What is jack tatum?

Jack Tatum, known as "The Assassin," was a professional American football player renowned for his aggressive playing style. Born on November 18, 1948, in Cherryville, North Carolina, Tatum played college football at Ohio State University under legendary coach Woody Hayes. He was a key player in the Buckeyes' national championship team in 1968 and earned All-American honors twice during his college career.

Tatum was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the first round of the 1971 NFL Draft. He played as a safety for the Raiders from 1971 to 1979 and spent one season with the Houston Oilers in 1980. Tatum was known for his hard-hitting tackles and was integral to the Raiders' defensive unit. His most infamous on-field incident occurred during a preseason game in 1978, when his hit on New England Patriots receiver Darryl Stingley resulted in a spinal cord injury that left Stingley paralyzed.

Tatum's legacy in the NFL is a mix of controversy due to his hard-hit playing style and success as a key part of the Raiders' defense. He was a three-time Pro Bowl selection and won a Super Bowl with the Raiders in 1977. After retiring from professional football, Tatum authored several books about his career and life.

Jack Tatum passed away on July 27, 2010, due to a heart attack. Despite the controversies surrounding his career, he remains a significant figure in NFL history, symbolizing the game's physical intensity and highlighting discussions on player safety.