Rock Cartwright, known for his tenacity and work ethic, played as a running back and special teams player in the National Football League. Born on December 3, 1979, in Conroe, Texas, Cartwright attended Trinity Valley Community College before transferring to Kansas State University. At Kansas State, he demonstrated his abilities on the field, which led to his selection in the seventh round of the 2002 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins.
Cartwright's career with the Redskins spanned eight seasons, during which he became a reliable player, particularly on special teams. Although he was not the primary running back, his versatility allowed him to contribute in various roles. He was often utilized in short-yardage situations and was known for his ability to gain tough yards. His most productive season as a running back came in 2003 when he rushed for 411 yards and four touchdowns.
Special teams became Cartwright's forte, where he excelled as a kick returner. In 2006, he led the NFL in kickoff return yards, amassing 1,541 yards, which was a testament to his speed and vision on the field. His performance earned him recognition as one of the league's top return specialists.
In 2010, Cartwright signed with the Oakland Raiders, where he continued to play primarily on special teams. His experience and leadership were valuable assets to the Raiders' squad. During his time with the Raiders, he maintained his reputation as a dependable special teams player and contributed to the team's overall performance.
Cartwright's NFL journey concluded with a brief stint with the San Francisco 49ers in 2012, although he did not play in any regular-season games for the team. Throughout his career, Cartwright was known for his work ethic and ability to adapt to different roles, making him a respected figure among teammates and coaches.
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