Is Malik Cunningham Related to Randall Cunningham? Exploring the Life of the Patriots QB

Malik Cunningham, a rookie quarterback for the New England Patriots, showcased his versatility in a preseason game. Despite comparisons to Randall Cunningham, they are not related.

During the recent preseason game between the New England Patriots and the Houston Texans, a player named Malik Cunningham showcased his versatility on the field. This former standout from the University of Louisville displayed his skills by completing three passes for a total of 19 yards and making five carries, resulting in 34 rushing yards. To top it off, he scored the only touchdown for the Patriots with a nine-yard run in the fourth quarter.

Football fans couldn't help but draw comparisons between Malik Cunningham and the legendary three-time All-Pro play-caller, Randall Cunningham. The older Cunningham was known for his elusive playing style, leading long-time Philadelphia Eagles broadcaster Merrill Reese to liken him to the fictional character Plastic Man.

While there may be some similarities in their playing style and physical appearance, it's important to note that Malik Cunningham and Randall Cunningham are not related by blood. Malik's parents are Michael Cunningham and Stacy Skanes, and his full name is Micale Malik Cunningham. Interestingly, his first name was given to him by his father, while his second name was inspired by his grandmother's admiration for actor Malik Yoba.

Born on October 6, 1998, in Montgomery, Alabama, Malik Cunningham played high school football for Park Crossing before making his way to the University of Louisville. Throughout his college career, he achieved impressive statistics, with 691 completions for 9,660 yards and 70 touchdowns. Additionally, he showcased his versatility by contributing 50 touchdowns on 3,179 rushing yards. His outstanding performance in the 2019 Music City Bowl against Mississippi State earned him the title of Most Valuable Player.

As an undrafted free agent, Malik Cunningham caught the attention of the New England Patriots, who signed him to their team. He now finds himself in competition for a spot on the roster alongside quarterbacks Mac Jones, Bailey Zappe, and Trace McSorley.

On the other hand, Randall Cunningham, the accomplished play-caller, has three children, and Malik Cunningham is not one of them. Randall's eldest son, Randall Cunningham II, pursued his own football career in high school, playing for Silverado in Las Vegas. His decision to join that school was influenced by his father, who held the position of offensive coordinator at the time. However, Randall II later transferred to Bishop Gorman High School after his father stepped down from his coaching role. In college, he shifted his focus to athletics and became a prominent athlete for the USC Trojans. Randall II excelled in track and field, earning the titles of three-time NCAA Outdoor Track All-American and two-time Indoor Track All-American.

Meanwhile, Randall Cunningham Sr. and Felicity De Jager also had a daughter named Vashti Cunningham, who has made a name for herself in the high jump event since 2015. She achieved gold in the 2015 Pan American Junior Championships in Edmonton and the 2016 World Indoor Championships in Portland. From 2017 to 2023, Vashti has consistently dominated the high jump category in the USA Indoor and Outdoor Track and Field Championships.

Tragically, Randall Cunningham Sr. and Felicity De Jager experienced the loss of their son, Christian, in 2010 due to a drowning accident in their backyard hot tub. It's worth noting that Randall Cunningham Sr., an ordained minister, used the hot tub for performing baptisms.

In conclusion, Malik Cunningham's impressive performance during the preseason game has sparked comparisons to Randall Cunningham, but it's important to remember that they are not related. Malik's journey from his high school days to his time at the University of Louisville has shaped him into a skilled and versatile player. Meanwhile, Randall Cunningham's children, Randall II and Vashti, have each pursued their own successful athletic careers. Despite the tragic loss of their son Christian, the Cunningham family continues to make an impact both on and off the field.

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