The St. Louis area is well represented with athletes who are in the professional ranks. As a new feature, the St. Louis American will chronicle the progress of these former area standouts.
Adrian Clayborn (Atlanta Falcons): The Webster Groves product enjoyed a performance for the ages in the Falcons victory over the Dallas Cowboys. The defensive end registered a franchise record six quarterback sacks in the Falcons 27-7 victory.
Ezekiel Elliott (Dallas Cowboys): The former John Burroughs Star served the first of his six game suspension and his absence was felt in the Cowboys 27-7 loss at Atlanta last Friday. So far, Elliott has rushed for 791 yards on 191 carries and seven touchdowns.
Jeremy Maclin (Baltimore Ravens): The Kirkwood High product is currently playing for the Ravens after spending the two seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs. For the season, Maclin has 27 receptions for 310 yards and three touchdowns.
Sheldon Richardson (Seattle Seahawks): The former Gateway Tech football Star is in his first season with the Seahawks after four seasons with the Jets. In eight games, the defensive tackle has 10 tackles, two fumble recoveries and one interception.
Jairus Byrd (Carolina Panthers): The former Clayton High Star is currently in his ninth season in the NFL, his first with the Panthers.
Bradley Beal (Washington Wizards): The former Chaminade College Prep All-American guard has developed into one of the top shooting guards in the NBA. Through 12 games, Beal is averaging 24.6 points, 4.6 rebounds and 3.3 assists while shooting 49 percent from the field, 37 percent from 3-point range and 81 percent from the free throw line.
Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics): The former Chaminade College Prep All-American is currently one of the top rookie performers in the NBA. As a starting forward, Tatum has helped the Celtics to a 12-2 record, which is the best in the NBA. Tatum is currently averaging 13.6 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.6 steals while shooting 48 percent from the field and 47 percent from 3-point range.
Patrick McCaw (Golden State Warriors): The second year guard from CBC was able to play a big role off the bench in the Warriors run to the World title last season. He is still a valuable reserve on a loaded Golden State team.
