Who is Matt Leinart? Matt Leinart is a former American football quarterback who gained fame playing for the University of Southern California (USC) Trojans. Why is he famous? He won the Heisman Trophy in 2004, leading USC to two national championships. What did he do after college? Leinart was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft. How did his NFL career go? His professional career didn't quite match his college success, but he played for several teams, including the Houston Texans and Oakland Raiders. What is he doing now? Today, Leinart works as a college football analyst, sharing his expertise on television. Want to know more? Here are 30 intriguing facts about Matt Leinart that will give you a deeper look into his life and career.
Early Life and College Career
Matt Leinart's journey to football stardom began long before he donned an NFL jersey. His early life and college career set the stage for his future success.
- Born on May 11, 1983, in Santa Ana, California, Matt Leinart grew up in a sports-loving family.
- Attended Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, where he excelled as a quarterback, leading his team to a 15-0 record in his senior year.
- Leinart was a highly sought-after recruit, eventually committing to the University of Southern California (USC).
- Redshirted his freshman year at USC, giving him time to develop his skills and learn the playbook.
- Became the starting quarterback for USC in 2003, following Carson Palmer's departure to the NFL.
Achievements at USC
Leinart's time at USC was marked by numerous accolades and unforgettable moments. His college career remains one of the most impressive in NCAA history.
- Won the Heisman Trophy in 2004, recognizing him as the best player in college football.
- Led USC to two national championships in 2003 and 2004, solidifying the Trojans' dominance.
- Named a consensus All-American in 2004 and 2005, highlighting his exceptional performance on the field.
- Set a USC record for career touchdown passes with 99, a record that stood for several years.
- Finished his college career with a 37-2 record as a starting quarterback, one of the best in NCAA history.
NFL Draft and Professional Career
Leinart's transition to the NFL was highly anticipated, with many expecting him to replicate his college success at the professional level.
- Selected 10th overall by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2006 NFL Draft.
- Signed a six-year contract with the Cardinals worth $51 million, including $14 million guaranteed.
- Made his NFL debut on October 1, 2006, against the Atlanta Falcons.
- Threw for over 2,500 yards and 11 touchdowns in his rookie season, showing promise as a future star.
- Struggled with injuries and inconsistent play, eventually losing the starting job to Kurt Warner.
Later NFL Career and Retirement
Despite a rocky start, Leinart continued to pursue his NFL dreams, playing for several teams before retiring.
- Released by the Cardinals in 2010, marking the end of his time in Arizona.
- Signed with the Houston Texans, serving as a backup to Matt Schaub.
- Suffered a season-ending collarbone injury in 2011 while starting for the Texans.
- Briefly played for the Oakland Raiders and Buffalo Bills, but never regained a starting role.
- Officially retired from professional football in 2013, transitioning to a career in broadcasting.
Post-Football Career
Leinart's life after football has been just as eventful, with new ventures and opportunities keeping him in the public eye.
- Joined Fox Sports as a college football analyst, providing expert commentary and insights.
- Co-hosted the "Big Noon Kickoff" show on Fox, becoming a familiar face for college football fans.
- Founded the Matt Leinart Foundation, which aims to provide opportunities and support for underprivileged youth.
- Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2017, cementing his legacy as one of the greats.
- Authored a book titled "Winning It All," sharing his experiences and lessons learned throughout his career.
Personal Life
Beyond football, Leinart's personal life has also been a topic of interest for many fans.
- Married to Josie Loren, a former actress known for her role in the TV show "Make It or Break It."
- Has two children, a son named Cole and a daughter named Caden.
- Active on social media, where he shares updates about his life and career with fans.
- Passionate about fitness and health, often posting workout routines and tips.
- Continues to be involved in various charitable activities, using his platform to make a positive impact.
Matt Leinart: A Glimpse into His Life
Matt Leinart's journey from college football star to NFL quarterback is nothing short of fascinating. From winning the Heisman Trophy to leading USC to national championships, his college career was legendary. Though his NFL career didn't reach the same heights, Leinart's impact on the game remains significant.
Beyond the field, he's made a name for himself as a sports analyst, sharing his insights with fans. His dedication to family and philanthropy shows there's more to him than just football.
Leinart's story is a reminder that success isn't just about stats and trophies. It's about resilience, adaptability, and finding new ways to contribute. Whether you're a football fan or not, there's something inspiring about his journey.
Thanks for joining us in exploring these 30 facts about Matt Leinart. Keep an eye out for more intriguing stories and facts!
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