Terrence Wheatley facts for kids

Terrence Wheatley (born May 5, 1985) is a former American football player. He played as a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL). Terrence played college football for the Colorado Buffaloes. The New England Patriots chose him in the 2008 NFL draft. He also played for the Jacksonville Jaguars, Buffalo Bills, and Tennessee Titans.

Early Life and High School Sports

Terrence Wheatley grew up in Plano, Texas. He went to Plano East Senior High School. There, he was a star athlete in both football and track and field. He still holds school records in the triple jump, long jump, and 100-meter dash.

Football Achievements in High School

As a junior, Terrence was a strong defensive player. He made 70 tackles and caught six interceptions. He also broke up 18 passes and caused three fumbles. Sometimes, he even played offense as a running back or wide receiver. He gained 200 yards rushing and 161 yards receiving.

In his senior year, Terrence continued to excel. He had 82 tackles and five interceptions. He was named to the all-district first team. He also earned honors from the Dallas Morning News. Experts at Rivals.com thought he was one of the best cornerback prospects in the country.

College Football Career

Terrence Wheatley played college football at the University of Colorado. He joined the team as a freshman.

Freshman and Sophomore Years

In his first year, Terrence played in 12 games. He started two games as a cornerback. He made 24 tackles and broke up five passes. It was a special moment when he and Samuel Joseph became the first two freshmen to start at cornerback for Colorado.

As a sophomore, Terrence played in all 13 games. He started the last five games, including the Houston Bowl. Even with some injuries, he made 33 tackles. He also had four interceptions, which was the second-highest on his team. One of his interceptions was returned for a touchdown, a rare feat for a Colorado player.

Redshirt Junior and Senior Seasons

Terrence missed his true junior year in 2005 due to a wrist injury. But he came back strong in 2006 as a redshirt junior. He made 57 tackles and had five interceptions. He also broke up 11 passes. After this great season, he was named first-team All-Big 12 and All-Colorado.

In his senior year (2007), Terrence continued to shine. He had 42 tackles and five interceptions in the first 10 games. He was named a third-team All-American. He also earned first-team All-Big 12 honors as a cornerback. He was even recognized as a kick returner.

Professional Football Career

Terrence Wheatley began his professional career in the National Football League.

New England Patriots (2008–2010)

The New England Patriots drafted Terrence in the second round of the 2008 NFL draft. He was the 62nd player chosen overall. He signed with the Patriots in July 2008.

As a rookie, Terrence played in six of the first seven games. He was a reserve player, meaning he came off the bench. He made his first start against the Indianapolis Colts. However, he got a wrist injury during that game. This injury caused him to miss the rest of his rookie season. He finished with two tackles and two passes defended.

In 2009, Terrence played in five games, all as a reserve. He made two tackles that season. In 2010, he had a foot injury during the preseason. He was later waived by the Patriots.

Jacksonville Jaguars (2010)

After leaving the Patriots, Terrence signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars in November 2010. He played in one game for the Jaguars. He was later placed on injured reserve in December 2010. He was waived by the team in September 2011.

Buffalo Bills (2011)

Terrence then joined the Buffalo Bills' practice squad in September 2011. He was later moved to the active roster that same month.