Tyrone McGriff facts for kids

Tyrone K. McGriff Sr. (born January 13, 1958 – died December 9, 2000) was an American football player. He was a talented guard, a position on the offensive line. Tyrone played for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the National Football League (NFL) for three seasons.

After his time in the NFL, he played for three seasons in the United States Football League (USFL). He was part of the Michigan Panthers team that won the USFL championship in 1983. Tyrone was also known as "Mr. Irrelevant" because he was the very last player picked in the 1980 NFL Draft.

Tyrone McGriff: A Football Journey

Tyrone McGriff had an amazing career in football, both as a player and a coach. He was known for his strength and skill on the field. He also helped young athletes learn the game.

Early Life and College Football

Tyrone McGriff was born in Vero Beach, Florida. He went to Vero Beach High School where he played football. After high school, he attended Florida A&M University.

At Florida A&M, Tyrone was a star player. He was named to the all-conference team, meaning he was one of the best players in his college league. He was also considered a preseason All-American. This meant experts thought he would be one of the best players in the country before the season even started.

Playing in the NFL and USFL

In 1980, Tyrone McGriff was picked by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL Draft. He was the 333rd player chosen overall. He played as a guard for the Steelers for three seasons, from 1980 to 1982.

After his time in the NFL, Tyrone moved to the United States Football League (USFL). He played for the Michigan Panthers in 1983 and 1984. In 1983, his team, the Michigan Panthers, won the USFL championship! He then played for the Memphis Showboats in 1985.

The "Mr. Irrelevant" Pick

Being the last pick in the NFL Draft is a special tradition. The very last player chosen is called "Mr. Irrelevant." Tyrone McGriff was given this title in 1980. It's a fun way to celebrate every player who makes it to the professional level.

Life After Playing: Coaching and Community Work

After his playing career, Tyrone McGriff became a football coach. He coached at both college and high school levels. He loved teaching the game to younger players.

Coaching College Teams

Tyrone started his coaching career at his old college, Florida A&M University, as an assistant coach from 1986 to 1988. He also coached as an assistant at Tennessee State University and Bethune–Cookman University. At Bethune–Cookman, he even served as an interim head coach for a short time in 1993.

Coaching High School Teams

Tyrone also coached high school football teams in Florida. He was a head coach at Olympic Heights Community High School in 1994. He also led the teams at Dillard High School in 1995 and Fort Lauderdale High School in 1996. Later, he coached the offensive line at Grambling State University from 1998 to 1999.

A Lasting Legacy

Tyrone McGriff was honored for his college football achievements. In 1996, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. This is a very special award for college players who showed great skill and sportsmanship.

Tyrone McGriff passed away in 2000 from a heart attack. At the time, he was working as the director of the Gifford Youth Activity Center in Vero Beach, Florida. He was survived by his wife, Barbara, and his two children, April and Tyrone Jr. He is remembered as a talented football player and a dedicated coach who helped his community.