Quick Facts
Biography
Cletis Gordon (born April 23, 1983) is a former American football cornerback in the National Football League for the San Diego Chargers, Dallas Cowboys and Carolina Panthers. He played college football at Jackson State University.
Early years
Gordon attended Amite High School, before moving on to Jackson State University. He was nicknamed Flash, while playing as defensive back, kickoff returner, punt returner and wide receiver. He became a starter at cornerback as a junior.
He was considered as the Southwestern Athletic Conference top kick returner. He finished his career with 2,000 return yards, 4 returns for touchdown, 9 receiving touchdowns, 98 tackles, 11 interceptions and 16 passes defended.
In 2011, he was named to the Jackson State University All-Century Team.
Professional career
San Diego Chargers
Gordon was signed as an undrafted free agent by the San Diego Chargers after the 2006 NFL Draft. As a rookie, he appeared in 3 games and was declared inactive in 13 contests. The next year he played in 14 games, posting 8 special teams tackles, 8 defensive tackles and one pass defensed.
In 2008, he played in 14 games (one start), registering 4 special teams tackles, 8 defensive tackles and one pass defensed. He was released on August 24, 2009.
Houston Texans
On August 27, 2009, he was signed as a free agent by the Houston Texans. He was cut on September 1.
Detroit Lions
On September 2, 2009, he was claimed off waivers by the Detroit Lions. He was released on September 7.
Dallas Cowboys
On October 6, 2009, the Dallas Cowboys signed him as a free agent. Played on special teams against the Kansas City Chiefs, before being released on October 13. He was re-signed on November 23 and was declared inactive in the last 6 games and 2 playoff contests. The next year he was limited with a neck injury in preseason and was released on September 4, 2010.
Florida Tuskers
Gordon was signed by the Florida Tuskers of the United Football League on October 19, 2010. Where he recorded 187 Tackles, 45 forced Fumbles, 68 interceptions, 32 returned for touchdowns, and a record high 2 carries for 115 yards
Carolina Panthers
On July 30, 2011, the Carolina Panthers signed Gordon to a contract. On August 25, he was placed on the injured reserve list with a shoulder injury. He wasn't re-signed after the season.
Personal life
Gordon is the cousin of former NFL fullback Alan Ricard and former NFL quarterback Lester Ricard. Gordon is an assistant football coach for Trinity Classical Academy in Santa Clarita, California.