Quick Facts
Biography
Joel Clifford Dreessen (born July 26, 1982) is an American football tight end who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the New York Jets in the sixth round of the 2005 NFL Draft. He played college football at Colorado State.
Dreessen has also played for the Houston Texans and Denver Broncos.
Early years
Dreessen was born in Ida Grove, Iowa, and graduated from Fort Morgan High School in 2000. In 1999, Fort Morgan was the Colorado 3A State champions. Dreessen was also a member of the all-state team in Colorado that year.
Dreessen then attended Colorado State University.
Professional career
New York Jets
Dreessen was drafted by the New York Jets in the sixth round of the 2005 NFL Draft.
Houston Texans
On October 28, 2007, Joel Dreessen caught his first NFL touchdown pass, a 28-yard reception in the fourth quarter from quarterback Sage Rosenfels against the San Diego Chargers at San Diego's Qualcomm Stadium. It was Houston's only touchdown in a 35-10 loss, and Dreessen was named Houston's top offensive player despite only one reception. Dreessen re-signed with the Texans in 2009 for a reported three-year, $3.6 million deal.
Near the end of the 2009 season, Dreessen had become the starter at tight end due to the injury of Owen Daniels. Dreessen caught the first touchdown pass in the Texans' last game against the New England Patriots from Matt Schaub.
Denver Broncos
Dreessen signed with the Denver Broncos on March 23, 2012 for three years and $8.5 million. In 2012 he caught 41 receptions as well as 5 touchdowns while playing in 16 games with 15 starts. Dreesen played in 13 games in 2013, receiving only 7 catches and one touchdown.
Dreessen was released by the Broncos on July 22, 2014 after a failed physical.