Short BIOGRAPHY

about Derek

Derek Fine is a proud member of the Cherokee Nation. Fine's athletic prowess emerged at Sallisaw High School, where he set school records for receiving yards in a season and career. Selected as an All-State Tight End and participating in the Oil Bowl All-Star game, Fine's success brought pride to his community. At the University of Kansas, Fine excelled as a tight end and on special teams, earning the role of team captain in 2006 and 2007. He helped lead the Jayhawks to a 12-1 record and a 2008 Orange Bowl Championship in his senior season.

Fine was drafted in the fourth round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills, marking a significant milestone for aspiring athletes within the Cherokee Nation. His NFL career included stints with the Buffalo Bills, St. Louis Rams, and Houston Texans. Fine's journey from Oklahoma to the NFL is an inspiration to young athletes, especially those within the Cherokee Nation. Derek Fine resides in Kansas City with his wife, Lindsey, and their three children, working as an insurance broker with USI Insurance.