Jabaal Sheard's journey in professional football began when he was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the second round of the 2011 NFL Draft. A defensive end from the University of Pittsburgh, Sheard quickly demonstrated his ability to adapt to the professional level. In his rookie season, he started all 16 games and recorded 8.5 sacks, earning him a spot on the NFL All-Rookie Team. His performance was a bright spot for the Browns, showcasing his potential as a pass rusher.
Over the next few seasons with Cleveland, Sheard continued to be a reliable presence on the defensive line. He played four seasons with the Browns, accumulating a total of 23 sacks. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and defend against the run made him a valuable asset to the team's defense. However, after the 2014 season, Sheard entered free agency and sought new opportunities.
In 2015, Sheard signed with the New England Patriots, a move that would see him become part of a highly competitive team. During his time with the Patriots, he played a crucial role in their defensive schemes. In his first season with New England, Sheard recorded 8 sacks and contributed to the team's success in reaching the playoffs. The following year, he was part of the Patriots' roster that won Super Bowl LI, defeating the Atlanta Falcons in a historic comeback victory.
After two seasons with the Patriots, Sheard joined the Indianapolis Colts in 2017. His tenure with the Colts saw him continue to be a consistent performer on the defensive front. Over three seasons, he played in 45 games and recorded 15.5 sacks. His experience and skill set were valuable to the Colts' defense, providing leadership and stability.
In 2020, Sheard signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars, but his time there was brief. He was released after a short stint and subsequently joined the New York Giants. With the Giants, Sheard added depth to their defensive line and played in nine games during the season.
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