Jermon Bushrod biography
Date of birth : 1984-08-19
Date of death : -
Birthplace : King George, Virginia
Nationality : American
Category : Sports
Last modified : 2024-08-19
Credited as : Football player NFL, offensive tackle for the Saints, New Orleans Saints, Super Bowl, Chicago Bears offensive line, Miami Dolphins right guard, Towson University Tigers football
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Jermon Bushrod: A Stalwart of the Offensive Line
Jermon Bushrod (born August 19, 1984, in King George, Virginia) is a former American football offensive tackle who made a lasting impact in the National Football League (NFL). Known for his reliable presence on the offensive line, Bushrod's 12-season NFL career included a pivotal role in the New Orleans Saints' Super Bowl XLIV victory. After being drafted by the Saints in the fourth round of the 2007 NFL Draft, Bushrod went on to play for the Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins, establishing himself as one of the league's most dependable offensive tackles.
Early Life and High School Achievements
Born and raised in King George, Virginia, Jermon Bushrod attended King George High School, where he showcased his athletic versatility by lettering in football, basketball, and baseball. On the football field, Bushrod earned all-state honorable mention as an offensive tackle, while on the basketball court, he helped lead the Foxes to a district championship. These early achievements hinted at the promising career that lay ahead.
College Career at Towson University
Bushrod's journey continued at Towson University, where he played for the Towson Tigers and quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the offensive line. After redshirting in 2002, Bushrod became a four-year starter for the Tigers. His performance earned him third-team All-Atlantic 10 honors in both his sophomore and junior years. In his senior year, 2006, Bushrod was named an All-Atlantic 10 selection at left tackle, contributing to the Tigers' 7-4 record. He finished his collegiate career with an impressive streak of 38 consecutive starts, solidifying his status as one of Towson’s standout players.
Professional Football Career
New Orleans Saints (First Stint)
Jermon Bushrod entered the NFL when the New Orleans Saints selected him in the fourth round (125th overall) of the 2007 NFL Draft. After signing a three-year contract on June 20, 2007, Bushrod made his NFL debut on November 11, 2007, against the Houston Texans. Although his early years with the Saints saw limited playing time, Bushrod’s opportunity came in 2009 when an injury to starting left tackle Jammal Brown thrust him into a starting role. Bushrod seized the moment, becoming a key contributor to the Saints' first-ever Super Bowl Championship in Super Bowl XLIV.
Over the next few years, Bushrod solidified his role as a starter, leading the NFL in snaps played during the 2011 season with 1,177. His consistent performance earned him Pro Bowl selections in 2011 and 2012. Bushrod re-signed with the Saints on multiple occasions, including a one-year deal in 2010 and a two-year contract on July 29, 2011, as he continued to anchor the offensive line.
Chicago Bears
On March 12, 2013, Bushrod signed a five-year, $35 million deal with the Chicago Bears, bringing his expertise to their offensive line. Over three seasons with the Bears, Bushrod remained a reliable presence at left tackle. However, on February 16, 2016, the Bears released Bushrod, ending his tenure in Chicago.
Miami Dolphins
Following his release from the Bears, Bushrod signed with the Miami Dolphins on March 10, 2016. In Miami, Bushrod transitioned to the starting right guard position, where he played a key role in blocking for Jay Ajayi, who rushed for 1,278 yards during the 2016 season. Bushrod re-signed with the Dolphins on March 16, 2017, but his season was cut short due to a foot injury suffered in Week 11, leading to his placement on injured reserve on December 20, 2017.
New Orleans Saints (Second Stint)
Bushrod returned to the New Orleans Saints on March 15, 2018, signing a one-year contract. Although released on September 8, 2018, he was re-signed four days later. During this stint, Bushrod started five games at left tackle, filling in for the injured Terron Armstead.
Retirement and Legacy
On August 29, 2019, Jermon Bushrod announced his retirement from professional football, concluding a distinguished 12-season career. Known for his durability, versatility, and leadership on the offensive line, Bushrod's contributions to the New Orleans Saints, particularly during their Super Bowl run, will be remembered as key moments in the franchise's history. His legacy as a Pro Bowl offensive tackle and a Super Bowl champion cements his place among the NFL's most respected linemen.
