Justin Durant is a former American football linebacker who played in the National Football League (NFL) for ten seasons. He began his football career at Hampton University, where he played for four years and was named the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year in 2006.
Durant was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the second round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He played for the Jaguars for four seasons, starting in 36 games and recording 194 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and two interceptions. In 2011, he signed with the Detroit Lions as a free agent and played for them for two seasons, starting in 16 games and recording 103 tackles, two sacks, and one interception.
In 2013, Durant signed with the Dallas Cowboys and played for them for two seasons. He started in 16 games in 2013, recording 103 tackles, one sack, and two interceptions. In 2014, he suffered a torn biceps injury that ended his season early. He returned to the Cowboys in 2015 and played in 13 games, recording 49 tackles and one sack.
Durant then signed with the Atlanta Falcons in 2016 and played for them for one season. He started in eight games and recorded 54 tackles and one sack. In 2017, he signed with the Arizona Cardinals but was released before the start of the regular season.
Throughout his career, Durant was known for his versatility and ability to play multiple linebacker positions. He was also known for his durability, playing in 16 games in four different seasons. Despite suffering multiple injuries throughout his career, including a torn biceps, a torn pectoral muscle, and a concussion, Durant continued to play at a high level and was respected by his teammates and coaches.
In 2018, Durant announced his retirement from the NFL after ten seasons. He finished his career with 809 tackles, 14 sacks, and four interceptions. He also played in six playoff games, recording 29 tackles and one sack. Durant is now focused on his post-football career and has expressed interest in coaching and mentoring young athletes.
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