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Trai Essex

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PositionOffensive tackle
Height / weight1.96 m / 147 kg
Born5 Dec 1982 (43 years)
NationalityUnited States flagUnited States
Number79

Trai Essex is a retired professional football player originally from Indiana. He spent eight years in the National Football League as an Offensive Guard, primarily representing the Pittsburgh Steelers. Throughout his career, he earned two Super Bowl rings during his time in Pittsburgh.

Player Profile, High School, and College Career

Trai Jamar Essex was born on December 5, 1982, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, United States. The Offensive Guard stands 196 cm tall, and his weight was last listed at 147 kg.

He attended Paul Harding High School in his hometown, where he was a standout athlete in both football and basketball. Following graduation, Essex committed to play for Northwestern University from 2001 to 2004. He began his time with the Wildcats as a tight end before transitioning to offensive tackle, eventually starting 37 consecutive games on the offensive line.

Professional Career

He was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 2005 NFL Draft. They picked him in round 3 and he was the 93rd overall selection.

During his professional career, his ability to play multiple positions on the offensive line made him a highly valuable asset for the Steelers. He spent seven seasons in Pittsburgh, starting multiple games and contributing to the team's victories in Super Bowl XL and Super Bowl XLIII. He concluded his playing days with a one-year stint alongside the Indianapolis Colts in 2012.

Career Highlights:

  • 2005, 2008 – Super Bowl champion (XL, XLIII)