Donald Darell Strickland (born November 24, 1980) is an American former professional football player who was a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL). He was selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the third round of the 2003 NFL draft. He played college football for the Colorado Buffaloes. Strickland has also played for the Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers, San Diego Chargers, and New York Jets.

Early life

Strickland attended Archbishop Riordan High School in San Francisco, California. As a senior at Riordan, Strickland was a standout All-League running back. His uncle, Raymond Bell, played at UCLA and his cousin, Herb Ward, played at Southern California and in the NFL with the Dallas Cowboys. Strickland's father, Donald, is a retired photographer for the NBC affiliate, KRON-4 in the Bay Area.

College career

Strickland attended the University of Colorado. Strickland was a key part in the Buffaloes' run to a Big 12 Conference Championship in 2001. He had 78 tackles and two interceptions, both returned for touchdowns. In 2002, he had 86 tackles, and one interception returned 95 yards for a touchdown.

Professional career

Indianapolis Colts

Strickland started for the Indianapolis Colts from 2003 until the first game of 2005 when he injured himself.

Philadelphia Eagles

He was picked up by the Philadelphia Eagles later that season, playing in three games. The Eagles waived Strickland during the 2006 training camp.

San Francisco 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers acquired him as a free agent on October 31, 2006. The 49ers released Strickland on February 26, 2007, but re-signed him on March 6, 2007, to a one-year deal. He re-signed with the 49ers on March 21, 2008, to a one-year contract.

New York Jets (first stint)

An unrestricted free agent in the 2009 offseason, Strickland signed with the New York Jets on March 25. He was released on March 5, 2010.

San Diego Chargers

Strickland signed with the San Diego Chargers on March 12, 2010. After one season in San Diego, he was released on July 28, 2011.

New York Jets (second stint)

On July 30, 2011, Strickland was re-signed by the Jets.

NFL career statistics

Regular season

Playoffs