Chris Gocong, a former American football linebacker, had a notable career in the National Football League (NFL), particularly with the Philadelphia Eagles. Born on November 16, 1983, in Norman, Oklahoma, Gocong's journey to professional football is a testament to dedication and perseverance. His time with the Eagles, from 2006 to 2009, is especially noteworthy, given the team's performance and his personal achievements during that period.
Early Career and Draft
Before joining the Eagles, Gocong played college football at California Polytechnic State University, where he demonstrated his prowess as a defensive player. The Philadelphia Eagles drafted him in the third round of the 2006 NFL Draft, marking the beginning of his professional football career. Gocong’s selection was seen as a strategic move by the Eagles to bolster their defensive lineup, given his impressive college record.
Position and Role with the Eagles
Chris Gocong primarily played as an outside linebacker for the Eagles. His role involved not only rushing the quarterback but also covering receivers and stopping the run. Gocong’s versatility was an asset to the team, allowing for flexible defensive strategies. During his tenure, he was part of a defense that showed significant improvement, with the team making a playoff appearance in 2008.
| Season | Games Played | Tackles | Sacks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | 16 | 46 | 1.0 |
| 2007 | 16 | 92 | 6.0 |
| 2008 | 16 | 60 | 2.0 |
| 2009 | 15 | 36 | 1.0 |
Post-Eagles Career and Legacy
After his stint with the Eagles, Gocong went on to play for the Cleveland Browns from 2010 to 2012. His career was marked by both achievements and challenges, including injuries that impacted his playing time. Despite these setbacks, Gocong remains remembered for his contributions to the Eagles during his time with the team, particularly for his defensive prowess and the enthusiasm he brought to the field.
Impact on the Eagles
Chris Gocong’s impact on the Eagles, though not always statistically dominant, was significant in terms of his defensive contributions and team spirit. He was part of a defensive unit that sought to make a mark in the NFL, with the Eagles aiming for consistent playoff contention. His legacy with the team is one of resilience and commitment, values that are highly regarded in professional sports.
Key Points
- Chris Gocong was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the third round of the 2006 NFL Draft.
- He played as an outside linebacker for the Eagles from 2006 to 2009.
- Gocong's best season statistically was 2007, with 92 tackles and 6 sacks.
- After leaving the Eagles, he played for the Cleveland Browns from 2010 to 2012.
- Gocong's career was marked by his defensive contributions and his enthusiasm for the sport.
What position did Chris Gocong play for the Philadelphia Eagles?
+Chris Gocong primarily played as an outside linebacker for the Eagles.
How many seasons did Chris Gocong play for the Philadelphia Eagles?
+Chris Gocong played for the Philadelphia Eagles from 2006 to 2009, totaling four seasons.
What were Chris Gocong's statistics like during his best season with the Eagles?
+Chris Gocong's best season was 2007, during which he recorded 92 tackles and 6 sacks.
In conclusion, Chris Gocong’s time with the Philadelphia Eagles was a significant part of his NFL career. His contributions to the team’s defense and his personal achievements during that period are notable aspects of his legacy. As with many athletes, Gocong’s journey is a story of dedication, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence in professional sports.