Geneo Grissom

Geneo Grissom was born on June 4, 1992, in Lyons, Kansas, and developed into a prominent defensive end. He attended the University of Oklahoma, where he redshirted in 2010. During the 2011 and 2012 seasons, he played as a reserve defensive tackle, recording 9 tackles and one tackle for a loss. In 2013, Grissom made his first career start and notably returned an interception for a 54-yard touchdown against the Texas Longhorns. He also made a significant impact in the 2014 Sugar Bowl against Alabama, achieving 2.5 sacks, breaking up a pass, and recovering two fumbles, one of which he returned for an eight-yard touchdown. As a senior in 2014, he earned an honorable mention for the All-Big 12 Conference with 39 tackles and 3.5 sacks. His college career concluded with 88 tackles, 8 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 3 fumble recoveries, and 2 interceptions across 39 games.

Grissom was drafted by the New England Patriots in the third round (97th overall) of the 2015 NFL Draft. He signed a four-year, $2.89 million contract. His rookie season in 2015 included 14 games, where he recorded 6 combined tackles and his first career sack against Ryan Tannehill of the Miami Dolphins. He primarily contributed on special teams and as a reserve defensive player. In 2016, after being released and re-signed to the practice squad, he was promoted to the active roster and saw his first career playoff appearance, contributing to the Patriots’ Super Bowl LI championship. He continued with the Patriots in 2017 and 2018, contributing to another Super Bowl victory. After being waived by the Patriots in November 2018, he later signed with the Indianapolis Colts in January 2019 and then with the New Orleans Saints in May 2019 before being released in August 2019.

Throughout his professional career, Grissom’s dedication to football was evident, with a significant part of his playing time dedicated to special teams. His career progression highlights a commitment to adaptability and teamwork within the demanding environment of the NFL. Beyond football, Grissom has also engaged in community work, partnering with organizations such as International Justice Mission (IJM) alongside his wife, Haley. His collaboration with Southern New Hampshire University to provide computer labs to schools in Worcester also demonstrates his commitment to educational initiatives. Grissom’s career reflects a journey from college athlete to a professional football player and further into community involvement.