Cornelius Bennett is a former American football linebacker who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 14 seasons. He was born on August 25, 1965, in Birmingham, Alabama, and attended the University of Alabama, where he played college football for the Crimson Tide.
Bennett was selected by the Indianapolis Colts with the second overall pick in the 1987 NFL Draft, but he was immediately traded to the Buffalo Bills, where he spent the first five seasons of his career. During his time with the Bills, Bennett was a key member of the team's defense, which helped the Bills reach four consecutive Super Bowls from 1990 to 1993. Bennett was named to the Pro Bowl five times during his tenure with the Bills and was also named a first-team All-Pro three times.
In 1996, Bennett was traded to the Atlanta Falcons, where he played for three seasons. He then spent one season with the Indianapolis Colts before finishing his career with the Bills in 2000. Bennett was known for his versatility as a linebacker, as he was equally adept at rushing the passer and dropping back into coverage. He was also known for his toughness and durability, as he played in 206 games over the course of his career.
Bennett's career statistics are impressive, as he recorded 71.5 sacks, 31 forced fumbles, and 7 interceptions. He was also a member of the NFL's All-Decade Team for the 1990s and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2005.
Off the field, Bennett has been involved in a number of charitable endeavors, including the Cornelius Bennett Foundation, which provides scholarships and other assistance to underprivileged children. He has also been active in the NFL Players Association, serving as a player representative and as a member of the union's executive committee.
Overall, Cornelius Bennett was one of the most dominant linebackers of his era and was a key contributor to some of the most successful teams in NFL history. His toughness, versatility, and leadership made him a fan favorite and a respected figure both on and off the field.
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