Football · Coaching · Speaker
Rod Woodson
A defensive career with a lasting impact.
- 0111 Pro Bowl selections
- 02Defensive Player of the Year · 1993
- 03Pro Football Hall of Fame · 2009
The story
Rod Woodson played 17 NFL seasons with the Steelers, 49ers, Ravens and Raiders. His career included a Super Bowl XXXV championship, 11 Pro Bowl selections and the 1993 NFL Defensive Player of the Year award.
After his playing career, Woodson worked in coaching, television and keynote speaking. His work also includes youth football and educational outreach.
In focus
Versatility across the field+
Woodson entered the NFL from Purdue as the Steelers’ first-round pick in 1987. His career combined cornerback and safety play with returning kicks, producing 71 interceptions and 17 total touchdowns.
Hope Through Football+
Woodson founded Hope Through Football to help young people learn the game from former players and coaches.
Education & mentorship+
His outreach includes school visits through the Hall of Fame’s Heart of a Hall of Famer program.
Make the connection.
References & photography
High-resolution source photograph; card crop and web compression, no generative enhancement.
Career reference 1Photo: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images