40 Facts About Marquez Valdes-Scantling

Early Life and High School Career

Marquez Valdes-Scantling's journey to the NFL began with humble beginnings. His early life and high school career were marked by perseverance and determination.

1. Valdes-Scantling attended Lakewood High School in St. Petersburg, Florida.
2. Despite being cut from the team as a freshman, he persevered and eventually became a standout player.
3. In his senior year, he recorded 50 receptions for 800 receiving yards and 14 receiving touchdowns.

College Football Journey

Valdes-Scantling's college career saw him transferring schools and making a name for himself as a deep threat.

4. He initially signed with North Carolina State but transferred to the University of South Florida (USF) after the 2014 season.
5. Due to NCAA transfer rules, he had to sit out the 2015 season.
6. Upon his return, he caught 22 passes for 415 yards and five touchdowns in 2016.
7. In 2016, he averaged 18.9 yards per reception.
8. The following year, he had 53 receptions for 879 yards and six touchdowns, averaging 16.6 yards per reception.

NFL Draft and Early Professional Career

Valdes-Scantling's impressive college performance led to his selection in the NFL Draft, where he began his professional journey.

9. He was selected by the Green Bay Packers in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft.
10. His 40-yard dash time of 4.37 seconds and a 117.6 speed score at the combine likely contributed to his draft status.
11. In his rookie season, he recorded 38 receptions for 581 yards and two touchdowns.
12. He showed promise as a big-play threat, particularly in 2020 when he led the league with a 20.9-yard receiving average.

Breakout Season and Fantasy Football

Valdes-Scantling's breakout season in 2020 solidified his position as a key player, though his fantasy football performance remained inconsistent.

13. In 2020, he caught 33 passes for 690 yards and six touchdowns.
14. Despite struggling with drops early in the season, he managed to stay consistent and become a reliable target for quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
15. His performance in fantasy football is often marked by inconsistency.
16. He has only 12 games in his career where he has scored 15+ fantasy points.

Transfer to Kansas City Chiefs

In 2022, Valdes-Scantling made a significant move to the Kansas City Chiefs, joining one of the NFL's most dynamic offenses.

17. He signed a three-year, $30 million contract with the Kansas City Chiefs.
18. He joined a dynamic offense led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes and coach Andy Reid.
19. Valdes-Scantling won his first Super Bowl championship with the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LVII.
20. Despite being targeted only once in Super Bowl LVII, he remained a crucial part of the Chiefs' offense.

Career Statistics and Contributions

Valdes-Scantling's career statistics highlight his contributions both as a receiver and in other roles on the field.

21. As of the end of the 2023 season, he has accumulated 188 receptions for 3,181 yards and 16 touchdowns.
22. He averages 16.9 yards per reception and has recorded 78 receptions of 20+ yards and five receptions of 40+ yards.
23. In addition to his receiving statistics, he has also contributed to his team's rushing and kick return games.
24. He has attempted 29 rushes for 29 yards and returned 21 kicks for 210 yards.
25. Although primarily a receiver, he has also participated in defensive plays, recording two total tackles.

Highs and Lows of His Career

Valdes-Scantling's career has seen both impressive highs and challenging lows, reflecting the unpredictable nature of professional sports.

26. His career highs include a 40-yard receiving touchdown and a 78-yard receiving touchdown.
27. His career lows include a single reception in a game and a season with only 21 receptions.
28. In the 2022 season, he played 17 games for the Kansas City Chiefs, recording 42 receptions for 687 yards and two touchdowns.
29. In the AFC Championship Game against the Cincinnati Bengals, he caught six passes for 116 yards and a touchdown.

Recent Moves and Current Status

Valdes-Scantling's recent moves have seen him change teams, looking for new opportunities to shine.

30. On February 28, 2024, he was released by the Kansas City Chiefs.
31. On May 14, 2024, he signed a one-year contract with the Buffalo Bills.
32. Following the Bills' acquisition of wide receiver Amari Cooper, he was released on October 15, 2024.
33. As of the latest information, Valdes-Scantling is currently playing for the New Orleans Saints.

Personal Life and Motivation

Valdes-Scantling's personal life and motivation have played a significant role in his journey, driving him to succeed against the odds.

34. His last name is hyphenated because he took his stepfather's last name, Scantling.
35. This decision was a meaningful homage to the man who has been a significant figure in his life since he was a baby.
36. His motivation stems from self-drive and accountability, which he credits for his success.
37. He has spoken about the emotional journey from being cut from his high school team to signing a lucrative contract in the NFL.

Legacy and Impact

Valdes-Scantling's legacy extends beyond his on-field performance, serving as an inspiration to many aspiring athletes.

38. His journey from high school to the professional leagues is marked by perseverance and self-motivation.
39. His commitment to self-motivation and accountability has been instrumental in his success.
40. His impact on the field, both as a player and as an inspiration, continues to grow with each passing season.

Valdes-Scantling's Journey: From High School Cut to NFL Star

Marquez Valdes-Scantling's path to the NFL is nothing short of inspiring. From being cut from his high school team to becoming a key player for teams like the Green Bay Packers and Kansas City Chiefs, his story is one of perseverance and determination. His impressive college stats and blazing 40-yard dash time helped him get drafted, and he quickly proved his worth in the NFL.

Despite some ups and downs, including inconsistent fantasy football performance, Valdes-Scantling has shown he's a deep threat and a valuable asset on the field. His move to the Kansas City Chiefs brought him a Super Bowl win, and his journey continues with new opportunities. Valdes-Scantling's story is a testament to hard work, self-motivation, and the importance of family support. His legacy will inspire many aspiring athletes for years to come.