Summary
Selected by the New York Giants in the second round of the 1997 NFL Draft, Tiki Barber’s first few rookie years did not go well. Plagued by knee injuries, he was replaced as a starter. After doing his own endurance training by running up a steep, two-mile hill near his home, he rebounded and established himself as a starter and playmaker. In 2000, Barber started 12 games, ran for more than 1,000 yards for the first time as a pro, and notched 2,000 all-purpose yards. In 2006, at a time when most running backs late in their career are physically breaking down, Barber had a stellar year. He became the fourth running back in NFL history to lead his respective franchise in career receptions and the third player in NFL history to gain more than 10,000 rushing yards and 5,000 receiving yards in an NFL career. Barber retired at his peak in 2006 and has since been seen in quite a few controversial headlines.
About the Author(s)
David A. Aretha has written more than 30 books for young readers, including books on the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers. He has also edited dozens of sports and history books, including Football Legends of All Time and Michigan Football: Yesterday & Today.