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 American NFL player for the Arizona Cardinals. Following the September 11 attacks, he left his professional football career to enlist in the U.S. Army Special Operations in 2002. Tillman served in both Iraq and Afghanistan. His story garnered significant media attention, particularly after his death was revealed to be a result of friendly fire. He is remembered for his patriotism and the sacrifice he made by leaving a lucrative 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 ASU

In 1994, Pat Tillman started his college career as a linebacker for Arizona State University (ASU), 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 the 1998 NFL draft, Pat Tillman was selected as the 226th pick by the Arizona Cardinals and received a $21,000 signing bonus.

2000: Named to NFL All-Pro Team

In 2000, Sports Illustrated football writer Paul Zimmerman named Pat Tillman to his NFL All-Pro team after Tillman recorded 155 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and 1 interception.

2001: Completion of the 2001 NFL Season

After completing the 15 remaining games of the 2001 NFL season which followed the September 11 attacks, Tillman turned down a contract offer of $3.6 million ($6 million in 2024) over three years from the Cardinals to enlist in the U.S. Army in May 2002.

May 2002: Tillman Enlists in the Army

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

May 2002: 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, following the September 11 attacks.

May 31, 2002: Enlistment with Kevin

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: Entered Ranger School

In September 2003, after participating in the initial invasion of Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Pat Tillman entered Ranger School at Fort Benning, Georgia.