Paul Soliai is a former American football defensive tackle who played in the National Football League (NFL) for nine seasons. He was born on December 30, 1983, in Santa Ana, California, and grew up in American Samoa. Soliai attended Utah University, where he played college football for the Utah Utes.
Soliai was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the fourth round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He spent his first seven seasons with the Dolphins, where he established himself as a dominant force on the defensive line. Soliai was known for his size, strength, and ability to stop the run. He was a two-time Pro Bowl selection in 2011 and 2012 and was named a second-team All-Pro in 2011.
In 2014, Soliai signed a five-year, $33 million contract with the Atlanta Falcons. He played two seasons with the Falcons before being released in 2016. Soliai finished his NFL career with the Carolina Panthers, where he played in 10 games in 2016 before being released in 2017.
Throughout his career, Soliai was a reliable and consistent player. He played in 139 games, recording 227 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles. Soliai was known for his work ethic and leadership on and off the field. He was respected by his teammates and coaches for his dedication to the game and his willingness to do whatever it takes to help his team win.
After retiring from the NFL, Soliai returned to his home in American Samoa, where he has been involved in various community projects. He has also been active in promoting football in American Samoa and has worked with the NFL to bring football clinics and camps to the island.
In conclusion, Paul Soliai was a dominant force on the defensive line during his nine-year NFL career. He was a two-time Pro Bowl selection and a second-team All-Pro in 2011. Soliai was known for his size, strength, and ability to stop the run. He played for the Miami Dolphins, Atlanta Falcons, and Carolina Panthers before retiring in 2017. Soliai has since returned to his home in American Samoa, where he has been involved in various community projects and promoting football on the island.
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