Donte Whitner

Donte Whitner was born on July 24, 1985, in Cleveland, Ohio. His early life included a significant event at age six where he suffered numerous leg fractures after being hit by a car, with doctors initially doubting his ability to walk again. He made a full recovery and later attended Glenville High School in Cleveland. Whitner continued his academic and athletic career at Ohio State University, playing for the Ohio State Buckeyes from 2003 to 2005. During his junior year in 2005, he earned all-conference honors, recording 73 tackles and 2 interceptions, and contributed to the Buckeyes’ victory in the 2005 Fiesta Bowl against Notre Dame. He later enrolled at San Jose State University during his NFL career.

Whitner was drafted eighth overall in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills. He signed a five-year, $29 million contract, with $13.51 million guaranteed. In his rookie year (2006), he recorded 104 total tackles and one interception. His career continued with the San Francisco 49ers from 2011 to 2013, where he played in Super Bowl XLVII. He then joined the Cleveland Browns for the 2014-2015 seasons and concluded his NFL career with the Washington Redskins in 2016. Throughout his tenure, he achieved three Pro Bowl selections (2012, 2013, 2014) and was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2006.

Over his 11-year NFL career, Whitner accumulated 922 total tackles, 3 sacks, 11 forced fumbles, 6 fumble recoveries, and 11 interceptions, including 2 defensive touchdowns. His most productive professional season was in 2010 with the Buffalo Bills, where he recorded 140 total tackles. After retiring, he has remained involved with the sport and has been recognized for his contributions both on and off the field.