Lu Lea

Written by Lu Lea

Published: 27 Aug 2025

28-facts-about-malcolm-jenkins
Source: Usatoday.com

Who is Malcolm Jenkins? Malcolm Jenkins is a name that resonates with football fans and social activists alike. Born on December 20, 1987, Jenkins has made a significant impact both on and off the field. He played as a safety in the NFL for the New Orleans Saints and Philadelphia Eagles, earning two Super Bowl rings. But Jenkins is more than just an athlete. He is a dedicated advocate for social justice, founding the Malcolm Jenkins Foundation to support youth and underserved communities. His efforts have earned him numerous awards, including the NFLPA Byron "Whizzer" White Award. Want to know more about this inspiring figure? Here are 28 facts that highlight his remarkable journey.

Table of Contents

Early Life and Education

Malcolm Jenkins, a name synonymous with football excellence, has an intriguing backstory. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about his early life and education.

  1. Born on December 20, 1987, in East Orange, New Jersey, Jenkins grew up in a family that valued education and sports.
  2. Jenkins attended Piscataway Township High School, where he excelled in both football and track, showcasing his athletic versatility.
  3. He was a standout player in high school, earning accolades such as the New Jersey Defensive Player of the Year.
  4. Jenkins chose to attend Ohio State University, where he played college football for the Buckeyes and majored in communications.

College Football Career

Jenkins' time at Ohio State was marked by numerous achievements and milestones. Here are some key highlights from his college football career.

  1. As a freshman, Jenkins played in all 12 games, starting in three, and quickly made a name for himself.
  2. In 2007, he was named a consensus All-American, solidifying his reputation as one of the top defensive backs in college football.
  3. Jenkins won the Jim Thorpe Award in 2008, given annually to the nation's best defensive back.
  4. He finished his college career with 196 tackles, 11 interceptions, and 18 pass breakups, leaving a lasting legacy at Ohio State.

NFL Draft and Early Professional Career

Jenkins' transition to the NFL was seamless, and his early professional career was nothing short of impressive.

  1. The New Orleans Saints selected Jenkins in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft, 14th overall.
  2. Jenkins signed a five-year contract with the Saints, marking the beginning of his illustrious NFL career.
  3. In his rookie season, Jenkins played in all 16 games, starting in six, and contributed significantly to the team's defense.
  4. Jenkins was part of the Saints' Super Bowl XLIV-winning team, earning his first championship ring in his debut season.

Achievements with the Philadelphia Eagles

Jenkins' tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles was marked by numerous achievements and memorable moments.

  1. In 2014, Jenkins signed a three-year contract with the Eagles, bringing his leadership and skills to Philadelphia.
  2. Jenkins was named to the Pro Bowl three times during his time with the Eagles, in 2015, 2017, and 2018.
  3. He played a pivotal role in the Eagles' Super Bowl LII victory, helping the team secure their first-ever Super Bowl title.
  4. Jenkins was known for his durability, starting in every game during his six seasons with the Eagles.

Off the Field: Activism and Philanthropy

Jenkins is not just a football star; he is also a dedicated activist and philanthropist. Here are some facts about his off-the-field contributions.

  1. In 2010, Jenkins founded The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation, aimed at providing resources and opportunities to underserved youth.
  2. Jenkins has been an outspoken advocate for social justice, using his platform to address issues such as police brutality and racial inequality.
  3. He co-founded the Players Coalition, an organization focused on criminal justice reform and community engagement.
  4. Jenkins has received numerous awards for his activism, including the NFLPA Byron "Whizzer" White Award in 2017.

Return to the New Orleans Saints

Jenkins' career came full circle when he returned to the New Orleans Saints. Here are some highlights from his second stint with the team.

  1. In 2020, Jenkins signed a four-year contract with the Saints, rejoining the team that drafted him.
  2. Jenkins continued to be a key defensive player, starting in all 16 games during the 2020 season.
  3. He recorded 91 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and three interceptions in his first season back with the Saints.
  4. Jenkins' leadership and experience were invaluable to the Saints' defense, earning him respect from teammates and coaches alike.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond football and activism, Jenkins has a rich personal life and diverse interests. Here are some interesting tidbits about his life off the field.

  1. Jenkins is married to Morrisa Jenkins, and the couple has two daughters, making family a central part of his life.
  2. He is an avid reader and often shares book recommendations with his fans on social media.
  3. Jenkins has a passion for fashion and co-owns a men's clothing store called Damari Savile in Philadelphia.
  4. He enjoys cooking and often experiments with new recipes, sharing his culinary creations with friends and family.

Malcolm Jenkins: A Life of Impact

Malcolm Jenkins isn't just a football star. He's a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and activist. His career with the New Orleans Saints and Philadelphia Eagles brought him Super Bowl victories, but his influence extends beyond the field. Jenkins founded the Malcolm Jenkins Foundation to support youth and communities. He also launched Listen Up Media to amplify diverse voices. His work in social justice, especially with the Players Coalition, shows his dedication to equality. Jenkins' journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and giving back. Whether he's making game-changing plays or advocating for change, Malcolm Jenkins continues to inspire. His legacy will be remembered not just for his athletic prowess but for his unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.

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