Domata Peko, a defensive tackle known for his durability and consistency, spent the majority of his professional football career in the National Football League (NFL). Born on November 27, 1984, in Los Angeles, California, Peko grew up in a family with strong Samoan roots. He attended Michigan State University, where he played college football and began to attract attention for his performance on the field.
Peko entered the NFL when he was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the fourth round of the 2006 NFL Draft. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing over 300 pounds, he quickly became a fixture on the Bengals' defensive line. His rookie season set the tone for what would be a long tenure with the team, as he played in all 16 games and started in nine of them. Peko's ability to clog running lanes and pressure opposing quarterbacks made him a valuable asset to the Bengals' defense.
Throughout his time with Cincinnati, Peko was known for his consistency and reliability. He played in 171 games over 11 seasons with the Bengals, starting in 156 of them. His presence in the middle of the defensive line was a constant for the team, and he was often praised for his leadership both on and off the field. Peko's tenure with the Bengals saw him become one of the longest-serving players in the franchise's history, and he was a part of several playoff runs during his time there.
In 2017, Peko signed with the Denver Broncos, bringing his experience and skills to a new team. His impact was felt immediately, as he started all 16 games in his first season with the Broncos. Peko continued to be a reliable force on the defensive line, contributing to the team's efforts to stop the run and apply pressure on opposing offenses. His time in Denver further solidified his reputation as a dependable player who could be counted on to perform at a high level.
After two seasons with the Broncos, Peko briefly joined the Baltimore Ravens in 2019. Although his stint with the Ravens was shorter, he continued to demonstrate his ability to contribute effectively to a team's defensive efforts. Peko's experience and veteran presence were valuable assets to the Ravens during his time there.
Domata Peko's career in the NFL was characterized by his longevity and consistent performance. Over the course of his career, he played in 208 regular-season games, starting in 186 of them.
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