Lance Briggs Biography

Lance Marell Briggs, born on November 12, 1980, is an American former professional football player who played as a linebacker for the Chicago Bears in the National Football League. He played college football for the Arizona Wildcats and was drafted by the Bears in the third round of the 2003 NFL draft, where he spent his entire 12-year professional career. Briggs recorded 308 tackles, 36 tackles for losses, 10.5 sacks, three interceptions, 10 passes deflected, five forced fumbles, and four fumble recoveries during his 33-game college career at strong side linebacker. Head coach Dick Jauron initially named Briggs a backup outside linebacker to begin his rookie season, placing him behind Bryan Knight and Warrick Holdman. Lance Briggs made his first career start on October 5, 2003, recording a solo tackle in the Week 4 game that ended in a 24–21 victory over the Oakland Raiders. In 2005, Briggs was selected to represent the National Football Conference in the 2006 Pro Bowl. Prior to the 2006 NFL season, Briggs engaged the Bears in negotiations for a contract extension.