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Who is Samaje Perine? Samaje Perine is a professional football player known for his powerful running style and impressive stats. Born on September 16, 1995, in Jackson, Alabama, he quickly made a name for himself in high school football before joining the University of Oklahoma. There, he set an NCAA record for most rushing yards in a single game with 427 yards. Drafted by the Washington Football Team in 2017, Perine has also played for the Cincinnati Bengals. His journey from a small-town athlete to an NFL standout is nothing short of inspiring. Ready to learn more? Here are 35 facts about Samaje Perine!
Early Life and Background
Samaje Perine's journey to the NFL is filled with interesting moments and achievements. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about his early life and background.
- Born on September 16, 1995: Samaje Perine was born in Jackson, Alabama, a small town with a rich football tradition.
- High School Star: Perine attended Hendrickson High School in Pflugerville, Texas, where he quickly made a name for himself as a standout running back.
- Track and Field Athlete: Besides football, he excelled in track and field, showcasing his versatility and athleticism.
- Four-Star Recruit: Rivals.com rated him as a four-star recruit, highlighting his potential early on.
- College Commitment: Perine committed to the University of Oklahoma, choosing the Sooners over several other top programs.
College Career Highlights
Perine's college career at Oklahoma was nothing short of spectacular. Here are some key highlights from his time with the Sooners.
- Freshman Sensation: In his freshman year, he rushed for 1,713 yards and 21 touchdowns, setting the stage for a remarkable college career.
- Single-Game Rushing Record: On November 22, 2014, Perine set the FBS single-game rushing record with 427 yards against Kansas.
- Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year: His outstanding freshman season earned him the Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year award.
- Consistent Performer: Over three seasons, Perine rushed for 4,122 yards and 49 touchdowns, solidifying his status as one of the best running backs in Oklahoma history.
- Bowl Game Heroics: Perine played a crucial role in Oklahoma's victories in the 2014 and 2015 bowl games, further cementing his legacy.
NFL Draft and Professional Career
After a stellar college career, Perine entered the NFL Draft. Let's explore some key moments from his professional journey.
- Drafted by Washington: The Washington Football Team selected Perine in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft.
- Rookie Season: In his rookie season, he rushed for 603 yards and one touchdown, showing promise for the future.
- Injury Setbacks: Perine faced several injury setbacks during his time with Washington, limiting his playing time.
- Waived and Re-signed: Washington waived him in 2019, but he was later re-signed to their practice squad.
- Cincinnati Bengals: In 2020, Perine signed with the Cincinnati Bengals, seeking a fresh start.
Personal Life and Interests
Beyond the football field, Perine has a rich personal life and various interests. Here are some intriguing facts about his life off the gridiron.
- Family Man: Perine is married to his high school sweetheart, Megan, and they have two children together.
- Community Involvement: He is actively involved in community service, often participating in charity events and youth football camps.
- Fitness Enthusiast: Perine is passionate about fitness and often shares workout routines and tips on social media.
- Video Game Aficionado: In his free time, he enjoys playing video games, particularly Madden NFL.
- Animal Lover: Perine has a soft spot for animals and frequently supports animal rescue organizations.
Notable Achievements and Records
Perine's career is marked by numerous achievements and records. Here are some of the most notable ones.
- Oklahoma's All-Time Leading Rusher: He holds the record for the most rushing yards in Oklahoma history.
- Big 12 Records: Perine set multiple Big 12 records, including the most rushing yards in a single game.
- NFL Milestones: Despite injuries, he has achieved significant milestones in the NFL, including multiple 100-yard rushing games.
- Pro Bowl Consideration: Perine has been considered for the Pro Bowl, a testament to his talent and hard work.
- Community Awards: He has received several awards for his community service efforts, highlighting his commitment to giving back.
Fun and Lesser-Known Facts
Let's wrap up with some fun and lesser-known facts about Samaje Perine that you might find surprising.
- Nickname: His teammates often call him "Sammy" as a term of endearment.
- Favorite Food: Perine loves Southern cuisine, especially fried chicken and collard greens.
- Hidden Talent: He can play the piano, a skill he picked up in high school.
- Favorite Movie: "Remember the Titans" is his all-time favorite movie, inspiring his football journey.
- Charity Work: Perine has his own charity foundation focused on helping underprivileged youth.
Current Status and Future Prospects
As of now, Perine continues to make strides in his professional career. Here are some facts about his current status and future prospects.
- Bengals' Key Player: Perine remains a key player for the Cincinnati Bengals, contributing both as a rusher and receiver.
- Contract Extension: In 2021, he signed a contract extension with the Bengals, securing his future with the team.
- Mentorship Role: He has taken on a mentorship role, helping younger players develop their skills.
- Training Regimen: Perine follows a rigorous training regimen to stay in peak physical condition.
- Future Goals: He aims to achieve more milestones in the NFL and continue his community service efforts.
Samaje Perine's Impact on Football
Samaje Perine's journey in football showcases his dedication, talent, and resilience. From his record-breaking college days at Oklahoma to his contributions in the NFL, Perine has proven himself a formidable player. His ability to power through defenses, coupled with his impressive stats, makes him a standout running back. Beyond the field, Perine's character and work ethic inspire many young athletes. His story reminds us that hard work and perseverance can lead to remarkable achievements. As fans, we look forward to seeing what more he will accomplish in his career. Whether you're a football enthusiast or just love a good success story, Samaje Perine's journey is one worth following. Keep an eye on this dynamic player as he continues to make waves in the football world.
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