Corey Dillon's journey in professional football began when he was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round of the 1997 NFL Draft. Dillon, a running back, quickly established himself as a powerful force on the field. His rookie season was nothing short of impressive, as he set a then-NFL rookie record with 246 rushing yards in a single game against the Tennessee Oilers. This performance was a clear indication of his potential and set the stage for a remarkable career.
Throughout his time with the Bengals, Dillon consistently demonstrated his ability to break through defenses with his strong running style. He became known for his ability to gain significant yardage, often carrying the team on his back. Dillon's tenure with the Bengals saw him achieve over 1,000 rushing yards in six consecutive seasons, a testament to his consistency and skill. Despite playing for a team that struggled to find success during those years, Dillon's individual performances stood out, earning him three Pro Bowl selections while with Cincinnati.
In 2004, Dillon's career took a new turn when he was traded to the New England Patriots. This move proved to be beneficial for both Dillon and the Patriots. In his first season with New England, Dillon rushed for a career-high 1,635 yards, setting a franchise record. His efforts were instrumental in helping the Patriots secure a victory in Super Bowl XXXIX, where they defeated the Philadelphia Eagles. Dillon's performance in the Super Bowl, where he rushed for 75 yards and scored a touchdown, was a key component of the Patriots' success.
Dillon continued to play for the Patriots for two more seasons, maintaining his reputation as a reliable and powerful running back. Although his rushing yards decreased in the following years, he remained an integral part of the team's offensive strategy. By the time he retired, Dillon had accumulated over 11,000 rushing yards and 82 rushing touchdowns in his NFL career.
Off the field, Dillon was known for his reserved and sometimes contentious relationship with the media.
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