Derrick McLendon Bio
Derrick McLendon II is an American professional football linebacker currently with the Miami Dolphins of the National Football League (NFL). Born on September 29, 2000, he played college football at Florida State University and the University of Colorado before entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2024.
Early Life and Background
Derrick McLendon II was born in Atlanta, Georgia, and grew up in a sports-oriented family. His father, Derrick Sr., played college football for the Chattanooga Mocs. McLendon began playing basketball at age three and football at age four, showing early athletic promise. He attended Tucker High School in DeKalb County, Georgia, where he played football as a defensive end. During his high school career, he recorded 85 tackles, 20.5 tackles-for-loss, and 10.5 sacks over three years, including 35 tackles and six sacks as a senior.
Path to American Football
As a three-star recruit, McLendon committed to Florida State University to play college football. His high school performance and athletic versatility made him a promising defensive prospect. At Florida State, he developed his skills further, gaining experience and contributing to the Seminoles’ defense. After several seasons, he transferred to the University of Colorado to complete his collegiate career, seeking new opportunities to showcase his abilities at the NCAA Division I level.
Derrick McLendon Career
Early Career (2019–2023)
McLendon redshirted his true freshman year at Florida State in 2019, appearing in four games and recording 0.5 tackles for loss. Over the next three seasons, he became a regular contributor, playing in every game during the 2020 and 2021 seasons. He posted seven tackles and 2.5 tackles for loss in 2020, followed by 4.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks in 2021. In 2022, McLendon started 12 of 13 games, tallying 37 tackles, 5.0 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks. He finished his Florida State tenure with 61 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss, and seven sacks in 38 games. In 2023, he transferred to the Colorado Buffaloes, where he appeared in 12 games and recorded 14 tackles and 1.5 sacks.
Carolina Panthers and Miami Dolphins Era (2024–Present)
After going undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft, Derrick McLendon signed with the Carolina Panthers as a free agent. However, he was waived during final roster cuts in August 2024. Shortly thereafter, McLendon joined the Miami Dolphins practice squad in September 2024. He spent the entire season on the practice squad, signing a reserve/future contract with the Dolphins in January 2025. McLendon was briefly waived in August 2025 but re-signed to the practice squad the following day. He was elevated to the active roster for the Dolphins’ Week 17 and Week 18 games, marking his NFL debut. In January 2026, McLendon signed another reserve/future contract with Miami, continuing his professional career with the team.
Playing Style and Strengths
Derrick McLendon is known for his size and athleticism as a linebacker, standing 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 250 pounds. His experience as a defensive end in high school and college contributes to his versatility in pass rushing and run defense. McLendon’s physicality and ability to read plays make him a valuable asset on defense, with potential to develop further under NFL coaching staff guidance.
Notable Events and Milestones
McLendon’s elevation to the Miami Dolphins active roster in late 2025 marked a significant milestone in his professional career, representing his transition from practice squad member to active NFL player. His journey from undrafted free agent to active roster contributor highlights his perseverance and development as a professional athlete.
Derrick McLendon Career Wins
As a linebacker, Derrick McLendon’s career contributions are measured more by defensive statistics than traditional wins. His collegiate career featured consistent defensive production, and he continues to build his professional resume with the Miami Dolphins. While individual wins are not applicable, his progression to active NFL play is a key achievement.
College Football Highlights
During his time at Florida State, McLendon recorded seven sacks and 12.5 tackles for loss, demonstrating his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. His transfer to Colorado allowed him to gain additional playing time and experience in a different defensive system, further preparing him for the professional level.
Professional Highlights
McLendon’s signing with the Miami Dolphins and subsequent elevation to the active roster in the 2025 NFL season are notable professional milestones. His persistence in securing a role on an NFL team after going undrafted reflects his dedication and potential for future contributions.
Derrick McLendon Family
Family Background and Football Lineage
Derrick McLendon II comes from a football family; his father, Derrick Sr., played college football for the Chattanooga Mocs. This background provided McLendon with early exposure to the sport and a supportive environment for his athletic development.
Personal Life
Details about McLendon’s personal life, including marital status and residence, are not publicly available. He remains focused on his professional football career.
2025 Season Performance
In the 2025 NFL season, Derrick McLendon spent most of the year on the Miami Dolphins practice squad, developing his skills and adapting to the professional game. He was elevated to the active roster late in the season, appearing in games against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New England Patriots. His performance during these appearances demonstrated his readiness to contribute at the NFL level. McLendon’s continued presence on the Dolphins’ roster and signing of a reserve/future contract indicate the team’s interest in his long-term development.
Looking ahead, McLendon aims to secure a more permanent role on the active roster and increase his impact on the field. His work ethic and physical attributes position him well for growth in the coming seasons.