Whitworth was an All-American and an All-SEC offensive tackle in his time at LSU. He was also a team captain and instrumental in the Tigers’ success during his tenure. In 2006, he was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round of the NFL Draft, and he hasn’t looked back since.
Whitworth has played for the Bengals for over a decade, and in 2020 he signed with the Los Angeles Rams. Throughout his career, he has been an incredibly consistent and reliable player, appearing in 239 games and starting 241 of these games – an impressive feat for any NFL player.
In addition to his longevity in the league, Whitworth has also been recognized for his outstanding play. He has been named to the Pro Bowl four times and has been named an All-Pro player twice. He is also a respected leader in the locker room, having been named a team captain for both the Bengals and the Rams.
Whitworth is not only a great player on the field but is also known as a charitable human being off the field. He has been involved in many philanthropic endeavors throughout his career, including the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and the Boys & Girls Club of America. He has also established his own foundation, the Big Whit 77 Foundation, which provides support for educational opportunities, community programs, and youth sports initiatives.
Despite his many accomplishments, Whitworth’s journey has not been without its hurdles. In 2017, he suffered a serious ankle injury during a game against the Houston Texans. Many thought his career might be over, but Whitworth proved his resilience and returned to the field after just one missed game. He later revealed that his wife, Melissa, had been a key source of support during his recovery, helping him stay positive and focused on his goal of returning to the field.
However, Whitworth’s resilience was put to the test once again in 2020 when he suffered a season-ending knee injury. Although it was a setback for him and his team, Whitworth remained positive and focused on his recovery, vowing to return for the next season. And return, he did – he signed a new contract with the Rams for the 2021 season.
Whitworth’s story is one of perseverance, leadership, and dedication. He has shown that with hard work and determination, anything is possible, both on and off the field. His impact on the game of football is undeniable, and his contributions to those in need are truly admirable. As he enters his 15th season in the NFL, there is no doubt that he will continue to inspire and motivate those around him.