Exploring The Journey Of William Witherspoon: A Look Back At An NFL Career
Have you ever wondered about the athletes who pour their heart into the game, the ones whose names might not always grab the biggest headlines but who leave a lasting mark on the field? Well, today, we're taking a closer look at someone just like that: William Cordell Witherspoon. He's a name that resonates with many football fans, especially those who followed the NFL during the early 2000s, and his story, really, is a fascinating one.
From his beginnings in Texas to his time on some of the league's most well-known teams, Witherspoon's path in professional football was quite a ride. He dedicated over a decade to the sport, putting his all into every game and every practice. It's a journey that, you know, shows what it takes to make it in such a demanding environment.
We'll go over the key moments of his playing days, from being picked in the draft to the various teams he called home. We'll also touch on some personal aspects of his life, giving a more complete picture of the person behind the helmet. So, stick around to learn more about William Witherspoon's remarkable career and, perhaps, some details you might not have known.
Table of Contents
- Biography of William Witherspoon
- Personal Life and Family
- Frequently Asked Questions About William Witherspoon
- Reflecting on a Football Journey
Biography of William Witherspoon
William Cordell Witherspoon, born on August 19, 1980, in San Antonio, Texas, U.S., carved out a significant place for himself in the world of professional football. He was, in a way, destined for the gridiron, showing early promise that would eventually lead him to the biggest stage in the sport. His journey began long before he stepped onto an NFL field, with important steps taken during his college years.
Before turning professional, William Witherspoon honed his skills and talent at the University of Georgia. Playing college football there gave him the foundation he needed, shaping him into the formidable linebacker he would become. This period, too, was a vital part of his development as an athlete, preparing him for the challenges ahead in the professional league.
Personal Details and Early Life
To give you a clearer picture of William Witherspoon, here's a quick look at some key personal details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | William Cordell Witherspoon |
| Born | August 19, 1980 |
| Birthplace | San Antonio, Texas, U.S. |
| Occupation | Former Professional Football Linebacker |
| College | University of Georgia |
These details, you know, help paint a picture of his background, showing where he came from before his rise to professional football. It’s a classic story of an athlete making their way through the ranks.
NFL Draft and the Carolina Panthers
The moment many aspiring football players dream of arrived for William Witherspoon in 2002. He was, rather, chosen by the Carolina Panthers in the third round of the NFL draft that year. This selection marked his official entry into the National Football League, setting the stage for what would be a long and impactful career.
Joining the Panthers meant stepping into a new level of competition, a place where only the best players get to compete. For a young linebacker, this was, in a way, a huge opportunity to show what he could do. His time with the Panthers, so, began a significant chapter in his professional life.
A Career Across Multiple Teams
William Witherspoon’s NFL career spanned a good 12 years, a testament to his dedication and skill. During this time, he played for several different teams, each stop adding another layer to his professional journey. He started with the Carolina Panthers, where he was drafted, and then moved on to other well-known franchises.
After his time with the Panthers, Witherspoon also played for the St. Louis Rams, making a notable impact there. His career, you know, also took him to the Philadelphia Eagles, where he continued to contribute his defensive prowess. Finally, he spent time with the Tennessee Titans, rounding out his extensive NFL playing days.
Across these teams, William Witherspoon consistently put his all into his NFL career. He was known for his commitment and effort, no matter which jersey he wore. This dedication, really, is what allowed him to remain a part of the league for over a decade, playing at a high level for various organizations.
On-Field Performance and Statistics
For fans who like to look at the numbers, William Witherspoon’s career statistics tell a story of consistent performance. You can find complete career NFL stats for him, particularly as a St. Louis Rams linebacker, on platforms like ESPN. These stats, so, give a detailed look at his contributions on the field.
His statistics include a range of categories, such as scoring, rushing, defensive, and receiving stats. This comprehensive data provides a full picture of his versatility and impact during games. It's considered, you know, the most complete, accurate, and reliable reference source for his pro football statistics, including stats, transactions, awards, and biographical data.
