Sam Acho

Samuel Onyedikachi Acho (born September 6, 1988) is an American football linebacker for the Arizona Cardinals. Acho played college football at the University of Texas.

Early years
Acho attended St. Mark's School in Dallas, Texas. He had 12 sacks as a senior and 10 as a junior and was a team co-captain both years. He was also the state private school champion in both the shot put and discus.

College career
As a freshman in 2007, Acho played in 11 games, recording six tackles and a sack. As a sophomore in 2008, he recorded 15 tackles and three sacks. As a junior in 2009, Acho became a starter, starting all 14 games. He was an honorable mention All-Big 12 by The Associated Press after recording 55 tackles and eight sacks. Acho was the winner of the William V. Campbell Trophy (2010). This prestigious award is given to college football's top scholar-athlete. In 2010, he was named as a finalist for the Lott Trophy. After the 2010 season, his teammates named him the MVP of the team. In October, 2010, the Sporting News named Sam one of the 20 smartest athletes in America, a list that included 2 other college players and 17 professionals from the four major American sports.

Personal
Acho's brother, Emmanuel Acho, also played football for Texas, where he was a consensus All Big 12 linebacker in 2011. Emmanuel is currently with the Cleveland Browns.

Arizona Cardinals
Acho was selected by the Arizona Cardinals with the 103rd pick overall of the 2011 NFL Draft.

In his rookie season as a Cardinal, he made 40 tackles, had 7 sacks, and generated 4 forced fumbles.