Jerome McDougle facts for kids

Jerome McDougle, born on December 15, 1978, is a former professional football player. He played as a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL). The Philadelphia Eagles chose him as the 15th overall pick in the 2003 NFL draft. McDougle played college football for the University of Miami before joining the NFL. He also played for the New York Giants.

College Football Journey

McDougle was a very strong defensive player at the University of Miami. He helped his team achieve a perfect 12–0 season in 2001. This amazing season led them to win the national championship.

Professional Football Career

Joining the Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles picked Jerome McDougle in the first round of the 2003 NFL draft. He was the 15th player chosen overall. The Eagles traded up to get him, showing how much they wanted him. He was the first player from the University of Miami drafted by the Eagles since Jerome Brown.

Challenges with Injuries

During his time with the Eagles, McDougle faced many injuries. In his first pre-season game in 2003, he hurt his ankle, knee, and hip. These injuries made him miss eight games that season.

In 2004, he had an irregular heartbeat. Later that year, he sprained his knee during a game against the Dallas Cowboys. This meant he missed five more games.

A Difficult Season in 2005

In 2005, McDougle had a serious incident at his home that caused a significant injury. This injury and the surgery he needed kept him from playing the entire 2005 season.

Returning to the Field

McDougle worked hard to recover and joined the Eagles for training camp in 2006. He played well in pre-season games. He even got a great quarterback sack against his former college teammate, Ken Dorsey.

However, he soon fractured two ribs during practice. This injury meant he needed about three weeks to heal. He was able to return to play in September 2006.

A Costly Play in 2006

McDougle's skills in stopping runs and rushing the passer were important for the Eagles' defense. But in a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in October 2006, he made a play that cost his team.

He sacked the Buccaneers' quarterback, Bruce Gradkowski, for a big loss. But he seemed to grab Gradkowski's face mask, which led to a 15-yard penalty against the Eagles.

McDougle was upset about the penalty and kicked the referee's flag. This action resulted in another 15-yard penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct. These two penalties gave the Buccaneers a much better chance to score.

The Buccaneers then kicked a field goal, which helped them win the game. They won with a 62-yard field goal as time ran out.

Final Years with the Eagles

In 2007, McDougle was injured again. He tore a muscle in his arm during a pre-season game against the Baltimore Ravens. He did not play for the rest of the 2007 season.

The Eagles released him in August 2008. His time with the team, which started with high hopes, was often affected by injuries.

Playing for the New York Giants

Just one day after leaving the Eagles, McDougle signed with the New York Giants in August 2008. He played for them for one season. After that season, he became a free agent and did not sign with another team.

Family Life

Jerome McDougle is the younger brother of another NFL player, Stockar McDougle. Stockar played as an offensive lineman.