Ma'ake Kemoeatu is a former American football defensive tackle who played in the National Football League (NFL) for several teams. He was born on January 10, 1979, in Tonga and grew up in Hawaii. Kemoeatu played college football at the University of Utah, where he was a standout defensive lineman.
Kemoeatu was selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the sixth round of the 2002 NFL Draft. He played for the Ravens for four seasons, from 2002 to 2005, and was a key member of their defense. In 2006, he signed with the Carolina Panthers as a free agent and played for them for three seasons, from 2006 to 2008. He was a starter for the Panthers and helped them reach the playoffs in 2008.
In 2009, Kemoeatu signed with the Washington Redskins, where he played for one season. He then signed with the New Orleans Saints in 2010 and played for them for two seasons, from 2010 to 2011. He was part of the Saints team that won Super Bowl XLIV in 2010.
Kemoeatu's NFL career was cut short due to a serious health issue. In 2012, he was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease called ulcerative colitis, which affects the digestive system. He underwent surgery to remove his colon and missed the entire 2012 season. He attempted to make a comeback in 2013, but was unable to regain his form and was released by the Ravens in August of that year.
Despite his shortened career, Kemoeatu was a respected player in the NFL. He was known for his strength and toughness on the field, as well as his leadership and work ethic off the field. He was also involved in charitable work, including the Ma'ake Kemoeatu Foundation, which supports education and health initiatives in Tonga and Hawaii.
After retiring from football, Kemoeatu returned to Hawaii and became a farmer. He and his brother, Chris Kemoeatu, who also played in the NFL, run a farm that produces taro, a traditional Hawaiian crop. Kemoeatu has said that farming has helped him stay connected to his roots and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
In conclusion, Ma'ake Kemoeatu had a successful career in the NFL, playing for several teams and earning a reputation as a tough and respected player. His career was cut short by a serious health issue, but he has since found success in farming and continues to give back to his community through charitable work.
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