Jerome Mathis

Jerome Mathis is an American former professional football player born on July 26, 1983, in Petersburg, Virginia. Standing 71 inches and weighing 83 kg, he was primarily a wide receiver and kick returner in the National Football League. Before his NFL career, he competed in track and field at Hampton University.

Mathis was selected by the Houston Texans in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft and made an immediate impact, earning Pro Bowl selection and All-Pro honors as a rookie with the Texans in 2005 for his exceptional kick returning abilities. He also played in the Canadian Football League and Arena Football League.

His athleticism, developed through track and field training at Hampton, translated into elite-level return skills in professional football. Mathis's Pro Bowl season with the Texans demonstrated how track speed can create game-changing ability in the NFL.