Dominique Rodgers Cromartie first entered the NFL in 2015 after a standout college career, quickly becoming one of the most talked-about cornerbacks in the league. His journey includes high-profile teams, contract milestones, and consistent Pro Bowl-level play across multiple seasons.
Below is a detailed summary of key career stages for Dominique Rodgers Cromartie, including team tenure, draft details, and contract highlights that define his professional timeline.
| Year | Team | Role | Key Milestone |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | San Diego / Los Angeles Chargers | First-round pick (No. 19 overall) | Drafted and joined the Chargers, starting 10 games as a rookie. |
| 2016 | San Diego / Los Angeles Chargers | Starting cornerback | Named to the 2017 Pro Bowl as a first alternate. |
| 22018 | New York Giants | Trade acquisition | Traded to the Giants, signing a four-year, $62 million contract extension. |
| 2019 | Philadelphia Eagles | Free agency | Signed a one-year deal, contributing in the playoffs. |
| 2020 | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Championship run | Joined the Buccaneers midseason and won Super Bowl LV. |
Early Career and College Development
Before declaring for the 2015 NFL Draft, Cromartie played college football at the University of Southern California (USC). His combination of size, speed, and press-man coverage skills made him one of the top cornerback prospects in his class. Scouts highlighted his ability to disrupt receivers at the line and his closing speed on deep balls, setting the stage for his early entry into the league.
Rookie Season and Chargers Impact
Joining the San Diego Chargers as a first-round pick in 2015, Dominique Rodgers Cromartie immediately stepped into a starting role. In his debut season, he recorded 57 tackles, 12 passes defended, and two interceptions over 10 starts. His performance earned him attention as one of the league’s most athletic corners, and he was later named to the 2017 Pro Bowl as a first alternate, showcasing his growing impact in the AFC West.
New York Giants Tenure and Peak Years
In 2018, the Chargers traded Cromartie to the New York Giants in exchange for a mid-round pick. He signed a lucrative four-year extension, making him one of the highest-paid cornerbacks in the NFL at the time. During his time in New York, he demonstrated elite coverage ability against top receivers and contributed heavily on third-down situations, becoming a cornerstone of the Giants secondary.
Late Career Moves and Championship Success
After his stint with the Giants, Cromartie played for the Philadelphia Eagles in 2019 before joining the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the 2020 season. With Tampa Bay, he earned his first Super Bowl ring in Super Bowl LV, helping the team secure a dominant victory. His veteran presence and press coverage skills provided critical depth to a top-tier secondary late in his career.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
- Dominique Rodgers Cromartie was a first-round pick in the 2015 NFL Draft.
- He played for four NFL teams: Chargers, Giants, Eagles, and Buccaneers.
- Cromartie won a Super Bowl ring with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2020.
- He earned Pro Bowl honors as a first alternate in 2017.
- His tenure with the Giants included a significant contract extension.
FAQ
Reader questions
When was Dominique Rodgers Cromartie drafted and by which team?
He was drafted in 2015 by the San Diego Chargers with the 19th overall pick.
Which team did Cromartie play for during his Super Bowl championship season?
He won Super Bowl LV with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the 2020 season.
Did Cromartie ever make a Pro Bowl during his career?
Yes, he was named a first alternate to the 2017 Pro Bowl while playing for the Los Angeles Chargers.
What was the value of Cromartie’s contract with the New York Giants?
He signed a four-year, $62 million contract extension with the Giants in 2018.