Early Career and NFL Beginnings
Ahkello Witherspoon began his NFL journey as a third-round selection out of Colorado in 2016. He spent his initial four seasons with a West Coast franchise, where he honed his skills and built a reputation as a capable cornerback. His early development set the stage for subsequent moves in a career marked by resilience and adaptability.
A Cross-Country Journey to Pittsburgh
After his initial stint, Witherspoon’s path took him from the West Coast to the Pacific Northwest before landing a trade that brought him to Pittsburgh in September 2021. Joining the Pittsburgh team via a trade deal, he appeared in nine games that season, starting in three contests. During this period, he registered 15 tackles, defended nine passes, and recorded three interceptions. A subsequent two-year contract worth $8 million was agreed upon in March 2022. However, a hamstring injury limited him to just four games during that span, leading to his release the following May.
Return and Reclamation in Los Angeles
The Los Angeles team brought Witherspoon back on a one-year deal as he sought to reclaim his position among the elite at his position. In his most recent full season, he solidified his role by starting in all 17 games, amassing 52 tackles, defending 14 passes, and adding three interceptions to his stat line. In the campaign that followed, he appeared in 13 contests—starting in five—and accumulated 31 tackles, nine passes defended, and an interception.
A Determined Pursuit of Elite Status
With this new chapter in Los Angeles, Witherspoon aims to re-establish himself as a premier cornerback. His journey reflects the ups and downs of professional sports—a continuous quest for consistency and excellence. The move underscores his determination to bounce back from setbacks and make a significant impact on the field, as he works to secure his legacy in the NFL.