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Charles Woodson

Charles Woodson is a former football cornerback whose successful NFL career spanned over 18 years. Considered one of the most versatile and accomplished athletes in football history, he remains the only primarily defensive player to win the Heisman Trophy. Throughout his professional journey, he played multiple positions on both offense and defense, although he was best known for his elite defensive capabilities. His estimated net worth is $15 million.

Related Biography: John Wall

Early Life and High School Career

Charles Woodson was born on October 7, 1976, in Fremont, Ohio. He attended Ross High School in Fremont, where he excelled in football, basketball, and track and field. As a standout football player, he rushed for 3,861 yards over his high school career and was awarded the prestigious title of "Mr. Football" in Ohio, recognizing him as the best high school football player in the state.

College Career at the University of Michigan

Woodson enrolled at the University of Michigan, where he played for the Michigan Wolverines from 1995 to 1997. During his collegiate career, he was known for his tremendous versatility, contributing as a cornerback, wide receiver, and punt returner. In 1997, he led the Wolverines to an undefeated season and a share of the national championship. That same year, he made history by winning the Heisman Trophy—the first and only primarily defensive player to ever receive the award. Woodson also won the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, signifying him as the nation's top defensive player.

NFL Career and Achievements

Charles Woodson was selected fourth overall by the Oakland Raiders in the first round of the 1998 NFL Draft. He started every game in his rookie season and was named the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. Over the next several seasons, Woodson continued to demonstrate elite performance, despite occasional injuries, including a notable toe injury in the 2000 season when he still managed to record a career-high 79 tackles.

In 2006, after eight seasons with the Raiders, Woodson signed a seven-year, $52 million contract with the Green Bay Packers. His leadership and playmaking abilities helped the Packers win Super Bowl XLV over the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2010 season. While he sustained a broken collarbone during the game, he still contributed three tackles (two solo). His performance in the Super Bowl earned praise from then-President Barack Obama. That same year, Woodson signed a two-year contract extension with the Packers. In 2012, he showcased his adaptability by transitioning from cornerback to free safety.


Quick Facts
Birth Date: 7 Oct, 1976
Age: 43 yrs
Occupations: American football player
Winegrower
Citizenship: United States of America
Birth Place: Fremont
residence: Ohio
Fremont
Education: University of Michigan
Fremont Ross High School
Gender: Male
Net Worth 2021: 25 million
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Last Modified: Oct 30 2025
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