Gillis Wilson facts for kids

Gillis R. Wilson III (born October 15, 1977) is a former American football player. He played as a defensive end, which is a position on the defensive line. Gillis Wilson was chosen by the Carolina Panthers in the fifth round of the 2000 NFL draft. He played his college football at Southern University.

Wilson also played for several other teams during his career. These included the New York Giants, Arizona Cardinals, and Rhein Fire. He also played in the Arena Football League (AFL) for teams like the Georgia Force and Dallas Vigilantes.

Early Life and College Football Journey

Gillis R. Wilson III was born on October 15, 1977. His hometown is Morgan City, Louisiana. He went to Patterson High School in Patterson, Louisiana.

After high school, he joined the Southern Jaguars football team. This team represents Southern University. He played for them from 1996 to 1999. In his first year, 1996, he did not play in any games.

Gillis Wilson's Professional Football Career

Gillis Wilson began his professional career in the NFL. He was picked by the Carolina Panthers in the 2000 NFL draft. He was the 147th player chosen overall.

Time with NFL Teams

Wilson joined the Panthers' main roster on December 21, 2000. He stayed with them until August 28, 2001, when he was released. Later that year, on October 4, 2001, the New York Giants signed him to their practice squad. A practice squad is where players train with the team but are not on the main roster.

However, the Carolina Panthers signed him again on November 20, 2001. This meant he left the Giants' practice squad. In 2002, Wilson signed with the Arizona Cardinals on July 31. He was released by the Cardinals on August 26, 2002. He then played for the Rhein Fire in NFL Europe in 2003. NFL Europe was a league that helped players develop their skills.

Playing in the Arena Football League

After his time in the NFL and NFL Europe, Wilson moved to the Arena Football League (AFL). The AFL is a different style of football played indoors on a smaller field.

He signed with the Georgia Force on November 26, 2003. In 2005, he was recognized for his great play. He was named to the Second-team All-Arena squad. This means he was one of the best players in the league at his position.

On March 20, 2006, Wilson was traded to the Kansas City Brigade. He was released by the Brigade on February 26, 2007. He then signed with the Grand Rapids Rampage on March 1, 2007. Wilson returned to the Kansas City Brigade on March 6, 2008. His final team was the Dallas Vigilantes, who he signed with on June 8, 2010.