David Irons, Jr.
Atlanta Falcons – CB #30



David Irons (born October 9, 1982) is a defensive back that played for Auburn University in college and was selected by the Atlanta Falcons (http://www.atlantafalcons.com/People/Players/Active/David_Irons.aspx) with the 20th pick of the 6th round in the 2007 NFL Draft.



David’s Story

As a week-old infant, David Jr. had an allergic reaction that put him in intensive care for three days at a hospital in Camden, N.J. The family is certain the trauma contributed to David Jr.’s learning disability, a diagnosis that was made when he was in second grade. By the time he was 12, when the family moved to Dacula, Georgia, he had been through years of ridicule.



David Jr. received a bachelor’s degree in sociology with a focus on social work. “I wanted that major so I could learn social work and how to help kids like me,” he said. “I earned this. I always wondered what people thought of me when they would walk by the classroom with just a few of us kids in it. I know they were saying, ‘There is the team’s star player, but he’s just a dumb football player.’ ”



David’s College Career

Irons began his college career at Butler Community College in 2001 but was unable to play that season due to a knee injury and resulting surgery. In the 2002 season, he recorded 45 tackles and two interceptions. In 2003, he helped lead the BCC Grizzlies to a NJCAA National Championship with 59 tackles, three interceptions, and nine pass breakups.



After moving on to Auburn in 2004, David again injured his knee in pre-season practice and did not play in the Tigers' undefeated season. He was able to return and start in eleven games in 2005 and was named to the AP All-SEC Second-Team with 48 tackles (36 solo, 12 assists) and 11 pass break-ups. Due to his knee injuries, Irons applied for and was granted an additional year of eligibility by the NCAA. He had already graduated with a Bachelors of Arts in Sociology, but began coursework towards a Master's Degree in the fall semester of 2006 to maintain eligibility. Prior to the 2006 season, David was named to the Coaches All-SEC First Team and the Jim Thorpe Award Preseason Watch List. Irons finished the regular season with 39 tackles (22 solo, 17 assists), 11 pass break-ups and two interceptions and was named to the Coaches All-SEC Second Team.

For more information about Auburn University: www.auburn.edu



David’s Charity

David is the national spokesman for the Learning Disabilities Association of America (“LDA.”) LDA's mission is to create opportunities for success for all individuals affected by learning disabilities and to reduce the incidence of learning disabilities in future generations.



In partnership with Iron 2 Impact, Inc., Atlanta, Georgia, David works extensively with youth in public schools and in the community to make a positive impact in the lives. He also supports local businesses that are forwarding thinking, community-focused, promoting diversity and foster a sense of community.



To learn more about learning disabilities, click: http://www.ldaamerica.org