Asante Samuel - Football (1999-2002) - Class of 2015
One of the most electrifying players to put on a UCF uniform, Samuel had 127 tackles (102 solos), eight interceptions, 38 break-ups, 63 punt returns for 673 yards (10.8 avg) and 10 kickoff returns for 168 yards (16.8 avg.) as a Knight.
Samuel joined the UCF Athletics Hall of Fame ranked eighth in career interceptions, and 10th in a single-season with four picks in 2002. His 38 break-ups broke the school's career-record of 34. He also ranks among the top punt returners for season return average (12.3 in 2002, #6) and career average (10.7, #6).
Samuel was a team captain, and as a senior in 2002 was an All-MAC First-Team selection recording 48 tackles (42 solos) with three tackles for loss and deflected 15 passes. He returned 19 punts for 233 yards (12.3 average) in 2002 as well
As a junior in 2001, Samuel was an All-Independent First-Team selection by Football News, boasting 41 tackles (31 solos) with two picks and a team-high 13 break-ups. He returned 19 punts for 165 yards (8.7 average) that season.
In 2000, Samuel played in every game, recording 26 tackles (23 solos) with two interceptions and six break-ups. He totaled 25 punt returns for 275 yards (11.0 average) and 10 kickoff returns for 168 yards (16.8 average) as a sophomore.
In his first campaign, he played in every game as a freshman, posting 12 tackles with four break-ups and a forced fumble.
After his UCF career, Samuel was drafted by the New England Patriots in the fourth round in 2003. He went on to become a three-time Super Bowl champion, and a four-time Pro Bowl selection in 11 seasons in the NFL. Samuel suited up for the Patriots, Eagles and Falcons from 2003-13, and holds the NFL Postseason record with four interceptions returned for a touchdown and 227 interception return yards.