Rick Tuten, known for his powerful leg and precision on the field, played as a punter in the National Football League (NFL). Born on January 5, 1965, in Perry, Florida, Tuten attended Florida State University, where he honed his skills in college football. His journey to the NFL began when he was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Philadelphia Eagles in 1989.
Tuten's career in the NFL spanned over a decade, during which he played for several teams. After his initial stint with the Eagles, he joined the Buffalo Bills in 1990. His time with the Bills was brief, but it provided him with valuable experience that he carried forward in his career. In 1991, Tuten found a more stable position with the Seattle Seahawks, where he spent the majority of his career.
During his tenure with the Seahawks from 1991 to 1997, Tuten became known for his consistency and ability to execute under pressure. He was a reliable presence on special teams, contributing to the Seahawks' efforts in field position battles. His performance in Seattle earned him recognition, and he was selected to the Pro Bowl in 1994, a testament to his skill and reliability as a punter.
After leaving the Seahawks, Tuten played for the St. Louis Rams in 1998. His experience and expertise were assets to the team, and he continued to demonstrate his punting prowess. Tuten's final season in the NFL was with the New York Giants in 1999, where he concluded his professional football career.
Throughout his time in the league, Tuten was respected by teammates and coaches alike for his work ethic and professionalism. His ability to consistently deliver accurate and powerful punts made him a valuable player on every team he joined. Tuten's career statistics reflect his skill, with numerous punts landing inside the 20-yard line, helping his teams gain advantageous field positions.
Off the field, Tuten was known for his sense of humor and camaraderie with teammates. His personality made him a well-liked figure in the locker room, and he maintained friendships with many of his colleagues long after his playing days were over.
Rick Tuten passed away on June 13, 2017, at the age of 52.
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