Takeo Spikes

Takeo Spikes has transitioned from an accomplished NFL linebacker to a respected media personality and advocate. After leading Auburn University in tackles during the 1997 campaign, Takeo Spikes was selected as the 13th overall pick by the Cincinnati Bengals in the first round of the 1998 NFL Draft. He immediately made an impact, leading the Bengals in tackles as a rookie in 1998. During his initial five seasons with the Bengals (1998-2002), Spikes demonstrated remarkable durability and performance, playing in 79 of a possible 80 games and establishing himself as a formidable linebacker.

Spikes continued his decorated 15-season NFL career, playing for the Buffalo Bills (2003-2006), Philadelphia Eagles (2007), San Francisco 49ers (2008-2010), and San Diego Chargers (2011-2012). A testament to his consistent elite performance and leadership, he was a two-time Pro Bowl selection in 2003 and 2004, and earned First-team All-Pro honors in 2004. Spikes served as a team captain for 13 of his 15 seasons and recorded a career total of 1,431 combined tackles, 29.0 sacks, 15 forced fumbles, and 19 interceptions across 219 games, starting 215 of them. A notable highlight included his 2004 season with the Bills where he recorded 5 interceptions, returning two for touchdowns.

His leadership and commitment to community were further recognized in 2018 when he was named a Ford Motor Company Foundation “Men of Courage” Ambassador. In 2020, Takeo Spikes founded Behind the Mask Media, a platform leveraging his unique insights from his extensive NFL career. Beyond his entrepreneurial and media endeavors, Spikes remains deeply committed to philanthropy. He spearheads the annual TKO camp, an initiative focused on mentoring young athletes and providing vital contributions to local athletic departments, further cementing his legacy as a leader both on and off the field.