Ken Dilger, a tight end known for his reliable hands and blocking skills, played in the National Football League (NFL) for ten seasons. Born on February 2, 1971, in Mariah Hill, Indiana, Dilger attended Heritage Hills High School, where he excelled in multiple sports. His athletic prowess earned him a spot at the University of Illinois, where he played college football for the Fighting Illini.
Dilger entered the NFL when the Indianapolis Colts selected him in the second round of the 1995 NFL Draft. He quickly became a dependable player for the Colts, contributing both as a receiver and a blocker. Over the years, Dilger developed a strong rapport with quarterback Peyton Manning, who joined the team in 1998. This connection helped Dilger become a consistent target in the Colts' passing game.
During his time with the Colts, Dilger played in 106 games, starting 95 of them. He amassed 3,181 receiving yards and scored 18 touchdowns. His performance on the field earned him a Pro Bowl selection in 2001, highlighting his role in the Colts' offensive success during that period.
In 2002, Dilger signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he continued to demonstrate his skills as a tight end. His tenure with the Buccaneers included a memorable season in 2002, when the team won Super Bowl XXXVII. Dilger's experience and steady play were valuable assets to the Buccaneers' championship run.
Over his two seasons with Tampa Bay, Dilger played in 32 games, starting 27 of them. He recorded 725 receiving yards and scored three touchdowns. His ability to contribute both in the passing game and as a blocker made him a valuable member of the Buccaneers' roster.
After the 2004 season, Dilger retired from professional football. Throughout his career, he was known for his work ethic and team-first mentality. His contributions to both the Colts and the Buccaneers left a lasting impression on teammates and coaches alike.
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