30 Facts About Eddie George

Early Life and High School

Eddie George's journey to football greatness began in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His early years were marked by a strong foundation in both academics and athletics.

1. 01Eddie George was born on September 24, 1973, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
2. 02He attended Abington High School before transferring to Fork Union Military Academy in Virginia for his sophomore year.
3. 03At Fork Union Military Academy, George excelled in both football and track.
4. 04He played as a running back and linebacker, rushing for 2,572 yards and touchdowns during his high school career.
5. 05In his senior season, he rushed for 1,372 yards and 15 touchdowns.

College Career at Ohio State

Eddie George's college career at Ohio State University was nothing short of spectacular. His dedication and hard work paid off as he became one of the best running backs in the school's history.

6. 06George chose to attend Ohio State University, where he majored in landscape architecture.
7. 07Initially, he played a backup role in his first two seasons but eventually became the starter in 1994.
8. 08As a true freshman, George faced significant challenges, including fumbling twice inside the 5-yard line in a game against Illinois.
9. 09Despite setbacks, George continued to work hard and improve, eventually becoming a standout player.
10. 10In his senior year (1995), George rushed for a school-record 1,927 yards and scored 24 touchdowns.
11. 11One of his best performances was in a 45–26 win over Notre Dame, where he rushed for 207 yards.
12. 12He also had a record-breaking 314 yards against Illinois, scoring three touchdowns and adding one receiving score.
13. 13George’s performance in the 1995 season earned him the Heisman Trophy, which he won in the closest vote in the history of the award at that time.
14. 14He left Ohio State second in school history in career rushing yards (3,768) and third in rushing touchdowns (44).

NFL Career

Eddie George's transition to the NFL was seamless, as he quickly established himself as a dominant force on the field.

15. 15George was drafted by the Houston Oilers (now the Tennessee Titans) with the 14th overall pick in the 1996 NFL Draft.
16. 16He won the NFL Rookie of the Year award in 1996 and became the starting tailback for the team until 2003.
17. 17George was voted to four consecutive Pro Bowls from 1997 to 2000.
18. 18In 2000, George helped lead the Titans to Super Bowl XXXIV, where they lost to the St. Louis Rams 23–16.
19. 19He gained 391 combined rushing and receiving yards in the Titans' three playoff games that year and scored two touchdowns in the Super Bowl.
20. 20In 2004, George signed a one-year contract with the Dallas Cowboys, finishing with 432 yards on 132 carries and four touchdowns.
21. 21Throughout his NFL career, George accumulated 10,441 rushing yards, 268 receptions, 2,227 receiving yards, and 78 touchdowns.

Retirement and Legacy

Even after retiring from professional football, Eddie George's impact on the sport and his community remained significant.

22. 22Eddie George officially retired from football in 2006.
23. 23His No. 27 jersey number was retired by the Tennessee Titans in 2019, alongside his former teammate Steve McNair’s No. 9 jersey.
24. 24In 2021, George became a semifinalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
25. 25George won several awards during his career, including the Heisman Trophy, Doak Walker Award, and ESPY Award as the nation's best player in 1995.
26. 26As a member of the Tennessee Titans, George owns virtually every franchise rushing record.
27. 27After retiring as a player, George transitioned into coaching and is currently the head football coach at Tennessee State University.
28. 28Eddie George is actively involved in various community programs, particularly focusing on youth development and education.
29. 29He has been involved in several charitable initiatives, including supporting local schools and sports programs.
30. 30Outside of football, George is known for his humble and down-to-earth personality and has been married to his wife, Tamara, with whom he has two children.

Eddie George's Lasting Impact

Eddie George's journey from high school standout to NFL star and now a coach is nothing short of inspiring. His dedication and perseverance on the field earned him numerous accolades, including the Heisman Trophy and NFL Rookie of the Year. Beyond his playing days, George's transition to coaching at Tennessee State University shows his commitment to nurturing young talent. His involvement in community programs and philanthropy highlights his desire to give back. George's legacy at Ohio State and in the NFL remains influential, setting a high standard for future generations. His story is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the impact one can have both on and off the field. Eddie George continues to inspire, proving that true greatness extends beyond athletic achievements.