life Beyond the NFL
After retiring from professional football in 2017, Rashad Jennings continued to make an impact off the field. He pursued a variety of interests, including writing, acting, and philanthropy. Jennings also gained widespread recognition as a contestant on the popular television show “Dancing with the Stars,” where he showcased his impressive dancing skills and won the competition.
Philanthropy and Writing
Jennings is deeply committed to giving back to the community. Through the Rashad Jennings Foundation, he focuses on initiatives that promote literacy, education, and health. His dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of others has earned him admiration and respect beyond the football world.
In addition to his philanthropic efforts, Jennings has authored books, including his memoir, “The If in Life: How to Get Off Life’s Sidelines and Become Your Best Self.” His writing offers insights into his journey, the challenges he faced, and the lessons he learned along the way.
Rashad Jennings’ Legacy
Rashad Jennings’ journey from a young boy facing health challenges to an NFL star is a testament to his resilience and determination. His achievements on the football field, coupled with his contributions off the field, have left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire others.
For aspiring athletes, Jennings’ story serves as a reminder that with hard work, dedication, and a positive mindset, anything is possible. His impact extends beyond the statistics and touchdowns, making him a role model for countless individuals striving to achieve their dreams.
In conclusion, Rashad Jennings’ journey as an NFL running back showcases the power of perseverance and the importance of making a difference in the world. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of athletes and individuals who aspire to reach their full potential.