Peria Jerry
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Career Summary
Peria Jerry was an Ole Miss defensive tackle selected by Atlanta in the 2009 NFL Draft.
The Batesville, Mississippi native developed into an All-America defender and first-round selection.
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Early Life
Jerry is from Batesville, Mississippi.
Ole Miss identified him as a Batesville native.
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High School
Jerry attended South Panola High School in Batesville.
He earned first-team all-state and Class 5A Defensive Player of the Year recognition.
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College Career
Jerry recorded 132 tackles, 33 tackles for loss and 11.5 sacks at Ole Miss.
His 2008 season included 18 tackles for loss, seven sacks and a team captaincy.
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Path to the NFL
Atlanta selected Jerry in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft.
The Falcons chose the Ole Miss defensive tackle 24th overall.
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NFL Career
Jerry played five NFL seasons with Atlanta.
After a rookie knee injury, he compiled 79 tackles, 5.5 sacks, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries before retiring in 2014.
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Career Accomplishments
Jerry was a consensus first-team All-SEC and an All-American in 2008.
He earned a school-record four SEC weekly awards and was a finalist for the Conerly Trophy.
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Playing Style
Jerry was an athletic, strong and quick defensive lineman.
Ole Miss coaches praised his impact against both the run and pass and his daily work ethic.
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Legacy
Jerry helped Ole Miss make school history in the 2009 NFL Draft.
He and Michael Oher became the first Rebel pair selected in the first round of the same NFL Draft.
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Post-Career
Jerry retired from the NFL in 2014.
The Falcons announced his retirement after five seasons.
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22414, 00-0027000, 1984-08-23, Peria Jerry, Peria, Jerry
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