Jonathan Nelson (American football)

Jonathan Nelson (born May 6, 1988) is an American football safety for the Carolina Panthers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the St. Louis Rams in the seventh round of the 2011 NFL Draft. He played college football at the University of Oklahoma.

Early years
Nelson attended Summit High School in Arlington, Texas. He was a three-year starter at cornerback. According to his coaches opponents threw away from his side of the field and as a result he ended the season with only one interception. The previous season he made 40 tackles and recovered four fumbles and recorded one interception. Nelson was a sprinter on the track team.

College career
Having previously been a backup throughout his career, Nelson broke out as a senior at the University of Oklahoma, making 102 tackles and broke up seven passes and intercepted two passes. He was rewarded by being selected All-Big 12 Honorable Mention for the second consecutive season. In 2009, as a junior, Nelson was chosen honorable mention All-Big 12. He had began the season as a nickel back, but started the final three games of the season and recorded 46 tackles while also intercepting 3 passes. As a sophomore, Nelson played on special teams, making seven tackles on the season. In 2007, he played in just two games due to injury. In his first year at Oklahoma, he redshirted the 2006 season for the Sooners.

St. Louis Rams
Nelson was drafted with the 229th pick in the 2011 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Rams. He was waived during final roster cuts on September 3, 2011, but was re-signed to the team's practice squad on September 4. He was released from the practice squad on September 13.

Carolina Panthers
Nelson was signed to the Panthers' practice squad on November 16, 2011. He was promoted to the active roster by the Carolina Panthers on December 23, 2011. He appeared in the final two games of the regular season, recording nine tackles and one interception in the games combined.