A. J. Nicholson

A.J. Nicholson (born June 25, 1983) is an American football linebacker who was drafted by the National Football League's Cincinnati Bengals in the fifth round of the 2006 NFL Draft (the 157th overall selection) from Florida State University. Recently, Nicholson, along with second-year receiver Chris Henry (who, during his professional career, has been arrested four times on various charges, including driving under the influence, possession of marijuana, speeding, and carrying an unlicensed weapon), was criticized by Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis for their conduct. "I told the people that yes, you embarrass us as an organization, myself, and the coaches when these things occur. Right, wrong or indifferent, there are certain things that you're asked not to be a part of or around. [It] bothers me when someone doesn't quite understand social laws." [1]

[2] Nicholson was subsequently released by the team following the events.

On Saturday, November 17, 2007, he was signed to a one-year deal to play with the Orlando Predators of the Arena Football League.[3]

High School

Nicholson was an All-American linebacker at Mount Tabor High School in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Family

A.J. is the son of Darrell Nicholson who played with the NY Giants and also played linebacker alongside Lawrence Taylor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His brother Derek Nicholson plays linebacker for Florida State University.