Corey Graham, a professional football player, began his NFL journey when he was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the fifth round of the 2007 NFL Draft. Born in Buffalo, New York, Graham attended the University of New Hampshire, where he played college football and honed his skills as a cornerback. His entry into the NFL marked the beginning of an 11-year career characterized by consistent performance and adaptability on the field.
During his tenure with the Chicago Bears, Graham primarily contributed on special teams, quickly establishing himself as a reliable player in that role. His efforts did not go unnoticed, as he was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2011 as a special teams player. This recognition highlighted his ability to excel in a specialized area of the game, even as he continued to develop his skills as a defensive back.
In 2012, Graham signed with the Baltimore Ravens, a move that would prove to be a turning point in his career. With the Ravens, he transitioned into a more prominent role in the defensive lineup. His performance during the 2012 season was instrumental in the Ravens' playoff run, culminating in a victory at Super Bowl XLVII. Graham's contributions in the postseason were particularly noteworthy; he intercepted two passes in a divisional playoff game against the Denver Broncos, one of which he returned for a touchdown. This performance underscored his ability to rise to the occasion in high-stakes situations.
After his successful stint with the Ravens, Graham joined the Buffalo Bills in 2014. Returning to his hometown team, he continued to demonstrate his skills as a defensive back. Over the course of three seasons with the Bills, Graham played both cornerback and safety, showcasing his adaptability and understanding of the game. His versatility allowed him to fill various roles in the secondary, contributing to the team's defensive efforts in multiple capacities.
In 2017, Graham signed with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he reunited with former Ravens teammate and Eagles defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz. His experience and leadership were valuable assets to the Eagles' defense. During the 2017 season, Graham played a crucial role in the Eagles' secondary, helping the team secure a spot in Super Bowl LII. In the championship game against the New England Patriots, Graham's performance was instrumental in the Eagles' victory, earning him his second Super Bowl ring.
Corey Graham's NFL career concluded after the 2018 season, leaving behind a legacy of consistent performance and adaptability. Throughout his time in the league, he played in 189 regular-season games, recording numerous tackles, interceptions, and pass deflections. His ability to contribute both on special teams and in the defensive backfield made him a valuable asset to every team he played for.
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