Plaxico Burress, a wide receiver known for his height and athleticism, played in the National Football League (NFL) and left a lasting memory with his performances on the field. Born on August 12, 1977, in Norfolk, Virginia, Burress attended Michigan State University, where he showcased his talents in college football. His impressive college career led to his selection in the first round of the 2000 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Burress quickly established himself as a valuable asset for the Steelers. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches, his size and ability to catch difficult passes made him a favorite target for quarterbacks. During his time with the Steelers, Burress developed a strong partnership with quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, contributing significantly to the team's offensive strategies. Over five seasons with Pittsburgh, he accumulated over 4,000 receiving yards and 22 touchdowns, becoming a reliable option in the passing game.
In 2005, Burress signed with the New York Giants, where he continued to excel as a wide receiver. His tenure with the Giants was marked by several memorable performances, but none more so than his role in Super Bowl XLII. On February 3, 2008, Burress caught the game-winning touchdown pass from Eli Manning in the final moments of the game, leading the Giants to a stunning victory over the previously undefeated New England Patriots. This catch secured the Giants' first Super Bowl title since 1990 and cemented Burress's place in the team's history.
Despite his on-field success, Burress's career was not without controversy. In November 2008, he accidentally discharged a firearm in a New York City nightclub, resulting in a self-inflicted leg injury. The incident led to legal troubles, and Burress was sentenced to two years in prison for violating New York's gun laws. This setback interrupted his football career, and he missed the entire 2009 and 2010 NFL seasons.
After serving his sentence, Burress returned to the NFL in 2011, signing with the New York Jets. He played one season with the Jets, where he demonstrated that he still possessed the skills that made him a standout receiver. Burress recorded 612 receiving yards and eight touchdowns during his comeback season, proving his ability to perform at a high level despite the time away from the game.
In 2012, Burress returned to the Pittsburgh Steelers, the team that had drafted him over a decade earlier. However, his second stint with the Steelers was short-lived, as he played in only a few games before an injury ended his season. Following this, Burress did not return to the NFL as an active player.
Throughout his career, Plaxico Burress was known for his ability to make crucial catches in high-pressure situations.
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