Cory Durden

Cory Durden's Biography

Cory Durden – The Ascent of a Football Skill

Cory Durden, an exemplary figure in the world of professional football, was born on January 26, 1999. Today, this extraordinary sportsman serves as a professional nose tackle for the Los Angeles Rams, a major name in the National Football League (NFL).

A native of Newberry, Florida, Durden’s sporting journey began at Newberry High School. Over his development years, he proved his mettle in multiple positions, although his skills as a defensive player were especially prominent in his final year of high school football. That year, he successfully achieved 52 tackles with 18 for a loss, 6 sacks, 3 fumble recoveries, 2 forced fumbles, and a blocked field goal. Simultaneously, he demonstrated prowess on offense as a tight end with 22 catches accumulating 229 yards and three touchdowns. His exceptional performance caught the attention of the Florida Athletic Coaches Association, who crowned him District 7’s Player of the Year. Additionally, he was honored by The Sun as Small School Athletes of the Year, cementing his name in Florida’s hall of fame.

In the winter of 2016, Florida State University (FSU) welcomed Durden into its football team. Over the next three years, the powerful nose tackle made a dynamic contribution to the Seminoles. During his stint, Durden tallied 68 tackles, of which 13.5 were purposeful losses for the opponent, along with 7.5 sacks, 3 pass deflections, and 2 forced fumbles. The 2019 season was a landmark period for Durden with a solid performance of 39 tackles, 6.5 for loss, 5 sacks, 2 pass deflections, and a forced fumble.

Upon concluding the 2020 season, Durden sought new pastures at NC State. His two years here were just as fruitful, yielding 58 tackles, 7.5 for a loss, 3.5 sacks, and a pass deflection. Durden’s 2021 season was marked by sterling performances as he put up 31 tackles (4.5 for a loss), 3.5 sacks, consequently earning a spot in the First team All-Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). The following year, his performance secured him a place on the Third team All-ACC.

December 9 is remembered as the day Durden declared for the NFL draft. Although he went undrafted in the 2023 NFL draft, Durden remained perseverant. His patience paid off when he received an offer from the Detroit Lions, signing on as an undrafted free agent. Alas, Durden’s stint with the Lions was brief. He received notice of his waiver on August 29, 2023.

However, fortune soon struck Durden in the form of an opportunity with Los Angeles Rams, as he was incorporated into their practice squad on September 19, 2023. Not long after, in October, Durden was promoted to the active roster. After a brief dismissal in November, Durden rejoined the Rams’ practice squad the following day and soon secured a reserve or future contract by January 15, 2024.

Similarly, despite being waived in August 2024, the resilient player re-signed with Rams’ practice squad, indicating the start of a promising future in the world of professional football.

An inspiring journey, Cory Durden’s tale of grit, skill, and never-give-up attitude, in conjunction with his exceptional talent, shines through the football fields, motivating countless young athletes in the making. The journey may have been rocky; nevertheless, Durden’s unwavering determination and the sheer love for the game have been his guiding light in the world of football.