The Rise of Doug Middleton: From Undrafted Rookie to NFL Standout
Introduction:
Every year, hundreds of college football players enter the NFL Draft, hoping to secure a spot on a team roster and begin their professional careers. However, not every athlete is selected during the draft. This situation is what happened to Doug Middleton, a young player from Kentucky. Despite being unsigned after the draft in 2016, it didn’t take long for him to become one of the most talented and respected members of the league.
Below are the factors and events that set the path of his success.
1. Humble Beginnings:
Doug Middleton was born in Bowling Green, Kentucky, where he started playing football at a young age. By the end of his high school years, he moved to Louisville, where he achieved remarkable records as a talented safety.
2. Studying at Appalachian State:
Middleton started college football as a player for Appalachian State University. In his Sophomore year, he accomplished 62 tackles, four interceptions, and two forced fumbles.
3. Signing with the Jets:
After going undrafted, Middleton was signed by the New York Jets as an undrafted rookie free agent in 2016. However, he faced a severe hamstring injury for which he was placed on injured reserve throughout the 2016 season.
4. Making a Comeback:
Doug Middleton made a comeback in 2017 and played as backup safety for the Jets. In a Jets game against the Denver Broncos, he recorded seven tackles and an interception, proving he was a talented athlete.
5. Joining the Titans:
Middleton showcased an exceptional performance while playing for the Jets. But, he was waived by the Jets and was claimed off waivers by the Tennessee Titans in 2019. In his first game with the Titans, Middleton marked two tackles.
6. Hard Work Pays Off:
During the 2020 season, Middleton proved his worth as a member of the Titans’ secondary. His performances were pivotal in crucial games, making multiple tackles, interceptions, and some remarkable tackles for a loss.
7. Impact on the community:
Middleton is not only an excellent football player but also heavily invested in his community and the well-being of others. He founded “Doug Middleton Foundation,” through which he gives back to the community by helping underprivileged people.
8. Hope to continue shining:
Despite being undrafted and waived, Middleton has become a significant part of the Titans’ defensive backbone. His disciplined training and commitment to his community have made him one of the most valued athletes across the NFL.
Conclusion:
Doug Middleton’s remarkable journey to becoming an NFL standout is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Though his path to success has been marred with injuries and setbacks, his consistency and discipline in training worked wonders for him. His story is an inspiration to anyone who wants to pursue their dreams despite the challenges that come with it.
FAQs:
Q1: How many interceptions did Middleton achieve in the 2017 Jets game against the Denver Broncos?
Ans: Middleton achieved one interception in the 2017 Jets game against the Denver Broncos.
Q2: Which team claimed Middleton off waivers after he was waived by the Jets?
Ans: The Tennessee Titans claimed Middleton off waivers after he was waived by the Jets.
Q3: What is the “Doug Middleton foundation?”
Ans: The “Doug Middleton Foundation” is an organization through which Doug gives back to the community by helping underprivileged people.
Q4: What position does Middleton play in?
Ans: Middleton plays as a safety.
Q5: What is Middleton’s biggest accomplishment?
Ans: Doug Middleton’s biggest accomplishment is his successful journey to becoming an NFL standout.