Eric Kendricks Bio
Eric Nathan Marvin Kendricks is an American professional football linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Bruins, winning the Butkus Award as the nation’s top collegiate linebacker as a senior in 2014. Kendricks was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft and has also played for the Los Angeles Chargers and Dallas Cowboys.
Early Life and Background
Eric Kendricks was born on February 29, 1992, in Clovis, California, to Yvonne Thagon and Marvin Kendricks, a former running back for UCLA who played professionally in the Canadian Football League. He grew up alongside his older brother Mychal and younger sister Danielle. Their mother, Yvonne, raised them as a single parent after separating from Marvin, who struggled with addiction during their early years. By the time Kendricks entered high school, Marvin had turned his life around, getting married and becoming involved in his children’s lives. Kendricks attended Herbert Hoover High School in Fresno, California, where he excelled in multiple sports, including football, basketball, and baseball. He earned three letters in football while playing various positions, including linebacker, quarterback, and running back, and served as team captain during his junior and senior years.
Path to American Football
Kendricks was regarded as a three-star recruit by Rivals.com and was ranked among the top outside linebackers in California. He committed to UCLA in November 2009, where he played for the Bruins from 2010 to 2014. After redshirting in 2010, he made an immediate impact as a redshirt freshman, finishing second on the team in tackles. Over his college career, Kendricks became a standout player, leading the Pac-12 in tackles during his sophomore year and setting the UCLA record for career tackles by the end of his senior season. His impressive performance earned him numerous accolades, including the Butkus Award in 2014, making him the first Bruin to win this prestigious honor.
Eric Kendricks Career
Early Career (2015-2019)
Kendricks solidified his status as a top linebacker prospect with a strong performance at the 2015 NFL Combine, where he recorded a 4.61-second 40-yard dash. The Minnesota Vikings selected him in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft as the 45th overall pick. He signed a four-year contract with the Vikings and quickly established himself as a key player on the defense. In his rookie season, Kendricks led the team in tackles and was named to the Pro Football Writers of America’s All-Rookie Team. He continued to excel in subsequent seasons, earning his first Pro Bowl selection and being named a First-team All-Pro in 2019.
Breakthrough (2019-2022)
Kendricks’ breakthrough came in the 2019 season when he was selected to the Pro Bowl and named a First-team All-Pro. His performance included a career-high 113 tackles, showcasing his ability to impact games defensively. He was a vital part of the Vikings’ defense, contributing to their playoff runs during his tenure with the team. In 2022, after seven seasons with the Vikings, Kendricks was released and signed with the Los Angeles Chargers, where he continued to demonstrate his skills as a linebacker.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Kendricks has been recognized for his outstanding play, including being named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team and receiving the Butkus Award during his college career. His ability to lead the defense and make crucial plays has made him a respected figure in the NFL.
Eric Kendricks Award Nominations
Eric Kendricks has received several nominations throughout his career, including honors for his performance in college and professional football. His accolades reflect his status as one of the top linebackers in the league.
Eric Kendricks Awards Won
Kendricks has won multiple awards, including the Butkus Award in 2014, recognizing him as the nation’s top collegiate linebacker. He has also been named to the Pro Bowl and earned First-team All-Pro honors in 2019, highlighting his exceptional contributions to the game.
Eric Kendricks Family
Eric Kendricks is married to Ally Courtnall, whom he met at UCLA in 2010. The couple began dating in 2013 and tied the knot on July 2, 2022. They welcomed their son, Knight, into the world on May 3, 2023.
Personal Life
Kendricks shares a close bond with his family, including his brother Mychal, who also played linebacker in the NFL. He is known for his dedication to his family and his commitment to his professional career. Kendricks is unique in that he is the only active NFL player born on a leap day, February 29.
