Mike Utley

Mike_Utley

Mike Utley

Mike Utley in action

Mike Utley is a former professional American football player who played as an offensive guard in the National Football League (NFL). He was born on December 20, 1965, in Seattle, Washington. Utley played college football at Washington State University before being drafted by the Detroit Lions in the third round of the 1989 NFL Draft.

During his NFL career, Utley was known for his toughness and work ethic on the field. He played for the Detroit Lions from 1989 to 1991 and was considered one of the team's key offensive linemen. However, his career was tragically cut short on November 17, 1991, when he suffered a spinal cord injury during a game against the Los Angeles Rams. The injury left him paralyzed from the chest down.

Following his injury, Utley became an inspirational figure for his positive attitude and determination in the face of adversity. He established the Mike Utley Foundation, which is dedicated to finding a cure for spinal cord injuries and improving the quality of life for those affected by them.

Utley's story has been widely covered in the media, and he continues to be an advocate for spinal cord injury research and awareness. His resilience and courage have made him a symbol of hope for many individuals facing similar challenges.

Legacy

Despite his career being cut short by injury, Mike Utley's impact on the NFL and the broader community has been significant. His foundation's work continues to support research and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of individuals with spinal cord injuries.