Since after his playing days, Vinny has been almost a non-signer TTM. Despite some fade and light smudging, I figured that this one was worth it based on what I already had in my collection. This one was pretty much grabbed with a stack of other Bucs to help fill out my Action Packed 1990 set. I absolutely love the photo, and the lighting really catches that creamsickle orange that I am so fond of.
Made the jump to coaching later that year, joining Penn State for 1991 and 1992.
Over the 90s got more seasoning first as a DB coach at Wake Forest (1993-95) and then later as a Defensive Assistant at Syracuse (1996-98) and Michigan (1999-02).
Saw first turn in pros with the Seahawks (2003-06) and then Cardinals (07-09) as a DB coach.
After one year stint as DC at Florida (2010), worked for the Ravens as a Secondary Coach from 2011-13.
Then took reins with Lions (2014-17) and Bengals (2018) as defensive coordinator.
In 2019, joined Steelers as Senior Defensive Assistant and Secondary Coach, and in 2022 was promoted to defensive coordinator.
NOTES:
Another success story, Teryl has quietly made the puddle jump up the ranks of football coaching ranks after getting some seasoning in the World League.
Teryl came to my attention around 7 or 8 years ago, when he was considered for the head coaching position at the University of Texas. He actually played– so I wanted to get him on something. Since many players did not have cards who were in the World League, I thought this helmet card was the next best thing.
Played QB at UCLA from 1997-99, converting to WR in his Senior campaign of 2000.
Statistically didn’t have much to show, catching 8 passes for 167 yards, while throwing for 788 yards and 7 TDs on 57 of 104 throws, over college career.
Signed as a free agent by the Tennessee Titans in 2001 and impressed enough to make squad, catching 24 passes for 329 yards and a TD in rookie season.
Started first 16 game slate in 2004, catching 80 passes for 1247 yards and 11 TDs.
Spent an additional two seasons in Tennessee posting sub 700 yard seasons.
Joined the St. Louis Rams in 2007, logging 34 catches for 379 yards and 3 TDs over the season and the following year.
Signed with the Ravens in 2009, but did not make the squad- retiring due to a lingering knee injury.
Since retirement has dabbled in broadcasting and commentary, moonlighting as an NFL analyst.
NOTES:
I really liked Leaf’s trading card design at this time- especially how the color hits these parallels. It absorbs the ink well and looks good on most colors- well- besides black.
REC
YDS
AVG
TD
LG
307
4412
14.4
28
55
Celebrating the game, the players, the cards, and the autographs for over 25 years.
