Cedric Houston
Born June 28, 1982 in Little Rock, Arkansas, United States of America • Next birthday: June 28, 2026
June 28, 1982
Little Rock, Arkansas, United States of America0
0 likesJune 28, 2026
242 days out33
Total visitsBefore Cedric Houston became a household name, impacting American football, few could predict the profound journey that lay ahead. Born on June 28, 1982, in Little Rock, Arkansas, Houston's early life was steeped in athleticism. At Clarendon High School, he excelled in football, basketball, baseball, and track, setting the Arkansas Activities Association record for career touchdowns with 97-a testament to his versatility and determination. His prowess earned him a spot in the inaugural U.S. Army All-American Bowl in 2000, marking the beginning of his ascent in the football world.
Embracing the call of the University of Tennessee, Houston became a three-year starter for the Volunteers. In 2004, he and Gerald Riggs, Jr. made history as the first duo in Tennessee's storied program to each surpass 1,000 rushing yards in a single season. Houston's on-field achievements were underscored by his selection as a two-time second-team All-SEC honoree in 2003 and 2004, solidifying his reputation as a formidable running back.
Drafted by the New York Jets in the sixth round of the 2005 NFL Draft, Houston faced immediate challenges. Diagnosed with a thyroid condition during the NFL Combine, he battled fatigue but persevered. In his rookie season, he contributed 302 rushing yards and two touchdowns. The following year, despite a car accident that sidelined him temporarily, he returned to rush for 374 yards and five touchdowns in just eight games.
However, the physical toll of professional football led Houston to make a life-altering decision. In July 2007, he departed from the Jets to return to Tennessee, choosing to prioritize his health and education over his football career. His departure from the NFL was a poignant moment, reflecting his deep commitment to personal well-being and growth.
Decades later, Cedric Houston's indelible impact endures-inspiring new generations across the United States and beyond, leaving us with the enduring lesson that true strength lies in resilience and the courage to redefine one's path.
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Career & Achievements
- U.S. Army All-American Bowl (2000)
- Tennessee Volunteers 1,000-yard duo (2004)
- NFL Draft (2005, New York Jets)
- Rookie Season Rushing (2005, 302 yards, 2 touchdowns)
- NFL Comeback Season (2006, 374 yards, 5 touchdowns)
Personal Details
Latest News
Knox News
Cedric Houston Joins Grace Christian Academy as Assistant Coach
Former Tennessee Volunteers running back Cedric Houston has been appointed as the new running backs and defensive backs coach at Grace Christian Academy in Knoxville. This move marks Houston's return to the football community, where he aims to impart his extensive experience to the next generation of players.
AtoZ Sports Nashville
Cedric Houston Appointed Assistant Coach at Grace Christian Academy
Cedric Houston, a standout former running back for the Tennessee Volunteers, has been named the assistant coach for running backs and defensive backs at Grace Christian Academy in Knoxville. His appointment is expected to bring valuable insights and mentorship to the school's football program.
Yahoo Sports
Cedric Houston Named Assistant Coach at Grace Christian Academy
Grace Christian Academy in Knoxville has announced the hiring of Cedric Houston as their new assistant coach for running backs and defensive backs. Houston's appointment is seen as a significant addition to the school's football coaching staff, leveraging his professional experience to enhance the team's performance.
On3
Cedric Houston Featured on 'Beyond the Orange' Podcast
Cedric Houston, former Tennessee Volunteers running back, was featured on the 'Beyond the Orange' podcast, discussing his football journey and current endeavors. The episode provides insights into Houston's experiences at Tennessee and his transition into coaching.
FAQ
What is Cedric Houston most known for in football?
Cedric Houston is best known for his time as a running back for the Tennessee Volunteers and New York Jets. He became renowned for his ability to overcome personal and physical challenges during his career.
How did Cedric Houston perform during his college football career?
Houston had a standout career at the University of Tennessee, where he became part of the first duo in the program's history to each surpass 1,000 rushing yards in a season, alongside Gerald Riggs, Jr. His performance earned him two second-team All-SEC honors.
What challenges did Cedric Houston face in his NFL career?
Houston battled a thyroid condition that led to fatigue, which made his NFL journey particularly difficult. Despite these challenges, he managed to make significant contributions in his rookie and sophomore seasons.
Why did Cedric Houston leave the NFL?
Houston decided to retire from the NFL in 2007 to prioritize his health and education over his football career, reflecting his deep commitment to personal well-being.
What legacy did Cedric Houston leave in football?
Houston's legacy is marked by his resilience and determination to overcome health challenges. He inspired future generations of athletes to push through adversity, demonstrating that strength isn't only physical but also mental.
What records did Cedric Houston set in high school?
In high school, Houston set the Arkansas Activities Association record for career touchdowns with 97, showcasing his remarkable athletic versatility.
What were Cedric Houston's notable achievements in the NFL?
Houston's notable achievements include rushing for 302 yards and two touchdowns in his rookie season and 374 yards with five touchdowns in his sophomore year, despite setbacks from health and accidents.
How did Cedric Houston contribute to the Tennessee Volunteers' success?
Houston's dynamic running ability helped propel the Tennessee Volunteers to significant success in 2004, where he and Gerald Riggs, Jr. made history as the first 1,000-yard duo in the program's history.
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