How a college breakout led to an NFL Pro Bowl appearance
In short: After two years without a single reception at LSU, D. J. Chark transformed into a speedster known as "The Flash." His rapid ascent from a quiet collegiate start to a high-value NFL draft pick and eventual Pro Bowl selection showcases the volatile, high-reward nature of professional football.
D. J. Chark's journey to the NFL was defined by a dramatic statistical surge. After playing for Louisiana State University (LSU) from 2014 to 2017, he spent his first two seasons without recording a single reception. However, his performance shifted drastically in 2016, when he recorded 26 receptions for 466 yards and three touchdowns. By his senior year in 2017, he had expanded that output to 40 receptions for 874 yards and three touchdowns, earning him the nickname "The Flash" due to his straight-ahead speed.
This collegiate momentum carried into the 2018 NFL draft process. After being named co-MVP of the 2018 Reese's Senior Bowl, Chark was selected in the second round by the Jacksonville Jaguars with the 61st overall pick. He signed a four-year, $4.44 million contract with the team, which included a $1.31 million signing bonus. His rookie year was a modest start with 14 receptions for 174 yards, but he quickly found his rhythm in 2019.
Chark's 2019 season was a career highlight, where he recorded 73 receptions for 1,008 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. This performance made him only the fifth player in Jaguars franchise history to reach 1,000 receiving yards in a season. His impact was significant enough to earn him a 2020 Pro Bowl selection as a replacement for Tyreek Hill. Throughout his career, Chark moved between several teams, including the Detroit Lions, Carolina Panthers, Los Angeles Chargers, and Atlanta Falcons, before announcing his retirement in March 2026 after seven seasons.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: D. J. Chark
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