Biography

Rashad Jeanty has one of the most unique stories of anyone in the NFL. After going undrafted in the 2002 NFL Draft, Rashad signed with the Edmonton Eskimos of the Canadian Football League. He would play for the Eskimos for four seasons, primarily as a defensive end, leading them to two Grey Cup Championships. He signed with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2006 and, due to an injury, was thrust into the starting lineup the first game of the season at linebacker. At this time, Jeanty was the only undrafted free agent to be in the starting lineup on kickoff weekend and was one of the key performers in the game, recovering a fumble that led to a Bengals victory. In his three seasons with the Bengals, Jeanty has done it all, from starting at linebacker and leading the team in forced fumbles, to being a key player on special teams. In 2008, Rashad was the winner of the team’s Ed Block Courage Award, which honors players who demonstrate commitment to the values of sportsmanship and courage. .