Bennie Joppru

Benjamin Paul Joppru^[1] (born January 5, 1980) is an American former professional football player who was a tight end in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Michigan Wolverines, earning All-American honors. Joppru was selected by the Houston Texans in the second round of the 2003 NFL draft,^[2] He was also a member of the Seattle Seahawks and the Chicago Bears.

Bennie Joppru

No. 83, 47
Position:	Tight end
Personal information
Born:	(1980-01-05) January 5, 1980 (age 45) Dickinson, North Dakota, U.S.
Height:	6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)
Weight:	260 lb (118 kg)
Career information
High school:	Minnetonka (Minnetonka, Minnesota)
College:	Michigan
NFL draft:	2003: 2nd round, 41st pick
Career history
Houston Texans (2003–2006) Chicago Bears (2006)* Seattle Seahawks (2006–2007)
* Offseason and/or practice squad member only
Career highlights and awards
First-team All-American (2002) Second-team All-Big Ten (2002)
Stats at Pro Football Reference

College career

In 2002, his senior season at Michigan, Joppru had 53 receptions for 579 yards and 5 touchdowns, setting a single-season school record for receptions by a tight end. For his efforts he was named a first-team All-American by Pro Football Weekly, and a third-team selection by the AP.^[3][4] In his career at Michigan Joppru started 24 games, ending his career with 85 receptions for 800 yards and eight touchdowns.

Professional career

Pre-draft measurables

Height	Weight	Arm length	Hand span	Vertical jump	Broad jump	Bench press
6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)	272 lb (123 kg)	32+1⁄4 in (0.82 m)	10 in (0.25 m)	30+1⁄2 in (0.77 m)	9 ft 1 in (2.77 m)	19 reps
All values from NFL Combine.[5]

After being drafted, Joppru spent his first four NFL seasons with the Texans. Following his tenure in Houston, the Chicago Bears signed Joppru to their practice squad on October 10, 2006.^[6] However, in November 2006, the Seattle Seahawks signed Joppru from the Bears' practice squad.^[7]

Personal life

Joppru's father, Sheldon played in the World Football League for the Shreveport Steamer and the Detroit Wheels. His brother, J. J., played defensive line at Fullerton College before going to the University of Arizona. Another brother, Chris, was the starting tight end for the undefeated 2008 Utah Utes football team.

See also

• Lists of Michigan Wolverines football receiving leaders