Rashad Jennings

Rashad Jennings is a former American football running back who played eight seasons in the National Football League (NFL). He was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the seventh round of the 2009 NFL Draft and also played for the Oakland Raiders and New York Giants. Following his playing career, Jennings transitioned into a successful media career as a television host and analyst.

Early life and college career

Born in Forest, Virginia, Jennings attended Liberty Christian Academy in Lynchburg, Virginia, where he excelled in multiple sports. He began his collegiate football career with the Liberty Flames, playing under coach Ken Karcher in the Big South Conference. After two seasons, he transferred to Pittsburg State University in Kansas, competing in the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association. At Pittsburg State, Jennings earned first-team Division II All-America honors and was named the MIAA Most Valuable Player after a dominant senior season, which positioned him for the NFL Draft.

Professional career

Jennings was drafted with the 250th overall pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2009. He served as a backup to star running back Maurice Jones-Drew during his tenure in Jacksonville. In 2013, he signed with the Oakland Raiders, where he had his most productive statistical season, starting 15 games. The following year, he joined the New York Giants on a multi-year contract, becoming their primary rusher and playing alongside quarterback Eli Manning. His career was noted for reliability in both the rushing and receiving games, contributing to offenses led by coaches like Tom Coughlin and Ben McAdoo.

Post-playing career and media work

Upon retiring after the 2016 season, Jennings quickly moved into broadcasting. He won season 24 of the hit ABC competition series *Dancing with the Stars*, partnered with professional dancer Witney Carson. He subsequently became a co-host and features correspondent for the syndicated entertainment news program *Extra*. Jennings has also served as a football analyst for Fox Sports and the NFL Network, appearing on programs like *Fox NFL Kickoff* and *NFL Total Access*.

Personal life

Jennings is the son of former college football player Albert Jennings. He is known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Rashad Jennings Foundation, which focuses on youth literacy, health, and wellness initiatives. An avid reader and advocate for education, he has promoted numerous community programs and has been involved with the United Way and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Jennings is also a published author, having written a children's book focused on perseverance and goal-setting.

Career statistics

Over his eight-year NFL career, Jennings amassed 3,772 rushing yards and 23 rushing touchdowns on 898 attempts. He added 152 receptions for 1,159 receiving yards and three receiving touchdowns. His best single-season performance came with the Oakland Raiders in 2013, when he recorded 733 rushing yards and six touchdowns. He also contributed in the playoffs with the New York Giants following the 2016 season.

Category:American football running backs Category:Liberty Flames football players Category:Pittsburg State Gorillas football players Category:Jacksonville Jaguars players Category:Oakland Raiders players Category:New York Giants players Category:1985 births Category:Living people