Adrian Wilson
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Career Summary
Adrian Wilson was an Arizona Cardinals safety who played 12 NFL seasons with the franchise.
NFL.com records 181 games, 162 starts, 774 tackles, 25.5 sacks, 27 interceptions, 101 passes defensed, and 14 forced fumbles.
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College Career
Wilson played college football at North Carolina State.
NFL.com identifies N.C. State as Wilson's college, and the Wolfpack's media guide lists him among the program's second-team All-ACC honorees.
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Path to the NFL
Arizona selected Wilson in the third round, 64th overall, of the 2001 NFL Draft.
The Cardinals' legends profile identifies Wilson's draft round and overall pick.
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Sources for this section
NFL Career
Wilson spent his entire regular-season career with Arizona from 2001 through 2012.
He made at least 14 starts in 10 seasons. His 2005 season included eight sacks and 92 tackles, while 2009 included five interceptions.
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Career Accomplishments
Wilson earned five Pro Bowl selections and first-team All-Pro honors in 2009.
The Cardinals list his Pro Bowl seasons as 2006 and 2008 through 2011, and identify his 2009 first-team All-Pro honor. He entered the Cardinals Ring of Honor in 2015.
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Playing Style
Wilson combined safety coverage production with frequent pressure and disruptive plays near the line of scrimmage.
His career included both 25.5 sacks and 27 interceptions. The Cardinals describe him as a physical, versatile safety and note that he is among the few NFL players to reach 20 career sacks and 20 interceptions.
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Legacy
Wilson is one of the most decorated defensive backs in Cardinals history.
Arizona's Ring of Honor and legends materials recognize his five Pro Bowls, 2009 All-Pro selection, and long service with the franchise.
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Post-Career
After retiring, Wilson worked in player personnel and scouting for Arizona and Carolina.
The Cardinals list his progression from regional scout to vice president of pro scouting from 2015 through 2022, followed by service as Carolina's vice president of player personnel from 2023 through 2024.
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Sources for this section
19369, 00-0020505, 1979-10-12, Adrian Wilson, Adrian, Wilson
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