Jonathan Vilma
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| Jonathan Vilma | |
|---|---|
| Date of birth | April 16, 1982 |
| Place of birth | Coral Gables, Florida |
| Position(s) | Middle Linebacker |
| College | University of Miami |
| NFL Draft | 2004 / Round 1/ Pick 12 |
| Team(s) | |
| 2004-Present | New York Jets |
Jonathan Vilma (born April 16, 1982 in Coral Gables, Florida) is an American football player who currently plays middle linebacker for the New York Jets of the NFL.
He is known for his uncommonly fast speed for a linebacker, running the 40-yard dash in 4.5 seconds.
Contents |
[edit] University of Miami
Vilma was drafted by the Jets out of the University of Miami with a first-round selection in the 2004 NFL draft. He was an accomplished student at Miami and was selected to the Big East Academic All-Conference Team twice.
[edit] NFL career
[edit] 2004 season
In 2004, Vilma was named as the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year by the Associated Press. During his rookie campaign, he recorded 107 tackles, two sacks, and three interceptions, including one which was returned for his first NFL touchdown.
[edit] 2005 season
In 2005, Vilma led the NFL in tackles with 169, forced four fumbles, notched one fumble recovery, half a sack, and one interception. Vilma also replaced Zach Thomas at the 2006 Pro Bowl.
| Preceded by Terrell Suggs |
Defensive Rookie of the Year 2004 |
Succeeded by Shawne Merriman |
