Ezekiel Vandenburgh Bio
Ezekiel Vandenburgh (born January 18, 1999) is an American professional football linebacker. He played college football for the Illinois State Redbirds. In 2023, he was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Miami Dolphins and has since played for the Memphis Showboats in the United Football League. He is recognized for his significant achievements during his college career, including being named the MVFC Defensive Player of the Year in 2022.
Early Life and Background
Ezekiel Vandenburgh was born on January 18, 1999, in Vallejo, California. He moved to Freeport, Illinois, where he attended and played high school football for Freeport High School. During his time there, he was a three-year letterwinner and recorded over 100 tackles as a senior, earning First-Team All-Conference honors in 2016. Vandenburgh’s early exposure to football laid the foundation for his future career in the sport. He continued his education at Illinois State University, where he further developed his skills as a linebacker.
Path to American Football
Vandenburgh played college football for the Illinois State Redbirds, where he redshirted in 2017. In 2018, he participated in all eleven games at linebacker, finishing his first season with 22 tackles, including a season-best four tackles in a game against Southern Illinois. His performance continued to improve over the years, and in 2019, he was recognized as a Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) All-Academic honorable mention while playing in all fifteen games. He recorded a total of 51 tackles and nine tackles for loss that season, showcasing his growing impact on the field.
Ezekiel Vandenburgh Career
Early Career (2023)
In 2023, Ezekiel Vandenburgh was signed by the Miami Dolphins as an undrafted free agent after an impressive college career. He was initially drafted 38th overall to the Birmingham Stallions of the United States Football League (USFL) on February 21, 2023. However, he faced challenges during his time with the Dolphins, as he was placed on injured reserve shortly after signing. Despite these setbacks, Vandenburgh’s determination to succeed in professional football remained strong.
Breakthrough (2025)
Vandenburgh’s breakthrough came when he signed with the Memphis Showboats of the United Football League on January 23, 2025. This opportunity allowed him to showcase his skills and continue his professional career. His previous accolades, including being named the MVFC Defensive Player of the Year and earning the Buck Buchanan Award for Division I FCS’s best defensive player, positioned him as a player to watch in the league.
Notable Works and Milestones
Ezekiel Vandenburgh’s signature achievements include being named the MVFC Defensive Player of the Year in 2022, along with receiving the First-team All-MVFC and Buck Buchanan Award in the same year. These honors highlight his exceptional performance during his college career and set the stage for his transition to professional football.
Ezekiel Vandenburgh Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Ezekiel Vandenburgh has received several notable nominations and awards, particularly during his time at Illinois State University. His recognition as the MVFC Defensive Player of the Year in 2022 stands out as a significant achievement in his early career.
Ezekiel Vandenburgh Awards Won
Ezekiel Vandenburgh has won multiple awards during his college career, including the MVFC Defensive Player of the Year, First-team All-MVFC, and the Buck Buchanan Award in 2022. These accolades reflect his outstanding performance and contributions to his team.
Ezekiel Vandenburgh Family
Ezekiel Vandenburgh is married to Leah, with whom he tied the knot on March 18, 2023. While specific details about his family background are not publicly available, his marriage marks a significant milestone in his personal life.
Personal Life
Vandenburgh’s personal life is characterized by his commitment to both his family and his professional career. His marriage to Leah signifies a supportive partnership as he navigates the challenges and successes of being a professional athlete. As he continues to develop in his career, Vandenburgh remains focused on both his athletic and personal endeavors.
