Chris Draft's journey in professional football began when he entered the NFL as a linebacker. Draft was selected by the Chicago Bears in the sixth round of the 1998 NFL Draft. Although he started his career with the Bears, he did not see much action on the field during his initial stint. His early years in the league were marked by transitions, as he sought to find a team where he could fully utilize his skills.
Draft's career gained momentum when he joined the San Francisco 49ers. During his time with the 49ers, he began to establish himself as a reliable linebacker. His ability to read the game and make crucial tackles became evident, and he started to earn more playing time. This period was instrumental in shaping his professional path, as he demonstrated his capability to perform at the highest level.
After his tenure with the 49ers, Draft moved to the Atlanta Falcons, where he spent several productive seasons. It was with the Falcons that he truly came into his own, becoming a regular starter and a key component of the team's defense. His performance on the field was characterized by his strong tackling and leadership qualities, which helped solidify the Falcons' defensive unit. Draft's time in Atlanta was marked by consistent play and a growing reputation as a dependable linebacker.
Following his successful run with the Falcons, Draft continued his career with the Carolina Panthers. In Carolina, he maintained his role as a starting linebacker, contributing to the team's defensive strategies. His experience and knowledge of the game were valuable assets to the Panthers, and he continued to perform at a high level throughout his time with the team.
Draft later joined the St. Louis Rams, where he continued to showcase his skills as a linebacker. His tenure with the Rams further underscored his ability to adapt to different defensive schemes and maintain his performance across various teams. Draft's career in the NFL concluded with a brief stint with the Buffalo Bills, where he played his final games before retiring from professional football.
Throughout his career, Chris Draft was known for his work ethic and professionalism.
🏈