Earl Everett

Earl Everett (born December 10, 1984 in Bartow, Florida) is an American football linebacker. He was originally signed by the Cincinnati Bengals as an undrafted free agent in 2007. He played college football at Florida.

College career

A Parade All-American, Everett signed with the Gators in 2003 out of South Sumter High School in Bushnell, FL. He chose the Gators over in-state rivals Florida State and Miami.

Everett's impact was immediate as a freshman. He started six games and played in all 13 games in 2003. As a sophomore in 2004, Everett was the opening day starter.

His senior year in 2006 had him earn pre-season and postseason All-SEC honors as he led the team in tackles. His play helped Florida win the SEC Championship Game for the first time in 6 seasons and win the BCS Championship Game for the first time, the team's second national championship overall.

Everett made one of the most memorable plays of the 2007 BCS National Championship Game. In their first possession of the second half, Ohio State faced a 3rd down and 12 and threatened to move into Gator territory if they converted for a first down. Everett lost his helmet in pursuit of Ohio State quarterback Troy Smith and still recorded the sack, chasing Smith down from behind. Thus, the Buckeyes were forced to punt on 4th down. Everett received a bloody nose while making the helmet-less tackle.

He is currently playing with a semiprofessional team, The Sumter County Broncos, of the National Independent Football League. The Broncos are based in his home town of Webster, FL.

Professional career

Having gone undrafted in the 2007 NFL Draft, it was reported on April 30, 2007 that Everett would sign a free agent contract with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Notes and references