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Cameron Wake
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Cameron Wake
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Derek Cameron Wake (born January 30, 1982) is an American former professional football player who was a defensive end and linebacker in the National Football League (NFL) and Canadian Football League (CFL). He played college football for Penn State Nittany Lions, and was signed by the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent in 2005.

Key Information

Wake has also played for the CFL's BC Lions, earning the league's Most Outstanding Rookie Award in 2007. He recorded 39 sacks over his first two seasons in the CFL, earning Western Division All-Star honors as well as the Most Outstanding Defensive Player Award both years.

In 2009, Wake signed with the Miami Dolphins and remained with the team until 2019, when he signed with the Tennessee Titans. Throughout his career, Wake has established himself as one of the premier edge rushers in the NFL. He has been selected to five Pro Bowls (four at defensive end, one at outside linebacker), and is a four-time first or second-team All-Pro. His 98 sacks with the Dolphins rank him second all-time in club history to Pro Football Hall of Famer Jason Taylor's 131 sacks, and his 100.5 career sacks also rank second all-time as an undrafted free agent behind John Randle's 137.5.

Early life

[edit]

Born in Beltsville, Maryland, Wake grew up in the suburban Washington, D.C. area and attended DeMatha High School in Hyattsville, Maryland.[1] He played high school football for the Stags during his time there.[2] During his senior season of 1999, Wake was named The Washington Post Defensive Player of the Year.[3]

College career

[edit]

Following high school, Wake received an athletic scholarship to attend Pennsylvania State University, where he played for the Penn State Nittany Lions football team.[4] He played mainly as a linebacker for the Nittany Lions, but also played defensive end. Wake finished his collegiate career with 191 total tackles, 8.5 quarterback sacks, and 24 tackles for a loss.[citation needed]

Professional career

[edit]

Pre-draft

[edit]
Pre-draft measurables
Height Weight 40-yard dash 10-yard split 20-yard split 20-yard shuttle Three-cone drill Vertical jump Broad jump Bench press
6 ft 2+3⁄4 in
(1.90 m)		 236 lb
(107 kg)		 4.67 s 1.68 s 2.74 s 4.11 s 7.12 s 45.5 in
(1.16 m)		 10 ft 10 in
(3.30 m)		 20 reps
All values from NFL Combine[5][6]

Prior to the 2005 NFL draft, Wake worked out at Penn State's Pro Day and ran a 4.55-second 40-yard dash.[7]

New York Giants

[edit]

Following his college career, Wake joined the New York Giants in April 2005 but was released in June.[8]

BC Lions

[edit]

Wake signed a free agent contract with the BC Lions of the Canadian Football League in May 2007. Switching from linebacker to defensive end, a rejuvenated Wake had an immediate impact with the team, and was named the Defensive Player of the Week for the first week of the 2007 CFL season after an impressive debut (7 tackles, 3 quarterback sacks) in a 24–22 Lions' victory over the Toronto Argonauts.[9]

Wake finished the 2007 season with a league-best 16 sacks and had the only blocked field goal in the CFL that season.[10] He racked up 72 tackles on his way to becoming the first player in CFL history to be named Rookie of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year in the same season.[11]

In 2008, Wake once again led the CFL in sacks (with 23) on his way to another CFL All-Star team selection, a second consecutive Norm Fieldgate Trophy, and he was a unanimous nomination for the CFL's 2008 Most Outstanding Defensive Player award.[12] In 2008, Wake was also named TSN's Friday Night Gladiator of the Year, the first defensive player to win the award.[13]

He was named to The Washington Examiner's CFL All-Decade Team for 2000–2009.[14]

Miami Dolphins

[edit]

"I wanted to eliminate all the fluff. It wasn't about whoever offered the biggest deal. It was about the coaching staffs, the opportunity, the organizations. Miami put themselves above the others in those things."

Cameron Wake, January 2009[15]

At the end of the 2008 CFL season, Wake drew interest from several NFL teams, including the Miami Dolphins, St. Louis Rams, New Orleans Saints, Buffalo Bills and Minnesota Vikings. He worked out for the Dolphins on January 15, 2009.[16]

After receiving interest from 17 total NFL teams and working out for eight, Wake signed with the Dolphins on January 18, 2009.[7] The four-year deal included a $1 million signing bonus and had a potential value of $4.9 million.[7] Wake started the first game of his NFL career during the 2009 season against the Bills in Week 4 and responded with two sacks, four tackles for a loss, and a forced fumble.[17]

During the 2010 season, Wake had a memorable Week 6 against the Green Bay Packers. He had three sacks, including one on third down in overtime, bringing his total to six sacks in five games, already surpassing his total the previous year of 5½ sacks with limited playing time. He ended a game against the Jets with a sack on quarterback Mark Sanchez completing his second of the game. Wake would lead the NFL in sacks at one point and eventually finish third in the NFL (second in the AFC) in sacks. By the end of the season, Wake had recorded 14 sacks, 57 tackles, and three forced fumbles.[18]

