In his pro football career, Alexander played in 123 contests and accumulated 9,453 yards on the ground. He was handed the ball 2,187 different times to the tune of 4.3 YPC. He gained 76.9 yards per contest and crossed the goal line 100 times as a runner. Alexander coughed up the ball 0 different times in his career.
Alexander averaged 0.0 yds on the ground per game. He rushed for 0 touchdowns in his last season for 0 yards. His average yds per carry was at 0.0 and he carried the ball 0 total times in his last year. Alexander gained 0 yds on the ground in 0 games in his last season. Shaun Alexander is a name that resonates with NFL fans, especially those who followed the Seattle Seahawks during the early 2000s. Known for his powerful running style and knack for finding the end zone, Alexander made a significant impact on the game during his career. In this article, we’ll explore Shaun Alexander’s stats, his time with the Seahawks, and his overall legacy in the NFL.
Early Life and College Career
Before Shaun Alexander became a household name in the NFL, he was making waves in college football. Born on August 30, 1977, in Florence, Kentucky, Alexander showed promise as a running back from a young age. He attended Boone County High School, where he racked up impressive stats, rushing for over 6,000 yards and scoring 110 touchdowns.
Alexander went on to play college football at the University of Alabama. During his time with the Crimson Tide, he established himself as one of the premier running backs in college football. His junior year was particularly impressive, as he rushed for 1,383 yards and scored 17 touchdowns, earning All-SEC honors. His success in college set the stage for his entry into the NFL.
Shaun Alexander’s NFL Career
Shaun Alexander was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the first round of the 2000 NFL Draft. From the moment he stepped onto the field, it was clear that Alexander had the potential to be a game-changer. Let’s dive into his NFL career and his contributions to the Seahawks.
Rise to Stardom with the Seattle Seahawks
Alexander’s rookie season with the Seahawks was relatively quiet, as he served as a backup to veteran Ricky Watters. However, it didn’t take long for him to make his mark. In his second season, Alexander took over as the starting running back and never looked back. He rushed for 1,318 yards and 14 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to dominate on the ground.
Over the next few years, Alexander’s stats continued to soar. He became known for his ability to break tackles and find the end zone, earning him the nickname “Touchdown Shaun.” His 2005 season was particularly remarkable, as he led the league in rushing yards with 1,880 and set a then-NFL record with 28 total touchdowns. This outstanding performance earned him the NFL MVP award, making him the first Seahawk to receive this honor.
Key Stats and Records
Shaun Alexander’s career is filled with impressive stats and records. During his time with the Seahawks, he amassed 9,429 rushing yards and 100 rushing touchdowns. He remains the franchise’s all-time leader in both categories. Additionally, his 2005 season ranks among the best in NFL history for a running back.
Here are some key stats from Alexander’s career:
112 career touchdowns
9,453 career rushing yards
2-time NFL All-Pro selection
3-time Pro Bowl selection
NFL MVP in 2005
Challenges and Injuries
Despite his success, Shaun Alexander’s career was not without its challenges. Injuries began to take their toll on him, particularly after his MVP season. In 2006, he suffered a foot injury that limited his effectiveness and caused him to miss several games. Although he returned to the field, he was never quite the same player.
Alexander continued to struggle with injuries, and his production declined in the following seasons. In 2008, he was released by the Seahawks and briefly signed with the Washington Redskins. However, he played only a few games before retiring from the NFL.
Legacy and Impact
Shaun Alexander’s legacy in the NFL is defined by his incredible performances and record-breaking achievements. He is remembered as one of the most dominant running backs of his era, and his impact on the Seattle Seahawks franchise is undeniable.
Influence on the Seahawks
Alexander’s success with the Seahawks helped elevate the team’s profile and establish them as a force in the NFL. His MVP season in 2005 was a pivotal moment for the franchise, as it led to their first Super Bowl appearance. Although the Seahawks fell short of victory, Alexander’s contributions were instrumental in their journey to the big game.
His records with the Seahawks still stand today, and his influence on the team’s history is celebrated by fans and players alike. Alexander’s jersey number, 37, became iconic, and his name is forever etched in the team’s legacy.
Recognition and Honors
Throughout his career, Shaun Alexander received numerous accolades and honors. In addition to his MVP award, he was named to the NFL 2000s All-Decade Team, cementing his status as one of the best running backs of his time. In 2011, he was inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, recognizing his achievements at both the college and professional levels.
Life After Football
Since retiring from the NFL, Shaun Alexander has remained active in various pursuits. He is a devoted family man and has dedicated much of his time to charitable work and community service. Alexander has also shared his experiences and insights through motivational speaking, inspiring others with his story of perseverance and success.
In addition to his philanthropic efforts, Alexander has authored a book, “Touchdown Alexander: My Story of Faith, Football, and Pursuing the Dream,” which chronicles his journey from childhood to NFL stardom.
Conclusion
Shaun Alexander’s career is a testament to the power of talent, hard work, and determination. From his early days in Kentucky to his record-breaking performances with the Seattle Seahawks, he left an indelible mark on the NFL. His stats and achievements speak volumes, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations of football players.
In the end, Shaun Alexander’s story is not just about football; it’s about overcoming challenges and achieving greatness, both on and off the field. His journey serves as a reminder that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible.
