Chike Okeafor facts for kids

Chikezie Russell Okeafor (born March 27, 1976) is a former American football player. He played in the National Football League (NFL) from 1999 to 2009. Chikezie was a defensive end and linebacker. He played for the San Francisco 49ers, the Seattle Seahawks, and the Arizona Cardinals.

Early Life and High School Football

Chikezie Okeafor was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1976. His father came to America from Nigeria. Chikezie and his sisters were raised by their mother in the Midwest.

He played high school football in West Lafayette, Indiana. Chikezie was a finalist for the Indiana Mr. Football Award. In his senior year, he helped his team win the 1993 state championship.

College Football Career

Chikezie Okeafor stayed in West Lafayette for college. He played football at Purdue University. He also studied engineering there. He was chosen twice for the All-Big Ten team. He was also nominated twice for the Butkus Award. This award goes to the best college football linebacker.

For his senior year, Chikezie changed his position. He went from linebacker to defensive end.

Playing in the NFL

Chikezie Okeafor had a successful career in the NFL. He played for three different teams.

San Francisco 49ers (1999–2002)

The San Francisco 49ers picked Chikezie in the 1999 NFL Draft. He was the 89th player chosen overall. He signed a four-year contract with the team. He played as a defensive end and on special teams. By 2001, he became a starter. In 2002, he started all 16 games. With the 49ers, he made 119 tackles and 11.5 sacks.

Seattle Seahawks (2003–2004)

Chikezie Okeafor joined the Seattle Seahawks in 2003. He played with them for two seasons. He led the team in sacks in both years. He recorded 100 tackles and 16.5 sacks. He also had one interception.

Arizona Cardinals (2005–2009)

In 2005, Chikezie signed a five-year contract with the Arizona Cardinals. He started as a defensive end. Later, his position changed to outside linebacker. The Cardinals won their division in 2008 and 2009. Chikezie played in Super Bowl XLIII with the Cardinals. He made 6 tackles in that game. He missed the 2007 season due to an injury. In his four active years with the Cardinals, he made 210 tackles and 25 sacks. He also had one interception.

Chikezie Okeafor became a free agent in 2010.

Personal Interests

During his time as a football player, Chikezie Okeafor was known for his unique interests. He enjoyed meditation and yoga. He also practiced Wing Chun, a type of martial art. He preferred natural foods and herbal remedies.