Wake was named a starter for the 2011 AFC Pro Bowl team at outside linebacker.[19] Wake was also named to The Sporting News 2010 All-Pro Team and AP's Second All-Pro team.[20] He was 3rd in the league with 52 quarterback pressures, behind only Chris Long and Julius Peppers. He was ranked 63rd by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2011.[21]

On May 5, 2012, Wake signed a four-year contract extension with the Dolphins reported to be worth a total of $49 million, $20 million of which was guaranteed.[22]

After being moved from outside linebacker to defensive end for the 2012 season, Wake had arguably his best season in the NFL. He totaled 53 tackles and 15 sacks, including 4.5 sacks in one game against the Arizona Cardinals. That season, Wake was named a starter for the Pro Bowl for the second time and, together with Randy Starks, became the first of two Dolphins to make the Pro Bowl at two different positions. He was also named a First-team All-Pro by both the AP and the PFWA for the first time in his career.

Wake in 2011

Wake earned AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors for his performance against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 9 of the 2013 season, racking up five tackles, three sacks, two tackles for loss, two quarterback hits and a safety in the Dolphins’ 22–20 overtime victory.[23] Wake sacked Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton in overtime for a safety to end the game, giving the Dolphins a 22–20 victory. It was only the third game in NFL history to end with an overtime safety.[24] He ended the season with 8.5 sacks and another Pro Bowl selection.[25][26]

After an unproductive start to the 2015 season, in which the Dolphins were 1–3 and Wake had one tackle, head coach Joe Philbin was fired and replaced with tight ends coach Dan Campbell. Wake returned to his dominant form, recording six sacks and four forced fumbles in a two-week span, which were both wins against the Titans and Texans. In a game against the Patriots, Wake notched his seventh sack, which put him in second place on the NFL leaderboard, but he was also injured and carried off the field on a later play. On October 30, 2015, NFL Insider Ian Rapoport reported, due to an Achilles injury, that Wake was out for the rest of the 2015 NFL season.[27]

Wake had a bounce-back season in 2016 after the Achilles injury in 2015. On December 17, 2016, Wake got his first career interception by picking off Jets quarterback Bryce Petty. He finished the season with 11.5 sacks, was named to his fifth Pro Bowl and was second-team All-Pro.[28] He was also ranked 62nd on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2017.[29]

On February 18, 2017, Wake signed a two-year contract extension with the Dolphins through the 2018 season, worth up to $18 million.[30][31]

In the 2017 season, Wake started all 16 games, recording 36 combined tackles and 10.5 sacks.[32] He was ranked 74th by his peers on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2018.[33]

In the 2018 season, Wake appeared in and started 14 games. He finished with 6.5 sacks, 36 total tackles, one pass defended, and one forced fumble.[34]

Tennessee Titans

[edit]

On March 13, 2019, Wake signed a three-year, $23 million contract with the Tennessee Titans.[35]

In the season-opener against the Cleveland Browns, Wake sacked Baker Mayfield 2.5 times, putting him in the 100 sacks club.[36] One of his sacks resulted in a safety and his effort helped lead the Titans to a 43–13 win.[37] He was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance.[38] On November 26, 2019, Wake was placed on injured reserve.[39] He played in nine games in the 2019 season.[40]

On March 12, 2020, Wake was released by the Titans.[41]

Career statistics

[edit]

CFL statistics

[edit]
Year Team Games Tackles Interceptions Fumbles
GP GS Cmb Sck PD Int Yds Avg Lng TD FF FR Yds TD
2007 BC 18 18 72 16.0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 3 0 0 0
2008 BC 18 18 65 23.0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 5 3 45 1
Total 36 36 137 39.0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 8 3 45 1

NFL statistics

[edit]
Year Team Games Tackles Interceptions Fumbles
GP GS Cmb Solo Ast Sck PD Int Yds Avg Lng TD FF FR Yds
2009 MIA 14 1 23 19 4 5.5 1 0 0 0.0 0 0 1 0 0
2010 MIA 16 16 57 48 9 14.0 4 0 0 0.0 0 0 3 0 0
2011 MIA 16 14 42 37 5 8.5 3 0 0 0.0 0 0 0 0 0
2012 MIA 16 16 53 38 15 15.0 1 0 0 0.0 0 0 3 0 0
2013 MIA 15 15 42 37 5 8.5 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 2 1 0
2014 MIA 16 16 38 32 6 11.5 3 0 0 0.0 0 0 3 1 0
2015 MIA 7 7 9 7 2 7.0 1 0 0 0.0 0 0 4 0 0
2016 MIA 16 11 29 22 7 11.5 2 1 12 12.0 12 0 5 0 0
2017 MIA 16 16 36 28 10 10.5 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 0 0 0
2018 MIA 14 14 36 21 15 6.0 1 0 0 0.0 0 0 1 0 0
2019 TEN 9 0 4 3 1 2.5 1 0 0 0.0 0 0 1 0 0
Total 155 126 364 282 82 100.5 17 1 12 12.0 12 0 22 2 0

