Rosevelt Colvin (born September 5, 1977, in Indianapolis, Indiana) is a former American football linebacker known for his impactful career in the NFL. Standing 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighing 250 pounds, Colvin played for the Chicago Bears, New England Patriots, and briefly for the Houston Texans.
Early Life and Education
Colvin attended Broad Ripple High School in Indianapolis, where he earned Second Team All-State honors as a junior and set a school record with 219 tackles as a senior. He also played basketball during his high school years.
He went on to play college football at Purdue University, starting for three years and earning All-Big Ten honors in 1997 and 1998. He was named the MVP of the 1998 Alamo Bowl.
Professional Career
- Chicago Bears (1999–2002): Colvin was drafted by the Bears in the fourth round of the 1999 NFL Draft. He became the first Bear to record double-digit sacks in consecutive years (2001–2002) since Richard Dent.
- New England Patriots (2003–2007): In 2003, Colvin signed with the Patriots. After recovering from a serious hip injury that sidelined him for the 2003 season, he contributed to the Patriots’ victories in Super Bowls XXXVIII and XXXIX. He was placed on injured reserve in November 2007 and released in February 2008 after failing a physical.
- Houston Texans (2008): Colvin signed with the Texans in June 2008 but was released in August 2008 during final roster cuts.
- New England Patriots (2008): He rejoined the Patriots in December 2008 but did not play in any games before retiring.
Career Statistics
Over his 10-year NFL career, Colvin played in 121 games, recording 272 solo tackles, 52.5 sacks, 16 forced fumbles, and 3 interceptions.
Post-Retirement
After retiring from professional football, Colvin and his wife, Tiffany, returned to Indianapolis, where they own multiple UPS Store franchises and a cupcake shop called “SweeTies Gourmet Treats.” They have four children: Xavier, Nijah, Raven, and Myles. Their daughter, Raven, played volleyball at Purdue University, and their son, Myles, plays basketball there.
Colvin’s legacy includes recognition as a two-time Super Bowl champion and membership in the Chicago Bears’ All-Decade Defense team alongside Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs.