By C.S. Howard

Dominique Rodgers Cromartie is a two-time pro-bowler who was named to his first Pro Bowl following only his second season in the NFL while playing for the Arizona Cardinals. He was drafted by Arizona with the 16th overall pick in 2008. His 40-yard dash time was one of the fastest among NFL players during that time.

Even with an impressive resumé of accomplishments and a successful 12-year career in the NFL, there was one thing Rodgers Cromartie did not have: a college diploma. That changed on January 6th when he graduated from Tennessee State University with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from the College of Liberal Arts. He is proof that it’s never too late to go back to school and graduate – even if it’s 16 years later.

Before going to the NFL, Rodgers Cromartie attended Lakewood Ranch High School where he was an All Area, All-Class 5A and All District 11 defensive back and wide receiver. He was named the most underrated prospect in Florida by the High School Recruiting Report. At Tennessee State, he was an all-conference track and field athlete and also played football. Rodgers-Cromartie went on to play for several teams in the NFL and finished his career in 2018, amassing 455 tackles, 30 interceptions, 7 forced fumbles and 7 defensive touchdowns.

Getting a degree was a goal that RodgersCromartie never lost sight of and was a dream come true for him. “I knew I was going to finish college and get my degree no matter what,” he said.

“When I start something, I always try to finish it. My parents always stressed the importance of getting an education so I never lost sight of that.”

Rodgers-Cromartie tried taking classes during his football career but that didn’t work for him. “I needed to concentrate on my career at the time but I knew that the day would come when I would make getting my degree a top priority.”

Rodgers-Cromartie hopes that with this accomplishment he can inspire others to do the same. “Believe in yourself whole heartedly and have faith that you will reach your goals. Life may be hard but no matter what it takes to get there, make sure you do it.” Rodgers-Cromartie now devotes his time to the Dominique Rodgers Cromartie Foundation (DRC Foundation) mentoring community youth and providing avenues for them to succeed.