Derrick Strong facts for kids
| Position: | Defensive end |
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| Personal information | |
| Born: | April 16, 1982 Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Height: | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) |
| Weight: | 261 lb (118 kg) |
| Career information | |
| College: | Illinois |
| Undrafted: | 2004 |
| Career history | |
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| Career highlights and awards | |
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Derrick Strong was born on April 16, 1982. He is a former American football player who played as a defensive end. A defensive end is a player on the defense who tries to stop the other team's offense, especially by tackling the quarterback. Derrick Strong played for several teams during his career.
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Derrick Strong's Football Journey
Derrick Strong started his football career playing in college. After college, he joined professional leagues. He played in both NFL Europe and the Arena Football League.
College Football at Illinois
Before becoming a professional player, Derrick Strong played college football for the Illinois Fighting Illini. This is the team representing the University of Illinois. Playing college football helps young athletes improve their skills. It also prepares them for a possible career in professional football. In 2002, he was recognized for his strong performance. He was named to the Second-team All-Big Ten. This means he was one of the best players in the Big Ten Conference that year.
Playing Professional Football
After his college career, Derrick Strong moved on to play professional football. He played in different leagues, showing his talent as a defensive end.
NFL Europe: Rhein Fire
In 2005, Derrick Strong was signed by the Rhein Fire. This team was part of NFL Europe. NFL Europe was a professional American football league. It was based in Europe and helped develop players. Many players hoped to eventually play in the NFL in the United States. Derrick Strong played for the Rhein Fire from 2005 to 2007.
Arena Football League
Later in his career, Derrick Strong played in the Arena Football League (AFL). This league plays a different style of football. It is played indoors on a smaller field. The game is faster-paced and has higher scores. In 2008, he played for two AFL teams. He was with the Columbus Destroyers and then the Philadelphia Soul. The Philadelphia Soul acquired him in 2008.
