Eldridge Milton

Eldridge Dennis Milton (born December 8, 1962) is an American former professional football player who was a linebacker for one season with the Chicago Bears of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Clemson Tigers and was one of the replacement players signed during the 1987 NFL strike. He also had a stint with the Denver Broncos.

Early life Milton was born on December 8, 1962, in Folkston, Georgia. He grew up on his family's 200-acre farm there, and enjoyed playing with two of his "friends" – alligators nearby which he named Jimmy and Gypsy. "We started playing with them when they were young," he later said, "and I've been swimming and playing with them ever since. I've never been scared. Gators won't bother you unless they're hungry or they're cornered." He was given the nickname of "Gator" for this. He helped them reach a runner-up spot in the state championship, and graduated in 1981. That season, he was mainly a reserve who played on special teams. He was given a contract by the Chicago Bears in mid-season of 1987, being a replacement player signed due to the Players Association strike. Milton recorded his only career stat, a 10-yard kickoff return, during his third game, against the New Orleans Saints.