Jessie Armstead

Dallas Carter High School

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Inducted in 1999

Armstead, a two time all-state linebacker, anchored the defense on Dallas Carter’s 1988 5A state championship team. Coach Freddie James’ Cowboys posted a 14-0-1 record and defeated Converse Judson, 31-14, in the title game. Armstead was named SuperPrep National Player of the Year after amassing 302 tackles, 18 sacks, 4 interceptions and 8 fumble recoveries his senior season. PARADE MAGAZINE named him Sophomore of the Year and a three-time member of its all-America team. Armstead played in the 1989 THSCA All-Star Game and made USA TODAY’s Top 25 team. Considered by some services the nation's top recruit, Armstead signed with Miami and helped the Hurricanes win national titles in 1989 and '91. Despite a major knee injury in college that dropped his NFL stock, Armstead spent 11 years in the pros with the New York Giants and Washington Redskins, earning five Pro Bowl berths (1997-2001). In 1997 he broke Lawrence Taylor’s Giants single-season record for tackles with 134, and finished his career with 991 tackles, 40 sacks and 12 interceptions.