Steven Nelson

Steven Nelson's Biography

Steven Nelson Jr., an exemplary figure of American football was born on January 22, 1993. His exceptional agility and tenacity propelled him into a nine-year long career in the National Football League (NFL) where he was renowned as a superior cornerback. The pinnacle of his career starred remarkable seasons with Kansas City Chiefs, Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Houston Texans.

The NFL star spent his formative years in Warner Robins, Georgia, and honed his football skills at Northside High School. During his senior year, he garnered attention for his defensive playing and celebrated seven interceptions, along with seven touchdowns in punt returns. Nelson also showcased his athletic abilites as a track star, recording a personal best of 11.15 seconds in the 100 meters and contributing to the relay team’s triumph in the county’s 4×100 race.

Nelson spent two fruitful years at the College of the Sequoias demonstrating an impressive 71 tackles and six interceptions. He eventually switched his commitment from the University of Georgia to Oregon State University. Breaking into his first season at Oregon State as the nickel corner, he consistently excelled at his game and secured a position as a starter, his brilliance reflecting in 62 tackles and six interceptions. Concluding his senior year in 2014, he had an outstanding record of 60 tackles and two interceptions.

Earning an invitation for the 2015 Senior Bowl, Nelson exhibited his prowess under Tennessee Titans Head Coach Ken Whisenhunt’s North team. Showcasing dexterity in the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, he completed all the combine and positional drills. His pro day performance at Oregon State, combined with pre-draft visits to Pittsburgh Steelers and Detroit Lions deemed him one of the most underrated prospects. Nelson’s talent attracted a third round anticipated draft pick projection by NFL experts, ranking him as the 12th and 13th best cornerback prospect by DraftScout.com and USA Today respectively.

The Kansas City Chiefs acknowledged Nelson’s potential and selected him in the third round of the 2015 NFL Draft. On securing a contract with the Chiefs, he fiercely competed for a backup cornerback spot throughout training camp, eventually christening him as the sixth cornerback on the team.

Nelson spent the first four regular-season games of his rookie season as a healthy scratch. He soon made his professional regular-season debut in the Chief’s game against Cincinnati Bengals during Week 4. Nelson’s performance accelerated throughout his rookie season, concluding with eight solo tackles in 12 games.

2016 ushered in a new phase as Nelson competed to be a starting cornerback for the Chiefs, with Smith, a formidable player, free for the Raiders. Nelson locked horns with Fleming and Gaines, and the rookie Russell, ultimately earning the slot of starting cornerback alongside Marcus Peters. In 2017, Nelson sustained an injury but regained his starting role in Week 9, and excelled in a majority of the season.

In 2018, Nelson was named the Chiefs’ No. 1 starting cornerback after Marcus Peters was traded to the Los Angeles Rams. Nelson executed an outstanding start in the first game of the season and achieved his first career interception during a match against the Jaguars in Week 5.

Nelson clinched a three-year contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers, in 2019. He outperformed despite a groin injury, and even recovered a fumble that led to a victory over the Dolphins. He marked his first two interceptions against Philadelphia Eagles in 2020, which contributed to the win in Week 5.

In 2021, the Steelers abided by Nelson’s request to terminate his contract. Soon after, he landed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles. The same rookie year, Nelson started 16 games, recording 50 tackles, seven passes defensed, and one interception.

In 2022, Nelson’s exceptional skills brought him a contract with the Houston Texans. During the 2023 Wild Card game against the Cleveland Browns, Nelson achieved a glorious 82-yard touchdown after intercepting a pass from quarterback Joe Flacco, securing a win for the Texans.

Steven Nelson Jr. announced his retirement from the NFL on June 9, 2024, culminating an illustrious football career. His determination, adaptability, and resolute spirit continue to leave their mark on the field. Nelson’s journey beckons an inspiring tale of skill, anticipation, and perseverance, integral to the heart of American football.