Allen Rossum's journey in professional football is characterized by his exceptional speed and agility, which made him one of the most reliable return specialists in the NFL. Born on October 22, 1975, in Dallas, Texas, Rossum attended the University of Notre Dame, where he excelled in both football and track. His collegiate career set the stage for his entry into the NFL, as he was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the third round of the 1998 NFL Draft.
Rossum's NFL career began with the Eagles, where he played as a cornerback and return specialist. His ability to return kicks and punts quickly became evident, and he soon became known for his explosive returns. After two seasons with Philadelphia, Rossum moved to the Green Bay Packers in 2000. During his time with the Packers, he continued to develop his skills as a return specialist, contributing significantly to the team's special teams unit.
In 2002, Rossum joined the Atlanta Falcons, where he spent the majority of his career. It was with the Falcons that he truly excelled as a return specialist. In 2004, he set a franchise record for the most return yards in a single season, showcasing his speed and vision on the field. His performance earned him a Pro Bowl selection, highlighting his status as one of the top return specialists in the league.
Rossum's tenure with the Falcons was marked by several memorable moments, including a 59-yard punt return for a touchdown in a playoff game against the St. Louis Rams in January 2005. This play was a testament to his ability to change the momentum of a game with his return skills. His contributions to the Falcons' special teams were invaluable, and he remained a key player for the team until 2006.
After leaving the Falcons, Rossum had brief stints with the Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, and Dallas Cowboys. With each team, he continued to demonstrate his prowess as a return specialist, consistently ranking among the league leaders in return yards. His career totals include over 15,000 return yards and five return touchdowns, underscoring his effectiveness in this role.
Rossum's speed and agility were not only assets on the football field but also in track and field, where he was a standout athlete during his college years. This background in track undoubtedly contributed to his success as a return specialist, allowing him to outrun defenders and find seams in coverage units.
Throughout his NFL career, Rossum was known for his professionalism and work ethic. He was respected by teammates and coaches alike for his dedication to the game and his ability to perform under pressure. His career spanned over a decade, a testament to his skill and durability in a physically demanding role.
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