Dexter McCleon is a former American football cornerback who played in the National Football League (NFL) for ten seasons. He was born on January 9, 1973, in Meridian, Mississippi, and attended the University of Clemson, where he played college football for the Clemson Tigers.
McCleon was selected by the St. Louis Rams in the second round of the 1997 NFL Draft. He played for the Rams for five seasons, from 1997 to 2001, and was a key member of the team's defense during their Super Bowl XXXIV championship season in 1999. McCleon recorded two interceptions in the Super Bowl, including one that he returned for a touchdown.
After leaving the Rams, McCleon signed with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he played for three seasons from 2002 to 2004. He then played for the Houston Texans in 2005 before finishing his career with the Carolina Panthers in 2006.
Throughout his career, McCleon was known for his versatility and ability to play both cornerback and safety positions. He was also known for his physicality and willingness to make tackles, as well as his ability to read and react to opposing offenses.
In total, McCleon played in 148 NFL games, starting in 117 of them. He recorded 27 interceptions, 7.5 sacks, and 6 forced fumbles over the course of his career. He was also named to the NFL All-Rookie Team in 1997 and was a Pro Bowl alternate in 2003.
After retiring from football, McCleon went on to become a high school football coach in his hometown of Meridian, Mississippi. He also founded the Dexter McCleon Foundation, which provides scholarships and other resources to underprivileged youth in the area.
Overall, Dexter McCleon had a successful career in the NFL, playing for multiple teams and earning recognition for his skills and contributions to the game. He continues to make a positive impact on his community through his work as a coach and philanthropist.
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