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Cameron Wake

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Derek Cameron Wake (born January 30, 1982) is an American former professional football defensive end who played eleven seasons in the National Football League (NFL), primarily with the Miami Dolphins, after a standout career in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Born in Beltsville, Maryland, Wake attended Penn State University, where he played college football as a linebacker from 2000 to 2004, accumulating 191 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, and 8.5 sacks. Undrafted in the 2005 NFL Draft, he briefly signed with the New York Giants as a rookie free agent but was released prior to the season. Seeking opportunities elsewhere, Wake joined the BC Lions of the CFL in 2007, where he transitioned to defensive end and quickly emerged as a dominant pass rusher, recording 16 sacks that year to win both the CFL Most Outstanding Rookie Player and Most Outstanding Defensive Player awards. In 2008, he set the league's single-season sack record with 23, finishing second in league MVP voting and bringing his two-year total to 39 sacks. Wake signed with the in 2009 and spent the next decade as one of the NFL's premier edge rushers, amassing 98 sacks, 19 forced fumbles, and two safeties while starting 123 of 146 games. His accolades with Miami include five selections (2010, 2012–2014, 2016), first-team honors in 2012, and second-team recognition in 2010, 2014, and 2016; he recorded a career-high 14 sacks in 2010 and earned AFC Comeback Player of the Year honors in 2017. After departing Miami as a , Wake joined the for the 2019 season, contributing 2.5 sacks and 4 tackles in 9 games. Over his NFL career, Wake totaled 100.5 sacks, 364 tackles, 20 forced fumbles, 1 , and 2 safeties in 155 games (127 starts), ranking 42nd in league history for sacks at the time of his last appearance. Wake has not played professionally since and, while not formally announcing , has focused on post-football endeavors as of 2025.

Early life

Upbringing and high school

Cameron Wake was born Derek Cameron Wake on January 30, 1982, in Beltsville, Maryland, where he was raised by his parents, Alvin and Darlene Wake. Growing up in the suburban Washington, D.C., area, Wake initially showed limited interest in football, focusing more on basketball during his early high school years at DeMatha Catholic High School in Hyattsville, Maryland, which he attended from 1996 to 2000. His exposure to organized football began later, primarily through high school tryouts rather than extensive youth leagues, though his family's support played a key role in encouraging his athletic pursuits as he transitioned to the sport. Wake's football career took off during his junior and senior years at DeMatha, a powerhouse program known for producing talent. As a senior in 1999, he emerged as a dominant , recording 20 sacks and earning recognition as The Washington Post's All-Met Defensive Player of the Year. His explosive pass-rushing ability and overall defensive impact helped solidify his reputation as one of Maryland's top prospects, drawing attention from college recruiters despite his relatively late start in the sport. Wake committed to Penn State University, accepting a scholarship offer from head coach Joe Paterno over interest from other programs, drawn by the opportunity to play linebacker in a prestigious program. This decision marked the culmination of his high school development, setting the stage for his college career.

Family background

Wake was born to parents Alvin and Darlene Wake in Beltsville, Maryland. His parents had met in Houston, Texas, following Alvin's government transfer there from the Washington, D.C., area. The family resided in suburban Maryland, where family dynamics emphasized perseverance and mutual support. Wake has credited his parents' encouragement during tough periods, such as living at home in 2006 while pursuing football opportunities, for reinforcing the value of resilience instilled at home. Early in his development, Wake faced challenges balancing academics and athletics at , a competitive institution known for its rigorous academic standards alongside elite sports programs. He initially gravitated toward , idolizing and wearing number 23, but his father, Alvin, persuaded him to try football to avoid missing basketball shots due to fatigue. This period built Wake's discipline through non-athletic pursuits like academics and family-oriented community involvement, fostering a holistic approach to personal growth that complemented his emerging athletic talents.

College career

Recruitment and freshman year

Wake was heavily recruited out of in , following a senior season in 1999 where he earned accolades as the top defensive player in the state. Among his suitors was Penn State, which he ultimately chose for its balance of rigorous academics and elite football program, signing his in the 2000 recruiting class as a weakside . Arriving on campus in 2000, Wake redshirted his freshman year to bulk up and acclimate to the college level, preserving a year of eligibility while participating in practices and strength training. He made his collegiate debut the following season on September 1, 2001, in the Nittany Lions' opening game against the Miami Hurricanes. Early in the contest, Wake attempted to hurdle a chop block by Miami running back Willis McGahee but landed awkwardly, suffering a severe left knee injury that tore the medial collateral ligament (MCL) and medial capsule. The injury forced him from the game and sidelined him for the entire 2001 season. Wake's freshman statistical output was minimal, consisting of just 1 tackle in that lone appearance before the injury ended his year. The NCAA subsequently granted him a medical redshirt, allowing him to retain two years of eligibility and return as a in 2002. The rehabilitation period proved grueling, requiring months of to regain strength and mobility in his , but it instilled a deeper sense of resilience in Wake, shaping his approach to overcoming adversity throughout his . During this time, he maintained steady academic progress toward a degree in , emphasizing education as a priority alongside football.

