Caden Sterns Bio
Caden Sterns is an American former professional football player who played as a safety in the National Football League (NFL). He was born on November 2, 1999, in Dallas, Texas, and had a standout college football career at the University of Texas where he achieved notable accolades including being awarded the Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year. Sterns was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL draft, where he played until 2023. His journey through the NFL included stints with the Carolina Panthers and the Philadelphia Eagles, before his retirement in 2025 due to injuries endured throughout his career.
Early Life and Background
Caden Sterns attended Byron P. Steele II High School in Cibolo, Texas. He excelled in football, recording 235 tackles and 11 interceptions during his high school career. His older brother, Jordan Sterns, was also a notable football player, having played at Oklahoma State University. Caden was recognized as a five-star recruit and was selected to play in the 2018 U.S. Army All-American Bowl, where he won the Pete Dawkins Trophy as the game’s MVP. Initially, he committed to Louisiana State University (LSU) but later decided to play for the University of Texas at Austin.
Path to American Football
At the University of Texas, Caden Sterns made an immediate impact, starting all 13 games in his true freshman season in 2018. He was named the Big 12 Conference Defensive Freshman of the Year and earned first-team All-Big 12 honors after recording 62 tackles, four interceptions, and one sack. In his sophomore year, he continued to perform well, finishing with 59 tackles and one sack over nine games. On November 30, 2020, Sterns declared for the 2021 NFL draft, opting out of the remainder of the season to prepare for his professional career.
Caden Sterns Career
Early Career (2021-2023)
Caden Sterns was selected by the Denver Broncos in the fifth round, 152nd overall, of the 2021 NFL draft. He signed with the Broncos on May 11, 2021, and quickly made a name for himself. In his rookie season, he played in 15 games, starting two, and recorded two interceptions, five pass deflections, and 28 tackles. He became the first rookie to record two sacks in a single game since 2016. In 2022, Sterns started three of the first five games before suffering a hip injury that placed him on injured reserve. He returned to the field but faced further injuries, including a torn patellar tendon in 2023, which limited his participation.
Breakthrough (2021-2023)
Sterns’ breakthrough moment came during his rookie season with the Denver Broncos. He showcased his skills as a safety, making significant contributions to the team’s defense. His performance in 2021 set the stage for his future in the NFL, as he quickly became a player to watch. Despite facing injuries in subsequent seasons, his early achievements solidified his reputation as a promising talent in the league.
Notable Works and Milestones
Caden Sterns is recognized for his impressive college career, where he earned multiple accolades, including the Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year, First-team All-Big 12, and Freshman All-American honors in 2018. His transition to the NFL was marked by notable performances, particularly during his rookie season with the Denver Broncos.
Caden Sterns Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Caden Sterns has received several nominations and accolades, particularly during his time in college football. His recognition as the Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year and his selection to the first-team All-Big 12 highlight his early contributions to the sport.
Caden Sterns Awards Won
Caden Sterns has achieved notable awards during his football career, particularly in college. He was awarded the Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year, named a First-team All-Big 12 player, and recognized as a Freshman All-American, all in 2018.
Caden Sterns Family
Caden Sterns comes from a football-oriented family. He has three brothers, all of whom have played collegiate football. His oldest brother, Jordan, played safety at Oklahoma State University, while his younger brother, Jerreth, played at Houston Baptist University before transferring to Western Kentucky University. Jerreth currently plays for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the Canadian Football League.
Personal Life
Caden Sterns has maintained a relatively private personal life. He has not publicly disclosed details about his marital status or relationships. However, his family’s involvement in football has been a significant aspect of his life, influencing his career path and aspirations.