During his professional football career, Jeffery had 46 TDs. His catches per contest and yards per game average were 0.6 and 8.2 yards. He earned 6,786 yards with an average of 14.3 yards/catch. His percentage of passes caught sat at 57.4% and he earned that by catching 475 out of the 827 passes that were attempted. Alshon Jeffery played in 827 games during his career. Alshon Jeffery is a name that resonates with NFL fans, especially those who follow the journey of standout wide receivers. His career has been marked by a series of impressive performances, defining moments, and a few challenges along the way. In this article, we will delve into the highlights and stats of Alshon Jeffery’s NFL career and explore what made him a formidable player on the field.
Early Life and College Success
Before becoming an NFL star, Alshon Jeffery was making waves in college football. Born on February 14, 1990, in St. Matthews, South Carolina, Jeffery attended Calhoun County High School, where he excelled as a two-sport athlete in football and basketball. His exceptional talent on the gridiron earned him a scholarship to the University of South Carolina.
College Football Achievements
At South Carolina, Jeffery quickly established himself as a top wide receiver. In his sophomore year, he recorded 1,517 receiving yards and nine touchdowns, leading to a first-team All-SEC selection and All-American honors. His performance solidified his reputation as one of the best receivers in college football, setting the stage for his entry into the NFL.
Entering the NFL
Alshon Jeffery declared for the NFL Draft after his junior year at South Carolina. In 2012, he was selected in the second round, 45th overall, by the Chicago Bears. This marked the beginning of a promising professional career.
Chicago Bears Era (2012-2016)
Jeffery’s time with the Bears was a period of growth and achievement. In his rookie season, he showed glimpses of his potential, but it was in his second year that he truly broke out. In 2013, he posted a remarkable 1,421 receiving yards, earning him a Pro Bowl selection. This standout performance demonstrated his ability to make big plays and be a reliable target for his quarterback.
Notable Chicago Bears Stats
2013 Season: 89 receptions, 1,421 yards, 7 touchdowns
2014 Season: 85 receptions, 1,133 yards, 10 touchdowns
Jeffery’s tenure with the Bears showcased his skills as a dynamic wide receiver capable of changing the course of a game. Despite battling some injuries, he continued to be a key player for the team.
Transition to the Philadelphia Eagles
In 2017, Alshon Jeffery signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles. This move proved to be a pivotal moment in his career, as he played an integral role in the Eagles’ journey to Super Bowl LII.
Super Bowl Champion
Jeffery’s impact on the Eagles was immediate. During the 2017 season, he recorded 57 receptions for 789 yards and nine touchdowns. His performance in the playoffs was crucial, as he contributed significantly to the Eagles’ success. In Super Bowl LII, Jeffery made a memorable touchdown catch, helping the Eagles secure their first-ever Super Bowl victory with a 41-33 win over the New England Patriots.
Philadelphia Eagles Stats Highlights
2017 Season: 57 receptions, 789 yards, 9 touchdowns
Super Bowl LII: 3 receptions, 73 yards, 1 touchdown
Challenges and Later Career
While Alshon Jeffery’s career was filled with remarkable moments, it was also marked by challenges. Injuries began to take a toll, limiting his playing time and impacting his performance. Despite these setbacks, Jeffery remained a respected figure in the NFL.
Injuries and Comebacks
Throughout his career, Jeffery faced several injuries that sidelined him for significant periods. These included shoulder, calf, and foot injuries that required surgeries and extensive recovery times. Despite these obstacles, he made several comebacks, demonstrating resilience and determination.
Departure from the Eagles
In 2021, Alshon Jeffery’s time with the Philadelphia Eagles came to an end as the team released him. His departure marked the closing of an important chapter in his career, but his contributions to the Eagles’ Super Bowl run and his overall impact on the team will not be forgotten.
Legacy and Impact
Alshon Jeffery’s NFL career is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and impact on the field. His ability to make clutch catches and change the momentum of a game earned him the respect of fans and peers alike. As a wide receiver, he left an indelible mark on both the Chicago Bears and the Philadelphia Eagles.
Key Career Stats
Total NFL Career Receptions: 475
Total NFL Career Receiving Yards: 6,786
Total NFL Career Touchdowns: 46
These statistics reflect Jeffery’s contributions to the teams he played for and his role as a dynamic wide receiver in the league.
Conclusion
Alshon Jeffery’s NFL career is a story of determination, talent, and memorable moments. From his early days at South Carolina to his Super Bowl victory with the Philadelphia Eagles, Jeffery showcased his skills as one of the league’s top wide receivers. Despite facing challenges, his legacy as a playmaker and a champion endures.
As fans, we celebrate the achievements of players like Alshon Jeffery, who bring excitement and passion to the game. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a reminder of the impact one player can have on a team and its history.