N.D. Kalu is a former American football defensive end who played in the National Football League (NFL) for over a decade. He was born on August 3, 1975, in Nigeria and grew up in the United States. Kalu attended Rice University, where he played college football for the Rice Owls from 1993 to 1996.
Kalu was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fifth round of the 1997 NFL Draft. He played for the Eagles for six seasons from 1997 to 2002, where he established himself as a reliable pass rusher. Kalu recorded 31.5 sacks during his time with the Eagles, including a career-high 9.5 sacks in 2000. He was also known for his ability to block kicks, as he blocked four field goals and two extra points during his tenure with the Eagles.
In 2003, Kalu signed with the Houston Texans as a free agent. He played for the Texans for five seasons from 2003 to 2007, where he continued to be a productive pass rusher. Kalu recorded 24.5 sacks during his time with the Texans, including a career-high 8.5 sacks in 2004. He was also a team captain and a leader in the locker room, earning the respect of his teammates and coaches.
Kalu suffered a serious injury during the 2007 season, tearing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his knee. He missed the remainder of the season and was released by the Texans in the offseason. Kalu signed with the New Orleans Saints in 2008 but was released before the start of the regular season.
Kalu retired from the NFL in 2009, ending his career with 56 sacks, 10 forced fumbles, and six blocked kicks. He was known for his speed, agility, and technique as a pass rusher, as well as his versatility to play both defensive end and outside linebacker. Kalu was also respected for his work ethic, professionalism, and leadership on and off the field.
After retiring from football, Kalu became a sports analyst and commentator, appearing on various television and radio programs. He also founded the N.D. Kalu Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides educational and athletic opportunities for underprivileged youth in the Houston area.
In conclusion, N.D. Kalu had a successful career as a pass rusher in the NFL, playing for the Philadelphia Eagles and Houston Texans for over a decade. He was known for his speed, agility, and technique as a pass rusher, as well as his versatility to play both defensive end and outside linebacker. Kalu was also respected for his work ethic, professionalism, and leadership on and off the field.
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