History of Sauce Gardner in Timeline
Ahmad "Sauce" Gardner is a highly touted American football cornerback currently playing for the New York Jets in the NFL. He was drafted fourth overall in the 2022 NFL Draft after a successful college career with the Cincinnati Bearcats. Notably, in his rookie year, Gardner earned the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award and was named first-team All-Pro, a feat not achieved by a rookie cornerback since 1981. His exceptional performance quickly established him as a prominent player in the league.
1981: Ronnie Lott All-Pro Selection
In 1981, Ronnie Lott was the last rookie cornerback before Sauce Gardner to be named first-team All-Pro.
August 31, 2000: Ahmad "Sauce" Gardner Born
On August 31, 2000, Ahmad "Sauce" Gardner was born. He is now a professional football cornerback for the New York Jets.
2019: Freshman Season
In 2019, during his true freshman season, Gardner played in 11 games, achieving 31 tackles, three interceptions, and being named to the American Athletic Conference first-team.
2020: Starter
In 2020, Gardner began his sophomore season as a starter, marking a progression in his college football career.
2021: All-America Team and AAC Defensive Player of the Year
In 2021, Gardner was voted to the College Football All-America Team and named the AAC Defensive Player of the Year.
May 7, 2022: Signed Rookie Contract with Jets
On May 7, 2022, Gardner signed a four-year rookie contract with the New York Jets, worth $38.7 million fully guaranteed.
2022: Declared for NFL Draft
Following the 2021 season, Gardner declared for the 2022 NFL draft, transitioning from college to professional football.
2022: Partnership with Buffalo Wild Wings
In 2022, Gardner partnered with Buffalo Wild Wings to endorse "Sauce Sauce", a sweet and spicy barbecue sauce, leveraging his nickname for commercial purposes.
2022: Drafted by the New York Jets
In 2022, Sauce Gardner was drafted fourth overall by the New York Jets, marking a significant milestone in his career.
2023: All-Pro Honors
During the 2023 season, Gardner earned Pro Bowl and first-team All-Pro honors, marking his consistent performance in the league.
2023: Pro Bowl and NFL Top 100 Selection
In 2023, Gardner was selected for the Pro Bowl Games and was ranked 23rd by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players list, solidifying his status as a top player in the league.
