Kelvin Beachum

Kelvin Beachum's Biography

Born on June 8, 1989, Kelvin Lee Beachum Jr. is an acclaimed American professional football player known for his offensive tackle position with the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League (NFL). His football career began at Southern Methodist University (SMU), a season marked by his exceptional performance as an offensive left tackle for the SMU Mustangs. Proving himself as a formidable athlete, Beachum was a four-year starter and played alongside Josh LeRibeus, who was later picked by the Washington Redskins in the NFL draft.

Gaining attention in the football world, Beachum’s talent garnered him an invitation to the NFL Combine as an offensive tackle. Despite concerns about his height and size for the offensive tackle position, scouts commended his lateral movement and speed off the ball. His skills, hard work, and persistence eventually paved the way for his selection by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the seventh round of the 2012 NFL Draft. This milestone was met with a four-year contract worth $2.14 million, complete with a $49,816 signing bonus.

Throughout his career with the Steelers, Beachum battled through rigorous training, securing a starting offensive tackle position against seasoned players such as Max Starks, Marcus Gilbert, Mike Adams, and Chris Scott. Despite the departure of Starks, Beachum claimed the vacant left tackle position, continuously contributing to the team’s performance with his sheer dedication and perseverance.

As he continued to play, Beachum suffered a major setback in 2015 after tearing his left anterior cruciate ligament. Consequently, he was placed on injured reserve, marking the end of the season for him. However, his performance didn’t go unnoticed, with PFF ranking him as the second-best free agent offensive tackle behind Cordy Glenn in 2016.

Beachum’s resilience was tested when he joined the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2016. Despite facing down competition and experiencing a concussion, he still managed to start the last 13 games of the season, proving his unwavering dedication. Although his time with the Jaguars was short-lived, in 2017 Beachum moved on to join the New York Jets, further advancing his career with a three-year, $24 million contract.

His journey led him to the Arizona Cardinals in 2020, with a one-year contract paving the way for Beachum to play all 16 games as a right tackle. His commitment and contribution to the Cardinals were rewarded with a two-year, $4 million contract extension in 2021.

Kelvin Beachum’s story doesn’t end on the field. He is an influential figure off it too, serving on the advisory board of the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA). This role saw him being recognized with the weekly NFL Players Association Community MVP Award five times – a record achievement. His philanthropic work extends to housing too, having appeared on an episode of HGTV’s ‘Fixer Upper’ where he generously contributed to his parents’ house renovation.

Beyond his impressive career, Beachum is also a family man. Married to Jessica Beachum, the couple shares three children together. As a devout Christian, Beachum carries his principles both on and off the field. He is a staunch supporter of organizations like Bread for the World, Feeding America, and World Vision, contributing to society while excelling in his professional life.