Tedy Bruschi

Bio

One of the most feared defenders of his era as a member of the storied “Desert Swarm” defense, Tedy Bruschi concluded his career at Arizona tied for the NCAA FBS record in career sacks with 52 quarterback takedowns. A two-time All-America (1994 – consensus, 1995 – unanimous), Bruschi’s celebrated senior season included the 1995 Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year title and winning the Morris Trophy as the league’s best defensive lineman. He was a two-time finalist for the Lombardi Award and graduated with 74 tackles for loss, which ranked sixth in FBS history. Bruschi was named all-conference three times, and he led the Wildcats to three bowl berths under coach Dick Tomey. The San Francisco native was a third-round selection by the New England Patriots in the 1996 NFL Draft. Bruschi enjoyed a 13-year career, winning three Super Bowls with the franchise. The Pro Bowler was named the Associated Press’ Comeback Player of the Year in 2005 following a stroke. A committed spokesman and advocate for stroke survivors, Bruschi founded Tedy’s Team, in conjunction with the American Stroke Association, which has raised more than $1.5 million. He wrote a book, “Never Give Up: My Stroke, My Recovery, and My Return to the NFL,” detailing his NFL comeback after his own stroke in 2005. Bruschi is also an active participant in the Make-A-Wish Foundation, granting wishes for numerous children through the organization.

Career Highlights

• 1995 All-Conference
• 1995 Conference MVP
• 1995 Unanimous All-America
• 1994 All-Conference
• 1994 Consensus All-America
• 1993 All-Conference
• 1993 Second Team All-America