Later college seasons and achievements

Following his recovery from a severe injury sustained during his year, which motivated Wake to rededicate himself to the sport, he returned as a sophomore in 2002 for the . That season, Wake recorded 28 tackles and 2.5 sacks while contributing to the team's 6-6 overall record. His performance marked a solid step in his development as a linebacker, demonstrating resilience after limited play the prior year. As a junior in 2003, Wake saw increased playing time, starting more games and showing noticeable improvement in his pass-rushing ability. He tallied 56 tackles and 3 sacks that year, helping to bolster Penn State's defensive efforts during a challenging 3-8 season. This progression highlighted his growing role on the defense, where he focused on disrupting offensive lines and pursuing s more effectively. Wake's senior year in 2004 represented the peak of his college career, as he earned recognition as a co-captain alongside Zack Mills, leading the team through a 4-7 campaign. He achieved career highs with 107 tackles and 3 sacks, earning All-Big Ten honorable mention honors for his consistent play and leadership. Over his four seasons at Penn State, Wake amassed 191 total tackles, 24 tackles for loss, and 8.5 sacks. Despite his productivity, Wake went undrafted in the 2005 due to concerns over his injury history and relatively undersized frame at 6 feet 3 inches and 245 pounds, though scouts noted his exceptional speed, evidenced by a 4.55-second at Penn State's Pro Day.

Professional career

Pre-NFL attempts

After going undrafted in the , primarily due to lingering concerns over a severe injury he suffered during his sophomore year at Penn State, Cameron Wake signed as an undrafted free agent with the in May 2005. Despite participating in the team's organized team activities and minicamp, where he impressed coaches with his athleticism—including a 45.5-inch at the NFL Combine—Wake was released in June 2005, just before . Wake returned to the Giants for their offseason program but faced the same outcome, as the team waived him again in June . He worked out for several other teams that year, including tryouts that failed to yield a , leaving him without a roster spot entering the season. These repeated rejections were compounded by scouts' doubts about his frame, as Wake measured 6 feet 3 inches and 236 pounds at the Combine—considered undersized for a in a league favoring larger linemen. To stay prepared, he relocated to and trained independently with a personal coach, focusing on strength and pass-rushing technique without the structure of a team facility. The period marked significant personal and financial hardships for Wake, who turned to odd jobs to make ends meet while holding onto his NFL aspirations. He worked as a in and later sold gym memberships in , often biking to work after purchasing a used from a pawn shop and sleeping on a on the floor of a sparse . These struggles tested his motivation, but Wake persisted in self-directed workouts, refusing to abandon football despite the mounting rejections and financial strain. By early 2007, after exhausting his options and facing the reality of another year without professional play, Wake decided to pursue opportunities in the Canadian Football League, a move encouraged by his mother who urged him to quit his job and chase his dream abroad. This shift came after nearly two years of persistent but unsuccessful attempts to break into the , highlighting the barriers of injury history and physical profile that had sidelined his initial professional ambitions.

BC Lions

After facing challenges in his initial attempts to break into the , Cameron Wake signed as a international player with the in May 2007. In his rookie season, Wake transitioned to and quickly emerged as a dominant force, recording 72 tackles and a league-leading 16 sacks over 18 games. His performance earned him the CFL's Most Outstanding Rookie Award, Most Outstanding Defensive Player Award, and selections to the Western All-Star and CFL All-Star teams, while also helping the Lions secure the West Division title before their 26-17 loss to the in the Western Final. Wake's sophomore year in 2008 was even more explosive, as he amassed 65 tackles, a CFL-record 23 sacks in just 16 games, four tackles for loss, and five forced fumbles. He repeated as the CFL's Most Outstanding Defensive Player, again earning West and league All-Star honors, though the Lions finished 11-7 and were eliminated in the Western Semi-Final by the . Over his two seasons with the Lions, Wake totaled 137 combined tackles, 39 sacks, and 8 forced fumbles, fundamentally transforming the team's defensive line into one of the league's most formidable units. In January 2009, the Lions released him to pursue NFL opportunities, with general manager praising Wake's impact as pivotal to revitalizing the defense.

