Brian Dawkins

Weapon X

Brian Patrick Dawkins Sr. (born October 13, 1973), nicknamed "Weapon X", is an American former professional football safety who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 16 seasons, primarily with the Philadelphia Eagles. He played college football for the Clemson Tigers and was selected by the Eagles in the second round of the 1996 NFL draft. In his last three seasons, he played for the Denver Broncos.

Quick Facts

Position: Safety
Born: 13 October 1973
Birthplace: Jacksonville, Florida, U.S.
High school: William M. Raines (Jacksonville)
College: Clemson (1992–1995)
Draft year: 1996
Draft round: 2
Draft pick: 61

Lore & Background

Regarded as one of the greatest safeties of all time, Dawkins was viewed as the leader of the Eagles defense, named to nine Pro Bowls and five All-Pro teams. He also made an appearance in Super Bowl XXXIX. In addition to his playing career, Dawkins served the Eagles as an executive of football operations for player development from 2016 to 2018 and was with the organization when they won Super Bowl LII. He was inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018.

Did You Know?

Dawkins graduated from William M. Raines High School in Jacksonville, Florida in 1992.
He was a three-year starter at defensive back for Clemson, finishing with 247 tackles and 11 interceptions.
Dawkins made his first career interception off a pass by Falcons' backup quarterback Bobby Hebert in 1996.
He returned an interception for his first career touchdown in 1997 against the New York Giants.
The Brian Dawkins Lifetime Achievement Award was established at Clemson University on January 11, 2013.