Chris Hogan

Chris Hogan – Life, Career, and Notable Reflections

Dive into the journey of Chris Hogan — dual-sport athlete, NFL wide receiver, Super Bowl champion, lacrosse player, and entrepreneur. Explore his biography, milestones, transitions, and perspectives.

Introduction

Christopher James “Chris” Hogan (born October 24, 1987) is an American former professional athlete best known as an NFL wide receiver who played for 10 seasons. Today, his path—from undrafted free agent to champion—offers lessons in adaptability, perseverance, and embracing varied athletic interests.

Early Life and Family

Chris Hogan was born and raised in Wyckoff, New Jersey, where he attended Ramapo High School. football and lacrosse. His athletic versatility early on laid the foundation for his later dual-sport pursuits.

He comes from a family that supported his athletic ambitions—his wife Ashley Boccio is a podiatrist, and the two met during their time playing lacrosse in college.

Youth and Education

Lacrosse Beginnings at Penn State

Hogan’s first collegiate athletic pursuit was lacrosse. He attended Penn State University on a lacrosse scholarship and started all 13 games in his freshman year, scoring 11 goals.

Transition to Football at Monmouth

Because of the injury‐affected lacrosse seasons, Hogan had remaining athletic eligibility after graduating. He decided to pivot and play college football at Monmouth University for one season. 12 receptions for 147 yards and 3 touchdowns on offense, and contributing in defense and special teams as needed.

This strategic switch proved crucial—though unconventional, it enabled him to pursue a path toward the NFL.

Professional Career & Achievements

Early NFL Journey

Hogan entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2011, initially signing with the San Francisco 49ers. New York Giants and Miami Dolphins (mostly on practice squads), before getting an opportunity to make a roster. Buffalo Bills practice squad and was eventually promoted to the active roster later that season.

With the Bills, Hogan’s breakout came in 2014: he caught 41 passes for 426 yards and 4 touchdowns.

Peak Years with the Patriots

In 2016, Hogan signed a three-year contract with the New England Patriots. He seized opportunities and had some standout performances. For example:

• In a game against the Baltimore Ravens, he caught a 79-yard touchdown, the longest of his career.

• In the AFC Championship Game vs. Pittsburgh, he made 9 catches for 180 yards and 2 touchdowns—a postseason game receiver record for the Patriots at the time.

• That postseason included Super Bowl LI, in which Hogan recorded 4 receptions for 57 yards and helped the Patriots win the title after a dramatic comeback versus the Falcons.

In 2017, he continued to contribute, including in Super Bowl LII, where he had 6 catches for 128 yards and a touchdown. Though the Patriots lost that game, Hogan’s performance stood out. 2018, Hogan was part of the Patriots’ roster that won Super Bowl LIII.

Later Years & Retirement

After his stint with New England, Hogan played for the Carolina Panthers (2019), the New York Jets (2020), and finally the New Orleans Saints (2021). October 23, 2021.

Across his NFL career, his cumulative statistics include 105 games, 220 receptions, 2,836 receiving yards, and 19 touchdowns.

Furthermore, in 2021—after his NFL career—Hogan returned to lacrosse, entering the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL) draft, ultimately playing for the Cannons and later the Whipsnakes lacrosse clubs.

Legacy and Influence

Chris Hogan’s story is often celebrated for its nontraditional pathway. He was undrafted, switched sports, and yet carved out a successful NFL career. His journey inspires athletes who may not take the conventional route.

Because of his background, he straddles the worlds of football and lacrosse—a dual-sport identity rarely seen at the professional level. His willingness to revisit lacrosse later shows his commitment to his roots and athletic versatility.

As a two-time Super Bowl champion, he’s etched his name in NFL history, while also illustrating that persistence and adaptation can overcome early career obstacles.

Personality, Values & Perspectives

While less is widely published about his off-field philosophy compared to his athletic stats, a few themes emerge:

• Resilience & patience: Hogan’s persistence through practice squads, position switches, and limited opportunities speaks to mental fortitude.

• Humility: He often acknowledges the roles others played—coaches, teammates, opportunities—in helping him succeed.

• Rooted identity: Even during his NFL career, he remained proud of his lacrosse origins, referencing his time at Penn State in broadcasts.

• Entrepreneurial transition: Post-playing, Hogan has moved into business ventures. For instance, he co-founded Undrafted Ventures, a private equity firm that invests in various businesses (like Tomahawk Shades and Evolution Physical Therapy) and supports athletes with business education.

Notable Quotes & Reflections

I did not find many widely cited quotations in major interviews, but here are sentiments and reflections derived from his story and public statements:

• Hogan often refers to himself as “undrafted” even after success—as a means of remembering his roots and motivations.

• In describing his transition from lacrosse to football, he has discussed the importance of seizing opportunities when they appear, even if they diverge from initial goals.

• His public persona underscores gratitude for teammates, coaches, and support systems, often framing success as collective rather than solitary.

Lessons from Chris Hogan

From his life and career, some key lessons stand out:

1. It’s never too late to switch paths
   Hogan pivoted from lacrosse to football after college, showing that flexibility can open new doors—even ones you didn’t originally aim for.

2. Persistence beats setback
   Being undrafted, riding the practice squad, and moving through multiple teams could deter many. Hogan stayed the course.

3. Diverse skills can become strengths
   His lacrosse roots contributed to his athleticism and spatial sense—skills transferable to wide receiver.

4. Stay connected to your roots
   Returning to lacrosse after the NFL shows loyalty to one’s beginnings and passions, not just lucrative options.

5. Prepare for life after sport
   By entering business and investment ventures, Hogan exemplifies planning beyond one’s playing years.

Conclusion

Chris Hogan’s biography is more than that of a football player—it’s a narrative about adaptability, duality, and tenacity. From being a lacrosse standout to making an NFL mark, winning championships, and then returning to his first love of lacrosse, his path is unconventional but illuminating. His success offers encouragement to those navigating transitions, obstacles, or nontraditional routes in their own lives.