James Farrior

James Farrior is a retired professional football player originally from Virginia. He spent 15 years in the National Football League as a Linebacker, representing the New York Jets and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Throughout his career, he earned multiple Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections, and won two Super Bowl rings.

Player Profile, High School, and College Career

James Alfred Farrior was born on January 6, 1975, in Petersburg, Virginia, USA. The Linebacker stands 188 cm tall, and his weight was last listed at 110 kg.

He attended Matoaca High School in his home state. Following graduation, Farrior committed to play for the University of Virginia from 1993 to 1996. During his time with the Cavaliers, he was a standout defensive player, earning Second-team All-ACC honors in both 1995 and 1996.

Professional Career

He was selected by the New York Jets during the 1997 NFL Draft. They picked him in round 1 and he was the 8th overall selection.

Farrior began his professional career in New York, playing his first five seasons with the Jets from 1997 to 2001. In 2002, he joined the Pittsburgh Steelers, a move that would define his career. He quickly became a defensive leader, affectionately nicknamed "The Ultimate Farrior" by fans. His standout performance in 2004 earned him his first Pro Bowl selection and First-team All-Pro honors.

Building on that momentum, Farrior helped guide the franchise to a victory in Super Bowl XL. He continued his elite level of play through the 2008 season, where he earned a Second-team All-Pro nod, his second Pro Bowl appearance, and a second championship ring with a win in Super Bowl XLIII. He remained a vital piece of the Steelers' defense until his final NFL season in 2011.

Following his playing days, his legacy was cemented with multiple prestigious honors. He was inducted into the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame in 2016, and later enshrined into the Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor in 2020.

Off the field, he and his brother Matt established The James Farrior Foundation, which runs a variety of programs to assist those in need, including mentoring students and providing college scholarships. For their community efforts, the foundation was awarded the key to the city of Richmond, Virginia in 2009.

Career Highlights:

• 2020 – Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor Inductee
• 2016 – Virginia Sports Hall of Fame Inductee
• 2005, 2008 – Super Bowl champion (XL, XLIII)
• 2004 – First-team All-Pro
• 2008 – Second-team All-Pro
• 2004, 2008 – Pro Bowl