He played college football for the University of Florida, and was a member of a BCS National Championship team.

He was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the first round (eighth overall) of the 2008 NFL draft, and also played for the Denver Broncos.

He led his team to a 12-1 record and the Maryland Class 4A state semi-finals, where they lost their only game of the season.

[3] He saw limited action in nine games in 2005, playing behind starters Ray McDonald and Jarvis Moss at both defensive end positions, and compiled six tackles (four solo) with a six-yard quarterback sack and a pass deflection.

[3] He recorded thirty-five tackles (twenty-four solo) and led the team with 11 sacks (fifth-best season total in Gators' history), and recovered three fumbles and caused another.

[3] He was recognized as a second-team All-Southeastern Conference (SEC) selection, in addition to receiving most valuable player accolades for his performance in the Gators' 41–14 victory over the Ohio State Buckeyes in the 2007 BCS National Championship Game.

[4] He also compiled ninety tackles (fifty-nine solo), caused two fumbles and recovered three, and deflected six passes.