Career Timeline of Pat Tillman: Major Achievements and Milestones

From career breakthroughs to professional milestones, explore how Pat Tillman made an impact.

Pat Tillman was a professional football player for the Arizona Cardinals who left the NFL to enlist in the U.S. Army after the September 11th attacks. He served in Iraq and Afghanistan as part of the Army Special Operations. Tillman's story gained widespread attention after his death, particularly when it was revealed that he was killed by friendly fire. He is remembered for his patriotism and sacrifice, leaving behind a promising sports career to serve his country.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1994: College Career at Arizona State University

In 1994, Pat Tillman began his college career as a linebacker for Arizona State University.

1997: Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year

In 1997, Pat Tillman was voted the Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year and Arizona State's MVP.

1998: Drafted by Arizona Cardinals

In 1998, Pat Tillman was selected as the 226th pick in the NFL draft by the Arizona Cardinals.

2000: Named to NFL All-Pro Team

In 2000, Sports Illustrated writer Paul Zimmerman named Pat Tillman to his NFL All-Pro team after Tillman's performance with 155 tackles.

2001: Completion of NFL Season

In 2001, Pat Tillman completed the 15 remaining games of the season with the Arizona Cardinals, after which he turned down a contract to enlist in the army in May 2002.

May 2002: Tillman Turns Down Contract to Enlist

In May 2002, Pat Tillman declined a $3.6 million contract offer from the Arizona Cardinals to enlist in the U.S. Army.

May 2002: Enlistment in the U.S. Army

In May 2002, Pat Tillman, after the September 11 attacks, left his NFL career with the Arizona Cardinals and enlisted in the United States Army Special Operations.

May 31, 2002: Enlistment of Pat and Kevin Tillman

On May 31, 2002, Pat Tillman and his brother Kevin enlisted in the U.S. Army.

September 2002: Completion of Basic Training

In September 2002, Pat Tillman and his brother Kevin completed basic training together.

September 2003: Ranger School Enrollment

In September 2003, after serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Pat Tillman entered Ranger School at Fort Benning, Georgia.

November 28, 2003: Graduation from Ranger School

On November 28, 2003, Pat Tillman graduated from Ranger School at Fort Benning, Georgia.

2004: NFL Donates to USO in Tillman's Memory

In 2004, the NFL donated $250,000 to the United Service Organizations to build a USO center in memory of Tillman.

April 1, 2005: Pat Tillman USO Center Opens

On April 1, 2005, The Pat Tillman USO Center, the first USO center in Afghanistan, opened on Bagram Air Base.

April 15, 2005: Inaugural Pat's Run

On April 15, 2005, 5,000 participants turned out for the inaugural Pat's Run in Tempe, a 4.2-mile course around Tempe Town Lake finishing on the 42-yard line of Sun Devil Stadium, commemorating Tillman's retired number.

2005: Induction into East–West Shrine Bowl Hall of Fame

In 2005, Pat Tillman was the sole inductee of the East–West Shrine Bowl Hall of Fame and was also selected to the East–West Shrine Bowl All-Century Team.

September 2008: "Walk for Pat" Begins

In September 2008, Rory Fanning, a fellow Army Ranger, began his "Walk for Pat", a walk across the United States to raise money and awareness for the Pat Tillman Foundation.