Jeffrey Carl Backus (born September 21, 1977 in Midland, Michigan) is an offensive tackle in the National Football League. Backus played football for the University of Michigan. He was drafted in the middle of the first round in the 2001 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions. He signed a new, six-year deal with the Lions on July 13, 2006.

[edit] High school career

Backus attended Norcross High School (Norcross, Georgia), and was a standout in football and baseball. He spent his freshman year at Marist School in Dunwoody before returning to Norcross, where he played his middle school years. In football, as a senior, he was a USA Today All-America selection, and was chosen by the Gwinnett Touchdown Club as the Gwinnett Touchdown Club's Lineman of the Year.

[edit] Professional career

[edit] Detroit Lions

In July 2001, Jeff Backus signed a $7 million 5 year contract with the Lions, including $3.2 million sign bonus.

In July 2006, Jeff Backus signed a $40 million 6 year contract with the Lions.

He has become known as Jeff "Backusup", or Jeff "Sackus" because he has been one of the worst left tackles in the NFL for years. Some praise him for his games played streak, but he is always in the bottom of the league in the sacks allowed category, and is only starting because the Lions haven't drafted a replacement.

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