Miami Dolphins

Wake signed with the on January 19, 2009, shortly after being released by the of the Canadian Football League, agreeing to a four-year contract worth up to $4.9 million with nearly $1 million guaranteed. Transitioning from his CFL role, Wake adapted to the Dolphins' 3-4 defensive scheme under head coach , playing primarily as a stand-up outside linebacker in a hybrid /linebacker position that leveraged his pass-rushing explosiveness. In his first two NFL seasons from 2009 to 2010, Wake recorded 19.5 sacks combined, including 5.5 as a rotational player in and a breakout 14.0 in 2010 when he became a full-time starter, earning his first selection as an alternate. His rapid emergence solidified the Dolphins' edge rush, with Wake's quick first step and bend allowing him to disrupt quarterbacks effectively from the weakside linebacker spot. Wake's peak performance came from 2012 to 2016, during which he amassed 53.5 sacks, highlighted by a career-high 15.0 in that earned him and First-Team honors as a . In 2013, he was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week for Week 9 after recording three sacks and a game-winning in overtime against the . He added nods in 2013, 2014, and 2016, while consistently ranking among the league's top pass rushers and helping anchor the Dolphins' defenses through multiple coaching changes. From 2017 to 2018, under head coach , Wake's production was impacted by injuries, particularly a issue in 2018 that caused him to miss five games, limiting him to 16.5 sacks over those two seasons despite playing all 16 games in 2017. The Dolphins re-signed him multiple times to retain his veteran presence, including a two-year, $15 million extension in 2016 and another two-year deal worth $19 million in 2017. Over his ten seasons with , Wake totaled 98 sacks, ranking second in franchise history behind Jason Taylor, and served as a cornerstone of the team's defensive fronts under Sparano and Gase. In 2014, he had an 11.5-sack season that also included a appearance.

Tennessee Titans

After spending ten seasons with the , where he established himself as a prolific pass rusher with 98 sacks, Cameron Wake signed a three-year, $23 million with the on March 15, 2019, to provide veteran leadership and bolster the edge rush. At age 37, Wake was brought in by head coach to serve as a rotational player on a defense featuring younger talents, while also mentoring rookies and sophomores like III and on pass-rushing techniques and professional preparation. In his only season with the Titans, Wake appeared in 9 games without a start, recording 2.5 sacks, three tackles (two solo), and one , all of his production coming in the season opener. On September 8, 2019, against the , Wake notched 2.5 sacks—including his 100th career sack, which resulted in a —along with three tackles and four hits in a 43-13 victory, earning him AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors for Week 1. His contributions waned after the opener due to minor injuries, limiting him to situational snaps before a back injury sidelined him for the final six games. Wake's time with Tennessee marked the conclusion of his NFL playing career, as the Titans released him on March 12, 2020, ahead of the 2020 season, citing his age and injury history with no interest from other teams for a return.

Retirement

Wake was released by the Tennessee Titans on March 12, 2020, at the age of 38, concluding his 12 professional seasons in the NFL and CFL. Although his agent refuted early reports of following the release, stating that Wake intended to continue playing, he did not sign with another and has remained inactive since his final game in 2019. As of November 2025, Wake has not made an official announcement. The end of his career was influenced by cumulative injuries, including recurring knee problems that required surgery in 2018 and earlier setbacks. Following his release, Wake focused on recovery from these injuries and has engaged in philanthropic efforts in , though no or roles have been reported. Wake became eligible for the with the Class of 2025, based on five years since his last played season, but was not selected among the inductees announced in February 2025.

Playing style and impact

Technique and strengths

Cameron Wake stood at 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighed approximately 260 pounds during his professional career, a frame that was lighter than many defensive ends but compensated by his exceptional athleticism, including a 4.65-second recorded at the NFL Combine. This combination allowed him to excel despite not fitting the prototypical size for the position, relying on speed and agility to disrupt plays. Wake's pass-rush technique was characterized by an explosive first step, achieved through a tightly coiled four-point stance that mimicked a sprinter's start, enabling him to cover significant ground rapidly off the line. He incorporated spin moves to evade blockers and utilized precise hand techniques, such as jabs and swipes, to maintain separation and create paths to the . This approach proved effective across defensive schemes, as he transitioned seamlessly between 4-3 alignments as a and 3-4 setups as a stand-up outside linebacker. Among Wake's key strengths was his ability to bend around the edge with fluid hip flexibility, turning the corner sharply to passers while maintaining balance. He also demonstrated run defense, using leverage and quick reactions to set the edge and contribute to tackles for loss, showcasing his all-around disruptive presence. His versatility as a stand-up rusher further enhanced his value, allowing coordinators to deploy him in multiple alignments to confuse offensive lines. Wake overcame a significant injury history, including a torn in and a ruptured in 2015, through dedicated film study during rehabilitation to refine his self-scouting and tactical awareness. He adapted to the faster pace of the after his CFL tenure by intensifying conditioning regimens to rebuild explosiveness and sustain performance. His evolution from a linebacker to a professional edge specialist highlighted this adaptability in one pivotal career arc. Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator praised Wake's mental preparation, noting, "He works at it mentally, he's strong against the run, dynamic pass rusher." New England Patriots head coach commended his relentless drive, stating, "Great motor, tremendous work ethic and effort on the field." Teammate described him as "an animal," emphasizing his intense on-field presence.

