Super Bowl-winning linebacker Derick Hall was recognized by his home state for excellence both on and off the field.
Hall, a native of Gulfport, was celebrated by local lawmakers in the Mississippi state capitol on Wednesday. The Seattle Seahawks linebacker played a crucial role in helping his team earn a 29-13 win over New England in Super Bowl LX, sacking Patriots quarterback and NFL MVP runner-up Drake Maye twice in the big game.
Formally recognizing Hall’s storied season, both chambers of the state legislature passed House Concurrent Resolution 49, a measure commending the linebacker for representing Mississippi excellently on American sports’ largest stage.
“Mississippi House Concurrent Resolution 49 commends Gulfport native and Seattle Seahawks linebacker Derick Hall for his successful season and contribution to winning Super Bowl LX,” Rep. Jeffrey Hulum III, D-Gulfport, said. “The resolution honors his athletic achievement and representation of Mississippi excellence.”
The measure also highlighted Hall as an “underdog before he took his first breath.” The Mississippian was born a premature infant, weighing just 2 pounds and 1 ounce at birth, with brain bleeding and a 1% chance of survival. Beating overwhelming odds, Hall not only defied a 99% probability that he would never walk or talk, but did so with remarkable resolve – becoming an All-SEC honoree at Auburn before turning pro, where his career has continued to soar.
Staying true to his roots, the football star launched the Derick Hall One Percent foundation, with the nonprofit’s work focused on supporting premature babies and their families, combating food insecurity, and addressing childhood obesity in underserved communities.
“It was a true honor to recognize not only his success on the field, but also his continued commitment to the city of Gulfport through his nonprofit DH 1% Foundations’ work and service to others,” Hulum said. “Derick represents the very best of Mississippi, and we are proud to celebrate this well-earned achievement. Wishing him and his family continued success and impact in the years ahead.”