Leonard Little is a former American football defensive end who played for the St. Louis Rams for his entire career. He was born on October 19, 1974, in Asheville, North Carolina, and attended the University of Tennessee, where he played college football.
Little was selected by the St. Louis Rams in the third round of the 1998 NFL Draft. He quickly established himself as a dominant pass rusher, recording 8.5 sacks in his rookie season. He continued to be a force on the defensive line for the Rams for the next several years, earning Pro Bowl honors in 2003.
However, Little's career was not without controversy. In 1998, just months after being drafted, he was involved in a car accident that resulted in the death of a woman. Little was charged with involuntary manslaughter and pleaded guilty, receiving a sentence of 90 days in jail and four years of probation. He also faced disciplinary action from the NFL, including a suspension for the first eight games of the 1999 season.
Despite the off-field issues, Little continued to play at a high level for the Rams. He recorded double-digit sacks in three different seasons and was a key member of the team that won Super Bowl XXXIV in 2000. He retired after the 2009 season, having played his entire career with the Rams.
In total, Little played in 170 games for the Rams, recording 87.5 sacks, 31 forced fumbles, and 6 interceptions. He was known for his speed and agility as a pass rusher, as well as his ability to disrupt plays in the backfield.
Since retiring from football, Little has been involved in various charitable endeavors, including the Leonard Little Foundation, which supports underprivileged children in the St. Louis area. He has also spoken publicly about his experiences with alcohol and the importance of making responsible choices.
Overall, Leonard Little had a successful career as a defensive end for the St. Louis Rams, despite the challenges he faced off the field. He was a dominant pass rusher and a key member of the team that won Super Bowl XXXIV. While his career may be overshadowed by his legal troubles, Little remains a respected figure in the football community and a role model for those looking to overcome adversity.
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