David McLeod facts for kids

David Leroy McLeod is an American former professional football player. He was born on August 15, 1971. David played for seven seasons in the Arena Football League (AFL). He was a member of the Albany Firebirds, Grand Rapids Rampage, Carolina Cobras, and Tampa Bay Storm.

McLeod played college football at James Madison University. In 1996, he made history. He was the very first player to win the Arena Football League Defensive Player of the Year Award.

David McLeod's Early Life

David Leroy McLeod was born in Richmond, Virginia. This happened on August 15, 1971. He went to Highland Springs High School in Highland Springs, Virginia.

College Football Career

David McLeod was a talented player for the James Madison Dukes. He played for James Madison University from 1990 to 1993. He was a four-year letterman, which means he played well enough to earn a special award each year. He played as a wide receiver.

In 1993, during his senior year, David set a school record. He had 1,207 receiving yards in one season. This amazing performance earned him first-team All-American honors. He also set a record for most receiving yards in a single game with 192.

By the end of his college career, David was the school's all-time leader. He had 158 receptions, 2,899 receiving yards, and 21 receiving touchdowns. In 2020, David was honored for his achievements. He was inducted into the JMU Athletics Hall of Fame.

Professional Football Journey

After college, David McLeod was not chosen in the 1994 NFL draft. However, he still got a chance to play. In April 1994, he signed with the Arizona Cardinals as a wide receiver. Later, he also signed with the New York Jets.

Playing in the Arena Football League

David McLeod found his stride in the Arena Football League (AFL). This league has special "ironman rules." This means players often play both offense and defense. David played as both a wide receiver and a defensive back.

Albany Firebirds (1995–1997)

David joined the Albany Firebirds in 1995. In his first year, he played six games. He caught 21 passes for 378 yards and scored nine touchdowns. He also made 16 solo tackles and had three interceptions.

The 1996 season was incredible for David. He played all 14 games for the Firebirds. He caught 35 passes for 761 yards and scored 16 touchdowns. On defense, he had 67 solo tackles and an amazing 11 interceptions. His 11 interceptions tied the record for most in a single AFL season at that time.

For his outstanding play, David was named second-team All-Arena. He also became the first-ever AFL Defensive Player of the Year. The Firebirds had a great year, finishing with a 10–4 record.

In 1997, David played in seven games. He had 21 receptions for 368 yards and six touchdowns. He also made 20 solo tackles and one interception.

Grand Rapids Rampage (1998–1999)

In December 1997, David was chosen by the Grand Rapids Rampage in a special draft. He was placed on injured reserve for the 1998 season and did not play.

He returned to play in 12 games during the 1999 season. He caught 45 passes for 526 yards and scored 13 touchdowns. He also made 24 solo tackles. David left the Rampage in April 2000.

Carolina Cobras (2000–2001)

Next, David played for the Carolina Cobras in the AFL. In 2000, he played nine games. He had 32 receptions for 430 yards and ten touchdowns. He also made 26 solo tackles and one interception.

In 2001, he appeared in six games. He caught 24 passes for 249 yards and five touchdowns. He was waived by the Cobras in January 2002.

Tampa Bay Storm (2002)

David McLeod finished his AFL career with the Tampa Bay Storm in 2002. He played in two games, both as a starter. He caught nine passes for 97 yards and one touchdown. After this season, he became a free agent.