Charles Woodson 1997 Heisman Trophy Winner

Woodson ‘Bucked’ Ohio State for His Heisman Clincher

The showdown between Big Blue and Ohio State was a crucial moment for the team’s defensive back, who secured his Heisman award with an outstanding performance. Woodson wowed Wolverine fans and Heisman experts with a touchdown punt return, an interception in the end zone, and a crucial 37-yard catch that set up Michigan’s lone offensive touchdown of the game. These game-changing plays not only secured a 20-14 victory for Michigan but also propelled them to the highly coveted Rose Bowl. It was an electrifying moment that left no doubt about Woodson’s deserved status as a Heisman winner.

From Big Blue to Canton

Woodson was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in 1998, and he quickly made a name for himself as one of the most dominant defensive players in the league. During his seven-year stint with the Raiders, he was a force to be reckoned with. He earned numerous accolades, including NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 1998, and was a First-team All-Pro four times, second-team All-Pro four times, and selected to the Pro Bowl nine times. Woodson’s success in Oakland made him a fan favorite, and he was widely regarded as one of the best defensive backs in the league.

In 2006, Woodson signed with the Green Bay Packers, where he continued his success on the field. He helped the Packers win the Super Bowl XLV in 2010, a career highlight that would not have been possible without his incredible talent and leadership. During his seven-year stretch with the Packers, Woodson was a five-time Pro Bowler and earned First-team All-Pro honors twice.

Woodson returned to the Raiders in 2013, where he finished his career on a high note. He was still a dominant force on the field, and his love for the game was evident in every play that he made. In his final NFL season, he played in all 16 games and finished the season with 74 tackles, one sack, and one interception.

Woodson was also recognized for his achievements by his peers in the league. He was named to the NFL 2000s All-Decade Team, a significant honor for any player, and was inducted into the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame, recognizing his contributions to the team’s incredible success during his time there.

Moreover, Woodson’s incredible achievements did not go unnoticed by those in charge of the NFL’s most prestigious honor: the Pro Football Hall of Fame. In 2021, Woodson was inducted into the Hall, an incredible achievement and a testament to the impact he had on the league during his career.