Chris Howard (American football) facts for kids

Chris Howard (born May 5, 1975) is a former American football player. He was a running back in the National Football League (NFL) for the Jacksonville Jaguars. Before playing professionally, Chris was a star player for the Michigan Wolverines football team. He helped them win a national championship in 1997. Chris was also named the MVP of the Hula Bowl in 1998. He was once married to actress Gabrielle Union.

Early Life

Chris Howard was born in Kenner, Louisiana. He went to John Curtis Christian High School in Louisiana. This school is known for its strong football program. After high school, he joined the Michigan Wolverines football team.

College Career

Chris played football for the Michigan Wolverines football team from 1994 to 1997. During his four years, he ran for 1,876 yards. He also caught the ball for 429 yards. He had nine games where he ran for over 100 yards. Four of these big games were in the 1997 championship season.

In 1996, Chris had five games with over 100 rushing yards. He gained 725 yards and scored ten touchdowns that year.

Howard helped the 1997 Team win the national championship as the leading rusher in the 1998 Rose Bowl.

In 1997, Chris was the top rusher for the undefeated Michigan team. They won all 12 of their games. The team's defense was very strong, led by Heisman Trophy winner Charles Woodson. Chris ran for 938 yards and caught for 276 yards. He scored seven rushing touchdowns and one receiving touchdown.

One important game in 1997 was against the unbeaten Penn State Nittany Lions. They were ranked second in the country. Chris ran for 120 yards and scored a touchdown in that game. Michigan's coach, Lloyd Carr, praised Chris's performance. Michigan won the game 34–0.

The 1997 season ended with a 21–16 win over Washington State. This game was the 1998 Rose Bowl on January 1. Chris led all rushers in the game with 70 yards.

After his college career, Chris was named the North MVP of the 1998 Hula Bowl. This is a special game for college football stars. He ran for 116 yards in the game.

Professional Career

The Denver Broncos picked Chris Howard in the fifth round of the 1998 NFL draft. However, he had trouble holding onto the ball during the preseason. He fumbled five times in two games. The Broncos released him in September 1998.

The Jacksonville Jaguars then signed Chris. His coach, Tom Coughlin, said they would help him improve. Chris played for the Jaguars until 2000. In his NFL career, he ran for 123 yards and caught for 37 yards. In his final two NFL games in 2000, he fumbled twice.

Personal Life

On May 5, 2001, Chris Howard married actress Gabrielle Union. They had met in 1999.

See also

• Lists of Michigan Wolverines football rushing leaders