Name – Ositadimma Umenyiora
Position – Defensive End
Team – New York Giants
Height – 6 foot 3 inches
Age – 30
College – Troy
Drafted – 56th overall (2nd Round) of the 2003 NFL Draft by the New York Giants
Osi Umenyiora had a unique path to the NFL. Born in London, England, Umenyiora moved with his parents to their homeland of Nigeria before eventually moving to the United States. He started playing football as a Defensive Tackle and during his college career at Troy moved to Defensive End eventually starting 36 of 48 games during his career with the Trojans.
After being drafted by the Giants in the second round in 2003, Umenyiora did alot of sitting on the sideline until he was named a starter in 2005. He didn’t miss the opportunity getting 14.5 sacks and 70 tackles that season. The Giants didn’t miss their opportunity either and during the season signed Umenyiora to a six year contract extension worth $41 million with $15 million guaranteed. He earned himself a trip to the Pro Bowl and recognition as an All-Pro in that breakout year.
The following year was not so good for Osi as a hip injury prevented him from being the machine he had shown to be in 2005. He came back with a vengeance in 2007 with 13 sacks which included a Giants franchise record six sacks against the Philadelphia Eagles. Umenyiora played a big part in getting the Giants to the Superbowl as the Giants pass rush overwhelmed opponents.
Since then Umenyiora has continued to be one of the more talented defensive ends in the NFL. Unfortunately, his career has been marred by injury with various niggles, scrapes and tears preventing him from truly reaching the potential he showed early in his career.
To stay up to date on the latest from NFL Spin Zone, become a fan on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.