Chidi Ahanotu, a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL), began his professional football career when he was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the sixth round of the 1993 NFL Draft. Ahanotu, who played college football at the University of California, Berkeley, quickly established himself as a reliable player on the Buccaneers' defensive line. His rookie season set the stage for a career that spanned over a decade in the league.
During his tenure with the Buccaneers, Ahanotu became known for his ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks and his strength in defending against the run. He played with the team for eight seasons, from 1993 to 2000, and was part of a defensive unit that gradually improved over the years. The Buccaneers' defense, during this period, became one of the most respected in the league, with Ahanotu contributing to their success.
In 2001, Ahanotu signed with the St. Louis Rams, where he continued to demonstrate his skills as a defensive end. His time with the Rams was marked by his participation in a team that had recently been to the Super Bowl, and he added depth to their defensive roster. After a season with the Rams, Ahanotu moved on to the Buffalo Bills in 2002. His experience and veteran presence were valuable assets to the Bills' defense.
Ahanotu's career continued with the San Francisco 49ers in 2003. Returning to California, he brought his seasoned expertise to the 49ers' defensive line. His stint with the 49ers was followed by a brief period with the Miami Dolphins in 2004, where he played part of the season before returning to the Buccaneers to finish his career.
Throughout his NFL journey, Ahanotu played in a total of 155 games, recording numerous tackles and sacks.
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