Duane Bickett is a former American football linebacker who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 11 seasons. He was born on December 1, 1962, in Carson, California, and attended the University of Southern California (USC) where he played college football for the Trojans.
Bickett was selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the first round of the 1985 NFL Draft, and he quickly established himself as one of the team's best defensive players. He played for the Colts for eight seasons, from 1985 to 1992, and during that time he was named to the Pro Bowl twice (in 1987 and 1988) and was also named the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 1985.
In 1993, Bickett was traded to the Seattle Seahawks, where he played for two seasons before being released in 1995. He then signed with the Carolina Panthers, where he played his final season in 1996 before retiring from the NFL.
Throughout his career, Bickett was known for his versatility and his ability to play multiple positions on defense. He was primarily a linebacker, but he also played defensive end and even some defensive tackle during his time in the NFL. He was also known for his durability, as he played in 159 out of a possible 176 games during his career.
Bickett's best season statistically came in 1987, when he recorded 10 sacks, 3 interceptions, and 2 fumble recoveries. He was a key part of the Colts' defense during that season, which helped the team reach the playoffs for the first time in over a decade.
After retiring from the NFL, Bickett remained involved in football as a coach. He worked as a defensive coordinator at the high school level in California, and he also served as a linebackers coach at USC from 2001 to 2003.
Overall, Duane Bickett had a successful career in the NFL, and he was one of the best defensive players of his era. He was a versatile and durable player who made a significant impact on every team he played for, and he will always be remembered as one of the great linebackers of his time.
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