Roddy White, a wide receiver known for his time with the Atlanta Falcons, left a lasting legacy in the NFL. Born on November 2, 1981, in Charleston, South Carolina, White attended James Island High School, where he excelled in both football and wrestling. His athletic prowess earned him a scholarship to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), where he played college football for the Blazers.
During his college career, White demonstrated his potential as a wide receiver, amassing impressive statistics that caught the attention of NFL scouts. In his senior year, he recorded 71 receptions for 1,452 yards and 14 touchdowns, setting school records and earning All-Conference USA honors. His performance at UAB led to his selection in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons, who picked him 27th overall.
White's early years in the NFL were marked by a period of adjustment. In his rookie season, he played in 16 games, starting five, and recorded 29 receptions for 446 yards and three touchdowns. Over the next few seasons, he steadily improved, developing a strong rapport with Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan, who joined the team in 2008. This partnership proved fruitful, as White's performance on the field began to flourish.
By 2007, White had established himself as a reliable target, surpassing 1,000 receiving yards for the first time in his career. This achievement marked the beginning of a streak where he recorded six consecutive seasons with over 1,000 receiving yards. In 2008, he set a franchise record with 1,382 receiving yards, earning his first Pro Bowl selection. White's ability to make crucial catches and his consistency on the field made him a favorite among Falcons fans.
The 2010 season was particularly noteworthy for White. He led the NFL in receptions with 115, amassing 1,389 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns. His outstanding performance earned him first-team All-Pro honors and another Pro Bowl selection. White's contributions helped the Falcons secure a 13-3 record and a playoff berth, although they were ultimately defeated by the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Divisional Round.
Throughout his career, White was known for his strong work ethic and competitive spirit. He became the Falcons' all-time leading receiver in both receptions and receiving yards, surpassing previous records held by Terance Mathis. White's ability to perform in high-pressure situations and his knack for making difficult catches endeared him to teammates and coaches alike.
Injuries began to take a toll on White in the later stages of his career. Despite this, he continued to play at a high level, contributing to the Falcons' offense with his experience and leadership. In 2012, he recorded 92 receptions for 1,351 yards and seven touchdowns, helping the Falcons reach the NFC Championship Game, where they narrowly lost to the San Francisco 49ers.
White's final seasons with the Falcons saw a decline in his statistical output, partly due to the emergence of other talented receivers on the team and the natural effects of aging. In 2015, he played in 16 games, recording 43 receptions for 506 yards and one touchdown. Following the season, the Falcons released White, ending his 11-year tenure with the team.
Roddy White retired from professional football in 2017, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest receivers in Atlanta Falcons history.
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