James Holt life and biography

James Holt born November 24, 1986 in Altus, Oklahoma is an American football linebacker for the San Diego Chargers of the National Football League. He was signed by the Chargers as an undrafted free agent in 2009. He played college football at Kansas.

Holt's Career

One of the most difficult ways to earn a spot on an NFL roster is as an undrafted rookie free agent, but at least one or two manage to do so each year. Holt was one such player in 2009.

He impressed the coaches with his work during the preseason, enough to earn a coveted spot on the Chargers’ practice squad. He remained there for the first seven weeks and continued to work hard, particularly on special teams. When Coach Turner decided the team needed additional help on those units, the decision was made to promote Holt to the active roster. He didn’t disappoint, quickly racking up nine tackles, while also playing on defense. Unfortunately, Holt suffered a shoulder injury in the season finale vs. Washington and spent the playoffs on “Reserve-Injured.” His ailing shoulder has since recovered and he will once again look to earn a spot with the Bolts in 2010.

Holt’s father, Steve McKeaver, played for the Cincinnati Bengals after a standout career at the University of Oklahoma. Holt’s hobbies include cooking, playing guitar and piano, tennis, golf, frisbee, baseball and soccer. His first job as a youth was working as a tee ball umpire in his native Altus, Oklahoma.

TRANSACTION HISTORY: Signed two-year contract, May 1, 2009...waived Sept. 5 and signed to practice squad, Sept. 7...signed to active roster, Nov. 3.

2009: Game Ball after two STTs Nov. 15 vs. PHI... shoulder inj. vs. WAS Jan. 3 and placed on “Reserve-Injured” Jan. 6.

COLLEGE: All-Big 12 as senior and honorable mention as junior...Defensive MVP of ’08 Insight Bowl after three sacks vs. Minnesota...KU Defensive POY and Willie Pless Tackle Award after leading squad in ’08 with 105 TT, 10 sacks, 19.5 TFL and six FF...KU Defensive POW after K-State and Nebraska games...Texas vs. Nation All-Star...Defensive POW after Central Michigan and Colorado games in ’07...starting OLB for ’07 team that posted best record and first BCS win in school history (12-1 with win over Virginia Tech in Orange Bowl)...finished career with 239 TT, 12 sacks and 34.5 TFL...played at Kansas from 2005-08...volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and Boys and Girls Club...history major.

PERSONAL: Born in Altus...all-state and District Offensive POY at Altus HS...lettered in basketball...led track team to state title as junior...honor roll student.

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