Adewale Ogunleye, a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL), began his professional career after going undrafted in the 2000 NFL Draft. Despite this initial setback, he signed with the Miami Dolphins, where he spent the early years of his career. Ogunleye's time with the Dolphins was marked by his development into a reliable defensive player. In the 2002 season, he started to gain attention for his performance on the field, recording 9.5 sacks. The following year, he improved further, achieving 15 sacks and earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2003.
In 2004, Ogunleye was traded to the Chicago Bears in exchange for wide receiver Marty Booker and a third-round draft pick. This move proved beneficial for both Ogunleye and the Bears. He quickly became an integral part of the Bears' defensive line, known for his ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks and disrupt offensive plays. During his tenure with the Bears, Ogunleye consistently delivered solid performances, contributing to the team's defensive strength.
One of the highlights of Ogunleye's career came during the 2006 season when the Bears advanced to Super Bowl XLI. Although the Bears were defeated by the Indianapolis Colts, Ogunleye's role in helping the team reach the Super Bowl was undeniable. His efforts throughout the season were instrumental in the Bears' success, and he continued to be a key player for the team in subsequent seasons.
Ogunleye played with the Bears until 2009, maintaining a steady presence on the field. In 2010, he signed with the Houston Texans, although his time with the team was brief. After the 2010 season, Ogunleye retired from professional football, concluding a career that spanned over a decade.
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