Looking at these numbers, it becomes clear that Witherspoon was a player who contributed across different aspects of the game. His defensive stats, in particular, highlight his role as a linebacker, but his involvement in other areas, too, speaks to his overall athleticism and football intelligence. For anyone wanting to understand his game, these statistics are, arguably, the place to start. Learn more about Will Witherspoon's impact on our site.
Contract Details and Team Agreements
Like all professional athletes, William Witherspoon's career involved various contracts and agreements with the teams he played for. One specific instance mentioned is his signing of a 1-year contract with the St. Louis Rams. This agreement was worth $940,000, including an average annual salary of $940,000.
These NFL contract specifics are, in some respects, generally collected from verified sources, providing a clear picture of the financial side of a player's career. Understanding these agreements helps shed light on the business aspect of professional sports. It shows, too, the value placed on a player's skills and experience within the league.
The financial details of these contracts are, usually, a key part of an athlete's professional life, reflecting their market value at different points in their career. For Witherspoon, this particular contract with the Rams represents a specific period of his playing days, outlining the terms of his service to that team. It's just a little piece of the puzzle that makes up a professional athlete's journey.
Personal Life and Family
Beyond the football field, William Witherspoon's life, like anyone's, includes personal relationships and family matters. He was, for a time, married to a woman named Rebecca. Together, they had three children, building a family unit during his playing career and beyond.
However, personal lives can sometimes take different turns. It appears that William and Rebecca successfully filed for divorce in 2016, according to court records. This marks a significant change in his personal life, moving into a new chapter after their marriage.
There were also, apparently, public discussions regarding his personal life, specifically accusations made by his ex, Tori. These accusations involved claims of financial and emotional abuse. Questions were raised, too, about Will's net worth and what Tori had stated regarding these matters. These are, you know, aspects of his personal story that have been part of public conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions About William Witherspoon
People often have questions when looking into the lives and careers of former athletes. Here are some common questions about William Witherspoon, addressed with the information we have:
What teams did William Witherspoon play for during his NFL career?
William Witherspoon played for several teams over his 12-year NFL career. He started with the Carolina Panthers, who drafted him in 2002. Later, he also played for the St. Louis Rams, the Philadelphia Eagles, and the Tennessee Titans. He really, you know, got around the league a bit.
When was William Witherspoon born and where is he from?
William Cordell Witherspoon was born on August 19, 1980. His birthplace is San Antonio, Texas, U.S. So, he's a Texas native, which, in a way, makes sense for a football player.
Did William Witherspoon have a family, and what is known about his personal relationships?
Yes, William Witherspoon was married to a woman named Rebecca, and they had three children together. They, however, successfully filed for divorce in 2016. There have also been, in some respects, public accusations of financial and emotional abuse made by an ex named Tori. You can find more details on his personal life on this page here.
Reflecting on a Football Journey
William Cordell Witherspoon's journey through professional football is, in a way, a prime example of dedication and endurance. From his college days at the University of Georgia to his 12 years in the NFL, he showed what it means to be a professional athlete. His path took him to multiple teams, each one adding to his experience and, perhaps, his understanding of the game.
His statistics, which are readily available, paint a picture of a player who consistently contributed on the field, especially as a linebacker. The details of his contracts, too, show the business side of his career, giving a glimpse into the financial agreements that shaped his time in the league. It's pretty clear he put in the work, year after year, and that's something to admire.
Beyond the field, his personal life, like anyone's, had its ups and downs, including his marriage and divorce. These aspects, you know, remind us that athletes are people, too, with lives that extend far beyond the game. William Witherspoon's story is, essentially, a mix of athletic achievement and personal experiences, making him a truly interesting figure to look back on. What are your memories of Will Witherspoon's career? Share your thoughts!
For more detailed information on William Witherspoon's career statistics, you can often find comprehensive records on reputable sports websites. For instance, a good place to start would be a major sports network's player profile section, like ESPN's NFL player stats, which typically provides extensive data for former players.
Last updated: October 26, 2023
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