Damontae Kazee Bio
Damontae Tyron Kazee is an American professional football safety for the Detroit Lions of the National Football League (NFL). He was selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Kazee played college football at San Diego State University, where he established himself as a formidable cornerback before transitioning to safety in the NFL. He has earned recognition for his skills on the field, particularly as an interceptor, leading the NFL in interceptions in 2018.
Early Life and Background
Damontae Kazee was born on June 5, 1993, in San Bernardino, California. He attended Cajon High School, where he was a two-way player, excelling as both a cornerback and running back. During his senior year in 2011, he registered 27 tackles, two interceptions, one forced fumble, and scored four rushing and four receiving touchdowns. Kazee was recognized for his athletic abilities, earning All-CIF honors three times. In addition to football, he also participated in basketball and track, showcasing his versatility as an athlete.
Following high school, Kazee accepted a football scholarship to San Diego State University, following in the footsteps of his older brother, Walter Kazee, who played running back for the Aztecs. Kazee’s college career began as a redshirt freshman, where he played in 13 games as a backup cornerback. He made significant contributions on the field, including 41 tackles, one interception, and four forced fumbles, demonstrating his potential early on.
Path to American Football
Kazee’s college career continued to flourish as he progressed through his years at San Diego State. As a sophomore, he started all 13 games at cornerback, leading the team with 13 pass breakups and posting 58 tackles. His junior year saw him start 14 games, where he collected 75 tackles and eight interceptions, ranking second in school history. By his senior year, Kazee had established a school record for career interceptions with 17, solidifying his reputation as a top defensive player.
After an impressive college career, Kazee accepted an invitation to the 2017 Senior Bowl, where he showcased his skills to NFL scouts. He was projected to be a fourth or fifth-round pick in the NFL Draft, ultimately being selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the fifth round as the 149th overall pick.
Damontae Kazee Career
Early Career (2017–2020)
Kazee signed a four-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons on May 9, 2017. He entered training camp competing for the starting nickel back role but was transitioned to free safety. Kazee made his professional debut in the Falcons’ season opener against the Chicago Bears, recording two solo tackles and forcing a fumble. He earned his first career start in Week 4 against the Buffalo Bills, finishing with a season-high nine combined tackles.
In 2018, Kazee became a key player for the Falcons, starting as the free safety after an injury to Keanu Neal. He recorded a career-high seven interceptions, tying for the league lead that season. Kazee’s performance earned him recognition as one of the top safeties in the NFL. However, his 2020 season was cut short due to a torn Achilles tendon, limiting him to just 20 tackles and one forced fumble.
Breakthrough (2021–Present)
After recovering from his injury, Kazee signed with the Dallas Cowboys on March 29, 2021. He played in 17 games, starting 15, and made significant contributions with 54 tackles and two interceptions. His performance in the playoffs against the San Francisco 49ers further highlighted his skills as a reliable safety.
In 2022, Kazee joined the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he faced challenges, including a fractured forearm and a suspension for a violation of the NFL’s substance abuse policy. Despite these setbacks, he managed to appear in nine games, recording 19 tackles and two interceptions. Kazee signed a two-year contract extension with the Steelers in March 2023, demonstrating the team’s confidence in his abilities.
In 2025, Kazee signed with the Cleveland Browns but was released after four games without recording any tackles. Later that year, he was signed to the Detroit Lions’ practice squad, marking the next chapter in his professional career.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Damontae Kazee has established himself as a notable safety in the NFL. His signature achievement includes leading the league in interceptions in 2018 and being recognized as the Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year in both 2015 and 2016. Kazee’s ability to perform under pressure and make critical plays has made him a valuable asset to every team he has played for.
Damontae Kazee Award Nominations
Damontae Kazee has received several accolades throughout his career, including being named the Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year twice and earning multiple All-Mountain West selections.
Damontae Kazee Awards Won
Kazee has achieved significant recognition in his career, including being the NFL interceptions co-leader in 2018 and receiving multiple honors during his college career.
Damontae Kazee Family
Information regarding Damontae Kazee’s family is limited, and no verifiable details about his parents or siblings are available.
Personal Life
Damontae Kazee was arrested on October 19, 2021, for driving under the influence in The Colony, Texas. This incident highlights the challenges he has faced off the field, but he continues to focus on his professional career as a football player.