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 an NFL player for the Arizona Cardinals who left his professional football career to enlist in the U.S. Army Special Operations following the September 11 attacks. He served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Tillman's death garnered significant media attention, particularly after it was revealed that he was killed by friendly fire. His decision to leave a lucrative sports career for military service and the circumstances surrounding his death made him a notable figure.

Sections (6)

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

1994: Tillman Joins Arizona State University Team

In 1994, Pat Tillman started his college career as a linebacker for Arizona State University, securing the last remaining scholarship for the team.

1997: All-American Honors

In 1997, Pat Tillman earned first-team All-American honors while playing college football for the Arizona State Sun Devils.

1997: Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year

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

1998: Drafted by Arizona Cardinals

In 1998, Pat Tillman was selected as the 226th pick by the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL draft and received a $21,000 signing bonus.

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 recorded 155 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, 9 pass deflections, and 1 interception.

2001: Completes 2001 Season

In 2001, Pat Tillman completed the 15 remaining games of the 2001 NFL season.

May 2002: Tillman Enlists in the Army

In May 2002, Pat Tillman enlisted in the United States Army Special Operations following the September 11 attacks, leaving his career in the NFL.

May 2002: Tillman Turns Down Contract to Enlist

In May 2002, Pat Tillman turned down a $3.6 million contract offer from the Arizona Cardinals to enlist in the U.S. Army, eight months after the September 11 attacks.

September 2003: Tillman Enters Ranger School

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

November 28, 2003: Tillman Graduates Ranger School

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

2004: NFL donated to USO in memory of Tillman

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

April 1, 2005: Opening of the Pat Tillman USO Center

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, the inaugural Pat's Run took place in Tempe with 5,000 participants raising funds for the Pat Tillman Foundation.

September 2008: "Walk for Pat" began

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

October 29, 2015: ASU Sun Devils wore special uniforms to honor Tillman

On October 29, 2015, the Arizona State University Sun Devils football team wore special uniforms made by Adidas to honor Tillman and his career during a game against the Oregon Ducks, with all proceeds going to the Pat Tillman Foundation.