Legacy in football

Cameron Wake's journey from an undrafted out of Penn State to amassing 100.5 sacks exemplifies an underdog narrative that has inspired late bloomers in professional football. After going undrafted in and failing to secure an roster spot after being released by the Giants, Wake revitalized his career in the Canadian Football League with the , where he recorded 39 sacks over two seasons and earned league-wide acclaim as a dominant pass rusher. His eventual signing with the in 2009 at age 27 marked a rare successful transition from the CFL to the , setting a benchmark for players seeking second chances and demonstrating that elite production could emerge later in one's athletic timeline. Wake's impact on pass rushing extended beyond personal accolades, influencing the adoption of hybrid defensive end/linebacker roles in modern schemes. As a versatile edge rusher who thrived in both positions—starting as an outside linebacker before shifting to defensive end—he combined explosive speed and power to disrupt quarterbacks, amassing multiple seasons with double-digit sacks and establishing himself among the NFL's premier specialists. His CFL-honed technique, refined under coaches like Wally Buono, proved transferable, paving the way for other international league alumni to view the NFL as attainable and encouraging teams to scout abroad for untapped talent. This path not only elevated Wake's own legacy but also broadened the talent pipeline in professional football. Within the organization, Wake solidified his status as a franchise cornerstone and fan favorite, ranking second all-time with 98 sacks during his decade-long tenure from 2009 to 2018—trailing only Hall of Famer Jason Taylor's 131. His relentless pursuit and endeared him to supporters, fueling ongoing discussions about his induction into the team's . Wake's broader recognition includes his eligibility for the Class of 2025, highlighting a career often compared to that of James Harrison for its late-start, high-impact sack totals achieved as an undrafted player, though he was not selected for induction in that class. Though not yet inducted, his narrative underscores perseverance in the sport. Following his final season in 2020, Wake has embraced mentorship, guiding younger players during his final Titans stint and continuing off-field through charitable initiatives and community service in .

Awards and honors

CFL accolades

During his rookie season in 2007 with the , Cameron Wake was named the CFL's Most Outstanding and Most Outstanding Defensive Player, while also earning West Division All-Star honors for his dominant performance as a pass rusher. These accolades highlighted his immediate impact, recording 16 sacks and helping anchor the Lions' defense en route to a Western Division Final appearance, where the team lost 26–17 to the . In , Wake repeated as the CFL Most Outstanding Defensive Player—his second straight win in the category—and secured West Division All-Star recognition once more. He led the league that year with 23 sacks, a figure that underscored his explosive productivity and tied for the fourth-highest single-season total in CFL history at the time. Wake garnered no additional CFL individual awards following the 2008 season, marking the end of his brief but highly decorated tenure in the league.

NFL recognitions

Wake earned five Pro Bowl selections during his NFL career, appearing in the in 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2016. He was recognized as an All-Pro four times, earning first-team honors as a in 2012 after recording 15 sacks, and second-team honors as an outside linebacker in 2010, as a in 2014, and as an edge rusher in 2016. Wake was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week twice, first in Week 9 of 2013 for a performance against the that included three sacks, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, and a game-winning , and again in Week 1 of 2019 against the , where he recorded 2.5 sacks including one for a . With the , Wake was voted team MVP in 2012 following a dominant season with 15 sacks and five forced fumbles. He has been the subject of ongoing discussions for induction into the Dolphins' , with analysts citing his franchise-record 98 sacks and leadership as key factors for recognition. A notable career milestone came in 2019 when Wake recorded his 100th sack against , joining an elite group of pass rushers and contributing to his selection as AFC Defensive Player of the Week for that game. As of November 2025, Wake has not been inducted into the despite becoming eligible for the Class of 2025.

Career statistics

CFL statistics

During his two seasons with the in the Canadian Football League (CFL), Cameron Wake established himself as an elite pass rusher, with sacks emerging as his signature statistic in the . Defensive tackles, which encompass both solo and assisted stops, provide additional context for his overall involvement, while forced fumbles underscore his ability to disrupt plays. Wake's year in 2007 saw him play all 18 games, where he recorded 72 tackles, a league-leading 16 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles. In 2008, he appeared in 18 games, registering 65 tackles, another league-high 23 sacks, and 5 forced fumbles. Across 36 regular-season games, Wake amassed 137 tackles, 39 sacks, and 8 forced fumbles, topping the CFL in sacks both years—a dominant output that directly fueled his consecutive Most Outstanding Defensive Player awards. These figures do not include postseason contributions and reflect the CFL's unique dynamics, such as its wider field (65 yards versus the NFL's 53⅓ yards), which expands pocket space for quarterbacks and can challenge pass rushers by altering pursuit angles and coverage responsibilities.
YearTeamGamesTacklesSacksForced Fumbles
20071872163
20081865235
Total36137398

