Malik Hooker

Malik Hooker's Biography

American football safety, Malik Hooker, was born on April 2, 1996, and is best known for his professional career with the Dallas Cowboys in the National Football League (NFL). A natural-born athlete, Malik first aced the courts and fields during his high-school years in New Castle, Pennsylvania. He showcased his talent in basketball and spent two years as a high school football cornerback and a wide receiver. His talent and hard work didn’t go unnoticed, and he was honored as the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Male Athlete of the Year during his senior year.

In 2014, Malik’s passion for football led him to Ohio State. Initially redshirted for the first year, his time came in 2015. Despite mostly playing special teams, Malik leaped his way to recognition by recording 10 tackles in all 13 games. In 2016, Malik’s determination and skill had him taking over as free safety. This phenomenal athlete was off to a great start, recording his first two career interceptions in the first game of the season. These achievements culminated in Malik being named first-team All-Big Ten on November 29, 2016.

Choosing to forgo his remaining two years of eligibility, Malik entered the 2017 NFL draft. Although sidelined by surgery to repair a torn labrum in his hip and a sports hernia, Malik attracted attention at Ohio State’s Pro Day, which was attended by head coaches, scouts, and representatives. His performance earned him top rankings, and Malik was projected as a potential top 15 pick in the draft.

Luck smiled on Malik, and he was selected during the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts. Though he missed the offseason workouts because of recovery from surgery and onset of a groin injury during the first day of training, Malik bounced back. Making his professional regular season debut in the Colts’ season-opener against the Los Angeles Rams, he recorded four combined tackles. With a streak of achievements under his belt, including making a season-high five combined tackles during a victory against the San Francisco 49ers, Malik’s rise was stunning.

Tragically, the rising star experienced a significant setback while playing against the Jacksonville Jaguars when he tore his ACL and MCL. Following surgery and recovery, Malik made his comeback, making his mark with his defensive skills and ability to intercept. However, his season was cut short again in 2020 when he tore his Achilles against the Minnesota Vikings.

Despite these setbacks, Malik’s passion for the sport never wavered. In 2021, he signed with the Dallas Cowboys, living up to his reputation by staying healthy and recording 44 tackles and one interception in 15 games. His exceptional skills and commitment earned him a two-year contract extension with the Dallas Cowboys in 2022 and a three-year contract extension in 2023.

From the football field of New Castle High School to the Indianapolis Colts’ draft and finally the Dallas Cowboys, Malik Hooker’s journey has been an astounding one, marked by relentless effort and considerable skill. He has showcased admirable resilience, bouncing back from setbacks, and proving himself as a valuable player in the NFL. Over the years, Malik’s consistent success has solidified his place among the most admired football safeties in the league.