Noel Scarlett facts for kids

Noel Scarlett (born January 21, 1974 – September 1, 2021) was an American football player. He played as a defensive tackle in the National Football League (NFL). He was part of teams like the New England Patriots, Kansas City Chiefs, and Dallas Cowboys. He also played for the Scottish Claymores in NFL Europe. Before turning professional, he played college football at Langston University.

Early Life and College Football

Noel Scarlett went to Elbert County High School. There, he was a strong player on both offense and defense. As a junior, he earned special honors for his skills. He was named All-area and received "Super Senior" recognition. However, he did not play football during his senior year.

After high school, Noel worked for two years. He started at a produce plant and became a supervisor. Later, he received a football scholarship. This allowed him to play for Langston University, an NAIA school.

In his second year at Langston, he became a starting defensive tackle. He made 40 tackles and had 2 sacks. A sack is when a defensive player tackles the opposing quarterback. In his third year, he again had 40 tackles and made 6 sacks.

As a senior, Noel was a team leader. He had his best year with 9.5 sacks and 9 tackles for loss. He even got 3 sacks in one game against Oklahoma Panhandle State University. He finished his college career with 120 tackles and 17.5 sacks.

Playing in the NFL and Beyond

Starting with the Vikings

Noel Scarlett was chosen by the Minnesota Vikings in the 1999 NFL Draft. He was picked in the seventh round. This meant he was the 236th player chosen overall. However, he was released by the Vikings in early September.

Playing for the Patriots

In December 1999, the New England Patriots signed Noel. He joined their practice squad. A practice squad is a group of players who train with the team. They can be called up to play if needed. He was released briefly but then re-signed in January 2000.

In 2000, Noel played for the Scottish Claymores. This team was part of NFL Europe. He made 20 tackles and 2.5 sacks. His defense was very strong, allowing few rushing yards per game. He helped the Claymores reach World Bowl 2000. After this, the Patriots released him in August.

Other NFL Teams

Noel then signed with the Miami Dolphins in August 2000. But he was released a short time later. In October, he joined the Kansas City Chiefs practice squad.

In December 2000, the Dallas Cowboys signed Noel. They needed help on their defensive line because of injuries. He played as a backup in one game against the Tennessee Titans. He was released by the Cowboys in August 2001.

Arena and Canadian Football

In 2002, Noel played for the Tulsa Talons. This team was in the AF2 league, which is a type of arena football. He played in 5 games. He made 8 tackles, one sack, and forced two fumbles.

Later in July 2002, he signed with the Minnesota Vikings again. But he was released in August. In 2003, Noel signed with the Calgary Stampeders. This team plays in the Canadian Football League (CFL). He was released by them in June of that year.

Coaching After Playing

After his playing career, Noel Scarlett became a football coach. In 2016, he coached the defensive line at Southwest Christian School in Fort Worth, Texas.

In 2017, he worked with the Minnesota Vikings again. He was an intern assistant for the defensive line during their training camp. Also in 2017, he became the defensive coordinator at Coram Deo Academy. He also served as an assistant coach for the Texas College Steers.