NFL statistics

Cameron Wake played 155 regular-season games in the from 2009 to 2019, accumulating 364 combined tackles, 100.5 sacks, 22 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries. His sack total ranks him among the league's all-time leaders for players with undrafted or international backgrounds, highlighting his effectiveness as a pass rusher despite starting his professional career in the CFL. Wake spent the majority of his NFL tenure with the Miami Dolphins from 2009 to 2018, appearing in 146 games and recording 360 combined tackles, 98 sacks, 22 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries. In his final season with the Tennessee Titans in 2019, he played 9 games, contributing 4 combined tackles and 2.5 sacks. Wake's production peaked in 2012 with the Dolphins, when he led the with 15 sacks alongside 53 combined tackles and 3 forced fumbles. He maintained consistent double-digit sack totals in several prime years, including 14 sacks in 2010, 11.5 in 2014 and 2016, and 10.5 in 2017, often achieving 8 to 11 sacks annually from 2011 to 2017 despite sharing snaps in a rotational role.
YearTeamGamesSacksCombined TacklesForced Fumbles
2009MIA145.5231
2010MIA1614.0573
2011MIA168.5420
2012MIA1615.0533
2013MIA158.5372
2014MIA1611.5383
2015MIA77.094
2016MIA1611.5295
2017MIA1610.5360
2018MIA146.0361
2019TEN92.540
Advanced metrics underscore Wake's efficiency as a hybrid edge rusher, with a career rate of approximately one per 6.01 pass rushes through 2017, among the elite for his position. He also demonstrated strong run defense, missing tackles at a low rate of about once every 14.5 attempts in his later years, adjusted for his part-time role. Wake reached the 100-sack milestone in 2019, capping a progression that saw him surpass 50 sacks by 2013 and 90 by 2018. His exclude postseason play, where he appeared in just one game in 2016 with no sacks.

