Derek Sinclair Cox (born September 22, 1986) is an American former professional football player who was a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL). He was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the third round of the 2009 NFL draft. He played college football for the William & Mary Tribe.

Cox was also a member of the San Diego Chargers, Minnesota Vikings, Baltimore Ravens, and New England Patriots.

Early life

Cox attended Junius H. Rose High School in Greenville, North Carolina. He played with Houston Texans running back Andre Brown.

College career

Cox was a four-year starter for William & Mary. He was a two-time All-Colonial Athletic Association selection and finished his senior season tied for fifth in the CAA with four interceptions and returned a pair of those for touchdowns.

Professional career

Jacksonville Jaguars

2009 with the Jacksonville Jaguars

Despite not being invited to the NFL Scouting Combine, Cox was selected by the Jaguars in the third round of the 2009 NFL draft with the 73rd overall pick.

In his first NFL game, Cox intercepted a Peyton Manning pass intended for Reggie Wayne and also recovered a fumble. Cox finished his rookie season with 58 tackles and 4 interceptions.

Cox missed the first two games of the 2012 season due to an injury and returned in Week 3 to face the Indianapolis Colts. Cox finished the 2012 campaign with a career best 60 tackles; he also had 1 FF and 4 interceptions.

San Diego Chargers

On March 13, 2013, Cox agreed to a four-year deal with the San Diego Chargers In week 6, Cox intercepted Andrew Luck to help win the game. Cox was benched three times during the regular season due to inconsistent play. He lost his starting job to veteran Richard Marshall in week 13. Cox finished the season on special teams and managed career-lows, 38 tackles and only 1 interception. He was released on March 4, 2014.

Minnesota Vikings

On March 13, 2014, Cox signed a one-year contract with the Minnesota Vikings. He was cut after the third preseason game, on August 25, 2014.

Baltimore Ravens

On August 27, 2014, Cox signed a one-year contract with the Baltimore Ravens. He was released three days later. Cox did not play in the 2014 season.

New England Patriots

On June 8, 2015, Cox was signed by the New England Patriots; the team released him on August 1, 2015.

NFL awards and honors

  • Athlon Sports All-Rookie Team (2009)
  • Ourlads Scouting All-Rookie Team (2009)
  • 2010 Pro Bowl Alternate

NFL career statistics

Legend
BoldCareer high

Regular season

YearTeamGamesTacklesInterceptionsFumbles
GPGSCmbSoloAstSckTFLIntYdsTDLngPDFFFRYdsTD
2009JAX16167258140.014606110150
2010JAX1311494180.0141401480000
2011JAX66221660.01000020000
2012JAX1212605550.01418016111000
2013SDG1611383440.00120270000
6356241204370.041340016391150

Playoffs

YearTeamGamesTacklesInterceptionsFumbles
GPGSCmbSoloAstSckTFLIntYdsTDLngPDFFFRYdsTD
2013SDG200000.00000000000
200000.00000000000

External links