Ken Dilger is a former American football player who played as a tight end in the National Football League (NFL). He was born on February 2, 1971, in Rock Island, Illinois, and attended the University of Illinois, where he played college football for the Fighting Illini.
Dilger was selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the second round of the 1995 NFL Draft. He played for the Colts for seven seasons, from 1995 to 2001, and was a key player in their offense. He was known for his excellent blocking skills and his ability to catch passes in traffic. He was also a reliable target for quarterback Peyton Manning, and the two developed a strong on-field chemistry.
In 2002, Dilger signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as a free agent. He played for the Buccaneers for two seasons, from 2002 to 2003, and was a part of their Super Bowl-winning team in 2002. He played a crucial role in the team's victory, catching two passes for 22 yards in the game.
After his stint with the Buccaneers, Dilger signed with the Dallas Cowboys in 2004. However, he played only one season with the team before retiring from the NFL.
Throughout his career, Dilger was known for his toughness and his work ethic. He was a team player who always put the needs of the team ahead of his own personal goals. He was also a respected leader in the locker room, and his teammates looked up to him for his professionalism and dedication.
In total, Dilger played in 158 NFL games, catching 356 passes for 4,331 yards and 24 touchdowns. He was named to the Pro Bowl twice, in 1997 and 1998, and was a member of the NFL All-Rookie Team in 1995.
After retiring from football, Dilger remained involved in the sport as a coach and mentor. He worked as a tight ends coach for the University of South Florida from 2007 to 2009, and has also worked as a private coach for young football players.
Overall, Ken Dilger had a successful career in the NFL, and was a respected player and leader on and off the field. His contributions to the game will not be forgotten, and he will always be remembered as one of the best tight ends of his era.
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