Card: Star Pics 1992
Acquired: In Person, 1995. Philadelphia Eagles Training Camp

Fullback Kevin Turner while at Alabama would block for not only for 1000 yard back Bobby Humphrey but also Alabama great Siran Stacy. Drafted by the New England Patriots in the 3rd round of the 1992 draft, Kevin Turner was the prototypical fullback. In his career in New England, Turner on occasion spurred big plays and rightfully became a fan favorite. In 1993 he lateraled a ball to teammate Leonard Russell that Russell would take 72 yards to paydirt, and later in that season Kevin rumbled 49 yards to set up the winning score versus the Browns. In 1994, Kevin caught the game winning pass in overtime against the Minnesota Vikings which spurred the Patriots on a 7 game winning streak to make the playoffs. He’d play for the Patriots for 3 seasons before joining the Philadelphia Eagles as a restricted free agent. Turner became a fan favorite for the Eagles as well- due in part to his blue collar attitude and efficiency. A hard nosed blocker and occasional receiver out of the backfield he’d play with the Eagles an additional 5 seasons before retiring after his 8th season due to cervical stenosis (narrowing of the spinal column,) and the crippling injuries he had suffered earlier in his career.

Since his retirement, Turner has had multiple surgeries to remove parts of his spinal column,  and tragically in 2010 Turner was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s disease which is rumored to be linked to concussions. The NFL has attempted to take a more assertive approach to concussions but still lags behind in its treatment and veteran assistance.

Games  58      Att  160   Yds 635    Avg 4.0     Td  1     Lg  45
Rec 236      Yds 2015      Avg  8.5      Td 10     Lg 41

UPDATE 3/24/16: Kevin passed away today in hospice care, surrounded and loved by his family and friends. The cause of his death was Lou Gehrig’s Disease.