Mario Addison's journey in professional football is a testament to perseverance and skill. Born on September 6, 1987, in Birmingham, Alabama, Addison's path to the NFL was not a straightforward one. He attended Tarrant High School, where he played football, but it was at Northeast Mississippi Community College that he began to attract attention for his athletic abilities. After transferring to Troy University, Addison continued to develop his skills as a defensive end, earning recognition for his speed and agility on the field.
Addison entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2011, signing with the Chicago Bears. His time with the Bears was brief, and he was waived after appearing in just two games. However, this setback did not deter him. Addison was picked up by the Indianapolis Colts, where he played in three games before being waived again. His journey continued with the Washington Redskins, where he appeared in four games during the 2011 season.
In 2012, Addison found a more stable home with the Carolina Panthers. Initially signed to the practice squad, he was promoted to the active roster and began to establish himself as a reliable defensive player. Over the next several seasons, Addison's role with the Panthers grew. He became known for his ability to pressure quarterbacks, recording multiple sacks each season. His breakout year came in 2016 when he recorded 9.5 sacks, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
Addison's performance with the Panthers earned him a contract extension in 2017, solidifying his place on the team. He continued to be a consistent presence on the Panthers' defensive line, contributing to the team's efforts in both regular season and playoff games. Over his tenure with the Panthers, Addison developed into one of the team's most dependable pass rushers, consistently leading the team in sacks.
In 2020, Addison signed with the Buffalo Bills, reuniting with former Panthers defensive coordinator Sean McDermott, who was then the head coach of the Bills. Addison brought veteran leadership and experience to the Bills' defense, helping the team reach the AFC Championship Game in his first season. His ability to adapt to a new team and continue performing at a high level was evident as he contributed to the Bills' defensive strategies.
Throughout his career, Addison was known for his work ethic and ability to overcome challenges. Despite entering the league as an undrafted player, he carved out a role for himself through determination and skill. His journey through multiple teams before finding success with the Panthers and later the Bills is a testament to his perseverance in the face of adversity.
Addison's career in the NFL spanned over a decade, during which he played in numerous games and recorded impressive statistics. His ability to consistently pressure quarterbacks and contribute to his teams' defensive efforts made him a valuable player throughout his career. As he transitioned from the Panthers to the Bills, Addison continued to demonstrate his capabilities as a defensive end, leaving a lasting impression on both teams.
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