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Jonathan Vilma is a linebacker for the New Orleans Saints

Jonathan Polynice Vilma was born April 16, 1982 in Coral Gables, Florida. Jonathan attended Coral Gables High School where he was a teammate of Pro Bowl running back Frank Gore.

He played college football at the University of Miami where he led the team in tackle for three seasons and was first-team All-Big East selection two times.

Jonathan was drafted by the New York Jets with the 12th selection in the 2004 NFL Draft. He was named as the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year by the Associated Press in 2004. During his rookie campaign, Jonathan recorded 107 tackles, two sacks, and three interceptions (including one which was returned for his first NFL touchdown).

In 2005, Jonathan led the NFL in tackles with 169; he also forced four fumbles, notched one fumble recovery, half a sack, and one interception. Jonathan also replaced Zach Thomas at the 2006 Pro Bowl. On October 27, 2007, Jonathan was placed on injured reserve after suffering a season ending knee injury during the Jets week 7.

On February 29, 2008, Jonathan was traded to the New Orleans Saints. In his first season with the Saints, Jonathan was a bright spot on a weak defensive unit; he played in all 16 games and recorded 132 tackles with one sack. On February 27, 2009, Jonathan signed a five-year, 34 million-dollar contract with the New Orleans Saints.

On February 7, 2010, Jonathan and the Saints defeated the Indianapolis Colts to become Super Bowl XLIV Champions. Jonathan made a key defensive audible and deflected a pass on 3rd and 11 in the fourth quarter to lead the Saints to their victory. On January 4, 2011, Jonathan was selected to his third Pro Bowl by replacing the injured Patrick Willis of the San Francisco 49ers.