Terrell Thomas facts for kids

Quick facts for kids
Terrell Thomas

Thomas with the USC Trojans in 2007
No. 24
Position:	Cornerback
Personal information
Born:	(1985-01-08) January 8, 1985 (age 40) Pasadena, California, U.S.
Height:	6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
Weight:	197 lb (89 kg)
Career information
High school:	Rancho Cucamonga (Rancho Cucamonga, California)
College:	USC
NFL Draft:	2008 / Round: 2 / Pick: 63
Career history
New York Giants (2008–2013) Seattle Seahawks (2014)*
Career highlights and awards
Super Bowl champion (XLVI) Second-team All-Pac-10 (2006, 2007)
Career NFL statistics
Total tackles: 298 Sacks: 3.0 Forced fumbles: 7 Fumble recoveries: 2 Interceptions: 12 Defensive touchdowns: 1
Player stats at PFR

Terrell R. Thomas (born January 8, 1985) is a former American football player. He played as a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL). Terrell played college football for the USC Trojans.

The New York Giants picked him in the second round of the 2008 NFL draft. Terrell Thomas is known for being one of only two NFL players to play after tearing the same knee's ACL three times. This shows his amazing determination!

Early Life and High School Football

Terrell Thomas grew up in California. He went to Rancho Cucamonga High School. Even as a young player, he was seen as one of the most athletic in the state.

In his junior year, he made 78 tackles and caught 5 interceptions. He also scored 6 touchdowns. He earned special honors for his great play.

During his senior year, Terrell was a star on both offense and defense. He ran for 1,300 yards and scored 16 touchdowns. On defense, he made 115 tackles. He was named the league's Most Valuable Player. He also received many awards from different sports groups.

College Career at USC

Terrell Thomas played college football at the University of Southern California. He played under famous coach Pete Carroll. He was considered one of the best college players before his senior year.

In 2007, his senior year, Terrell was a strong defender. He allowed very few passes to be completed against him. He also caught 4 interceptions. He was chosen for the All-Pac-10 team for the second time.

Terrell faced a challenge in 2005. He tore ligaments in his right knee and had surgery. This injury ended his season early. But he worked hard to come back. In 2006, he returned to his starting position. He made 50 tackles and recovered two fumbles, even scoring a touchdown on one. He also intercepted two passes.

Professional Football Career

Terrell Thomas was chosen by the New York Giants in the 2008 NFL Draft. He was the 63rd player picked overall.

New York Giants

2008 Season

In his first year, Terrell missed some games because of injuries. When he returned, he played as a backup cornerback. He made his first NFL interception against the Arizona Cardinals. He finished his rookie season with 45 tackles and one interception. He also helped out on special teams.

2009 Season

In 2009, Terrell got a chance to become a starter. Another player had a hamstring injury. Terrell stepped up and played very well. He had 41 tackles and 3 interceptions before the middle of the season.

He kept his starting spot even when the other player returned. Terrell had a great game against the Washington Redskins. He made an interception and ran it back for a touchdown. He ended the season as the team's top cornerback. He led the team with 85 tackles and had 5 interceptions.

Overcoming Injuries: 2011-2013

Terrell faced a big challenge in 2011. He tore his ACL in a preseason game. This injury ended his season before it even started. He had surgery and worked hard to recover.

In 2012, he injured his ACL again during training camp. This meant he missed another full season. It was a very tough time for him.

But Terrell did not give up! In 2013, he made an incredible comeback. He became only the second player in NFL history to play after tearing the same ACL three times. Many people thought his career was over. But Terrell proved them wrong. He played in all 16 games that season. He made 67 tackles and had one interception. His return showed amazing strength and determination.

Seattle Seahawks

In 2014, Terrell Thomas signed with the Seattle Seahawks. However, he was released by the team before the regular season began.

Retirement

On February 12, 2015, Terrell Thomas announced that he was retiring from professional football. He had a remarkable career, especially for his ability to overcome serious injuries.

Career Statistics

Terrell Thomas played 60 games in his NFL career. He made 298 total tackles. He also had 12 interceptions and 3 sacks. He forced 7 fumbles and recovered 1. His career showed his skill and incredible toughness.