Jacques McClendon facts for kids

Jacques Rashaud McClendon (born December 10, 1987) is an American who used to play professional American football as a center. He was chosen by the Indianapolis Colts in the 2010 NFL draft. He played college football for the University of Tennessee. After his playing career, he worked as the director of football affairs for the Los Angeles Rams. He also helps with the Knight Commission for Intercollegiate Athletics.

Early Life and High School Football

Jacques McClendon grew up loving football. He was a top high school player. He even played in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl. This game features the best high school football players from all over the country. He was also named the Gatorade Player of the Year for Tennessee. This award goes to the best high school athlete in the state.

College Football Career

McClendon played college football for the University of Tennessee. He played in 49 games for the team. He started 26 of those games. He was also a great student. He was chosen three times for the Academic All-SEC team. This means he did well in both sports and his studies. He even earned a master's degree in Sports Management.

Professional Football Journey

Jacques McClendon played for several teams in the NFL. His journey included playing for the Colts, Lions, Steelers, Falcons, Jaguars, and Dolphins.

Indianapolis Colts Draft Pick

On April 24, 2010, the Indianapolis Colts picked McClendon. He was chosen in the fourth round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He played in four games during his first year. The Colts later let him go on September 4, 2011.

Detroit Lions and Pittsburgh Steelers

After leaving the Colts, the Detroit Lions picked him up. This happened on the same day, September 4, 2011. He played for the Lions for one season. After that, he became a free agent. In 2012, McClendon signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was with the team for a short time before being released on November 2.

Atlanta Falcons and Jacksonville Jaguars

On November 7, 2012, the Atlanta Falcons added McClendon to their practice squad. He later signed a contract with the Falcons in January 2013. He then moved to the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 1, 2013. He started the last two games of the 2013 season for the Jaguars. This happened because other players were injured. He became a free agent after the 2014 season.

Miami Dolphins Stints

McClendon joined the Miami Dolphins on April 22, 2015. He was released and re-signed by the Dolphins multiple times that year. He was released on September 11, 2015, then re-signed on September 14. He was waived again on September 26. He was signed again on December 1, 2015, waived on December 15, and re-signed on December 22. The Dolphins signed him again for the 2016 season.

Return to Jacksonville Jaguars

On August 17, 2016, McClendon signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars for a second time. However, he was released by the team on September 3, 2016.

Life After Playing: Los Angeles Rams

After his playing career, Jacques McClendon moved into a new role. In 2017, he was hired by the Los Angeles Rams. He became their Director of Football Affairs. In this role, he helps manage many important things for the team. He was part of the Rams' staff when they won Super Bowl LVI. This was a huge achievement for the team.