Five Pro Bowls, three All-Pro selections, three time all-SEC, three time all-American and five Super Bowl trips.
Cornelius Bennett isn’t defined by his on-field achievements, but they certainly are impressive.
The former Alabama linebacker turned 50 today, and during his time on this planet Bennett has played a lot of football.
It all started at Ensley High School in Birmingham, Ala. At Ensley, Bennett excelled in athletics. He starred on the football field and hardwood. It’s said that he even earned the nickname “biscuit” from his friends for his impressive appetite.
Bennett signed with the Tide one month after they hired former coach Ray Perkins. He joined Woodrow Lowe as the second player at Alabama to be named a three time all-American.
It’s safe to say that he earned all three of those all-American selections. He compiled impressive stats, which included 287 career tackles and 21.5 sacks. He also took home a Lombardi Award in 1986.
Alabama fans remember Bennett for his tenacity on the field. His most famous play, “the sack” is a prime example of the intensity he played with.
Notre Dame fans may not want to watch the video above.
For all of his accomplishments he earned a spot in the College Football Hall Of Fame in 2005.
Bennett was drafted second overall by the Indianapolis Colts in the 1987 NFL Draft. Joe Namath was the last Alabama player to be selected that high in the draft (Namath was selected first overall by the Jets in the AFL Draft, and twelfth by the Cardinals in the NFL Draft).
Cornelius and the Colts couldn’t reach a contract agreement, which ultimately led to “the trade of the decade” (“the trade of the decade”…”the sack”…are we starting to see a pattern here?). The Colts shipped Bennett to Buffalo, and partook in a three way trade with the LA Rams, Erick Dickerson and Bills running back Greg Bell.
So, what was a young, talented football player from Birmingham going to do in a rustbelt city like Buffalo? How would he survive the winters? Would he make it?
He did more than make it. He did more than just survive. Cornelius thrived.
During his eight year career with the Buffalo Bills, Bennett was part of a team that made four consecutive Super Bowl appearances (1990-93). Although the Bills did not win any of those Super Bowls, the actual fact they made it four years in a row is still impressive. If you haven’t watched it, check out the “Four Falls Of Buffalo” 30 for 30.
Bennett was part of a Bills defense that featured legendary pass rusher Bruce Smith. Both flourished on Sundays in Orchard Park, NY.
After his eight year stint in Buffalo, Cornelius returned to the South, this time showcasing his skills in Atlanta. He made it to the Super Bowl again, this time losing to Denver.
He finished his career with the Colts (ironic, right?). During his 14 years in the league, Bennett amassed 71.5 sacks, seven interceptions, 31 forced fumbles, 27 fumble recoveries and three touchdowns. He had a knack for forcing turnovers.
What defines Cornelius Bennett “the man”? Was it “the sack”? Was it the “trade of the decade”? Was it the five Super Bowl trips?
No. It’s none of these things. It’s the family he has like his daughters Arianna and Kimeko (a collegiate volleyball player), and his son Kivon Bennett, a star defensive tackle who is committed to play at Tennessee.
It’s causes like donating his brain for studies to help better understand the impact football has on a player’s body and mind. It’s the pride he has for the state of Alabama and his spot in the Alabama Sports Hall Of Fame. It’s his wife Kimberly, who he’s been married to for close to 20 years. Maybe it’s his golf tournament he holds annually to support Alabama’s abused and neglected children.
Everything but football has defined Bennett’s life. Football was just a game that he excelled at. He has won the Super Bowl of life, having spent his last 50 years doing good.
So here’s to you Cornelius Bennett. You’ve made Alabama fans proud. You were part of a legendary Bills team. You flew with the the dirty birds in Atlanta. You returned to finish business with the Colts. You’ve been a great role model for your family and friends. Happy Birthday from all of us.
