Chase Blackburn is a former American football linebacker who played in the National Football League (NFL) for nine seasons. He was born on June 10, 1983, in Maryville, Tennessee, and attended the University of Akron, where he played college football for the Akron Zips.
Blackburn began his professional career in 2005 when he signed with the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent. He spent his first three seasons with the Giants as a special teams player and backup linebacker. In 2007, he played a key role in the Giants' Super Bowl XLII victory over the New England Patriots, intercepting a pass from Tom Brady in the fourth quarter to help secure the win.
After his contract with the Giants expired in 2010, Blackburn signed with the Carolina Panthers. He played two seasons with the Panthers, starting in 14 games and recording 143 tackles, two sacks, and two interceptions.
In 2013, Blackburn returned to the Giants, signing a one-year contract. He played in all 16 games that season, starting in six, and recorded 64 tackles, one sack, and one interception. He also played a key role in the Giants' victory over the Detroit Lions in Week 16, intercepting a pass from Matthew Stafford and returning it for a touchdown.
Blackburn retired from the NFL after the 2014 season, having played in 135 games and recorded 338 tackles, 7.5 sacks, and five interceptions. He was known for his versatility and ability to play multiple positions on defense and special teams.
After retiring from football, Blackburn returned to his hometown of Maryville, Tennessee, where he became a high school football coach. He currently serves as the head coach of the Maryville High School football team, where he has led the team to multiple state championships.
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