Devin Lloyd’s journey from a versatile high school athlete to a standout linebacker in the NFL is a testament to his dedication, athleticism, and football IQ. This article delves into his college career, notable interceptions, draft journey, and impressive 40-yard dash time, highlighting the attributes that have made him a force on the field.
Early Life and High School Career
Born on September 30, 1998, in Kansas City, Missouri, Devin Lloyd moved to Chula Vista, California, where he attended Otay Ranch High School. During his senior year, he showcased his multifaceted skills by playing wide receiver, safety, and punter. His defensive prowess was evident as he recorded eight interceptions, returning two for touchdowns, and averaged 37.1 yards on 47 punts. These performances earned him second-team All-CIF San Diego Section defense and Metro-Mesa League offense honors.
College Career at the University of Utah
Lloyd’s college journey began at the University of Utah in 2017, where he redshirted his first year. Over the next four seasons, he developed into one of the premier linebackers in college football.
Freshman Year (2018)
As a redshirt freshman, Lloyd played in all 14 games as a backup, recording six tackles. This experience laid the foundation for his future success.
Sophomore Year (2019)
Lloyd became a starter, playing in 14 games and amassing 91 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and one interception, which he returned for a touchdown. His performance was instrumental in Utah’s defensive schemes.
Junior Year (2020)
In a season shortened by the COVID-19 pandemic, Lloyd played in five games, recording 48 tackles and two sacks. Despite the limited games, he continued to demonstrate his defensive capabilities.
Senior Year (2021)
Lloyd’s senior season was nothing short of spectacular. He played in all 14 games, starting 13, and led the team with 111 tackles, eight sacks, and four interceptions, including a pick-six in the Pac-12 Championship Game. His exceptional play earned him consensus first-team All-American honors and the Pat Tillman Defensive Player of the Year award.
NFL Draft and Combine Performance
Following his standout college career, Lloyd declared for the 2022 NFL Draft. At the NFL Scouting Combine, he impressed scouts with his athleticism, recording a 40-yard dash time of 4.66 seconds, a vertical jump of 35 inches, and a broad jump of 10 feet 6 inches.
In the 2022 NFL Draft, Lloyd was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the first round with the 27th overall pick. His versatility and football intelligence made him a valuable addition to the Jaguars’ defense.
Professional Career with the Jacksonville Jaguars
Since joining the NFL, Lloyd has continued to excel. In his rookie season, he was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team, showcasing his immediate impact on the field.
One of the most memorable moments of his professional career came during a Monday Night Football game against the Kansas City Chiefs. With the score tied at 14-14 and the Chiefs on the Jaguars’ three-yard line, quarterback Patrick Mahomes threw a pass intended for tight end Travis Kelce. Lloyd intercepted the pass and returned it 99 yards for a touchdown, giving the Jaguars a 21-14 lead. This play marked the longest interception return in Jaguars’ history and earned Lloyd AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors.
Conclusion
Devin Lloyd‘s journey from a versatile high school athlete to a standout linebacker in the NFL is a testament to his hard work, athleticism, and football IQ. His college career at the University of Utah laid the groundwork for his professional success, and his impressive performances with the Jacksonville Jaguars have solidified his status as one of the premier linebackers in the league. As he continues to develop and make impactful plays, Lloyd’s future in the NFL looks exceedingly bright.
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