Brandon Stokley, a wide receiver known for his reliable hands and precise route-running, enjoyed a lengthy career in the National Football League (NFL). Born on June 23, 1976, in Blacksburg, Virginia, Stokley grew up immersed in the world of football, with his father, Nelson Stokley, serving as a college football coach. This early exposure to the sport laid the foundation for his future endeavors on the field.
Stokley attended the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, where he played college football for the Ragin' Cajuns. During his time there, he set numerous school records, including career receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns. His impressive college performance caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection in the fourth round of the 1999 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens.
In Baltimore, Stokley quickly established himself as a dependable target. His rookie season saw him contribute to the Ravens' offense, but it was in his second year that he truly began to shine. Stokley played a crucial role in the Ravens' journey to Super Bowl XXXV, where they defeated the New York Giants. In the championship game, he caught a 38-yard touchdown pass, helping secure the victory and earning his first Super Bowl ring.
After four seasons with the Ravens, Stokley signed with the Indianapolis Colts in 2003. His tenure with the Colts proved to be a productive period in his career. Teaming up with quarterback Peyton Manning, Stokley became part of a potent offensive unit. The 2004 season was particularly memorable, as he recorded 68 receptions for 1,077 yards and 10 touchdowns. This performance marked the only 1,000-yard receiving season of his career.
Stokley's time with the Colts culminated in another Super Bowl appearance. In the 2006 season, the Colts advanced to Super Bowl XLI, where they faced the Chicago Bears. Stokley contributed to the Colts' victory, earning his second Super Bowl ring as Indianapolis triumphed 29-17.
Following his successful stint with the Colts, Stokley joined the Denver Broncos in 2007. His experience and veteran presence added depth to the Broncos' receiving corps. One of his most memorable moments with Denver came in the 2009 season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals. Stokley caught a deflected pass and ran it in for an 87-yard game-winning touchdown, a play that remains one of the most dramatic finishes in NFL history.
Stokley later had brief spells with the Seattle Seahawks and the New York Giants before returning to the Broncos in 2012. Reuniting with Peyton Manning, who had joined Denver, Stokley continued to be a reliable option in the passing game. He played one final season with the Ravens in 2013 before announcing his retirement from professional football.
🏈