Inside Tavon Wilson's football fight

On the podcast, the safety explains how he lasted a full decade in the NFL. His story remains a source of inspiration for anyone trying to break into the league.

Apr 03, 2023

Players like Tavon Wilson are no coincidence. There’s a reason this safety lasted a full decade in pro football.

You may remember his name from our feature two years ago.

From losing his father when he was one, his mother when he was 12 to so much more, very specific moments made Wilson. Since that story, Wilson played one season with the San Francisco 49ers, spent 2022 out of football and is now ready for whatever life entails down at his new home in North Carolina.

We caught up again to discuss his inspiring story.

All links and embeds are below.

On the docket…

How losing his mother at such a young age impacted Wilson’s life.
One of his best friends as a kid spent all of his teenage years behind bars. Wilson knows how easily that could’ve been him.
The turning point at Illinois. After one college game, he watched film all night. His football career was never the same.
A wake-up call in New England. It was needed.
Playing for Bill Belichick. Wilson explains why the tough love is so appreciated. Guys like to know where they stand — even if it’s not pretty.
Life as a Lion. He helped a team that’s lost so much over the years reach the playoffs.
Life today. He’s loving fatherhood, coaching his kids, and relaxing as a retiree. Still, transitioning out of football is never easy.

As a reminder, we’ll have former Buffalo Bills quarterback Rob Johnson on the Zoom Happy Hour this Friday night at 6 p.m. Learn more about one of the greatest quarterback controversies of our lifetime — it was as heated as you can imagine behind the scenes — by upgrading to VIP status. You might even gain a whole new appreciation for Johnson. (Here’s a previous Q&A, icymi.)

Enjoy the podcast with Wilson, and be sure to rate ‘n review wherever you listen.

Thanks, everyone.