Joseph Addai | Indiana Colts #29 | Running Back

Joseph Addai is a running back for the NFL Colts. By November 18th, 2007, he had 832 rushing yards, 92.4 yards per game, and 8 touchdowns under his belt. To understand how valuable a player he is to his team consider this–the league average is 211 and the league leader has 1081. The Colts are leading in rushing yards and can count on Addai to help them gain yardage on the field. He is a first round, 30th pick from the 2006 draft.

He was born in Houston, Texas and attended Sharpstown High School where he went on to win the ESPN/Fox All-America selection as a Quarterback. He was also a member of the Houston 100 and was the first team 5A all state choice. His football legacy is extremely impressive. He is the first LSU running back to be selected in the first round of the NFL draft. While in LSU, he was ranked fifth in rushing yards and eighth in carries; scored at least one touchdown per game in the first five games he played; and made six 100+ rushing yards. These are just the highlights. He had a stellar record and captured the eye of the NFL scouts who felt that he was worth pursuing. The Colts got him, and have not lived to regret it yet.

His NFL career is littered with impressive statistics. He tied a Colts franchise record for most rushing touchdowns in November 2006, garnered an NFL rookie record by rushing for 4 touchdowns against the Philadelphia Eagles (a feat which got him the “Offensive Rookie of the Month” Award for November 2006). Other achievements include: -

1. Leading rookie running back in rushing yards – 2006

2. First NFL running back to exceed 1,000 rushing yards without starting a regular-season game

3. Scored the game-winning touchdown in the AFC Championship game against the New England Patriots

4. Had 10 receptions in Superbowl XLI against the Chicago Bears (this was the most ever receptions by a running back in a Superbowl game and one short of the overall NFL record).

5. On November 7 2007, he became the first Indiana Colt to gain 100 yards rushing and 100 yards receiving in the same game.

Watching Addai run is a thing of beauty to watch. He skillfully sidesteps his opponents and gains valuable yards for his team. He is truly a great football player and we Africans are proud to have him representing us in the NFL!
Fans of the man can always keep up with his daily routines on his personal website.