Dexter Coakley, a linebacker known for his speed and agility, played in the National Football League (NFL) primarily with the Dallas Cowboys and later with the St. Louis Rams. Born on October 20, 1972, in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, Coakley attended Appalachian State University, where he excelled in college football. His performance at Appalachian State earned him the Buck Buchanan Award twice, recognizing him as the top defensive player in Division I-AA (now FCS).
The Dallas Cowboys selected Coakley in the third round of the 1997 NFL Draft. Standing at 5 feet 10 inches and weighing around 236 pounds, he was considered undersized for a linebacker, yet his athleticism and instincts allowed him to overcome these perceived limitations. Coakley quickly became a starter for the Cowboys, demonstrating his ability to read plays and make tackles efficiently.
Throughout his tenure with the Cowboys, Coakley was known for his consistency and reliability on the field. He played in all 16 games during his rookie season, recording 136 tackles, which set the tone for his career. Over the years, he became a central figure in the Cowboys' defense, known for his ability to cover ground quickly and make crucial stops. His performance earned him three Pro Bowl selections in 1999, 2001, and 2003.
Coakley's time with the Cowboys was marked by his knack for making plays in critical situations. He was adept at both defending against the run and dropping back into pass coverage, which made him a valuable asset to the team's defensive schemes. His speed allowed him to cover tight ends and running backs effectively, while his tackling skills helped him bring down some of the league's most challenging opponents.
In 2005, Coakley signed with the St. Louis Rams, where he continued to demonstrate his skills as a linebacker. Although his time with the Rams was shorter, he remained a steady presence on the field. Unfortunately, his career was cut short due to a severe ankle injury sustained during the 2005 season, which ultimately led to his retirement from professional football.
Throughout his NFL career, Coakley played in 142 games, starting 127 of them. He amassed a total of 762 tackles, 10.5 sacks, and 13 interceptions. His ability to maintain a high level of performance over nearly a decade in the league is a testament to his skill and work ethic.
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