The Rise and Fall of Cortez Allen: A Story of Triumph and Tragedy
Cortez Allen was a talented cornerback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, but his NFL career was cut short due to multiple injuries. He was once a rising star in the league but fell from grace due to lack of durability and performance issues. This blog post will delve into the rise and fall of Cortez Allen, his early life, his career highlights, his injury struggles, and his eventual decline.
Early Life
Cortez Allen was born on October 29, 1988, in Ocala, Florida. He attended North Marion High School, where he excelled in football and track and field. He was a four-star recruit and committed to play for The Citadel Bulldogs.
College Career
In college, Allen played for The Citadel Bulldogs from 2006-2009. He earned All-Southern Conference honors in his junior and senior seasons. In his senior year, he had 50 tackles, six interceptions, and two touchdowns scored off interceptions, which drew the attention of NFL scouts.
NFL Career
The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted Allen in the fourth round of the 2011 NFL draft. He quickly developed into a solid cornerback for the Steelers and signed a five-year, $26 million contract extension in 2014.
Career Highlights
In 2013, Allen was a vital part of the Steelers defense, recording two interceptions, 13 pass breakups, and 55 total tackles. He was called upon to fill in as the team’s top cornerback in the absence of Ike Taylor, and he excelled in that role.
Injury Struggles
Injuries derailed Allen’s promising career. He suffered a knee injury in 2014 that sidelined him for six games, and he was never the same player after that. He tried to bounce back in 2015 but was hampered by a thumb injury and lack of confidence in his ability, resulting in his eventual release by the Steelers.
Decline and Retirement
After being released by the Steelers, Allen was signed by the Dallas Cowboys but was released one month later after struggling to make an impact. He retired from football in 2016 after being cut by the Seattle Seahawks.
Legacy and Impact
Cortez Allen’s career may have been short-lived, but he demonstrated rare talent in his prime. Injuries ultimately limited his potential, but he will always be remembered as an exciting player in the Steelers’ early 2010s defenses.
Conclusion
Cortez Allen’s rise and fall in the NFL is a story of triumph and tragedy. Despite boasting rare talent and an early start to his career, injuries and performance issues limited him. Nevertheless, he will always be remembered for being a part of the Steelers’ defensive core in the early 2010s and his promising college career.
FAQs
1) What was Cortez Allen’s position in the NFL?
Cortez Allen was a cornerback in the NFL.
2) Which college did Cortez Allen play for?
Cortez Allen played for The Citadel Bulldogs in college.
3) Who drafted Cortez Allen into the NFL?
Cortez Allen was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fourth round of the 2011 NFL draft.
4) What was the contract extension that Cortez Allen signed?
Cortez Allen signed a five-year, $26 million contract extension with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2014.
5) When did Cortez Allen retire from the NFL?
Cortez Allen retired from the NFL in 2016 after being cut by the Seattle Seahawks.
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