The Rise and Fall of Vernon Carey: A Football Legend's Son

By Justin Rubin November 27, 2023 06:48

Photo by Brian Fluharty, USA TODAY

Vernon Carey Jr., the son of former NFL player Vernon Carey Sr., was once poised to follow in his father's footsteps and make a name for himself in professional sports. However, his journey took an unexpected turn, leading to questions about what happened to Vernon Carey and why his promising career failed to materialize.

Vernon Carey Jr. was born on July 31, 1981, in the shadow of his father's successful football career. Growing up with a passion for sports, Carey Jr. had the genetics and drive to excel. He attended the University of Miami, a renowned football program, where he showcased his skills as an offensive tackle.

In 2004, Carey Jr.'s dreams came true when he was selected in the first round of the NFL Draft by the Miami Dolphins. It was a significant achievement for the young athlete, who had worked tirelessly to reach this milestone. Joining the Dolphins, Carey Jr. had high hopes of making a significant impact on the field.

Carey Jr. went on to have a successful career with the Dolphins, starting in over 100 games and earning various honors and awards. His dedication and talent made him a valuable asset to the team, and he became a key player on the offensive line. For eight seasons, Carey Jr. showcased his skills and contributed to the Dolphins' success.

However, all good things must come to an end. After the 2011 season, Carey Jr. made the difficult decision to retire from professional football. The reasons behind his retirement remain private, but it marked a turning point in his life. With his football career behind him, Carey Jr. had to navigate the uncertainties of life outside the sport.

Years later, Vernon Carey Jr. resurfaced in the world of basketball. In 2020, he was drafted by the Utah Jazz, indicating a potential career shift. However, the Jazz ultimately decided to release him, leaving fans wondering what went wrong. It appears that Carey Jr. struggled to find his place in the team's rotation, despite his strong performance in the G League. His athletic limitations may have played a role in the decision, highlighting the challenges of transitioning from one sport to another.

After being waived by the Wizards, Carey Jr. may have the opportunity to sign with the Capital City Go-Go, the Wizards' G League affiliate, to finish the season. This could provide him with valuable playing time and a chance to further develop his skills. Additionally, the Wizards may look for a veteran backup big man to fill the roster spot, indicating that Carey Jr.'s release was not solely based on his performance.

The story of Vernon Carey Jr. serves as a reminder that success in the world of professional sports is never guaranteed. Despite his early promise and successful football career, Carey Jr. faced setbacks and challenges in his transition to basketball. However, his determination and love for the game may yet lead him to find success in the future. Only time will tell what lies ahead for Vernon Carey Jr. and his journey in the world of sports.