Eric Wilson

Eric André Wilson Bio

Eric André Wilson is an American professional football linebacker for the Minnesota Vikings of the National Football League (NFL). Born on September 26, 1994, in Redford, Michigan, he played college football for the Northwestern Wildcats and Cincinnati Bearcats. He joined the Vikings as an undrafted free agent in 2017 and has since played for several teams, including the Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers. Eric has earned various accolades during his career, showcasing his talent and determination on the field.

Early Life and Background

Eric Wilson played high school football at Lee M. Thurston High School in Redford, Michigan. He recorded 64 tackles and four sacks in his senior year. During his time at Lee M. Thurston, he played multiple positions including safety, linebacker, and wide receiver. His outstanding performance earned him All-State, All-Conference, All-Metro, and Team MVP honors. In addition to football, he lettered in track and basketball, and was a long jump State Champion. Wilson redshirted for the Northwestern Wildcats of Northwestern University in 2012 before transferring to the University of Cincinnati in 2013. He sat out the 2013 season due to NCAA transfer rules but went on to play for the Cincinnati Bearcats from 2014 to 2016. He graduated from Cincinnati in December 2016 with a degree in sports management.

Path to American Football

Wilson was rated as the 21st best outside linebacker in the 2017 NFL draft by NFLDraftScout.com, with predictions suggesting he would be selected in the later rounds. Despite not being drafted, he signed with the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent on May 1, 2017. His early career included significant contributions to the Vikings, where he made his first career sack in Week 11 of the 2018 season against the Chicago Bears. Over the years, he showcased his skills, recording multiple sacks and tackles, which helped him secure a place on the team.

Eric André Wilson Career

Early Career (2017-2020)

Wilson’s professional career began with the Minnesota Vikings, where he played from 2017 to 2020. During this time, he made notable contributions, including a standout performance in Week 3 of the 2019 season against the Oakland Raiders, where he recorded two sacks. He also had a career-high 12 tackles in a game against the Chicago Bears in 2019. His performance earned him a second-round restricted free agent tender from the Vikings in 2020, and he signed a one-year contract with them.

Breakthrough (2021-2022)

In 2021, Wilson signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he was named the starting middle linebacker. However, his time with the Eagles was short-lived, as he was released mid-season. Shortly after, he was claimed off waivers by the Houston Texans. Later that year, he signed with the New Orleans Saints but was released and re-signed to their practice squad. In October 2022, Wilson joined the Green Bay Packers, where he made an immediate impact, including blocking a punt during a game against the New York Jets.

Notable Works and Milestones

Eric Wilson’s signature work includes his time with the Minnesota Vikings, where he developed into a key player on defense. He has earned accolades such as First-team All-American Athletic Conference in 2016 and Second-team All-AAC in 2015. His career statistics as of Week 13 of 2025 include 485 total tackles, 15.5 sacks, and 5 interceptions, showcasing his effectiveness on the field.

Eric André Wilson Award Nominations

Throughout his career, Eric Wilson has received several nominations and accolades, including recognition as a standout player in college football and professional leagues.

Eric André Wilson Awards Won

Eric Wilson has won notable awards during his career, including First-team All-AAC in 2016 and Second-team All-AAC in 2015, highlighting his achievements as a linebacker.