Shawn Jefferson, a wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL), began his professional career when he was drafted by the Houston Oilers in the ninth round of the 1991 NFL Draft. Born on February 22, 1969, in Jacksonville, Florida, Jefferson attended the University of Central Florida, where he honed his skills on the college football field. His transition to the professional league marked the beginning of a career that spanned over a decade.
Jefferson's early years with the Houston Oilers were a period of adjustment and growth. During his tenure with the Oilers, he developed a reputation for his speed and ability to make crucial catches. His performance on the field caught the attention of other teams, and in 1996, he joined the San Diego Chargers. This move proved to be a turning point in his career, as he became an integral part of the Chargers' offensive lineup.
While with the Chargers, Jefferson's role expanded, and he became known for his reliability as a receiver. His ability to execute plays and maintain consistency on the field made him a valuable asset to the team. Over the course of his time with the Chargers, he accumulated impressive statistics, contributing significantly to the team's passing game.
In 1999, Jefferson signed with the New England Patriots, where he continued to demonstrate his skills as a wide receiver. His tenure with the Patriots was marked by several memorable performances, including a standout game in the 2001 AFC Championship, where his efforts helped propel the team to victory. Jefferson's experience and leadership were instrumental during this period, as the Patriots went on to win Super Bowl XXXVI.
After his time with the Patriots, Jefferson joined the Atlanta Falcons in 2000. With the Falcons, he continued to be a reliable target for quarterbacks, showcasing his ability to adapt to different offensive systems. His veteran presence in the locker room and on the field provided guidance to younger players, and his professionalism was widely respected by teammates and coaches alike.
Throughout his NFL career, Jefferson played in 195 games, recording over 7,000 receiving yards and 29 touchdowns. His longevity in the league is a testament to his skill and work ethic, as he consistently performed at a high level against some of the toughest competition in professional football.
Following his retirement as a player, Jefferson transitioned into coaching, bringing his extensive knowledge of the game to a new generation of athletes. His post-playing career included coaching roles with several NFL teams, where he continued to contribute to the sport he had dedicated much of his life to.
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