Calvin Pace is a former American football linebacker who played in the National Football League (NFL) for over a decade. He was born on October 28, 1980, in Detroit, Michigan, and attended college at Wake Forest University.
Pace was selected in the first round of the 2003 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals, where he spent the first five years of his career. During his time with the Cardinals, Pace established himself as a reliable pass rusher and a solid run defender. He recorded a career-high 6.5 sacks in 2006 and was named the team's defensive MVP in 2007.
In 2008, Pace signed with the New York Jets as a free agent. He quickly became a key player on the Jets' defense, starting all 16 games in his first season with the team. Pace's versatility and ability to play both outside linebacker and defensive end made him a valuable asset to the Jets' defense.
Over the course of his career, Pace played in 196 games, recording 713 tackles, 52 sacks, and 14 forced fumbles. He was known for his durability and consistency, rarely missing games due to injury and always being a reliable contributor on the field.
Pace's best season came in 2013, when he recorded 10 sacks and was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Week in Week 3. He helped lead the Jets to the AFC Championship game in 2009 and was a key member of the team's defense during their playoff runs in 2010 and 2011.
After 12 seasons in the NFL, Pace announced his retirement in 2016. He left the game as one of the most respected and reliable linebackers of his era, known for his toughness, work ethic, and leadership on and off the field.
In addition to his success on the field, Pace was also known for his philanthropic work off the field. He was actively involved in several charitable organizations, including the United Way and the Boys and Girls Club of America.
Overall, Calvin Pace had a successful and productive career in the NFL, establishing himself as one of the league's top linebackers during his time with the Cardinals and Jets. He was a reliable and consistent contributor on the field and a respected leader in the locker room, earning the admiration and respect of his teammates and coaches alike.
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