T. J. Turner (linebacker) facts for kids
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| Position: | Linebacker | ||
| Personal information | |||
| Born: | October 1, 1978 Dayton, Ohio |
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| Died: | March 10, 2014 (aged 35) Dayton, Ohio |
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| Height: | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) | ||
| Weight: | 255 lb (116 kg) | ||
| Career information | |||
| High school: | Hillsboro (OH) | ||
| College: | Michigan State | ||
| NFL Draft: | 2001 / Round: 7 / Pick: 239 | ||
| Career history | |||
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| Career NFL statistics | |||
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| Player stats at PFR | |||
Thomas Samuel Turner III (born October 1, 1978 – died March 10, 2014), known as T. J. Turner, was an American football player. He played as a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL) for one season. A linebacker is a defensive player who lines up behind the defensive line. They are important for stopping runs and covering passes.
Early Life and Football Beginnings
T. J. Turner was born in Dayton, Ohio. He grew up loving sports, especially football. He went to Hillsboro High School in Hillsboro, Ohio. There, he played football and showed great talent.
College Football Career
After high school, T. J. Turner went to Michigan State University. He played college football for the Michigan State Spartans. Playing in college helped him get ready for professional football. He worked hard and became a strong player.
Playing in the NFL
In 2001, T. J. Turner was chosen in the 2001 NFL Draft. The NFL Draft is an event where professional football teams pick new players from colleges. He was picked by the New England Patriots in the seventh round. This was a big step for him, as he joined one of the top teams in the NFL.
Turner played one season with the New England Patriots in 2001. Playing in the NFL is very competitive. Only the best players make it to this league.
Later Life
Sadly, T. J. Turner passed away on March 10, 2014. He was 35 years old. He died from cancer.
