Who is Will Dissly? Born on July 8, 1996, in Bozeman, Montana, Will Dissly is a professional football tight end currently playing for the Los Angeles Chargers in the NFL. His journey began at Bozeman High School, where he excelled in football, earning Montana's Gatorade High School Player of the Year in 2013. Initially committed to Boise State, Dissly followed Coach Chris Petersen to the University of Washington, transitioning from defensive end to tight end. Drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in 2018, he made an immediate impact but faced setbacks with injuries. Despite these challenges, Dissly's career has been marked by resilience and adaptability. Now with the Chargers, he aims to leverage his skills as both a pass-catcher and blocker. His story is one of determination, showcasing his ability to overcome obstacles and seize new opportunities in the NFL.
Key Takeaways:
- Will Dissly, a talented football player from Bozeman, Montana, overcame injuries to showcase his skills with the Seattle Seahawks. His journey continues with the Los Angeles Chargers, where he aims to make a significant impact under coach Jim Harbaugh.
- Despite facing injuries, Will Dissly's efficiency and catch rate highlight his potential as a valuable asset for the Los Angeles Chargers. His athleticism and physical attributes make him a formidable presence on the field.
Early Life and High School Career
Will Dissly's journey began in the picturesque town of Bozeman, Montana. His early years were marked by a passion for football, which he pursued with vigor during his high school days.
- Dissly was born on July 8, 1996, in Bozeman, Montana, where he spent his formative years.
- He attended Bozeman High School, where he excelled in football and earned the title of Montana's Gatorade High School Player of the Year in 2013.
- During his senior year, Dissly helped lead the Bozeman Hawks to a state championship victory.
College Career and Transition
Dissly's college career saw a significant transition that would shape his future in football. Initially committed to one university, he made a pivotal change that would impact his path.
- Initially, Dissly committed to Boise State University but later followed head coach Chris Petersen to the University of Washington.
- After his sophomore season in 2015, he transitioned from defensive end to tight end, marking a new chapter in his college career.
- His first reception as a tight end was a memorable 27-yard touchdown against Sacramento State.
- During his senior year in 2017, Dissly recorded 21 catches, showcasing his potential as both a blocker and a pass-catcher.
NFL Draft and Early Success
Dissly's entry into the NFL was marked by early success and challenges. His debut season highlighted his potential, but injuries would soon test his resilience.
- The Seattle Seahawks selected Dissly in the fourth round (120th overall) of the 2018 NFL draft.
- In his NFL debut, he made an impressive three receptions for 105 yards and scored his first professional touchdown against the Denver Broncos.
- In Week 2 of the 2018 season, he caught three receptions for 42 yards and another touchdown in a game against the Chicago Bears.
- Unfortunately, his rookie season was cut short due to a patellar tendon injury sustained in Week 4 against the Arizona Cardinals.
2019 Season and Injuries
The 2019 season saw Dissly continue to shine, but injuries once again posed significant challenges. Despite setbacks, he demonstrated his capabilities on the field.
- In Week 2 of the 2019 season, Dissly caught five passes for 50 yards and two touchdowns in a victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers.
- In Week 3, he recorded six catches for 62 yards and a touchdown against the New Orleans Saints.
- A torn Achilles in Week 6 against the Cleveland Browns ended his season prematurely, placing him on injured reserve.
Career with the Seahawks
Dissly's time with the Seahawks was marked by both achievements and challenges. His role evolved over the years, reflecting changes in team dynamics and his own development.
- As of his departure from the Seahawks, Dissly had a career receiving line of 127-1,421-13, showcasing his productivity.
- Despite his potential, his role in Seattle diminished, with him playing on a career-low 39 percent of the team’s snaps.
- On March 14, 2022, he signed a three-year $24 million contract extension with the Seahawks, indicating the team's belief in his abilities.
- In Week 8 of the 2022 season, he earned National Football Conference Special Teams Player of the Week for his performance against the New York Giants.
- Dissly finished the 2022 season with a career-high 34 catches for 349 yards and three touchdowns through 15 starts.
- On March 5, 2024, the Seahawks released him in a cap-saving move, freeing up $7 million on the salary cap.
New Beginnings with the Chargers
Dissly's move to the Los Angeles Chargers marked a new chapter in his career. With a fresh start, he aimed to make a significant impact on his new team.
- Eight days after his release from the Seahawks, Dissly signed a three-year contract with the Los Angeles Chargers.
- The deal includes $10 million fully guaranteed in the first two years, reflecting the Chargers' confidence in his abilities.
- In Los Angeles, he is expected to play a meaningful role as both a pass-catcher and blocker under head coach Jim Harbaugh.
Athletic Metrics and Physical Attributes
Dissly's athleticism and physical attributes have contributed to his success on the field. His size and strength make him a formidable presence in the NFL.
- His athletic metrics include a 40-yard dash time of 4.87 seconds, a vertical jump of 31 inches, and a broad jump of 9 feet 3 inches.
- Standing at 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 265 pounds, Dissly's size and strength make him an effective blocker.
Injury History and Career Efficiency
Injuries have been a recurring theme in Dissly's career, impacting his playing time and productivity. Despite these challenges, he remains efficient when targeted.
- Throughout his career, he has faced several injuries, including a patellar tendon injury and a torn Achilles.
- Despite a limited role, Dissly boasts an impressive 82.1% career catch rate, highlighting his efficiency.
Current Status and Future Prospects
As of October 2024, Dissly is playing for the Los Angeles Chargers, where he is expected to contribute significantly. His new role offers a fresh opportunity to regain his form.
- In Week 2 of the 2024 season, he made three catches for 29 yards against the Carolina Panthers.
- In Week 1 of the 2024 season, he caught two passes for 17 yards in the Seahawks' loss to the Los Angeles Rams.
- Dissly's new contract and role under Jim Harbaugh offer him a fresh opportunity to make significant contributions to the Chargers' offense.
Will Dissly's Journey: From Bozeman to the NFL
Will Dissly's path from Bozeman, Montana, to the NFL is a tale of resilience and adaptability. Starting as a defensive end in college, he made a bold switch to tight end, showcasing his versatility. Drafted by the Seattle Seahawks, he quickly made a name for himself with impressive performances, despite facing significant injuries like a patellar tendon injury and a torn Achilles. His time with the Seahawks saw ups and downs, but his efficiency when targeted was undeniable. Now with the Los Angeles Chargers, Dissly has a fresh opportunity to shine under head coach Jim Harbaugh. His journey highlights the importance of perseverance and adaptability in professional sports. As he continues to contribute both as a pass-catcher and blocker, fans eagerly anticipate his impact on the Chargers' offense. Will Dissly's story is a testament to overcoming challenges and seizing new opportunities.
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