Xavier Woods is an American football safety currently playing for the Carolina Panthers in the NFL. Born on July 26, 1995, in Monroe, Louisiana, Woods attended West Monroe High School, where he played both football and basketball. He later played college football at Louisiana Tech University, where he was recognized for his defensive skills.
NFL Career:
- Dallas Cowboys (2017–2020): Woods was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the sixth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. He quickly became a key player in their defense, recording 42 tackles and one interception in his rookie season. Over four seasons with the Cowboys, he accumulated 247 tackles and five interceptions.
- Minnesota Vikings (2021): In March 2021, Woods signed a one-year contract with the Minnesota Vikings. He started all 17 games that season, achieving career highs with 108 tackles, three interceptions, and two forced fumbles.
- Carolina Panthers (2022–Present): Woods joined the Carolina Panthers in March 2022 on a three-year deal. In his first season, he started all 17 games, recording 86 tackles and one interception. He continues to be a vital part of the Panthers’ defense.
Recent News:
- Fine for Late Hit (October 2024): Woods was fined $11,255 for a late hit on Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki during a game in October 2024. The incident occurred after Gesicki had gone out of bounds, leading to criticism of inconsistent officiating.
Throughout his NFL career, Woods has been recognized for his consistent performance and playmaking abilities, making him a valuable asset to the teams he has played for.