References

  1. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/W/WakeCa00.htm
  2. https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/bio/_/id/12417/cameron-wake
  3. https://www.espn.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/82863/cameron-wake-reflects-on-release-by-giants
  4. https://www.espn.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/82368/cameron-wake-takes-unique-path-to-nfl
  5. https://www.cfl.ca/2009/06/30/ten-players-to-watch-in-2009/
  6. https://www.espn.com/blog/buffalo-bills/post/_/id/27292/dolphins-cameron-wake-wins-afc-east-comeback-player-of-the-year
  7. https://www.tennesseetitans.com/news/veteran-olb-cameron-wake-has-no-plans-to-retire-and-would-love-to-return-to-tita
  8. https://cbs12.com/sports/dolphins-extra/miami-dolphins-cam-wake-returns-to-maryland-where-his-high-school-coach-changed-his-life
  9. https://www.espn.com/blog/miami-dolphins/post/_/id/88/cameron-wakes-takes-unique-path
  10. https://www.usatodayhss.com/story/sports/high-school/2015/09/23/dolphins-all-pro-cameron-wake-was-known-by-different-name-at-dematha-catholic/77691928007/
  11. https://onwardstate.com/2014/12/02/cameron-wakes-journey-to-the-nfl/
  12. https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/news/2013/09/15/miami-dolphins-cameron-wake-says/6944619007/
  13. https://www.dematha.org/academics/academic-support
  14. https://insidemedathafootball.wordpress.com/tag/cameron-wake/
  15. https://vault.si.com/vault/2014/10/13/wide-awake
  16. https://www.profootballhistory.com/cameron-wake/
  17. http://www.espn.com/blog/afceast/print/_/id/1262
  18. https://www.mcall.com/2004/09/26/penn-state-notebook-a-recap-of-saturdays-loss-to-wisconsin-at-camp-randall-stadium/
  19. http://www.espn.com/blog/colleges/psu/tag/_/name/cameron-wake
  20. https://draftscout.com/dsprofile.php?PlayerId=1001889&DraftYear=2005
  21. https://thescore.com/nfl/news/697500
  22. https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/sports/nfl/2018/12/07/cameron-wake-inside-story-on-why-miami-dolphins-de-wears-91/6751783007/
  23. https://grantland.com/the-triangle/the-all-22-all-star-team-the-rebirth-of-cameron-wake/
  24. https://www.si.com/nfl/2013/11/26/cameron-wake-miami-dolphins-unplugged-robert-klemko
  25. https://www.sportsnet.ca/football/cfl/ticats-wake/
  26. https://www.espn.com/blog/statsinfo/post/_/id/120284/nfl-stars-with-ties-to-the-cfl
  27. https://www.cfl.ca/2007/10/12/wake_enjoying_banner_season_with_lions/
  28. https://www.statscrew.com/football/stats/t-CFLBC/y-2007
  29. https://www.bclions.com/2016/04/08/wake-salutes-first-football-family/
  30. https://www.cfl.ca/2007/11/20/prairie_rivals_to_fight_for_grey_cup/
  31. https://www.bclions.com/2008/11/20/wake-wins-second-outstanding-defensive-player-award/
  32. https://www.espn.com/blog/afceast/post/_/id/1262/wake-s-nfl-arrival-might-help-you-place-the-name
  33. https://www.bclions.com/2008/10/28/outstanding-lions-nominated-for-2008-player-awards/
  34. https://www.espn.com/blog/afceast/post/_/id/23264/cameron-wake-nothing-short-of-dominant
  35. https://www.bclions.com/2009/01/19/lions-say-goodbye-as-wake-joins-dolphins/
  36. https://www.cbc.ca/sports/football/b-c-sack-specialist-wake-headed-to-dolphins-1.785121
  37. https://www.nfl.com/news/dolphins-sign-two-time-winner-of-cfl-s-top-defensive-player-awa-09000d5d80e3a286
  38. https://africa.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3844396
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  41. https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/sports/nfl/2018/10/12/miami-dolphins-being-careful-with/7183134007/
  42. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/15484783/miami-dolphins-sign-de-cameron-wake-two-year-extension
  43. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/18712935/cameron-wake-signs-two-year-contract-extension-miami-dolphins
  44. https://www.tennesseetitans.com/news/titans-reach-deal-with-veteran-defensive-end-cameron-wake
  45. https://www.profootballrumors.com/2019/03/titans-to-sign-cameron-wake
  46. https://www.tennesseetitans.com/news/veteran-cameron-wake-already-making-an-impact-with-titans
  47. https://titansized.com/2019/06/06/tennessee-titans-3rd-best-offseason-move-cameron-wake/
  48. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/W/WakeCa00/gamelog/2019/
  49. https://www.tennessean.com/story/sports/nfl/titans/2019/09/08/tennessee-titans-browns-cameron-wake-100th-career-sack-safety/2235017001/
  50. https://www.tennesseetitans.com/news/titans-olb-cameron-wake-named-afc-defensive-player-of-the-week
  51. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28170558/titans-place-lb-cameron-wake-injured-reserve
  52. https://www.tennesseetitans.com/news/titans-release-olb-cameron-wake-and-rb-dion-lewis
  53. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28891900/source-titans-release-rb-dion-lewis
  54. https://www.profootballrumors.com/2020/03/titans-release-cameron-wake
  55. https://titanswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/titans/2020/03/21/cameron-wake-agent-not-retiring/80867523007/
  56. https://www.givemesport.com/nfl-castoffs-who-still-havent-officially-retired/
  57. https://www.thephinsider.com/miami-dolphins-injuries/2018/10/14/17975428/miami-dolphins-cameron-wake-knee-injury-surgery
  58. https://dolphinstalk.com/2024/05/from-undrafted-to-unstoppable-why-cameron-wake-belongs-in-the-dolphins-ring-of-honor/
  59. https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/2/14/24073273/former-miami-dolphins-de-cameron-wake-eligible-for-pro-football-hall-of-fame-class-of-2025
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  61. https://www.mockdraftable.com/player/cameron-wake
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  67. https://www.espn.com/blog/afceast/post/_/id/25803/revisiting-cam-wake-and-the-dpoy-debate
  68. http://www.espn.com/blog/miami-dolphins/post/_/id/18816/dolphins-de-cameron-wake-staying-positive-through-achilles-rehab
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  73. https://www.miamidolphins.com/news/i-said-it-cam-wake-approaching-100-career-sacks
  74. http://ca.sports.yahoo.com/blogs/cfl-55-yard-line/wally-buono-change-turned-cameron-wake-nfl-reject-003749003.html
  75. https://www.fivereasonssports.com/voices/why-cameron-wake-belongs-in-the-dolphins-ring-of-honor/
  76. https://ftw.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2018/04/16/nfl-steelers-james-harrison-retirement-hall-of-fame-credentials-debate/81769432007/
  77. https://dolphinswire.usatoday.com/2019/05/17/former-dolphin-cameron-wake-thriving-in-mentor-role-with-titans/
  78. https://bleacherreport.com/articles/113017-dolphins-snag-two-time-cfl-defensive-mvp-cameron-wake
  79. https://www.statscrew.com/football/results/t-CFLBC/y-2007
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  82. https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/sports/nfl/dolphins/2024/08/08/miami-dolphins-ring-of-honor-cameron-wake-tua-tagovailoa-tyreek-hill-jalen-ramsey/74701137007/
  83. https://www.notinhalloffame.com/football/13338-162-cameron-wake
  84. https://www.statscrew.com/football/stats/p-wakecam001
  85. https://www.sportingnews.com/us/cfl/news/cfl-nfl-rules-explained-seven-major-differences-pro-football-leagues/ziu17jfrbsebkuv7aqpw88em
  86. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/sacks_career.htm
  87. https://www.pff.com/news/pro-32-nfl-observations-week-1706
  88. https://www.pff.com/news/pro-age-not-an-issue-for-cameron-wake-as-he-enters-free-agency
  89. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/W/WakeCa00/gamelog/post/
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